While today is not the day of post-race celebration and bragging rights. And I don't have the "Finisher's jacket" I imagined as all I wanted for Christmas during that ride, I am celebrating.
I do have several things that either I wanted and some that I just wasn't conscious of quite so keenly before this.
I do still have what seems like "space" that's been taken up heavily lately, for months and months actually, by thoughts and focus, and training for this event. It's suddenly freed up. I had jokingly referred to looking forward to free time after the 22nd. It's true, though I didn't feel it immediately because I was consumed by details of how and what and who in the first 36 hours, it's finally settled.
I do have a big sister that takes care of me when I need it, even when I don't know or admit it and a mother who can change her tune even at 84 to support a concept she still thinks is nuts!
I have cousins that are incredible people and that just do what needs to be done to offer assistance and comfort to someone in need, because they can. They're people I look forward to meeting again during less stressful times!
I do have an awesome medical community and an insurance card in my pocket that allows me the privilege of seeing who I need to see. I saw the right person at the right time yesterday and learned that very possibly all that happened was the larger muscles in my left foot fatigued to the extent they would not work and were straining so much the continued use caused the pain. Swelling inside shoe might have been caused by insult to injury in the hard, inflexible bike shoe, then the black boot that allowed me to put weight on it actually also let it blow up further.
I have a registration for the 2011 Ironman, that I took care of on Saturday before any of this happened, knowing that no matter what the outcome, I wasn't done. I'd be wanting to either improve my time and my focus over this next year or to complete unfinished business which as it turns out is more true.
I have the relief in knowing after a time of physical and mental rest and cross training I'll be able to train again safely. I don't have the nagging worry in my head I would have if this had been a stress fracture.
I have expressed thanks for several of these people before, but since Sunday they came to the rescue in many ways. My life has turned into a country music song, lol. You certainly do find out who your friends are!
They keep calling and they're there to make sure you're OK. They want to know and want to let you know they care. I've been a 'want to do it myself' person either learned by need or by preference for a long long time. It's not always comfortable to get the help I need even when I know I need it. These people are oblivious to that or just plan to keep bugging me until I get it.
Sher
Chris Bachman and his girlfriend Gretchen
Karen and Bill Bachman
Jon Bachman
Mike Garton
Bill Huls
Julie Vardamon
Madison Mackenzie
Dan Atkinson
the guy in the kayak who zipped my wet suit back up before the start gun went off
the countless volunteers along the course who lived up to and surpassed every possible account I'd heard about how amazing the volunteers are
Dustin
Deb Hoyt
the hotel concierge at Mission Palms in Tempe
Caite, the massage therapist who retrieved my bike for me
Mike Dodge, fireman for Tempe tending the AZ IM
Dr. Chuck Gilarski
Seashelly- who finally called two days late! Thank goodness it wasn't my heart! Initially in her first message she offered bad advice; "never go alone again. If you have to go alone, don't go." First of all, you're never alone at an event like this. Second of all, I'm not ever waiting again for life to start for someone else. In the end we are each solely responsible for the life we live.
The triathlon community embraces every level of athlete. You should move in, too!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Post race massage?
Not the ego and not the shoulders or back getting a massage. More like my insurance and credit cards. I've visited ER, to have an x-ray that wouldn't likely have shown a stress fracture yet anyway, but that was something of a pre-rec to get crutches and a boot. And Vicadin if you want it. I'll take my otc, thanks.
I have had the epitome of customer service and family care. A cousin I've barely seen called and has come to the rescue in so many ways I can count. Took my bike back to ship out, retrieved my bags and bottles from cages on the bike. He had me check out of the hotel, come to his house, agreed to get me to either his girfriend's orthoped/office or to ER, and to take me to the airport in the morning.
His folks, my aunt and uncle, also not people I see regularly flew in this morning- and whose arrival Chris juggled with my ER stay without breaking a sweat or blinking. By the time he was back I was booted, crutched and done.
I'm hoping it's not my imagination or the fact I've had it elevated the majority of time, but that it actually is better. I can, at least with this shoe bear some weight on it.
Doc at ER planted a new seed of hope. It might be a strained ligament or tendon and not a fracture. That I can deal with- still a fluke but must be that healing time would be a lot shorter for that.
I have had the epitome of customer service and family care. A cousin I've barely seen called and has come to the rescue in so many ways I can count. Took my bike back to ship out, retrieved my bags and bottles from cages on the bike. He had me check out of the hotel, come to his house, agreed to get me to either his girfriend's orthoped/office or to ER, and to take me to the airport in the morning.
His folks, my aunt and uncle, also not people I see regularly flew in this morning- and whose arrival Chris juggled with my ER stay without breaking a sweat or blinking. By the time he was back I was booted, crutched and done.
I'm hoping it's not my imagination or the fact I've had it elevated the majority of time, but that it actually is better. I can, at least with this shoe bear some weight on it.
Doc at ER planted a new seed of hope. It might be a strained ligament or tendon and not a fracture. That I can deal with- still a fluke but must be that healing time would be a lot shorter for that.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Finished
But not the coveted "Finisher."
DNF is not a title I could record, but that's the truth.
I had suspicions already at mile 40 when I stopped for water and a bathroom break and couldn't weight bear normally. The stop on the next side was worse. Had to ask the volunteers to hold the bike so I could even get off and then give me a shoulder.
They ended up carrying me. Right past my run gear bag handoff to the medic tent. Mr bedside manner wasn't much for problem solving with me about how to get an x-ray that he suggested I get without a ride other than ambulance or my insurance card- or get a taxi when I didn't have a credit card- also in the room with the insurance card.
Long story short I don't recommend traveling to an Ironman alone.
Suspect a stress fracture from the symptoms but haven't had any problems whatsoever. Can't say my running mileage has been high- even for an Ironman training plan- it was enough to get me to the start injury free.
I'm trying to avoid an emergency room x-ray here if I can stand the pain. Icing, ibuprofen and elevating. If you're reading and know better advice- like better pain killers, or I'll get something more to help this heal fast by going tomorrow- I'd like to know!
Two nice firemen brought me back in a gator - right to the hotel- and then got a wheelchair from front desk because they didn't think hopping would be a good idea. Tom Dodge I think was the name on the driver's shirt. If I remember to find out I'll thank him.
The rest of the day? Amazing. The swim went great- at least after my wet suit zipper came undone before swim start as we were in the water treading waiting for start. So I laid myself across one of they kayaks and he got me back in the game. I lost my nose plugs- even my spares- but by that point it was like- oh, well.
The bike highs and lows included the volunteers, the out and back so we got to constantly see other riders, and the wind with us going out/uphill most of the time. Coming back downhill the winds must have been? 20-30 at least. It was work all the way on every lap - so on the last of course, getting pretty old!
Rainbow appeared in the last lap - hard not to think it wasn't meant to be there for the chasing!
Laughingly last night I said to myself - hey, the Bucket List is on at 8pm Sun night. If I were done I could see it. Ironically I am. Hoping that I didn't somehow send that message out to the universe.
DNF is not a title I could record, but that's the truth.
I had suspicions already at mile 40 when I stopped for water and a bathroom break and couldn't weight bear normally. The stop on the next side was worse. Had to ask the volunteers to hold the bike so I could even get off and then give me a shoulder.
They ended up carrying me. Right past my run gear bag handoff to the medic tent. Mr bedside manner wasn't much for problem solving with me about how to get an x-ray that he suggested I get without a ride other than ambulance or my insurance card- or get a taxi when I didn't have a credit card- also in the room with the insurance card.
Long story short I don't recommend traveling to an Ironman alone.
Suspect a stress fracture from the symptoms but haven't had any problems whatsoever. Can't say my running mileage has been high- even for an Ironman training plan- it was enough to get me to the start injury free.
I'm trying to avoid an emergency room x-ray here if I can stand the pain. Icing, ibuprofen and elevating. If you're reading and know better advice- like better pain killers, or I'll get something more to help this heal fast by going tomorrow- I'd like to know!
Two nice firemen brought me back in a gator - right to the hotel- and then got a wheelchair from front desk because they didn't think hopping would be a good idea. Tom Dodge I think was the name on the driver's shirt. If I remember to find out I'll thank him.
The rest of the day? Amazing. The swim went great- at least after my wet suit zipper came undone before swim start as we were in the water treading waiting for start. So I laid myself across one of they kayaks and he got me back in the game. I lost my nose plugs- even my spares- but by that point it was like- oh, well.
The bike highs and lows included the volunteers, the out and back so we got to constantly see other riders, and the wind with us going out/uphill most of the time. Coming back downhill the winds must have been? 20-30 at least. It was work all the way on every lap - so on the last of course, getting pretty old!
Rainbow appeared in the last lap - hard not to think it wasn't meant to be there for the chasing!
Laughingly last night I said to myself - hey, the Bucket List is on at 8pm Sun night. If I were done I could see it. Ironically I am. Hoping that I didn't somehow send that message out to the universe.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Bucket List
The Bucket List was on television here last night after the welcome dinner and athlete's mandatory meeting.
I tried to watch it but couldn't stay up! I was hoping it would be on again today while I am putting my feet up, but no such luck.
A friend just mentioned he'd watched it just this week, and of course I mention it because doing this IM has been on mine.
It's on tomorrow at 8. That's a little optimistic perhaps? 13 hours that would be. I'd be thrilled. To see any of it.
What I think I'd like to do is finish, have time to shower and take in some food and go watch those midnight finishers come in.
If I end up being one- I'll be grateful for that- and for those people who have have a better day but chose to come back.
I tried to watch it but couldn't stay up! I was hoping it would be on again today while I am putting my feet up, but no such luck.
A friend just mentioned he'd watched it just this week, and of course I mention it because doing this IM has been on mine.
It's on tomorrow at 8. That's a little optimistic perhaps? 13 hours that would be. I'd be thrilled. To see any of it.
What I think I'd like to do is finish, have time to shower and take in some food and go watch those midnight finishers come in.
If I end up being one- I'll be grateful for that- and for those people who have have a better day but chose to come back.
Thanksgiving
I haven't exhausted the list of things I've been grateful for during this crazy year of training.
