Here's an email I sent my sister-in-law today. She's now scheduled to run her first marathon in less than 90 days. She's also starting to consider an IronMan triathlon and sent me a link to a blog about 4 moms training for an IM in 2012.
Wow! I read the entire blog...pretty impressive. As far as triathlons...for me, the swimming is just plain HARD! I was fine in the pool. It gets kind of relaxing and it's so quiet when you practice. But, I do find it more 'boring' than running & swimming. And, when I did my OWS (open water swim) practice & the real tri in the lake, yikes! It is downright SCARY! I felt like I could drown, and I've never had that kind of panic before.
I guess it's just a matter of getting used to it. People actually practice OWS with others close beside you - even knocking into you on purpose. At this point, I can kind of imagine running for 26.2 miles or biking for 112, but I can NOT imagine swimming one inch farther than I already did!
Yes, I'm scared to do it again! So, my friend who has done sprint tris says I need to get back there and do it again. But, at this point, I'm saying 'why'? I don't care if I ever swim again...at least at this point in time.
I know one of the ladies on the blog said she could only doggy paddle when she started in '08, I believe. Maybe I just need to train with a real group. I'm undecided as to what I'm doing beyond the 3 half marathons I have planned for Nov-Jan. I was going to then train for the MS150 (180 miles in 2 days) in April, but I try to do most of my training on 'my' time instead of family time. But, there's just no way around it when training for those kinds of distances...I'd have to do long rides on Sats &/or Suns for about 10 weeks. So I'm undecided.
If I don't start training for MS150, I will probably join a group and start trianing for some more tris in the spring/summer. But, I'd just HAVE TO be more comfortable in the water before I do another tri with an OWS.
Oh, and I ran this morning. First time ever that I didn't eat or drink before hand - plus I didn't bring any water. Well, I paid for it! After 1st mile, I got really dizzy & lightheaded...felt faint. It happened again after 2nd mile. So, I just ended up walking the 3rd mile. Felt much better after about 5 mins, some water & a banana. Lesson learned!
Have a great day! I still plan on doing some ST or pilates today, too.
Showing posts with label triathlon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label triathlon. Show all posts
Friday, July 15, 2011
Saturday, May 7, 2011
1st Open Water Swim Tri!!!
I did it! It has been a hard week, especially since the OWS (Open Water Swim) clinic last weekend when I had a panic attack. I've worried & worried about the OWS portion of this week's tri... and I did it!!! I also worried about coming in last in my age group. Well, I was at the BOP (back of the pack), but not quite last. And, what matters more, is that I came in a little better than my goal time. Yeah!
So, here are the details...
I woke up at 4:10 wide awake & ready to go. I got to the parking lot about 5:20 and joined my friend/personal trainer (Sara), who was doing her first triathlon, at the bike rack. I went to get my timing chip... and there was a problem. I was #707, and they did NOT have a chip for me! They called over someone in charge & she assigned me a different number & said she would go officially switch it over. (Apparently this did NOT happen as my new #1100 is listed as "unknown participant" and the time is 36 minutes off because they started that chip with the elite wave. Ugh! I'll try to fix this problem on Monday.)
We had lots of time to walk around. We had a great position on the rack - just one rack in and near the bike in/out. We walked that path a few times to make sure we knew where our bikes were racked. We also walked down to the water to look at the buoys, but they weren't up yet. Sara had several friends (she also teaches boot camp) who were there competing - either individually or in relays - so we stopped & talked with them.
As the transition area got set to close, I grabbed my banana & water (I'd already drank a protein drink) and headed towards the port-o-potties. But, as we approached them, we noticed the park bathrooms & got in line there instead. Nice!
After that little necessary trip, we headed to the water to watch the elite wave (6 athletes!) and the men start. We watched several waves (we were #10 of 15) and saw what the mass start would look like. This is an 'in water' start, but about 2/3rds of the swimmers actually got in the deep water & treaded, while the rest stayed nearer the shore where they could stand. We decided we'd be in the latter group!
(Oh... side note... I had STRUGGLED with the decision about whether or not to wear a wetsuit. They are only legal if the temp is 78 or lower. How great for us who didn't wear suits, and those who wanted to, that the water temp was 77.9!!! Legal for them and relatively 'warm' for us! No gasping & shock from the COLD like I felt even last week at 75/76!)
We moved to the start area & my husband & daughter found me! I stopped & hugged/kissed them and thanked them for coming. It was an EARLY day for a weekend!!!
I was a lot less nervous than I expected. At least until we actually got to the water & got the '3 minutes to go'. I waded in to my head and moved my arms & jumped around. I was trying to get used to the chill. It was hard to hear the speaker, but I finally realized he was counting down our last 10 seconds... and then it was time to GO!
