I plan to compete in the 100 and 200 this outdoor season and this is the first time that I’m coaching AND racing myself.
Anyhow, here in the East Coast coming off a layoff (but I’m in top shape) how many meets should I compete in to be able to realize my full athletic potential for the 2009 season?
Also, how many meets should I look to run in per month?
It varies greatly depending on the athlete. Usually Im ok coming off 3-5 races before I hit a PB - Ive had enough races to hone my skills in various points, like reaction time and relaxation at the end of the race, so Im still fairly fresh. Some people like 8 races before the major comp tho, so more.
In terms of month to month, again, it depends what you are after. Typically, I try to race alot in June (my 1st month of comps) as I have to find qualifying times, etc. Then I settle back into training for a period before the trials, then a couple of comps to stay sharp, then the major comp of the year.
Again, I have to stress, it varies from athlete to athlete, and Im sure many people on here would disagree with my race schedule, so its just a case of experimenting with yourself.