My sister-in-law Julie was diagnosed with breast cancer in April, just shortly after she was at my house for Easter and her spontaneous and appetite-for-life self. She's since lost two breasts, her hair and gotten through chemo. She's the real IM. If only some of the strength and endurance and stamina we all generate on the road could be transferred to someone who needs it. She's celebrating life with two of her three Pink Support group members and their parents in San Jose this year- so I'll miss her at my table- but for good reason!
My dermatologist- lol- you know you're a woman in your 40's when you have your dermatologist on speed dial, that's my motto. This crazy time has been a roller coaster- and between emotional, intellectual, and physical stress my face gave me some feedback. I have a feeling that next year will be different. We don't know what our limits are until we push them.
My sister-in-law Julie was diagnosed with breast cancer in April, just shortly after she was at my house for Easter and her spontaneous and appetite-for-life self. She's since lost two breasts, her hair and gotten through chemo. She's the real IM. If only some of the strength and endurance and stamina we all generate on the road could be transferred to someone who needs it. She's celebrating life with two of her three Pink Support group members and their parents in San Jose this year- so I'll miss her at my table- but for good reason!
My dermatologist- lol- you know you're a woman in your 40's when you have your dermatologist on speed dial, that's my motto. This crazy time has been a roller coaster- and between emotional, intellectual, and physical stress my face gave me some feedback. I have a feeling that next year will be different. We don't know what our limits are until we push them.
racing
More this weekend than this whole year, I've been asked "are you racing Sunday?" or "are you competing?"
I can't get my mind around that and why I still find that incredibly funny.
I know there are people who are here and racing.
I am neither here racing or competing.
To compete someone loses. I think everyone at this race wins. To try this, to set out and see if you can is winning, even if this one attempt isn't according to plan. Anything can happen tomorrow. It can as they say- rain. (how many days of sunshine per year in Arizona...and are you kidding me?)
It can be 60 degree water temps and for a slower swimmer be a little risky at the end.
Knowing they have warming tents for after the swim on Sunday should be comforting, but somehow it's not. I definitely stuck that jacket in the bike gear bag.
I am here pacing. Getting through a nice swim, to get on the bike for three loops- each one a little faster than the last, and then the run- saving some for the last five miles and making sure to eat once I've got a few minutes on the bike - to catch up for the swim output and plan ahead for the energy on bike and run portions of the race.
I'll remember that other people's stomachs tolerate Gu and gels better than mine and pace that intake for later in the race when keeping the sugar up once you start it is the only answer.
I'll choose chicken soup late in the race for sodium and hydration.
And I'm not opposed to flat Coke if the situation warrants it.
Easy as riding a bike.
8 miles is not that far. Each run loop is only 8.5 miles.
I can't get my mind around that and why I still find that incredibly funny.
I know there are people who are here and racing.
I am neither here racing or competing.
To compete someone loses. I think everyone at this race wins. To try this, to set out and see if you can is winning, even if this one attempt isn't according to plan. Anything can happen tomorrow. It can as they say- rain. (how many days of sunshine per year in Arizona...and are you kidding me?)
It can be 60 degree water temps and for a slower swimmer be a little risky at the end.
Knowing they have warming tents for after the swim on Sunday should be comforting, but somehow it's not. I definitely stuck that jacket in the bike gear bag.
I am here pacing. Getting through a nice swim, to get on the bike for three loops- each one a little faster than the last, and then the run- saving some for the last five miles and making sure to eat once I've got a few minutes on the bike - to catch up for the swim output and plan ahead for the energy on bike and run portions of the race.
I'll remember that other people's stomachs tolerate Gu and gels better than mine and pace that intake for later in the race when keeping the sugar up once you start it is the only answer.
I'll choose chicken soup late in the race for sodium and hydration.
And I'm not opposed to flat Coke if the situation warrants it.
Easy as riding a bike.
8 miles is not that far. Each run loop is only 8.5 miles.
Redefining cold
Well last night came the shock that Sister Madonna Buder (80) has doubts about finishing this IM due to the water temperature. It's as of this morning 60.5 degrees. Yes, all decimals at this distance, in this race (back to that word later), matter.
I mean, you have to figure she has some pretty powerful troops on her side, right? So my imagination ran wild all day and into the night with just what would that water feel like.
Last evening, a gentleman who said he swam regularly in the Baltic Sea? and it was 50- told me it wasn't that cold... I had hope. For temporary insanity, like the rest of the people around me.
Well, when 2500 of your new best friends are jumping in you don't decide suddenly that you can't because it's too cold. Now you do wonder when you see some of them with neoprene caps, and swim socks (who knew? and who wanted to know?)
So I bit the bullet and was definitely in a take-my-breath-away moment but I have a pretty good imagination and it wasn't as bad as that. I did privately thank my coach for assigning a 10 minute swim- get in and get out. No problem with compliance on that front today. Got in tread a little, reveled in the fact that I had forgotten how much the wet suit buoys you up, the fact that the inside of the loop is nearly lined with kayaks ready to help or offer assistance if you need it- today and tomorrow.
I swam not enough to get into a groove and relax but enough to know that I can do that tomorrow and know that I'll find open space.
I remembered to get my face wet right away so the shock of that was under my control before I set out to swim.
I remembered to practice a little 'catch up' drill to keep my hand out front of me in case it is really congested when I begin.
Getting in your own head is the only option during the swim which is a good thing.
I need to remember Tim Hansen's advice of get a song going in my head, though I haven't picked one- the one most frequently played on my ipod- with a sturdy solid finish this and appreciate it message is "Boys of Fall" by Kenny Chesney. Not very many of those Friday nights...or these Sunday mornings - stay in the moment.
I mean, you have to figure she has some pretty powerful troops on her side, right? So my imagination ran wild all day and into the night with just what would that water feel like.
Last evening, a gentleman who said he swam regularly in the Baltic Sea? and it was 50- told me it wasn't that cold... I had hope. For temporary insanity, like the rest of the people around me.
Well, when 2500 of your new best friends are jumping in you don't decide suddenly that you can't because it's too cold. Now you do wonder when you see some of them with neoprene caps, and swim socks (who knew? and who wanted to know?)
So I bit the bullet and was definitely in a take-my-breath-away moment but I have a pretty good imagination and it wasn't as bad as that. I did privately thank my coach for assigning a 10 minute swim- get in and get out. No problem with compliance on that front today. Got in tread a little, reveled in the fact that I had forgotten how much the wet suit buoys you up, the fact that the inside of the loop is nearly lined with kayaks ready to help or offer assistance if you need it- today and tomorrow.
I swam not enough to get into a groove and relax but enough to know that I can do that tomorrow and know that I'll find open space.
I remembered to get my face wet right away so the shock of that was under my control before I set out to swim.
I remembered to practice a little 'catch up' drill to keep my hand out front of me in case it is really congested when I begin.
Getting in your own head is the only option during the swim which is a good thing.
I need to remember Tim Hansen's advice of get a song going in my head, though I haven't picked one- the one most frequently played on my ipod- with a sturdy solid finish this and appreciate it message is "Boys of Fall" by Kenny Chesney. Not very many of those Friday nights...or these Sunday mornings - stay in the moment.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Spelling It Out
Someone gave me a card yesterday and I had to disagree with most of the meaningful and well-intended words that he wrote. It wasn't that hard. It was, often for me, a selfish feeling. I almost always felt I should be doing something with or for Dustin, or around the house or the yard, or the never-ending work that this there in this day of management by technology, or visiting my family out of town.
It was actually more isolating and lonely than I ever imagined it. Partially that's due to the rest of the life I lead, and the reality that I had to fit it in when I could and couldn't have planned to work around someone else's schedule too, it just wouldn't have happened.
Will it be a satisfying experience? Can't answer that one. I know I won't regret it, but I might have outgrown some of the things that made it a tough experience this year. Like this race, where the goal is always to be moving forward, I need to know that I am and sometimes lately in these last 11 months I've wondered that.
There's no way to go through something that causes so much internal focus without being different and realizing what works and what doesn't in your life.
It's easy, really. The things that keep you up at night and that make you cry, not once, but repeatedly, are things that have to be resolved and eliminated if you're going to be satisfied at the end of this race. To have regrets that last for years is too much to ask of anyone.
Training is simple and clean and clear. It makes the rest just that way as well. You prepare, you work through it and you get better. You don't get better by repeating the same mistakes or by avoiding logging the miles.
All the secrets are there in the training schedule.
It was actually more isolating and lonely than I ever imagined it. Partially that's due to the rest of the life I lead, and the reality that I had to fit it in when I could and couldn't have planned to work around someone else's schedule too, it just wouldn't have happened.
Will it be a satisfying experience? Can't answer that one. I know I won't regret it, but I might have outgrown some of the things that made it a tough experience this year. Like this race, where the goal is always to be moving forward, I need to know that I am and sometimes lately in these last 11 months I've wondered that.
There's no way to go through something that causes so much internal focus without being different and realizing what works and what doesn't in your life.
It's easy, really. The things that keep you up at night and that make you cry, not once, but repeatedly, are things that have to be resolved and eliminated if you're going to be satisfied at the end of this race. To have regrets that last for years is too much to ask of anyone.
Training is simple and clean and clear. It makes the rest just that way as well. You prepare, you work through it and you get better. You don't get better by repeating the same mistakes or by avoiding logging the miles.
All the secrets are there in the training schedule.
Grateful Alive
The other title was taken and frankly I don't want it!
Grateful for a job that lets me work 24/7 and flexible hours as long as I get the job done so that I can challenge myself in a way that we challenge everyone we work with every day. It's only fair that we each in this industry experience that willingness to get outside our comfort zones.
Bill Raney- for running his first marathon and having to do long runs the same weekend I was riding a long ride or doing a brick- so that maybe at the top of a hill at 2:15 down and 2:15 left to go I'd hear that he made his 16 or 18 miler successfully so I'd know I could do it too!
Bill from the Tri community and the pool- little does he know how much his words all year made me nervous- but in the last few weeks when I was most anxious about this experience and most stressed about every other area of life in addition, he spoke just the right words at just the right time to remind me that this is totally doable.
Jody- for the picture of form and grace in running, swimming and biking. An athlete through and through, she could likely start and finish this race tomorrow. She's the image of a swimmer I would want to emulate, and has speed I never will have in the run.
Tim Hansen- for such accurate and perfect tips on swim technique in just the right dosage. And for the book he lent me at the perfect time- that I've finished just now before I leave tomorrow. In it IM finishers of all types shared their experiences. How to Be an Ironman is the title- if you're reading this, you'd love it- whether or not you ever want to do that- you have something in you waiting to be done- and this will help!
