12 days till GO time!

It’s nearly the end of my 2 week holding camp at the X-Bionic Sphere in Slovakia, and honestly I couldn’t have asked for a better camp to prepare for the Commonwealth Games. Spending time with the Northern Irish team has allowed me to become completely consumed by training and bond with those on the team. Being with others who are all working towards the same goal has allowed me to dream big and feel more confident building into the games. I am therefore very grateful to Athletics NI for the opportunity and can’t wait for the next few weeks ahead.

How am I feeling?
I am feeling a mixture of many emotions. Currently I am feeling pretty similar to how I feel ahead of any race. I am focused on training and preparing as well as I can, whilst keeping as relaxed as possible. I am just taking each day as it comes and focusing on the training I have at that specific time. I am not thinking too much about it, but also allowing myself to visualise what the race could be like so I can feel slightly prepared. I am super excited to have the opportunity to compete at such a level, and I know that whatever happens, I will come away from the Games having learned so much. 

What am I doing?
Currently I am away in Slovakia on a 2 week holding camp with Team NI. This has been great as it has allowed me to get to know the team whilst having all sights focused on the Games in 2 weeks. Whilst out here I have been training as normal, doing no more than my usual plan involves, but also listening to my body closely. These next few weeks are crucial, as it’s important to work hard, but I also don’t want to overdo it. It is better to allow extra recovery rather than push the body too hard. Therefore, the plan is not set in stone, and if I feel the need, which I have, to have extra rest day, then adjustments can been made last minute. This ensures I stay as fit as possible, but don’t risk burning out. For example, this week I was beginning to feel quite tired and run down, so we opted to add in an unplanned rest day and I felt much better for it. 

Looking ahead.
With just over a week until I enter the village, there are only a few days of training camp left. Then I’ll be home for a few days before the real countdown begins. It is just 12 days until race day. Exciting times!!!!