Jérome is a finisher of the SaintéLyon (82km). His initial goal was to finish the race in less than 12 hours, but several unforeseen events complicated his journey. He tells us about it.
How did your SaintéLyon race go?
My goal was to finish the SaintéLyon in less than 12 hours, but I ended up finishing in 14h53. Naturally, there was a bit of disappointment, but I’m pleased with an improvement in my average speed of +0.5 km/h. Unfortunately, my preparation was disrupted: three weeks before the race, I had to stop due to patellar/quadriceps tendonitis. This generated a lot of stress, with the feeling that every day brought a new pain.
Even at the starting line, after the warm-up, an unexpected discomfort in the thigh appeared. Nonetheless, giving up was out of the question. From the 15th km, cramps and a stiffening of the quadriceps complicated the rest of the race. Thanks to regular stretching and strong mental determination, I managed to cross the finish line.
How did you manage your preparation for the SaintéLyon?
My training program for the SaintéLyon lasted 27 weeks, with 5 sessions per week:
- Monday: muscle strengthening (PPG)
- Tuesday and Thursday: easy runs / cardio / hill work
- Saturday: long run in rando-course
- Sunday: cycling
Unfortunately, tendonitis appeared in September. Despite the pain, I continued following my program until early November, before taking a complete break to rest my knee for the race. It was a period of intense doubt: the pain persisted, and psychosomatic symptoms appeared. Fortunately, I managed to start the race.
What motivates you to run?
Self-improvement, running in nature, achieving goals, improving my fitness, and maintaining my health.
How did you discover the RunMotion Coach app?
I discovered the RunMotion Coach app during the registration process for the Asics SaintéLyon.
What encouraged you to download and try the app?
I needed a personalized training program.
What do you prefer in the app?
Its pleasant design, interaction with the virtual coach, and advice on nutrition and mental preparation.
After the SaintéLyon, what is your next sporting challenge?
The Grand Trail de Saint-Jacques in June: 81 km with 3400 m of positive elevation gain.
Congratulations Jérôme! It’s only a matter of time, next time it will be in less than 12h 🔥