I started swimming freestyle. It wasn't long before I was getting 'crawled over'. It's HARD swimming like this! For several minutes, I had ladies hitting my feet and it feels like they are pulling you under. It makes it hard to swim! But, I kept going. Once or twice, I gave a harder kick when I'd gotten hit several times in a row.
Finally, we were spread out enough & I was clear. I was breathing every other stroke... the entire way. That wasn't my plan, but it was all I could do! I was a LOT better at sighting the buoys than I'd been at the clinic, too. I kept going & going... it feels like a LONG time.
After awhile, the next wave caught up with me... and started climbing over me again! What a terrible feeling! I was afraid wave after wave would catch me! I was in a 'pink swimcap' group, and all I could see were yellow caps! I figured, by then, that I was the last pink swimmer. It was kind of upsetting, but I told myself to be proud... I WOULD finish!
About 100 meters from the end, I saw another pink cap near me. YEAH! I wasn't out here all alone. I pushed near the end and swam until my hand hit the ground. Then I got up, and was actually able to run a little! (Unlike the 1st tri.)
I got to my bike rack and saw Sara's bike still there. (She's also in my age group.) So, I knew I wasn't last! She came up while I was putting on my shoes. She had Lock Laces & I didn't, so she got out slightly before me.
I ran with my bike until the MOUNT line. I hopped on and struggled to pedal. It was hard to catch my breath, too. I saw Sara just up ahead. She had to pully over. I asked if she was OK... she needed to adjust her pedal. I don't wear clipless shoes & neither does she. But, she had cages & her feet weren't in them right.
She stayed behind me until about mile 7 when she passed me. I told her I'd keep her in my sight, though. And I did! My hips, especially my left, REALLY started hurting by this point. I was near tears & making faces. I tried adjusting my body and my feet, but I was in a lot of pain. Finally, at around mile 11, I thought I should just try moving faster. I did, and it worked! It relieved the pain! I was able ot pass Sara, too, and stay in front of her for the rest of the bike ride. I saw my husband & daughter near the bike finish. And, again, Sara & I finished so close together that we saw each other at transition.
I racked my bike, took off my helmet, grabbed my sunglasses & visor and 'ran' towards the run exit. I was struggling. I was thinking I could NOT run. Sara caught up with me and we walked and talked. Then we ran and couldn't talk. I could not catch my breath. We kept walking, then running, then walking. At about 1.5 miles I told her she should go out and run. I needed to walk but she looked strong. I told her I wouldn't let her out of my sight. She ran some, but we both kept running & walking. I kept her in sight and she never got too far ahead, but I just couldn't stick with her.
At about mile 2 (of 3.1) I saw 2 other ladies in our age group pass me!!! I SO wanted to run after them and catch them! I tried... I ran a little. They were slow. But, I just couldn't catch them OR Sara. At the last water station, I saw they all 3 got water & walked. So, I kept 'running.' But, it didn't do me a lot of good. I was just so tired.
At about .5 miles to go, I started talking with a male runner. All of the males go before the females start, so he was quite a bit behind. He said it'd been a hard race. I agreed! We both walked & ran some together. When I could finally see the finish line, I started to run. I wanted to walk again, but I didn't let myself. I ran through the finish!!! I did it! I finished the triathlon!!!
Here are my times:
500 meter swim 17:01 (3:24 pace...vs 2:41 at 1st tri in pool)
TT1 2:50 (vs 2:21 1st tri)
15 mile bike 58:25 (15.4 mph pace...vs 13.1 mph 1st tri, but that was hillier & very windy)
TT2 1:06 (vs 1:14 1st tri)
5K run 36:45 (vs 40:17 1st tri, but that was hillier)
Biggest news: I can't believe my 5K time. That is a PR for me!!! And, I honestly walked about 1/3rd of the time! Am I really running that much faster???
My goals were:
18 min swim (did 17:01)...yeah!
2 min TT1 (did 2:50)... further from water than figured
58 min bike (did 58:25)...a little disappointed because I thought I was riding faster
2 min TT2 (did 1:14)...actually, I should have realized this would be faster
40 min run (did 36:45)...WOW! My thought is that maybe it was short, but I'll take it!
(photo from friend's iPhone)
So, here are the details...
I woke up at 4:10 wide awake & ready to go. I got to the parking lot about 5:20 and joined my friend/personal trainer (Sara), who was doing her first triathlon, at the bike rack. I went to get my timing chip... and there was a problem. I was #707, and they did NOT have a chip for me! They called over someone in charge & she assigned me a different number & said she would go officially switch it over. (Apparently this did NOT happen as my new #1100 is listed as "unknown participant" and the time is 36 minutes off because they started that chip with the elite wave. Ugh! I'll try to fix this problem on Monday.)