Trip Hedrick- who gave me a lesson last spring - and whose comments still ring through my ears as I swim. As a prior swim coach and a master swimmer, who had a heart attach almost two decades ago- who still frequents the pool- he inspires everyone to continue on with reaching goals!
Mike Garton and Julie Kirkpatrick- both my triathlon coaches over time. I've learned so much from them and about myself through their challenges of my physical ability. I definitely doubted and challenged their thinking along the way and in the end trusted they knew what they were doing. And I know I knew what I was doing as well- each in their own way was the right coach at the right time. Congratulations to Julie on her recent marriage! Julie's personal experience along with her intuitive coaching- gave me just the right information even before I asked the questions sometimes!
Dan Atkinson, for letting me stop at his house or the barn for a bathroom break or water along the way, understanding that stopping at home was too dangerous!
Truman- who gave his all during that run in July that resulted in heat stroke, and who has suffered more since by not being able to go along until more chilly recent days. Training starts again next week for you, chubby dog. We will see your ribs again!@
Grateful for a job that lets me work 24/7 and flexible hours as long as I get the job done so that I can challenge myself in a way that we challenge everyone we work with every day. It's only fair that we each in this industry experience that willingness to get outside our comfort zones.
Bill Raney- for running his first marathon and having to do long runs the same weekend I was riding a long ride or doing a brick- so that maybe at the top of a hill at 2:15 down and 2:15 left to go I'd hear that he made his 16 or 18 miler successfully so I'd know I could do it too!
Bill from the Tri community and the pool- little does he know how much his words all year made me nervous- but in the last few weeks when I was most anxious about this experience and most stressed about every other area of life in addition, he spoke just the right words at just the right time to remind me that this is totally doable.
Jody- for the picture of form and grace in running, swimming and biking. An athlete through and through, she could likely start and finish this race tomorrow. She's the image of a swimmer I would want to emulate, and has speed I never will have in the run.
Tim Hansen- for such accurate and perfect tips on swim technique in just the right dosage. And for the book he lent me at the perfect time- that I've finished just now before I leave tomorrow. In it IM finishers of all types shared their experiences. How to Be an Ironman is the title- if you're reading this, you'd love it- whether or not you ever want to do that- you have something in you waiting to be done- and this will help!
Trip Hedrick- who gave me a lesson last spring - and whose comments still ring through my ears as I swim. As a prior swim coach and a master swimmer, who had a heart attach almost two decades ago- who still frequents the pool- he inspires everyone to continue on with reaching goals!
Mike Garton and Julie Kirkpatrick- both my triathlon coaches over time. I've learned so much from them and about myself through their challenges of my physical ability. I definitely doubted and challenged their thinking along the way and in the end trusted they knew what they were doing. And I know I knew what I was doing as well- each in their own way was the right coach at the right time. Congratulations to Julie on her recent marriage! Julie's personal experience along with her intuitive coaching- gave me just the right information even before I asked the questions sometimes!
Dan Atkinson, for letting me stop at his house or the barn for a bathroom break or water along the way, understanding that stopping at home was too dangerous!
Truman- who gave his all during that run in July that resulted in heat stroke, and who has suffered more since by not being able to go along until more chilly recent days. Training starts again next week for you, chubby dog. We will see your ribs again!@
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Sticker Shock
OK- not really sticker shock- but body shock, venue shock, and an extremely funny reality check. People whom I have been asking questions of today keep telling me "oh, yes, but that'll be busy because of the Ironman people coming in...." and when I told my inquisitive waiter that I was going to walk down to the race transition venue- after I'd asked for directions- he asked, not if I was participating, but if I was going to take advantage of the nice day.
At the airport there was a tall blond guy that oozed athlete, and fast. (I'm pretty sure no one looked at me and thought that!) In fact I started to think, geez, does my butt look that big or do I look like I don't get messy? Wait til Sunday.
So needless to say there will need to be some inside the head action going on here the next few days. As I was walking along the lake - thinking it doesn't look all that cold! And thankful that the air temperature is a sunny 75-ish today- a group of German bikers came whizzing past looking like they knew what they were doing.
Tomorrow I'm to get on my bike- that is after hoping it has been 1. delivered 2. reassembled 3. to my fit! and ride in an area that boasts about 3 million people - while I'm used to rural Ames where no one bothers me as long as they're not texting. Always another growth opportunity!
I have to swim in a fish bowl on Friday, on the second floor of the hotel- not that several hundred other athletes don't have the same idea.
And I have the concierge finding out what orphan athletes who have no family or friends to help them do in case they can't pick up their bikes by midnight because they're still finishing or getting IVs! I could donate the bike I suppose. But then there's the wetsuit, the bike shoes and helmet and warm up shirt and shorts I'll have had on in the morning also.
At the airport there was a tall blond guy that oozed athlete, and fast. (I'm pretty sure no one looked at me and thought that!) In fact I started to think, geez, does my butt look that big or do I look like I don't get messy? Wait til Sunday.
So needless to say there will need to be some inside the head action going on here the next few days. As I was walking along the lake - thinking it doesn't look all that cold! And thankful that the air temperature is a sunny 75-ish today- a group of German bikers came whizzing past looking like they knew what they were doing.
Tomorrow I'm to get on my bike- that is after hoping it has been 1. delivered 2. reassembled 3. to my fit! and ride in an area that boasts about 3 million people - while I'm used to rural Ames where no one bothers me as long as they're not texting. Always another growth opportunity!
I have to swim in a fish bowl on Friday, on the second floor of the hotel- not that several hundred other athletes don't have the same idea.
And I have the concierge finding out what orphan athletes who have no family or friends to help them do in case they can't pick up their bikes by midnight because they're still finishing or getting IVs! I could donate the bike I suppose. But then there's the wetsuit, the bike shoes and helmet and warm up shirt and shorts I'll have had on in the morning also.
Mother of Encouragement
One of my earliest blogs last year occurred when I told my mother at lunch one day what I was doing. Or rather my son brought it up, no doubt knowing that there would be some confusion and fun around explaining to my 84 year old mother why I was doing it.
From her initial "your going to kill yourself" response to the phone call with her last weekend. I expressed that I was sorry now that I hadn't taken Dustin out of school for a couple days to come along- to have someone there, knowing it was going to be emotional both at the beginning and at the end, and that recounts of other athlete's Ironman experiences revealed how important that family or friends siting along the way was to them.
I'm prepared to throw up, or have diarrhea and to suffer the pain through it telling myself to keep moving forward but I'm not prepared for starting or crossing the finish line alone. That will be tougher than anything I've ever done. And I've had a big big baby, and felt that great sense of alone that follows a divorce. I didn't expect it. I didn't expect to need that so much.
I told my mom how I was excited, nervous, and a little scared- all true, but that my goal was to focus on enjoying the experience - and realizing all the time that this "first" will never come again- regardless of whether another Ironman does or not.
She piped in- "right, you don't have to win it, just do well." How far has she come?? To be referring to Ironman and winning in the same sentence! One thing is for sure- I can't keep up!!
Oh my. Winning in this event is finishing for me! And having the experience of a lifetime, being able to walk away choosing to do it again or to be satisfied with the day.
From her initial "your going to kill yourself" response to the phone call with her last weekend. I expressed that I was sorry now that I hadn't taken Dustin out of school for a couple days to come along- to have someone there, knowing it was going to be emotional both at the beginning and at the end, and that recounts of other athlete's Ironman experiences revealed how important that family or friends siting along the way was to them.
I'm prepared to throw up, or have diarrhea and to suffer the pain through it telling myself to keep moving forward but I'm not prepared for starting or crossing the finish line alone. That will be tougher than anything I've ever done. And I've had a big big baby, and felt that great sense of alone that follows a divorce. I didn't expect it. I didn't expect to need that so much.
I told my mom how I was excited, nervous, and a little scared- all true, but that my goal was to focus on enjoying the experience - and realizing all the time that this "first" will never come again- regardless of whether another Ironman does or not.
She piped in- "right, you don't have to win it, just do well." How far has she come?? To be referring to Ironman and winning in the same sentence! One thing is for sure- I can't keep up!!
Oh my. Winning in this event is finishing for me! And having the experience of a lifetime, being able to walk away choosing to do it again or to be satisfied with the day.
More on Gratitude
I have more people to thank than will ever reach these posts.
People who barely know I think of them as inspiration.
Mark Leblanc for taking time to talk to me about growing my business and for showing me a humbling yoga experience that gives me a goal for early 2011. And for sharing his experience in his book, Never Be the Same. I do know that at the end of this journey I won't be the same. I will have gone so much farther than 140 + miles away from where I was. There will be change in my life that happens for it. In the end only I am responsible for the experience I have in this world.
Dustin Atkinson who every once in a while will make sure I know he knows this has some importance to me. "Does that day have some significance somehow" he'll ask when we're talking about November 21. Or when my answer to a question is 'let's talk about that after the 21st.' He's talking about Thanksgiving and Christmas and a birthday in January. I'm thinking that's A.I. (after Ironman) and reminded there is life after that! (He's not on this list because he doesn't already know how important he is- but that he doesn't know how much his words ground me- sometimes kick me in the shins...but ground me nevertheless.)
The triathlon training group who finished their first tri this summer. They went across a new threshold and through them I got to relive a 'first' vicariously. They remind me why I got into this again. They bring me back to getting people to experience life in a bigger way. They remind me how much alike we are in this human experience. They also reminded me of how to have fun while working again!
Coaches who spent time with my son in various was this past summer and fall. Jay, RJ and Chris, all who are helping feed dreams and create character that is a bigger value than the score itself. The legacy of Don Palmer and his value of golf as a game that reflects the type of person you are off the green and fairway. If we can shoot for the fairway and play our best through the rough, we're doing OK. I'm haunted (in a good way) knowing that he's on that course with Dustin and that what happens in the clubhouse among a foursome, or in the van on the way home from a meet, is as important as the game itself.
People who barely know I think of them as inspiration.
Mark Leblanc for taking time to talk to me about growing my business and for showing me a humbling yoga experience that gives me a goal for early 2011. And for sharing his experience in his book, Never Be the Same. I do know that at the end of this journey I won't be the same. I will have gone so much farther than 140 + miles away from where I was. There will be change in my life that happens for it. In the end only I am responsible for the experience I have in this world.
