Post Ironman Blues

Is there such a thing? How could there be when completing an ironman is such an achievement? And when there's the next event to look forward to in 6 months, surely there's nothing to get 'blue' about?


It appears there is....I'm going through it big time!!!


Here's an extract from an article* coach Foz posted this week:


Triathletes also commonly suffer from a malady known as the “post-Ironman blues” in the weeks after an Ironman. It is likely that such mood depression is to some degree just another symptom of the general overtraining syndrome that commonly affects endurance athletes after such a test. Overtraining is known to disrupt brain neurotransmitters that influence mood. It has been hypothesized that as a symptom of overtraining, depression is your brain’s way of discouraging you from overexerting yourself again—in this case, doing your next Ironman—for a while.
 

I was told about "post-ironman blues" by other athletes. I was of the opinion that as I knew about it I could expect it and control it when it comes. Like my first ironman there were/are things happening that are our of my control.

I understand that my body needs rest. Went for a 20 minute power walk yesterday morning (ironman + 2 weeks). Basically did a fast walk to the train station rather than taking the tram. This proved that my body still needs rest. There were some deep niggles that suggested I'm not ready to run just yet.

That's fine, the body needs rest and as I've just moved into the 40-44 age group I now need a bit longer than some. Might turn a 3 week break into 4. No problem.


But why am I so 'sad'? What is going on with all this emotion? I can't actually pin point it. I can't find the reason. I'm a bloke in the construction industry! I deal with hard issues every day! And show no emotion doing it! GET OVER IT!!!


Admittedly the last week has had additional challenges due to a most tragic incident which had significant publicity. But there's something else...


I reckon I have a slight 'mood depression thing' going on. I've got the body recovery on track, but the mind is a little more challenging. Maybe like the body it's going to take an extra week. Just want to get through it.


Rode the bike to work this morning, an easy commute, enjoyed the scenery, every other rider passed me. All part of getting some normality back into my life. It's a great de-stressing tool that really hit the spot.


Also enjoying the therapy provided by Peroni's and single malt Scotch.

  +

 =

Now it's on with life. Post IM blues...your move!

185 Days to Kona.



* Read the full article here (A Physiological View Of What The Human Body Goes Through In An Ironman):

http://triathlon.competitor.com/2013/04/training/a-physiological-view-of-what-the-human-body-goes-through-in-an-ironman-2_46170