We had lots of time to walk around. We had a great position on the rack - just one rack in and near the bike in/out. We walked that path a few times to make sure we knew where our bikes were racked. We also walked down to the water to look at the buoys, but they weren't up yet. Sara had several friends (she also teaches boot camp) who were there competing - either individually or in relays - so we stopped & talked with them.
As the transition area got set to close, I grabbed my banana & water (I'd already drank a protein drink) and headed towards the port-o-potties. But, as we approached them, we noticed the park bathrooms & got in line there instead. Nice!
After that little necessary trip, we headed to the water to watch the elite wave (6 athletes!) and the men start. We watched several waves (we were #10 of 15) and saw what the mass start would look like. This is an 'in water' start, but about 2/3rds of the swimmers actually got in the deep water & treaded, while the rest stayed nearer the shore where they could stand. We decided we'd be in the latter group!
(Oh... side note... I had STRUGGLED with the decision about whether or not to wear a wetsuit. They are only legal if the temp is 78 or lower. How great for us who didn't wear suits, and those who wanted to, that the water temp was 77.9!!! Legal for them and relatively 'warm' for us! No gasping & shock from the COLD like I felt even last week at 75/76!)
We moved to the start area & my husband & daughter found me! I stopped & hugged/kissed them and thanked them for coming. It was an EARLY day for a weekend!!!
I was a lot less nervous than I expected. At least until we actually got to the water & got the '3 minutes to go'. I waded in to my head and moved my arms & jumped around. I was trying to get used to the chill. It was hard to hear the speaker, but I finally realized he was counting down our last 10 seconds... and then it was time to GO!
I started swimming freestyle. It wasn't long before I was getting 'crawled over'. It's HARD swimming like this! For several minutes, I had ladies hitting my feet and it feels like they are pulling you under. It makes it hard to swim! But, I kept going. Once or twice, I gave a harder kick when I'd gotten hit several times in a row.
Finally, we were spread out enough & I was clear. I was breathing every other stroke... the entire way. That wasn't my plan, but it was all I could do! I was a LOT better at sighting the buoys than I'd been at the clinic, too. I kept going & going... it feels like a LONG time.
After awhile, the next wave caught up with me... and started climbing over me again! What a terrible feeling! I was afraid wave after wave would catch me! I was in a 'pink swimcap' group, and all I could see were yellow caps! I figured, by then, that I was the last pink swimmer. It was kind of upsetting, but I told myself to be proud... I WOULD finish!
About 100 meters from the end, I saw another pink cap near me. YEAH! I wasn't out here all alone. I pushed near the end and swam until my hand hit the ground. Then I got up, and was actually able to run a little! (Unlike the 1st tri.)
I got to my bike rack and saw Sara's bike still there. (She's also in my age group.) So, I knew I wasn't last! She came up while I was putting on my shoes. She had Lock Laces & I didn't, so she got out slightly before me.
I ran with my bike until the MOUNT line. I hopped on and struggled to pedal. It was hard to catch my breath, too. I saw Sara just up ahead. She had to pully over. I asked if she was OK... she needed to adjust her pedal. I don't wear clipless shoes & neither does she. But, she had cages & her feet weren't in them right.
She stayed behind me until about mile 7 when she passed me. I told her I'd keep her in my sight, though. And I did! My hips, especially my left, REALLY started hurting by this point. I was near tears & making faces. I tried adjusting my body and my feet, but I was in a lot of pain. Finally, at around mile 11, I thought I should just try moving faster. I did, and it worked! It relieved the pain! I was able ot pass Sara, too, and stay in front of her for the rest of the bike ride. I saw my husband & daughter near the bike finish. And, again, Sara & I finished so close together that we saw each other at transition.
I racked my bike, took off my helmet, grabbed my sunglasses & visor and 'ran' towards the run exit. I was struggling. I was thinking I could NOT run. Sara caught up with me and we walked and talked. Then we ran and couldn't talk. I could not catch my breath. We kept walking, then running, then walking. At about 1.5 miles I told her she should go out and run. I needed to walk but she looked strong. I told her I wouldn't let her out of my sight. She ran some, but we both kept running & walking. I kept her in sight and she never got too far ahead, but I just couldn't stick with her.
At about mile 2 (of 3.1) I saw 2 other ladies in our age group pass me!!! I SO wanted to run after them and catch them! I tried... I ran a little. They were slow. But, I just couldn't catch them OR Sara. At the last water station, I saw they all 3 got water & walked. So, I kept 'running.' But, it didn't do me a lot of good. I was just so tired.
At about .5 miles to go, I started talking with a male runner. All of the males go before the females start, so he was quite a bit behind. He said it'd been a hard race. I agreed! We both walked & ran some together. When I could finally see the finish line, I started to run. I wanted to walk again, but I didn't let myself. I ran through the finish!!! I did it! I finished the triathlon!!!