Dustin Atkinson who every once in a while will make sure I know he knows this has some importance to me. "Does that day have some significance somehow" he'll ask when we're talking about November 21. Or when my answer to a question is 'let's talk about that after the 21st.' He's talking about Thanksgiving and Christmas and a birthday in January. I'm thinking that's A.I. (after Ironman) and reminded there is life after that! (He's not on this list because he doesn't already know how important he is- but that he doesn't know how much his words ground me- sometimes kick me in the shins...but ground me nevertheless.)
The triathlon training group who finished their first tri this summer. They went across a new threshold and through them I got to relive a 'first' vicariously. They remind me why I got into this again. They bring me back to getting people to experience life in a bigger way. They remind me how much alike we are in this human experience. They also reminded me of how to have fun while working again!
Coaches who spent time with my son in various was this past summer and fall. Jay, RJ and Chris, all who are helping feed dreams and create character that is a bigger value than the score itself. The legacy of Don Palmer and his value of golf as a game that reflects the type of person you are off the green and fairway. If we can shoot for the fairway and play our best through the rough, we're doing OK. I'm haunted (in a good way) knowing that he's on that course with Dustin and that what happens in the clubhouse among a foursome, or in the van on the way home from a meet, is as important as the game itself.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Brain Freeze
My coach tells me that 70 is not too cold. Not a real need for a neoprene cap.
Tell I tell you that I've done the majority of my laps in a pool 84 degrees?
And that I like it?
While it's true, that the mornings I've taken more time to get in the water than my first four laps take because it was cooler than normal I have swum faster(even before my lesson with Tim) than usual and felt better upon completion- comfort is my first concern.
My coach tells me to get in on Saturday morning for 10-20 minutes- get wet, swim out swim back and get out. No problem. The trick I think...is wanting to go back on Sunday and do it again knowing what I'll know then.
Two caps. Can help.
There's the sudden concern maybe ear plugs will keep cold out- but I don't train with them so it seems like a bad idea.
I do train with a nose plug- but am afraid that will fall off. I may try the wrap around the neck version this morning and see if that is worth the switch.
The goggles I have leak just a little and I adjust them a lot. I'm tightening this morning before jumping in- so see if I can fix that.
Last minute worries. They aren't about chemo, radiation, losing my hair, being able to work, or fear of not seeing my son play next season. I have few worries. I have luxuries.
Tell I tell you that I've done the majority of my laps in a pool 84 degrees?
And that I like it?
While it's true, that the mornings I've taken more time to get in the water than my first four laps take because it was cooler than normal I have swum faster(even before my lesson with Tim) than usual and felt better upon completion- comfort is my first concern.
My coach tells me to get in on Saturday morning for 10-20 minutes- get wet, swim out swim back and get out. No problem. The trick I think...is wanting to go back on Sunday and do it again knowing what I'll know then.
Two caps. Can help.
There's the sudden concern maybe ear plugs will keep cold out- but I don't train with them so it seems like a bad idea.
I do train with a nose plug- but am afraid that will fall off. I may try the wrap around the neck version this morning and see if that is worth the switch.
The goggles I have leak just a little and I adjust them a lot. I'm tightening this morning before jumping in- so see if I can fix that.
Last minute worries. They aren't about chemo, radiation, losing my hair, being able to work, or fear of not seeing my son play next season. I have few worries. I have luxuries.
The Transition Bag
The 2010 race guide finally arrived in my "in" box just last week. Not that it offered information much different than the 2009 guide, but it was a long-awaited publication I'm sure for some 2000 athletes registered for AZ Ironman. As if we didn't have enough to think about in final days of peak weeks and tapers. We could BMW about that not being done too in order to vent some pent up anxiety onto someone else!
So in pouring over the 'bags' I'll receive at athlete check-in. I made my bedroom floor transition and aid-station central last weekend. From the swim pile, to the swim-to-bike pile, then the special needs bike bag, the bike-to-run transition bag, the special needs run bag and finally it will be done!
Oh, the dilemma over what to put in each. And the distress about 'will I find peanut butter and jelly to make sandwiches while I'm there?' In that contemplation I nearly forgot the swimsuit that I'll need for under the wet suit. Having volunteers strip me naked on the beach after the swim is not only something I want to avoid, but evidently public nudity is illegal.
You need to have reflective material on your bike gear. That's because they think there's a good chance you'll finish in the dark.
You're not to place anything in your transition or special needs bags "of value." I'm wondering what that definition is? I highly value that new Pearl I bike jacket that I'm thinking will feel good on the bike after 70 degree water, and I also think that by the time I hit my special needs bike bag I might be warm enough to ditch it.
I need a friend or family member to get my bike in case I can't make it back by midnight to retrieve it. I either have to get married before Sunday morning or make a new non-competing friend before Sunday in order for that to happen. Everything must be removed by midnight. They don't say "or what." I may find out. Or they may have a new Cervelo and slightly used wet suit, and size 8 biking shoes.
Walking, Running and crawling are legal ways to cross the finish line. All other forms of locomotion are not. Good to know.
Then there's the Julie Moss story that always looms in the back of my mind. Nothing is said about that in the athlete guide.
So in pouring over the 'bags' I'll receive at athlete check-in. I made my bedroom floor transition and aid-station central last weekend. From the swim pile, to the swim-to-bike pile, then the special needs bike bag, the bike-to-run transition bag, the special needs run bag and finally it will be done!
Oh, the dilemma over what to put in each. And the distress about 'will I find peanut butter and jelly to make sandwiches while I'm there?' In that contemplation I nearly forgot the swimsuit that I'll need for under the wet suit. Having volunteers strip me naked on the beach after the swim is not only something I want to avoid, but evidently public nudity is illegal.
You need to have reflective material on your bike gear. That's because they think there's a good chance you'll finish in the dark.
You're not to place anything in your transition or special needs bags "of value." I'm wondering what that definition is? I highly value that new Pearl I bike jacket that I'm thinking will feel good on the bike after 70 degree water, and I also think that by the time I hit my special needs bike bag I might be warm enough to ditch it.
I need a friend or family member to get my bike in case I can't make it back by midnight to retrieve it. I either have to get married before Sunday morning or make a new non-competing friend before Sunday in order for that to happen. Everything must be removed by midnight. They don't say "or what." I may find out. Or they may have a new Cervelo and slightly used wet suit, and size 8 biking shoes.
Walking, Running and crawling are legal ways to cross the finish line. All other forms of locomotion are not. Good to know.
Then there's the Julie Moss story that always looms in the back of my mind. Nothing is said about that in the athlete guide.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Gratitiude List
During miles and minutes and hours of training there has been one constant. Aside from the sacrifice of time that would have spent otherwise and with other people, and the extra laundry, groceries, need for sleep, and desire for massage, I mean one constant besides those!
It's been a spiritual experience. Any longer run, swim or bike can do that on some level. But over these months it's been especially true. So many more people around me, next to me, and just one person away from me have had health issues during my training time. To be here. To have the ability to choose this goal, in itself has been a blessing. Last night before I went to sleep I realized next Sunday (November 21) I most likely would still be out there. Prior to the marathons I've done I always told myself or anyone training with me that getting to the starting line healthy was the goal. So it is with this. Looking back at this year, its been amazing. I've had maybe one or two days of not feeling good. I had half a week where I didn't hit the workouts in time or distance. That at the time seemed like a loss. In the scheme of things you train that long and it's built in; its OK and you can adjust.
I've thought about people who have passed through my life who got me to this place of thinking I can and wanting to push limits.
My grandmother McCaw who was always so glad to see me and sorry to see me go; first to praise efforts of creativity and taught me to dream about what I could do with those early talents; and provided me with opportunities.
Sharon Mathes who was my major professor and who until recently rejected my early ideas about thesis work for reasons I only now understand. Handling life with her ease and grace of touching people is a worthy goal.
Don Palmer who began his life over at 54 with a woman with a 6 year old and three older children to boot. He taught me most about how to define a well-lived life. When I'm forgetting to laugh at things that are out of my control and when I'm being small, I'm reminded of what he might do instead.
There are more, but these three I know are somewhere that they can see the start and finish. I'm hoping to see them between mile 1 and 140 - in a tailwind through the bike, or a second wind on a hill in the run, even better yet in that little swim start amongst 2000 people.
I see myself at least now soaking up the day and the experience and knowing there's only one first time. I see myself thanking the volunteers and officials and the spectators who are there for others but encouraging everyone. I know that feeling of having a day of racing like that will be my goal much more than any time. And that the richness of that experience is based on the people who have influenced those kinds of values in me.
It's been a spiritual experience. Any longer run, swim or bike can do that on some level. But over these months it's been especially true. So many more people around me, next to me, and just one person away from me have had health issues during my training time. To be here. To have the ability to choose this goal, in itself has been a blessing. Last night before I went to sleep I realized next Sunday (November 21) I most likely would still be out there. Prior to the marathons I've done I always told myself or anyone training with me that getting to the starting line healthy was the goal. So it is with this. Looking back at this year, its been amazing. I've had maybe one or two days of not feeling good. I had half a week where I didn't hit the workouts in time or distance. That at the time seemed like a loss. In the scheme of things you train that long and it's built in; its OK and you can adjust.
I've thought about people who have passed through my life who got me to this place of thinking I can and wanting to push limits.
My grandmother McCaw who was always so glad to see me and sorry to see me go; first to praise efforts of creativity and taught me to dream about what I could do with those early talents; and provided me with opportunities.
Sharon Mathes who was my major professor and who until recently rejected my early ideas about thesis work for reasons I only now understand. Handling life with her ease and grace of touching people is a worthy goal.
Don Palmer who began his life over at 54 with a woman with a 6 year old and three older children to boot. He taught me most about how to define a well-lived life. When I'm forgetting to laugh at things that are out of my control and when I'm being small, I'm reminded of what he might do instead.
There are more, but these three I know are somewhere that they can see the start and finish. I'm hoping to see them between mile 1 and 140 - in a tailwind through the bike, or a second wind on a hill in the run, even better yet in that little swim start amongst 2000 people.
