Train hard, fight easy

Train hard, fight easy my training partner said to me as I was digging deep into my reserves today. I'd set off with a group of ultra runners and was expecting an easy pace but as half of them weren't completing the full distance they ran faster. I was already tired from yesterdays run so I knew it was going to be tough. The wind picked up and we could see the rain in the distance. We completed the 30k in 3 hours and this included some walking on the hills but I felt shattered. On the home straight I met 3 of my club mates out on a bike ride battling in the wind and rain - hardcore. I was glad to see others out in the terrible conditions training hard so they can fight easy when the day comes. There are no short cuts in training and digging deep is what's required to achieve what you want. A warm shower followed by hot food and hydration and I feel great. Now I'll take my rest and let my body recover.