(post race photo by dd10)
Here are my times:
500 meter swim 17:01 (3:24 pace...vs 2:41 at 1st tri in pool)
TT1 2:50 (vs 2:21 1st tri)
15 mile bike 58:25 (15.4 mph pace...vs 13.1 mph 1st tri, but that was hillier & very windy)
TT2 1:06 (vs 1:14 1st tri)
5K run 36:45 (vs 40:17 1st tri, but that was hillier)
Biggest news: I can't believe my 5K time. That is a PR for me!!! And, I honestly walked about 1/3rd of the time! Am I really running that much faster???
My goals were:
18 min swim (did 17:01)...yeah!
2 min TT1 (did 2:50)... further from water than figured
58 min bike (did 58:25)...a little disappointed because I thought I was riding faster
2 min TT2 (did 1:14)...actually, I should have realized this would be faster
40 min run (did 36:45)...WOW! My thought is that maybe it was short, but I'll take it!
Monday, April 11, 2011
My 1st Sprint Triathlon! (w/photos!)
I did it! Yesterday I competed in my first sprint triathlon. Wow!!!
So, how was it? It was great! It was hard! It was WINDY! But, I did it! And, I AM a triathlete.
MORNING: I woke up a little before 5 am and went through my bag one more time. I grabbed my breakfast (I was too nervous to eat) and loaded my bike on the back of my car. And, I headed towards the community center.
CHECKING IN & SETTING UP: I had been there the day before for a first timers event. (More on that later.) So, I knew pretty much what would be happening and where everything was set up. I brought my flashlight (great idea as I had to pump up my tires in the dark parking lot!) and went over to get my markings. The guy marking my leg heard me say "31" instead of "41" so he had to rewrite it. It was really messy and unreadable. Oh, well! I got my area set up according to everything I'd read and the Saturday class. I ate my banana and went and got my ankle chip. Then, I walked the exit & entrance to the bike & run several times to make sure I could find my bike. I was 2nd from the end, and got really good at finding it.
SWIM: There were about 600 participants and I was number 487. I was told they'd put someone in the water every 5 seconds, which should have put me around 7:25. But, I didn't get in the water until 7:45. It was a LONG wait, and I was wishing I had more 'fuel' to eat. I stood around talking to one of the ladies I'd me Saturday and the guy who was next to me on the rack. He actually trains some triathletes, so he was a great person to ask questions! (Oh, and I learned that they close the transition area -something I hadn't read - so you have to get whatever you need out of there!)
It was finally my turn to start & I jumped in. I'd predicted my swim team, for the 275 yards in the pool, would be 7:30. I hadn't practiced jumping in and was afraid my goggles would fill up with water, but they were fine. I hadn't warmed up at all since I knew there'd be a long wait until I started swimming. But, I immediately felt at ease in the water. That is, until the guys behind me caught up to me on the 2nd lane. For about 5 laps, they passed me one after another. And, they were bumping into me, pulling my legs under, and just messing with me! I was proud of myself for staying calm. I flipped over on my back twice, but just for a couple of seconds. I ended up swimming slightly faster than expected with a time of 7:24! And, I realize now that I actually probably swam 300 yards instead of 275 since you are also swimming the entire length of the pool. So, I was swimming faster than ever! Yeah!
T1: My first transition went well. I really had trouble 'running' from the swimming pool and it was a slight jog instead. My plan was to stand up and put my socks & shoes on, but my socks weren't going on easily. So, I sat down and got them on. I also grabbed a few Honey Stingers. I had a good time at just 2:41.
BIKE: I'd rode one loop of the 2 loop bike route the day before with the first timers group. And, Saturday had been kind of windy. But, race day was VERY windy! And, the path was hilly! (At least compared to the flat lands I ride on!) I am very proud of how hard I worked on the ride. I pushed & pushed and gave 100%. There were times we were riding directly into the wind and we were barely moving. And, we didn't get the benefit of the wind because we were behind some buildings when it should have been at our back. Overall, I'm very happy with my bike leg, especially since I haven't been riding very long. My time for 13 miles (which I showed as about 13.5 miles) was 59:21.
T2: I had a quick transition. I know I could have been a few seconds quicker by putting my cap on while running, but I was so tired and wanted a few seconds break. I also grabbed a big drink of water off of my bike and a couple more Honey Stingers. I had one of the fastest T2s in my age bracket at 1:14. (But, I didn't have to change shoes since I ride in my tennis shoes.)
So, how was it? It was great! It was hard! It was WINDY! But, I did it! And, I AM a triathlete.
MORNING: I woke up a little before 5 am and went through my bag one more time. I grabbed my breakfast (I was too nervous to eat) and loaded my bike on the back of my car. And, I headed towards the community center.