I see myself at least now soaking up the day and the experience and knowing there's only one first time. I see myself thanking the volunteers and officials and the spectators who are there for others but encouraging everyone. I know that feeling of having a day of racing like that will be my goal much more than any time. And that the richness of that experience is based on the people who have influenced those kinds of values in me.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Timely swimming tips
Too many miles on the tri bike may have resulted in some bad habits! The posture evidently had carried over to the water. Something about keeping your nose to the grindstone may have had something to do with it. But an innocent bystander observing my stroke on Friday morning asked if she could make a suggestion.
I was both thinking, "You have no idea what you're doing" meaning- giving me more things to frett about weeks before swimming longer than I've ever swam, in water colder than I've ever swam, with more people than I've ever swam...you get the idea!
However, I did have the common sense to identify that she had a beautiful stroke herself and was swimming with such ease that I was trying to emulate her even before she spoke to me. I called Tim Hansen and scheduled one of the half hour swim lessons I've had on my books for over three years!
Sat am at 7 I asked him to observe me as I started my long workout for that day and not give me too much to overwhelm me but tips that would make the biggest impact on economy and efficiency to help cut down on fatigue and ensure I could relax sooner into my own swim pace.
With his tips I cut 6 seconds off my 25yd and 16 off my 100. Plus, it felt easy- as if I was gliding rather than working harder expending more energy.
I wasn't sure about whether to laugh or cry.....the months of maybe less than good form- expending energy that could have been reserved for more distance, or for better recovery.
I laughed instead- how fun was that!
No one ever accused me of being fast! OK- one person, and I at the time felt sorry for him, thinking that he really needed lessons!
A friend of my son's commented to him on how slow I was in the pool while swimming laps at the country club this summer. Something like a "your mamma" joke I suppose. I couldn't hold telling the truth against him! All I could do was think, if you think that's bad you should see my run and bike! It's true I was getting slower every day !!
At least some light at the end of the tunnel.
New book by my nightstand. I finished "Seventeen Hours to Glory" and am reading the lone from swim coach, "Becoming an Ironman." It's exactly what I need this next three weeks. Triumph from all walks of athlete and the simple reminder that mere mortals do do this.
I may be learning the most about what to pack in my special needs bags from this book. The expert books all tell it like a bullet point list, but this one, from the trenches tells me what worked for these people. So far the common denominator? Advil, Aleve and some kind of treats to look forward to!
19 days to go. OMG.
I was both thinking, "You have no idea what you're doing" meaning- giving me more things to frett about weeks before swimming longer than I've ever swam, in water colder than I've ever swam, with more people than I've ever swam...you get the idea!
However, I did have the common sense to identify that she had a beautiful stroke herself and was swimming with such ease that I was trying to emulate her even before she spoke to me. I called Tim Hansen and scheduled one of the half hour swim lessons I've had on my books for over three years!
Sat am at 7 I asked him to observe me as I started my long workout for that day and not give me too much to overwhelm me but tips that would make the biggest impact on economy and efficiency to help cut down on fatigue and ensure I could relax sooner into my own swim pace.
With his tips I cut 6 seconds off my 25yd and 16 off my 100. Plus, it felt easy- as if I was gliding rather than working harder expending more energy.
I wasn't sure about whether to laugh or cry.....the months of maybe less than good form- expending energy that could have been reserved for more distance, or for better recovery.
I laughed instead- how fun was that!
No one ever accused me of being fast! OK- one person, and I at the time felt sorry for him, thinking that he really needed lessons!
A friend of my son's commented to him on how slow I was in the pool while swimming laps at the country club this summer. Something like a "your mamma" joke I suppose. I couldn't hold telling the truth against him! All I could do was think, if you think that's bad you should see my run and bike! It's true I was getting slower every day !!
At least some light at the end of the tunnel.
New book by my nightstand. I finished "Seventeen Hours to Glory" and am reading the lone from swim coach, "Becoming an Ironman." It's exactly what I need this next three weeks. Triumph from all walks of athlete and the simple reminder that mere mortals do do this.
I may be learning the most about what to pack in my special needs bags from this book. The expert books all tell it like a bullet point list, but this one, from the trenches tells me what worked for these people. So far the common denominator? Advil, Aleve and some kind of treats to look forward to!
19 days to go. OMG.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
What's a girl to wear?
There are less than thirty days to go. So literally the countdown. I've figured a plan for getting the bike there. Have been reading the athlete guide and determining what my 'special needs' are for spots on the race course. I've got reservations, plane tickets, etc and know I need to write an exam and secure a proctor for that for my course at ISU. I'll have payroll just done before I leave hopefully. But the most important question still may just come down to....
what to wear?
I've decided at this point bike shorts are a girls best friend. So I'll be using more minutes up in transition but that's OK with me. A fresh set of clothes will actually feel really good and after a swim in ultra cold water I can imagine that something dry will appeal to me a great deal. The swim suit and wet suit is a given, it's up to a bike jersey and jacket and then the right mix for the run left to determine.
After all the intrigue of triathlon and the strength and grace of elite athletes in the sport, I've not personally found much grace on race day. More pond scum and mucous than sleek and sexy. Ironic then that after the blood sweat and tears it can still come down to ....what will you wear?
what to wear?
I've decided at this point bike shorts are a girls best friend. So I'll be using more minutes up in transition but that's OK with me. A fresh set of clothes will actually feel really good and after a swim in ultra cold water I can imagine that something dry will appeal to me a great deal. The swim suit and wet suit is a given, it's up to a bike jersey and jacket and then the right mix for the run left to determine.
After all the intrigue of triathlon and the strength and grace of elite athletes in the sport, I've not personally found much grace on race day. More pond scum and mucous than sleek and sexy. Ironic then that after the blood sweat and tears it can still come down to ....what will you wear?
Private Parts and Body Envy
A few weeks ago...I know common problem with Ironman training is that it takes all the time you ever thought might be 'free' or that you should be vacuuming, raking or cooking...or writing in a blog... I digress...
following a much too long ride on the bike bath that even so was shorter than a well-intentioned coach suggested, I had some major discomfort in areas we don't know each other well enough to discuss. Too much research online will make you sick, you know that right? So convinced I could need surgery, I brought up the issue with my coach.
Go figure, feeling like you're sitting on a golf ball is not uncommon. What to do about it is not common, however.
So, given I had been doing everything else right (I mean I wash my shorts every ride- who doesn't do that? I use lube- Chamois Butter, I get my bike shorts off right away- personally I don't love them really for hanging out)I made an appointment with my dermatologist. You know you're a woman in her forties if you have your dermatologist on speed dial.
While I'm redressing after getting a shot down there, my doc and her nurse admire my legs. "See if we rode our bikes and ran all over the country we'd have legs like that too..." was the conversation on their side of the room. "And you could get shots where the sun doesn't shine too" was my reply...quite a trade off somehow?
I'm more than sure that my mother wouldn't approve of this blog. I'm actually not sure I do. I think it's an out-of-body experience. I wish the saddle issue was too!
I'm thinking that for one more really long ride this year (in Arizona) it's going to be doable and maybe a cortizone shot before would be a good idea but if I don't blog that, figure no news is good news!
following a much too long ride on the bike bath that even so was shorter than a well-intentioned coach suggested, I had some major discomfort in areas we don't know each other well enough to discuss. Too much research online will make you sick, you know that right? So convinced I could need surgery, I brought up the issue with my coach.
Go figure, feeling like you're sitting on a golf ball is not uncommon. What to do about it is not common, however.
So, given I had been doing everything else right (I mean I wash my shorts every ride- who doesn't do that? I use lube- Chamois Butter, I get my bike shorts off right away- personally I don't love them really for hanging out)I made an appointment with my dermatologist. You know you're a woman in her forties if you have your dermatologist on speed dial.
While I'm redressing after getting a shot down there, my doc and her nurse admire my legs. "See if we rode our bikes and ran all over the country we'd have legs like that too..." was the conversation on their side of the room. "And you could get shots where the sun doesn't shine too" was my reply...quite a trade off somehow?
I'm more than sure that my mother wouldn't approve of this blog. I'm actually not sure I do. I think it's an out-of-body experience. I wish the saddle issue was too!
I'm thinking that for one more really long ride this year (in Arizona) it's going to be doable and maybe a cortizone shot before would be a good idea but if I don't blog that, figure no news is good news!
Friday, September 24, 2010
Bike path safety
Did I mention the 70 year old woman who took me out on the bike path a month or so ago?
While training for this epic event I've sworn to not ride solo on the road and taken it back knowing that fitting this training in was simply not possible with a one or two hour commute to add to the training time each ride.
For two particularly long rides however, I did seek out a bike path in order to ensure safety, access to water, bathrooms, etc. On two of those two occasions- I crashed. Once in June all on my own on a wet road with a twig in an inopportune spot. No one to blame, just lots of bumps and bruises to see even still today.
Crash number two came as I was 35 miles into a hundred mile ride. A grey haired group traveling to breakfast perhaps in the next town was spread out on the path, not paying particular attention to oncoming traffic or "ride right" rules. As I said "hello" "hell-oo" she simply could not react and watched her bike collide with mine as I took to the shoulder- big rocks and all.
I yelled something I'm not sure which and then proceeded to get up and make sure she was alright. No helmet! More fragile bones than mine I'm sure! And not a clue that she was hogging the path?!
Though I'm sure she felt guilty for days- and I was only scraped and sore, I do hope she or her husband went immediately out to buy a helmet!!
I'm back to road riding. My percentages have been better there!
While training for this epic event I've sworn to not ride solo on the road and taken it back knowing that fitting this training in was simply not possible with a one or two hour commute to add to the training time each ride.
For two particularly long rides however, I did seek out a bike path in order to ensure safety, access to water, bathrooms, etc. On two of those two occasions- I crashed. Once in June all on my own on a wet road with a twig in an inopportune spot. No one to blame, just lots of bumps and bruises to see even still today.
Crash number two came as I was 35 miles into a hundred mile ride. A grey haired group traveling to breakfast perhaps in the next town was spread out on the path, not paying particular attention to oncoming traffic or "ride right" rules. As I said "hello" "hell-oo" she simply could not react and watched her bike collide with mine as I took to the shoulder- big rocks and all.
I yelled something I'm not sure which and then proceeded to get up and make sure she was alright. No helmet! More fragile bones than mine I'm sure! And not a clue that she was hogging the path?!
