My goal for 2024 was to run my first marathon (TCS NYC Marathon), so I went to HSS for metabolic testing to help inform what my training plan should focus around. Specifically, I wanted to understand where my lactate thresholds and training zones were (pace, perceived exertion, heart rate), since I had read how important it was to train in the right zones when prepping for a long distance race.
Kaitlyn worked with me to both run the tests and interpret the extensive report after. I found it really helpful to learn what my two thresholds (LT1 and LT2) were, so that when I did my marathon training, I could target the right range (i.e. ensure that my easy long runs did not cross LT1; ensure my race pacing sessions were between LT1 and LT2). It was also useful to know various other personalized results -- like the fact that I'm a bit slower to clear lactate once I'm well over LT2, meaning that I need to be mindful of adjusting my pacing on hills so that I don't accumulate too much lactic acid in the middle of a longer race.
Getting tested at HSS immediately before starting my training block was a great way to calibrate my baseline parameters to inform race prep, and I think it was a key component to me running a good (3:06) first marathon on a challenging NYC course.
Running
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