CHECKING IN & SETTING UP: I had been there the day before for a first timers event. (More on that later.) So, I knew pretty much what would be happening and where everything was set up. I brought my flashlight (great idea as I had to pump up my tires in the dark parking lot!) and went over to get my markings. The guy marking my leg heard me say "31" instead of "41" so he had to rewrite it. It was really messy and unreadable. Oh, well! I got my area set up according to everything I'd read and the Saturday class. I ate my banana and went and got my ankle chip. Then, I walked the exit & entrance to the bike & run several times to make sure I could find my bike. I was 2nd from the end, and got really good at finding it.
 |
| Minutes before my start... the guys behind me must have been some of those who passed me. |
SWIM: There were about 600 participants and I was number 487. I was told they'd put someone in the water every 5 seconds, which should have put me around 7:25. But, I didn't get in the water until 7:45. It was a LONG wait, and I was wishing I had more 'fuel' to eat. I stood around talking to one of the ladies I'd me Saturday and the guy who was next to me on the rack. He actually trains some triathletes, so he was a great person to ask questions! (Oh, and I learned that they close the transition area -something I hadn't read - so you have to get whatever you need out of there!)
 |
| Taking a quick breath. |
 |
| Shoes are on... now for a quick snack... |
T1: My first transition went well. I really had trouble 'running' from the swimming pool and it was a slight jog instead. My plan was to stand up and put my socks & shoes on, but my socks weren't going on easily. So, I sat down and got them on. I also grabbed a few Honey Stingers. I had a good time at just 2:41.
BIKE: I'd rode one loop of the 2 loop bike route the day before with the first timers group. And, Saturday had been kind of windy. But, race day was VERY windy! And, the path was hilly! (At least compared to the flat lands I ride on!) I am very proud of how hard I worked on the ride. I pushed & pushed and gave 100%. There were times we were riding directly into the wind and we were barely moving. And, we didn't get the benefit of the wind because we were behind some buildings when it should have been at our back. Overall, I'm very happy with my bike leg, especially since I haven't been riding very long. My time for 13 miles (which I showed as about 13.5 miles) was 59:21.
T2: I had a quick transition. I know I could have been a few seconds quicker by putting my cap on while running, but I was so tired and wanted a few seconds break. I also grabbed a big drink of water off of my bike and a couple more Honey Stingers. I had one of the fastest T2s in my age bracket at 1:14. (But, I didn't have to change shoes since I ride in my tennis shoes.)
 |
| At the start of the run... I was walking soon after this photo. |
RUN: I was so tired by my run. It was hard to get going. I walked a lot more than I expected. I think I walked 5 times and they were pretty long walks. I had just given almost all of what I had to give! My run time was the 2nd slowest in my age group at 40:16. But, my fastest 5K to date is only 37something, so this was actually pretty decent for me.
 |
| The FINISH!!! A triathlete is born! |
So, my total time was 1:50:38. I placed 26 of 28 in my age group. I placed 150 of 175 out of the women. As in every other race, I came in at the back of the pack. Yes, that is frustrating for me. But, I think I did an incredible job and I know I gave it my all. (Well, I might have held back a little during the run.) I need to keep working on all 3 sports and I will get better! Right now I'm a little frustrated that I have a half marathon I'm training for, too, so it'll be harder to work on speed, but I'll do my best!
That's it! That's the story of my first triahtlon! I hope, if you are considering doing one, that you'll get out there and give it a try. It is an incredible feeling of accomplishment.
That's it! That's the story of my first triahtlon! I hope, if you are considering doing one, that you'll get out there and give it a try. It is an incredible feeling of accomplishment.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
First Sprint Triathlon is Coming Soon!
I have been trying to keep up with 2 blogs (actually 3), and it isn't working very well. But, I wanted to update this blog.
I was supposed to be running a half marathon 2 weeks from today, but that fell through about a week ago. Instead, I will now be participating in my first sprint triathlon on that date! Yes, in just 2 weeks, I will be a TRIATHLETE!
I had about 3 weeks (due to travel to Japan, illness, and lack of desire) recently when I wasn't working out much. Last week, though, I totally got back on track. I had an amazing week!
And, just a few days ago, I signed up for this triathlon! I am so excited! And, since this one has a pool swim, I'm not as nervous as I am for my May triathlon.
I had an amazing 1st brick workout today. (I've done a few at the gym, but none outside.) I rode 11.5 miles in 55 minutes. The pace wasn't great, but it was really hilly. And, I LOVED it! I felt like I was flying! I went up to 20 mph, and it was amazing. I then ran 2 miles. My time was about 23 minutes, which is FAST for me. It is my fastest 2 miles ever, I think! Amazing!
So, I'm so excited to be facing my first triathlon!
I was supposed to be running a half marathon 2 weeks from today, but that fell through about a week ago. Instead, I will now be participating in my first sprint triathlon on that date! Yes, in just 2 weeks, I will be a TRIATHLETE!