Though I'm sure she felt guilty for days- and I was only scraped and sore, I do hope she or her husband went immediately out to buy a helmet!!
I'm back to road riding. My percentages have been better there!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Team Hoyt
Last blog- I mentioned 17 Hours to Glory. Once chapter recounts Team Hoyt, Dick Hoyt and his son Rick's experience with Kona and their amazing story of love and living.
For Dick to push 100 pound Rick and his chair- if it weighed 58 pounds, the 26.2 miles of a marathon after having pulled him in a buoy in the swim, and rode with him on the bike... and to do it in a time that many solo age group athletes would dream about...makes you think it must be a possibility for any of us willing to commit to it. Dick and Rick's marathon times rivaled age group winners.
For the rest of us to be too scared to tri, or to participate? Makes me a little embarrassed to think about the self-limiting beliefs we each have. Over their career of participation they tried and failed more than once, but never ever gave up. They always returned to the site of any unfinished business. They got it done and then moved on.
To that spirit.
For Dick to push 100 pound Rick and his chair- if it weighed 58 pounds, the 26.2 miles of a marathon after having pulled him in a buoy in the swim, and rode with him on the bike... and to do it in a time that many solo age group athletes would dream about...makes you think it must be a possibility for any of us willing to commit to it. Dick and Rick's marathon times rivaled age group winners.
For the rest of us to be too scared to tri, or to participate? Makes me a little embarrassed to think about the self-limiting beliefs we each have. Over their career of participation they tried and failed more than once, but never ever gave up. They always returned to the site of any unfinished business. They got it done and then moved on.
To that spirit.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Doubts
The last blog eluded to the fact that I've had some tough last three weeks. Stress seems to be at an all time high. The fall busier than usual and the countdown to Ironman AZ just 60-some days away.
I've actually looked at the emails about reimbursements. Before Oct 1 I could still get $150 back. Then I came to my senses. I've spent too much time and energy and sacrificed time with family and friends and sleeping not to complete this. More than that though, this is too representative of something more.
I was wrong about this though. I often seek physical challenges when I am feeling I need to be more mentally and emotionally strong. I truly believe where the body goes the mind will follow....and often vice verse.
I always knew that it would be me- just me- getting me from the starting line to the finish line.
In an event like this however it can become apparent that you can't do all of this by yourself. Support is everything. Even in little ways. I've done way more in the last decade alone than I ever planned or wanted to do. Yet, this one is hard. This is one I'm struggling with. It's too big. Feels like too much weight.
Somewhere in the last couple weeks I think I actually hit bottom. You can't fill up completely from another cup if one is empty. We have to get it from different places in order for us to completely be full. At least that's true of me I'm finding the hard way.
I'm going to start the 2010 Arizona Ironman. I'm gong to finish the 2010 Arizona Ironman. And probably like 1999 other athletes I'm going to dig deeper than I really want to in order to do it. Somewhere between here and there I'm going to have to learn how to ask for help better and accept it when its offered.
Probably worth the price of the entry fee right there.
This is the last of the mention of doubts. The rest of my countdown to Ironman AZ will be about how I'm going to get from start to finish. I'm reading "17 Hours to Glory" and if you're a triathlete or a sports fan at all- its worth the price to read about all kinds of athletes who've completed the infamous Kona Ironman.
I've actually looked at the emails about reimbursements. Before Oct 1 I could still get $150 back. Then I came to my senses. I've spent too much time and energy and sacrificed time with family and friends and sleeping not to complete this. More than that though, this is too representative of something more.
I was wrong about this though. I often seek physical challenges when I am feeling I need to be more mentally and emotionally strong. I truly believe where the body goes the mind will follow....and often vice verse.
I always knew that it would be me- just me- getting me from the starting line to the finish line.
In an event like this however it can become apparent that you can't do all of this by yourself. Support is everything. Even in little ways. I've done way more in the last decade alone than I ever planned or wanted to do. Yet, this one is hard. This is one I'm struggling with. It's too big. Feels like too much weight.
Somewhere in the last couple weeks I think I actually hit bottom. You can't fill up completely from another cup if one is empty. We have to get it from different places in order for us to completely be full. At least that's true of me I'm finding the hard way.
I'm going to start the 2010 Arizona Ironman. I'm gong to finish the 2010 Arizona Ironman. And probably like 1999 other athletes I'm going to dig deeper than I really want to in order to do it. Somewhere between here and there I'm going to have to learn how to ask for help better and accept it when its offered.
Probably worth the price of the entry fee right there.
This is the last of the mention of doubts. The rest of my countdown to Ironman AZ will be about how I'm going to get from start to finish. I'm reading "17 Hours to Glory" and if you're a triathlete or a sports fan at all- its worth the price to read about all kinds of athletes who've completed the infamous Kona Ironman.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Chevy envy
I want to be more like my son when I grow up. Reality is that on his golf team this year his coach has dubbed him "the rock" or the "Chevy" because they can depend on his score counting. He can have a bad shot, a poor hole, or an average day but his score will still be fairly reliable because he can get past it and on to the next shot.
I realize how similar a golf match and an endurance triathlon can be at this point. In the last three weeks I've had more doubts and more in trepidation and anxiety than excitement about the race, that's for sure. I'm not of course by any means looking to win, or finish in the light even! But it's going to be about keeping my head in the game. My fitness level will only get me to the starting line. The rest is between the ears. Toughest six inches to change is what my step father, also a golfer, used to say. If you can get that shot to drop you're in. That one however is not a 'gimme.' It's tough work. Consistently squashing the little voices in your head that are getting in the way. Creating louder voices that repeatedly state:
I've done the work.
I've consistently completed the workouts week after week.
One stroke, one mile, one step at a time.
Slow and steady wins my race.
I'm lucky to be here participating and competing only with myself and those little voices.
I just need to be dependable. Listen to my own race and not pay attention to how someone else is doing theirs. My heart rate, my stomach tolerance, my vision of the finish line.
Steady forward progress.
I realize how similar a golf match and an endurance triathlon can be at this point. In the last three weeks I've had more doubts and more in trepidation and anxiety than excitement about the race, that's for sure. I'm not of course by any means looking to win, or finish in the light even! But it's going to be about keeping my head in the game. My fitness level will only get me to the starting line. The rest is between the ears. Toughest six inches to change is what my step father, also a golfer, used to say. If you can get that shot to drop you're in. That one however is not a 'gimme.' It's tough work. Consistently squashing the little voices in your head that are getting in the way. Creating louder voices that repeatedly state:
I've done the work.
I've consistently completed the workouts week after week.
One stroke, one mile, one step at a time.
Slow and steady wins my race.
I'm lucky to be here participating and competing only with myself and those little voices.
I just need to be dependable. Listen to my own race and not pay attention to how someone else is doing theirs. My heart rate, my stomach tolerance, my vision of the finish line.
Steady forward progress.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
One Damn Thing after another
Did I mention that the damn in the Tempe Lake broke? Yep. So while I'm splashing around in the pool for 9-12 months and putting up with sinus infections and nasal nose for full days and finally bonding with nose plugs to survive the swim.....there may be a real effort that has to go into getting the damn problem fixed so that I can do the damn swim before the bike before the run.
Of all things I hadn't wanted to have to worry about. Now the status of whether and where there will be a swim leg to this Ironman is in question?
Of all things I hadn't wanted to have to worry about. Now the status of whether and where there will be a swim leg to this Ironman is in question?
Monday, August 9, 2010
Heat, Humidity, and the wet T
I set out to do a 2:30 run yesterday morning, a little later than I intended. Enveloped in humidity when I stepped out the door it was reminiscent of summers spent in Louisiana, and I'm OK with that, for a while.
After my first hour, the intended stop for break where I could chase my gel with cold water at the fitness center ended up being a much needed temperature lowering 45 minutes on the treadmill indoors before making the attempt to run the rest of the 30 minutes home. I had left myself wiggle room to walk jog where needed and expected it to take a little longer. A little turned into 45 minutes - so by the door to door time at home was 2:30 and I was toast, soggy toast.
But by now my new benchmark of course is melted nail polish so by that standard, it wasn't that bad. Sweat drained down from my shorts off my legs and to my socks where it sloshed in my shoes and I was as close to a wet t-shirt contest on a well traveled street as I'll ever be again at 46 and am glad that run is done!
Unbelievably I'm in the down hill slide of preparation, still ramping up distances and time but there is much less time before the race now than when I started this mental and physical journey. 14 weeks at most to go. Yikes! To think that in 8 I'll have had my longest workouts and biggest weeks and be starting to coast a little.
After my first hour, the intended stop for break where I could chase my gel with cold water at the fitness center ended up being a much needed temperature lowering 45 minutes on the treadmill indoors before making the attempt to run the rest of the 30 minutes home. I had left myself wiggle room to walk jog where needed and expected it to take a little longer. A little turned into 45 minutes - so by the door to door time at home was 2:30 and I was toast, soggy toast.
But by now my new benchmark of course is melted nail polish so by that standard, it wasn't that bad. Sweat drained down from my shorts off my legs and to my socks where it sloshed in my shoes and I was as close to a wet t-shirt contest on a well traveled street as I'll ever be again at 46 and am glad that run is done!
Unbelievably I'm in the down hill slide of preparation, still ramping up distances and time but there is much less time before the race now than when I started this mental and physical journey. 14 weeks at most to go. Yikes! To think that in 8 I'll have had my longest workouts and biggest weeks and be starting to coast a little.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
IronMan's Best Friend
My OES (Old English Sheepdog) has run less since I've been running more with this IronMan preparation. Though, maybe it's relative, he just doesn't get to go on all of them or the whole distance. His limit is about an hour and on hot days, lets face it he's a hairy guy so he gets hot sooner and loses interest.
He's near human in that he will pull to cross the street when he knows that we're passing a turn that takes us home sooner. No kidding. His weight is nearing mine and his determination at that point in the game is sometimes just barely less than mine so although I could win, I often give into him and get him home!
Oh the guilt over leaving him inside instead of getting to go with me. But working on pace and tempo and hill climbing is nearly impossible when you have to stop and collect samples every little while or another dog sends us into fits. He's a stop and smell the everything kind of guy.