I had about 3 weeks (due to travel to Japan, illness, and lack of desire) recently when I wasn't working out much. Last week, though, I totally got back on track. I had an amazing week!
And, just a few days ago, I signed up for this triathlon! I am so excited! And, since this one has a pool swim, I'm not as nervous as I am for my May triathlon.
I had an amazing 1st brick workout today. (I've done a few at the gym, but none outside.) I rode 11.5 miles in 55 minutes. The pace wasn't great, but it was really hilly. And, I LOVED it! I felt like I was flying! I went up to 20 mph, and it was amazing. I then ran 2 miles. My time was about 23 minutes, which is FAST for me. It is my fastest 2 miles ever, I think! Amazing!
So, I'm so excited to be facing my first triathlon!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Disappointing Run, but Today I Swam/Ran/Biked!
I had to run on a treadmill today. I really don't like running on a treadmill and this is the first time I've done it since starting C25K. Anyway, I forgot my iPod and the PodCast was supposed to help me find my pace.
I started walking. First of all, I was disappointed to see that my "warm up" was only a 20 min/mile! Then, when I started my 'run' (jog), I was only going a 16.5 min/mile. Yikes! I know it isn't about speed at this point, but I thought I was going about 13-14 min/mile.
Another disappointment: on week 4 you are supposed to run the following mins: 3-5-3-5. Monday was my first try and I made 3-5-3-3, so I changed the last 5 to a 3. Today? Hmmm... I ran 3-3-2. That was it! I turned off the treadmill after 22 minutes. I just couldn't (or wouldn't) do it.
Another thing was that I was wearing my HRM. My HR is supposed to stay between 134-150. Well, I don't know what is "dangerous" (I'll do some research), but at the 3 minute mark it was up to 162. Maybe that's fine... but I wasn't sure and didn't want to push it.
That being said, I have worked out hard all week long. And, I had already swam 30 minutes 3 hours before this (675 yards... including my first official 100 yards!). I did have some energy left, though, and got on my favorite stationary bike... the Expresso (virtual...kind of game like). I ended up riding a fairly flat course of 3.67 miles in 21 minutes! Not bad for me.
So, I kind of did my own tri today. I swam. I ran. I biked. (Though the swimming was at 6:30 and the running & biking were at 10:00.)
Tomorrow I plan on swimming in the morning and then trying my first 10 mile bike ride (on the Expresso). I'll be running again on Saturday - outside! - and hope to get back to some 5 minute runs!!! If not, though, I'll keep pushing myself and I'll get there eventually.
I started walking. First of all, I was disappointed to see that my "warm up" was only a 20 min/mile! Then, when I started my 'run' (jog), I was only going a 16.5 min/mile. Yikes! I know it isn't about speed at this point, but I thought I was going about 13-14 min/mile.
Another disappointment: on week 4 you are supposed to run the following mins: 3-5-3-5. Monday was my first try and I made 3-5-3-3, so I changed the last 5 to a 3. Today? Hmmm... I ran 3-3-2. That was it! I turned off the treadmill after 22 minutes. I just couldn't (or wouldn't) do it.
Another thing was that I was wearing my HRM. My HR is supposed to stay between 134-150. Well, I don't know what is "dangerous" (I'll do some research), but at the 3 minute mark it was up to 162. Maybe that's fine... but I wasn't sure and didn't want to push it.
That being said, I have worked out hard all week long. And, I had already swam 30 minutes 3 hours before this (675 yards... including my first official 100 yards!). I did have some energy left, though, and got on my favorite stationary bike... the Expresso (virtual...kind of game like). I ended up riding a fairly flat course of 3.67 miles in 21 minutes! Not bad for me.
So, I kind of did my own tri today. I swam. I ran. I biked. (Though the swimming was at 6:30 and the running & biking were at 10:00.)
Tomorrow I plan on swimming in the morning and then trying my first 10 mile bike ride (on the Expresso). I'll be running again on Saturday - outside! - and hope to get back to some 5 minute runs!!! If not, though, I'll keep pushing myself and I'll get there eventually.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Books to Tri
I've been reading books about triathlons the past few weeks, and thought I'd share a little about them.
The first one I read was "Your First Triathlon" by Joe Friel. This is a great beginner's book that I'll be reading again as my tri gets closer. He discusses nutrition, support, and how to safely train in all 3 disciplines. It also has different plans for different people - for example, if you come from a running background or a background in none of the 3 sports (like me!). It also talks you through your first triathlon and how to prepare and what to expect. (My first tri isn't scheduled until April, so I have a lot of time!)