Sunday I took him out. He's now suffering from heat stroke we think. ISU Vet hospital have seen him more than I have in the last three days, my post vacation bills are rising and I don't know if he does recover he'll be the same dog again. If platelets are supposed to be 300K and are at 8K, you'd suspect a little lack of energy right? He's lethargic and depressed. I expect next drug they prescribe to be Prosac.
So guilt over not taking him has backfired into guilt over taking him. Dog's life today isn't looking so good. I just came from a conference where humorous keynoter was talking about men and women and our differences in communication. Unconditional love was mentioned. Male speaker suggested the guys in the audience try it....lock your wife and your dog into the trunk for two weeks...see who's more glad to see you when you open it.
Is that true or what. Truman is hooked up to monitors, they're loving him as much as possible but he's not at home and he's likely wondering after 9 days at the Vet's kennel while we were on vacation if we're ever coming back?!?! But when we show up- slobbery kisses planted on our faces.
Nothing like that for a finish line. We're pulling for him in his race.
He's near human in that he will pull to cross the street when he knows that we're passing a turn that takes us home sooner. No kidding. His weight is nearing mine and his determination at that point in the game is sometimes just barely less than mine so although I could win, I often give into him and get him home!
Oh the guilt over leaving him inside instead of getting to go with me. But working on pace and tempo and hill climbing is nearly impossible when you have to stop and collect samples every little while or another dog sends us into fits. He's a stop and smell the everything kind of guy.
Sunday I took him out. He's now suffering from heat stroke we think. ISU Vet hospital have seen him more than I have in the last three days, my post vacation bills are rising and I don't know if he does recover he'll be the same dog again. If platelets are supposed to be 300K and are at 8K, you'd suspect a little lack of energy right? He's lethargic and depressed. I expect next drug they prescribe to be Prosac.
So guilt over not taking him has backfired into guilt over taking him. Dog's life today isn't looking so good. I just came from a conference where humorous keynoter was talking about men and women and our differences in communication. Unconditional love was mentioned. Male speaker suggested the guys in the audience try it....lock your wife and your dog into the trunk for two weeks...see who's more glad to see you when you open it.
Is that true or what. Truman is hooked up to monitors, they're loving him as much as possible but he's not at home and he's likely wondering after 9 days at the Vet's kennel while we were on vacation if we're ever coming back?!?! But when we show up- slobbery kisses planted on our faces.
Nothing like that for a finish line. We're pulling for him in his race.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Eliminating Food Allergies
I touched on this a couple weeks ago but it bears mentioning again because its the one thing that can stop you in your tracks no matter how fit you are or aren't!
Thousands of runners and other athletes experience GI problems as they train and compete. Running seems to be the worst culprit and distance doesn't always play a part- nerves before competition can get the best of any distance of runner. For some runners, the first time they hit a long distance in a season, it can set off turmoil down there. Cramps, bloating, diarrhea, all common complaints.
Two books not targeting runners or athletes but very appropriate for shedding some light on problems, and for providing some flavorful healthy recipes that will fuel you for the distance follow:
Clean by Alejandro Junger, M.D. goes through reasons, symptoms and the how to go through eliminating potential allergens. You can go full out and do the real cleanse for the three weeks recommended or just step closer to it with the elimination diet that reduces or eliminates the potential problems in your GI track.
The Healthiest Meals on Earth by Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S. suggests meals to eat and why to eat them. Their balanced, whole food, no processed foods in sight and they combine nutrients in a way you don't have to think about it because he has already. Flavorful menus are at your fingertips and if you don't like his version, he suggests alternatives both to making the recipe easier (though they aren't too complicated or you wouldn't be getting it here) and making the meal work for you.
No matter how you train, if stomach problems are a high potential for you, race day could be spoiled. Too many other things are unpredictable- try to eliminate this one from being a problem for you in any way you can. Nerves, are another matter.
Thousands of runners and other athletes experience GI problems as they train and compete. Running seems to be the worst culprit and distance doesn't always play a part- nerves before competition can get the best of any distance of runner. For some runners, the first time they hit a long distance in a season, it can set off turmoil down there. Cramps, bloating, diarrhea, all common complaints.
Two books not targeting runners or athletes but very appropriate for shedding some light on problems, and for providing some flavorful healthy recipes that will fuel you for the distance follow:
Clean by Alejandro Junger, M.D. goes through reasons, symptoms and the how to go through eliminating potential allergens. You can go full out and do the real cleanse for the three weeks recommended or just step closer to it with the elimination diet that reduces or eliminates the potential problems in your GI track.
The Healthiest Meals on Earth by Jonny Bowden, Ph.D., C.N.S. suggests meals to eat and why to eat them. Their balanced, whole food, no processed foods in sight and they combine nutrients in a way you don't have to think about it because he has already. Flavorful menus are at your fingertips and if you don't like his version, he suggests alternatives both to making the recipe easier (though they aren't too complicated or you wouldn't be getting it here) and making the meal work for you.
No matter how you train, if stomach problems are a high potential for you, race day could be spoiled. Too many other things are unpredictable- try to eliminate this one from being a problem for you in any way you can. Nerves, are another matter.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Attitude is everything
"The greatest discovery of my generation is that human beings can alter their lives by alterning their attitudes of mind." - William James
This was a favorite quote of Dustin Maher, a trainer featured in PFP (www.FIT-PRO.COM) June-July issue. How ironic I read it just Thursday and had the longest brick of my life today. Call it coming off vacation rested and pampered by a massage, or the cloudy overcast coolness that kept humidity bearable if you want to but I think it's much more about making up your mind about what's possible it the first place.
It was a 4 1/2 hour ride followed by a 40 minute run. Given that I didn't pull my seat out of the office chair to get on the bike until 8:23am that meant I'd be running in midday heat. If the heat indexes had kept their track record of past few days I'd have been hurting. I solved that problem by reminding myself I could run the 40 minutes on the treadmill if I needed to (and did)!
I wasn't mentally fatigued at 2:30 when I realized I was only half way done with my workout and barely over halfway with the bike. I wasn't even mentally fatigued when I got off the bike and transitioned to run. I just knew I was going to do it because I had my mind made up.
Set your mind to it and whatever it is becomes doable because you expect to do it.
Working in personal training for so long- it's funny that clients continually will thank their trainer for helping them with what they asked for help achieving- and be amazed! It's as if its a surprise and they didn't really expect it. Yet- the key is- the trainer did. At least 50% of the equation believed it enough for both of them!
Find someone who believes for you when you aren't so sure yourself. In the end it is you out there getting yourself from A to B so it would be nice if you eventually "got it" but if it isn't there to begin with- you can get support!
This was a favorite quote of Dustin Maher, a trainer featured in PFP (www.FIT-PRO.COM) June-July issue. How ironic I read it just Thursday and had the longest brick of my life today. Call it coming off vacation rested and pampered by a massage, or the cloudy overcast coolness that kept humidity bearable if you want to but I think it's much more about making up your mind about what's possible it the first place.
It was a 4 1/2 hour ride followed by a 40 minute run. Given that I didn't pull my seat out of the office chair to get on the bike until 8:23am that meant I'd be running in midday heat. If the heat indexes had kept their track record of past few days I'd have been hurting. I solved that problem by reminding myself I could run the 40 minutes on the treadmill if I needed to (and did)!
I wasn't mentally fatigued at 2:30 when I realized I was only half way done with my workout and barely over halfway with the bike. I wasn't even mentally fatigued when I got off the bike and transitioned to run. I just knew I was going to do it because I had my mind made up.
Set your mind to it and whatever it is becomes doable because you expect to do it.
Working in personal training for so long- it's funny that clients continually will thank their trainer for helping them with what they asked for help achieving- and be amazed! It's as if its a surprise and they didn't really expect it. Yet- the key is- the trainer did. At least 50% of the equation believed it enough for both of them!
Find someone who believes for you when you aren't so sure yourself. In the end it is you out there getting yourself from A to B so it would be nice if you eventually "got it" but if it isn't there to begin with- you can get support!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Itchy Legs post exercise
Following a run or a bike ride or brick- of longer duration in the heat, as soon as I stop- my legs will nearly drive me crazy with itching. I can shower and experience it still in the shower, and after.
From trying to find other sufferers what I come up with is that its common among new to exercise folks. I can't claim that one. This has happened to me for years in hot weather with longer out door runs.
I try to rinse the salt and dead skin cells (said to be the culprit by some of the research I've done) off my legs asap after a run, or even before a run of a brick.
Rubbing alcohol splashed on seems to help, and some low perfume lotion to hydrate.
Anyone else???
From trying to find other sufferers what I come up with is that its common among new to exercise folks. I can't claim that one. This has happened to me for years in hot weather with longer out door runs.
I try to rinse the salt and dead skin cells (said to be the culprit by some of the research I've done) off my legs asap after a run, or even before a run of a brick.
Rubbing alcohol splashed on seems to help, and some low perfume lotion to hydrate.
Anyone else???
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Generation Gap
I rarely wear the fashionable when I'm running, swimming or biking. I wear the functional. It's more comfortable for one, and I'm the least glamorous exerciser you're going to find, so I'm hardly looking to draw attention.
On the 4th of July I was scheduled for a brick; a 3 hour bike followed by a 30-40 minute run. For some reason I grabbed one of those 'skorts' because it was on top and changed from the thick bike pad shorts I rode in to transition to the run. Tired from the bike let alone humidity, and then against the wind I was barely moving.
Evidently I wasn't the only one. An older gentleman and his wife slowed their car along the county road and asked "Hiking or hitchhiking?"
All I could respond was "That slow?"
After he sped by I thought maybe that I looked a little too dressed for the grocery store in my skort and color coordinated shirt and shoes- maybe from his generation's vantage point I looked like my car had broken down on the way to the parade and I needed assistance.
Whatever, I picked up my speed a little bit, not to be mistaken again for a stranded-by-the-roadside traveler.
On the 4th of July I was scheduled for a brick; a 3 hour bike followed by a 30-40 minute run. For some reason I grabbed one of those 'skorts' because it was on top and changed from the thick bike pad shorts I rode in to transition to the run. Tired from the bike let alone humidity, and then against the wind I was barely moving.
Evidently I wasn't the only one. An older gentleman and his wife slowed their car along the county road and asked "Hiking or hitchhiking?"
All I could respond was "That slow?"