The second book I read was "Slow Fat Triathlete" by Jayne Williams. The best piece of advice I came away with from this book was that you shouldn't worry about how you look! Here's a quote: "Absolutely nothing good ever comes of worrying what other people think of you when you're doing something that you want to do, that's fun and legal, and that's actually good for you." I also really enjoyed reading her journal entries from after various events. Although I got some good information from this book, I was really turned off by her language. I probably wouldn't have bought her 2nd book (because of the language) if I hadn't bought them both at the same time.
The third book is a book I borrowed from the library and finished today. I plan on buying this one! It is called "Triathlon 101: Essentials for Multisport Success" by John Mora. This is a great book that discusses tris from many angles. The book is divided into the following sections: "getting ready to tri", "traithlon training basics", and "tri-ing your best." The book is filled with lots of great information for someone new to the sport!
The fourth, and last, book I've been reading is "Shape Up with the Slow Fat Triathlete" by Jayne Williams. As I mentioined in her other book, I'm really disappointed (and bothered) by her language. UPDATE: I read a few more minutes of this book and just had to put it down. I will NOT be reading this book. The language is just unacceptable to me. I would not recommend this book.
Do you have a favorite tri book? Or a book about swimming, running, or cycling? I'd love to hear about it!
The first one I read was "Your First Triathlon" by Joe Friel. This is a great beginner's book that I'll be reading again as my tri gets closer. He discusses nutrition, support, and how to safely train in all 3 disciplines. It also has different plans for different people - for example, if you come from a running background or a background in none of the 3 sports (like me!). It also talks you through your first triathlon and how to prepare and what to expect. (My first tri isn't scheduled until April, so I have a lot of time!)
The second book I read was "Slow Fat Triathlete" by Jayne Williams. The best piece of advice I came away with from this book was that you shouldn't worry about how you look! Here's a quote: "Absolutely nothing good ever comes of worrying what other people think of you when you're doing something that you want to do, that's fun and legal, and that's actually good for you." I also really enjoyed reading her journal entries from after various events. Although I got some good information from this book, I was really turned off by her language. I probably wouldn't have bought her 2nd book (because of the language) if I hadn't bought them both at the same time.
The third book is a book I borrowed from the library and finished today. I plan on buying this one! It is called "Triathlon 101: Essentials for Multisport Success" by John Mora. This is a great book that discusses tris from many angles. The book is divided into the following sections: "getting ready to tri", "traithlon training basics", and "tri-ing your best." The book is filled with lots of great information for someone new to the sport!
The fourth, and last, book I've been reading is "Shape Up with the Slow Fat Triathlete" by Jayne Williams. As I mentioined in her other book, I'm really disappointed (and bothered) by her language. UPDATE: I read a few more minutes of this book and just had to put it down. I will NOT be reading this book. The language is just unacceptable to me. I would not recommend this book.
Do you have a favorite tri book? Or a book about swimming, running, or cycling? I'd love to hear about it!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Reviving the Dream
I first had the desire to do a triathlon back in 2003. In fact, that is when I first heard about sprint triathlons! I had a new friend who was also my spin instructor who was doing a sprint tri.
I started running on a treadmill, doing spin classes (with my friend as instructor), and took semi-private swim lessons with a friend (from spin class) for 8 weeks. I ended up doing two 5Ks with my brother, but I had never even tried running outside. I had times of 49 mins and 46.5 mins.
"Life" got in the way. So, I gave up my dream.
About 6 weeks ago my sil came to visit. She had started running and lost a lot of weight. I was impressed! And, she was going on a 25 mile bike ride the following weekend. It really inspired me.
I started by dieting about 5.5 weeks ago... and then I started the C25K program a few days later. I have a pool and started swimming laps and I realized I could train for a tri! I went on my first bike ride (in over 2 decades!) a week or 2 later while visiting my sil. We did 2 rides in the foothills of an incredible mountain: 4 miles and 7.4 miles.
So, here I am! I have signed up for three 5Ks. I expect to walk a lot of the first two (in Aug & Sept), but run most/all of the third (Oct). I also found a sprint tri near my moms that has the swim in a community center we actually go to. So, that's my goal and it is in late April.
My current training schedule:
run 3x per week (C25K - I'm going slowly and currently on Week 3, but plan on moving up to Week 4 after one more run tomorrow)
swim 3x per week (30 mins with group at neighborhood pool - I swim 500+ yards)
weight train 2x per week (1 with personal trainer/1 according to the plan he writes for me)
misc - some Wii, some videos, some other cardio machines, and hopefully some group classes since we just joined the Y
I'd like to start cycling (on stationary bike or spinning) 2x per week, but we'll see! I don't plan on actually starting on my bike (which I don't have yet) until January.
So, that's the beginning of my story! I am determined. I WILL TRI!
I started running on a treadmill, doing spin classes (with my friend as instructor), and took semi-private swim lessons with a friend (from spin class) for 8 weeks. I ended up doing two 5Ks with my brother, but I had never even tried running outside. I had times of 49 mins and 46.5 mins.
"Life" got in the way. So, I gave up my dream.
About 6 weeks ago my sil came to visit. She had started running and lost a lot of weight. I was impressed! And, she was going on a 25 mile bike ride the following weekend. It really inspired me.
I started by dieting about 5.5 weeks ago... and then I started the C25K program a few days later. I have a pool and started swimming laps and I realized I could train for a tri! I went on my first bike ride (in over 2 decades!) a week or 2 later while visiting my sil. We did 2 rides in the foothills of an incredible mountain: 4 miles and 7.4 miles.
So, here I am! I have signed up for three 5Ks. I expect to walk a lot of the first two (in Aug & Sept), but run most/all of the third (Oct). I also found a sprint tri near my moms that has the swim in a community center we actually go to. So, that's my goal and it is in late April.
My current training schedule:
run 3x per week (C25K - I'm going slowly and currently on Week 3, but plan on moving up to Week 4 after one more run tomorrow)
swim 3x per week (30 mins with group at neighborhood pool - I swim 500+ yards)
weight train 2x per week (1 with personal trainer/1 according to the plan he writes for me)
misc - some Wii, some videos, some other cardio machines, and hopefully some group classes since we just joined the Y
I'd like to start cycling (on stationary bike or spinning) 2x per week, but we'll see! I don't plan on actually starting on my bike (which I don't have yet) until January.
So, that's the beginning of my story! I am determined. I WILL TRI!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Sprint Triathlon...Am I Crazy???
So, I've finished Week 1 of my Couch to 5K training. Yeah! And, I've scheduled two 5Ks. I'll be doing one on September 11th (probably more walk/run) and one on October 2nd (try to run this one).
About 5 years ago I started training for a Sprint Triathalon. I was jogging on a treadmill (not very well or very long), doing spinning classes twice a week, and I took semi-private swim lessons for 6 weeks or so. Anyway, life interferred and I had to stop.
Now, I really want to do a sprint (or mini) triathalon! I found one where my mom lives that takes place on April 24th. That gives me almost 10 months to train! I think I can do it, but I'm really scared to even "announce" this to anyone. Right now, I couldn't complete any of the 3 events. (Oh... and I love that this one has the swimming indoors!) How will I find the time to train for all 3 events? Will I even be able to do all 3 events?
Here's my plan:
running - I will continue with my training. I will redo week 1 so my new buddy can catch up. Plus, we have the time and I don't know if I'm ready to go on yet. I will run MWF.
cycling - I am headed on vacation next week and my sister-in-law is going to go riding witih me. I haven't been on a bike in 20+ years! So, this will show me if I can ride and if I like it. I plan on buying a bike when I get back.
swimming - I started tonight by swimming 10 back & forth laps in our pool. It took my 9 minutes to go about 250 yards. The swim will only be 275 yards. So, I know I can do it eventually, but tonight I was stopping after every 12.5 yards.
I plan on signing up for some kind of classes when I return from our trip.
So, can I do this? Is this just a beginner's enthusiasm? I'm not sure!!!! And, should I sign up for a few more things before the sprint triathalon... like a bike ride? And, how do I go about finding a local training group? or a trainer? I'm in a big city, but it'd have to be early in the morning or on the weekends.
About 5 years ago I started training for a Sprint Triathalon. I was jogging on a treadmill (not very well or very long), doing spinning classes twice a week, and I took semi-private swim lessons for 6 weeks or so. Anyway, life interferred and I had to stop.
Now, I really want to do a sprint (or mini) triathalon! I found one where my mom lives that takes place on April 24th. That gives me almost 10 months to train! I think I can do it, but I'm really scared to even "announce" this to anyone. Right now, I couldn't complete any of the 3 events. (Oh... and I love that this one has the swimming indoors!) How will I find the time to train for all 3 events? Will I even be able to do all 3 events?
Here's my plan:
running - I will continue with my training. I will redo week 1 so my new buddy can catch up. Plus, we have the time and I don't know if I'm ready to go on yet. I will run MWF.
cycling - I am headed on vacation next week and my sister-in-law is going to go riding witih me. I haven't been on a bike in 20+ years! So, this will show me if I can ride and if I like it. I plan on buying a bike when I get back.
swimming - I started tonight by swimming 10 back & forth laps in our pool. It took my 9 minutes to go about 250 yards. The swim will only be 275 yards. So, I know I can do it eventually, but tonight I was stopping after every 12.5 yards.
I plan on signing up for some kind of classes when I return from our trip. So, can I do this? Is this just a beginner's enthusiasm? I'm not sure!!!! And, should I sign up for a few more things before the sprint triathalon... like a bike ride? And, how do I go about finding a local training group? or a trainer? I'm in a big city, but it'd have to be early in the morning or on the weekends.
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