After he sped by I thought maybe that I looked a little too dressed for the grocery store in my skort and color coordinated shirt and shoes- maybe from his generation's vantage point I looked like my car had broken down on the way to the parade and I needed assistance.
Whatever, I picked up my speed a little bit, not to be mistaken again for a stranded-by-the-roadside traveler.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Eating Clean
These days "eating clean" doesn't raise an eyebrow like it did. You may not do it, but you know what it is. Johnny Bowden, a nutritionist and author, suggests to audiences trying to avoid eating anything with a barcode.
Easier said than done but you get the idea. If you suffer from any food allergies- you may not even be aware of it. It doesn't have to show up for you like itchy watery eyes and sneezing non-stop from pollen or dust. You could simply have less energy, more lethargy and not be performing optimally. Not ideal if you're training for an Ironman, or life in general!
CLEAN by Alejandro Junger, MD is a book worth looking at and a program, on some level, worth considering.
www.thecleanprogram.com is where you can find out more about the author and the program before you dive into the book. It is meant to be a short term change and to show you what you're doing that doesn't serve you well, and let you decide what you put back in once you've eliminated certain toxins from your diet.
Easier said than done but you get the idea. If you suffer from any food allergies- you may not even be aware of it. It doesn't have to show up for you like itchy watery eyes and sneezing non-stop from pollen or dust. You could simply have less energy, more lethargy and not be performing optimally. Not ideal if you're training for an Ironman, or life in general!
CLEAN by Alejandro Junger, MD is a book worth looking at and a program, on some level, worth considering.
www.thecleanprogram.com is where you can find out more about the author and the program before you dive into the book. It is meant to be a short term change and to show you what you're doing that doesn't serve you well, and let you decide what you put back in once you've eliminated certain toxins from your diet.
Hot Yoga
"Pain, dizziness, nauseousness...these are perfectly normal," were the instructor's words.
I had the distinct feeling they were not just her words but the philosophy of her training in Bikram yoga. She had been indoctrinated and now I was being so. In a 105 degree, 40% humidity room. I'd wanted to try it ever since I learned about this strand of yoga (yes, as in viral). Limited to the actual franchise, if you want the real thing you have to live somewhere other than Central Iowa.
A visit to Minneapolis finally got me to class. A friend and colleague suggested we do something fun if I was to make it to the city before a meeting we'd arranged the next day at noon. My idea of fun- so you could say I asked for it. He suggested I bring a yoga mat and he'd supply the towels. I had the mat; the idea of towels scared me.
As it should. Turns out everyone in class is allowed one in the room - to cover your yoga mat. You soon find out why. The second is because everyone rinses off to cool down after; by necessity not choice.
You sign the waiver with instructions to please not leave the room during the 90 minutes of class. No, its better for your body to remain in the hot room and acclimate. In short, suck it up. Of course, even now I'm still thinking...I'm training for an Ironman. I'm a registered yoga teacher of 200 hour training. I practice regularly.
My friend Mark smiled slyly when I mentioned this. I get it now.
After 10 minutes of class I was dripping, beads of water on my exposed skin, the rest clinging to me in the form of my yoga top and too long tights. Down dog meant water running into my nose.
The diligent instructor used my name and regularly directed a cue at me. "Debra, nice job." "You can straighten that knee, Debra." "Debra, you've done yoga before?" You can't run and you can't hide.
Forty five minutes into class I'm relieved to think she's going to wrap up early- great! I've had a good class, plenty of information about the whole Bikram thing. Not so much, she's just relocating us to more floor work. Not any easier. By now the 26 poses, repeated twice through for 90 minutes was clearly not going to end before 8:30 pm. Floor work did not get any easier. By now I'd lost buckets of water, and though I continued to drink, also continued to rest more than I posed. As I lay on the mat resting between poses per her instruction I chuckled to myself that I'd asked for this. Normal people were sipping a cocktail at some street side patio and people watching.
My stomach was in knots as if I were in the midst of a cleanse. Whatever I'd eaten that had been less than clean my body was saying, don't do that again. Somewhere between 7:45 and 8:05pm I looked down and noticed the nail polish was melting off my nails. A sign! As both hilarious and frightening as that was I knew I wasn't going anywhere! At 8:05 I remember thinking, OK, I'm sorry! I asked for this! At 8:15 I made my mind up I was not going to leave early, nope, I was sticking it out, even though I was resting at least as much as I was performing poses.
After class, somehow we made it out the door and melted into the benches and chairs in the lobby area. There we sat/slumped recovering. One woman had just completed day 30 of a 30 day challenge- it was June 30. Mark relayed that sometimes he'll do 3 classes in 24 hours- a 7pm, 6am and then another at 7pm. All I could think of to say was "why?"
But I already knew. It was incredibly challenging, a test of endurance and focus, and energy management. It was incredibly cleansing- in fact for about two days, but I felt somehow transformed even with one class. Though out of the realm of true yoga spirit and crossing the line to vendetta- I wanted to return- I want to survive the entire class better than I had this time. I've already decided I'll be back before fall is over.
I didn't practice yoga again at home for a week. Not that I've fallen out of romance with it as much as it just didn't compare. That and training time is expanding and not allowing as much extra curricular activity!
I had the distinct feeling they were not just her words but the philosophy of her training in Bikram yoga. She had been indoctrinated and now I was being so. In a 105 degree, 40% humidity room. I'd wanted to try it ever since I learned about this strand of yoga (yes, as in viral). Limited to the actual franchise, if you want the real thing you have to live somewhere other than Central Iowa.
A visit to Minneapolis finally got me to class. A friend and colleague suggested we do something fun if I was to make it to the city before a meeting we'd arranged the next day at noon. My idea of fun- so you could say I asked for it. He suggested I bring a yoga mat and he'd supply the towels. I had the mat; the idea of towels scared me.
As it should. Turns out everyone in class is allowed one in the room - to cover your yoga mat. You soon find out why. The second is because everyone rinses off to cool down after; by necessity not choice.
You sign the waiver with instructions to please not leave the room during the 90 minutes of class. No, its better for your body to remain in the hot room and acclimate. In short, suck it up. Of course, even now I'm still thinking...I'm training for an Ironman. I'm a registered yoga teacher of 200 hour training. I practice regularly.
My friend Mark smiled slyly when I mentioned this. I get it now.
After 10 minutes of class I was dripping, beads of water on my exposed skin, the rest clinging to me in the form of my yoga top and too long tights. Down dog meant water running into my nose.
The diligent instructor used my name and regularly directed a cue at me. "Debra, nice job." "You can straighten that knee, Debra." "Debra, you've done yoga before?" You can't run and you can't hide.
Forty five minutes into class I'm relieved to think she's going to wrap up early- great! I've had a good class, plenty of information about the whole Bikram thing. Not so much, she's just relocating us to more floor work. Not any easier. By now the 26 poses, repeated twice through for 90 minutes was clearly not going to end before 8:30 pm. Floor work did not get any easier. By now I'd lost buckets of water, and though I continued to drink, also continued to rest more than I posed. As I lay on the mat resting between poses per her instruction I chuckled to myself that I'd asked for this. Normal people were sipping a cocktail at some street side patio and people watching.
My stomach was in knots as if I were in the midst of a cleanse. Whatever I'd eaten that had been less than clean my body was saying, don't do that again. Somewhere between 7:45 and 8:05pm I looked down and noticed the nail polish was melting off my nails. A sign! As both hilarious and frightening as that was I knew I wasn't going anywhere! At 8:05 I remember thinking, OK, I'm sorry! I asked for this! At 8:15 I made my mind up I was not going to leave early, nope, I was sticking it out, even though I was resting at least as much as I was performing poses.
After class, somehow we made it out the door and melted into the benches and chairs in the lobby area. There we sat/slumped recovering. One woman had just completed day 30 of a 30 day challenge- it was June 30. Mark relayed that sometimes he'll do 3 classes in 24 hours- a 7pm, 6am and then another at 7pm. All I could think of to say was "why?"
But I already knew. It was incredibly challenging, a test of endurance and focus, and energy management. It was incredibly cleansing- in fact for about two days, but I felt somehow transformed even with one class. Though out of the realm of true yoga spirit and crossing the line to vendetta- I wanted to return- I want to survive the entire class better than I had this time. I've already decided I'll be back before fall is over.
I didn't practice yoga again at home for a week. Not that I've fallen out of romance with it as much as it just didn't compare. That and training time is expanding and not allowing as much extra curricular activity!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Oly gone Sprint
Amid a crowd of early-rising triathletes on Sunday I watched 50 % of age grouper shout hooray when it was announce Hy Vee would be a sprint instead of an Olympic distance. Then announcement came at 5:30am just before transition closed at 5:45. The other 50% were disappointed, and even more of the originally celebrating were disappointed in the end at not being able to do the test they'd prepared for.
The girl next to me in transition had come from Virginia with a coworker from Des Moines to do the tri- the big deal- the big hype in triathlon communities everywhere!
Four to five inch deep trenches of mud at the opening of transition that morning gave way to rivers of 4-5 inch deep muddy waters by 8am as the racers where mostly done.
I had hiked back through the sludge, retrieved my bike and was blasting hot air on my soaking wet body by 9am headed home. So much for making a day of it watching the world cup in the afternoon. I opted for a hot shower for way longer than any conversationalist or gone-green folks would think appropriate.
The race itself? Funny to say the least. Training for an Ironman distance doesn't exactly train your anaerobic system to sprint shall we say? I couldn't settle down in the swim, felt fine on the bike, because I probably didn't power through it like I should a true sprint, and then felt great actually coming off the bike to run. Stopped during run for a bathroom break - not generally something a true sprinter does! And then splashed through puddles and thunder and lightning with an authentic smile on my face- what other normal people must do on a Sunday morning!
Another race experience behind me! Each one a learning experience!
More calm in the swim, more pain in the bike, and more push through the run.
Life's good if these are all you're worried about.
The girl next to me in transition had come from Virginia with a coworker from Des Moines to do the tri- the big deal- the big hype in triathlon communities everywhere!
Four to five inch deep trenches of mud at the opening of transition that morning gave way to rivers of 4-5 inch deep muddy waters by 8am as the racers where mostly done.
I had hiked back through the sludge, retrieved my bike and was blasting hot air on my soaking wet body by 9am headed home. So much for making a day of it watching the world cup in the afternoon. I opted for a hot shower for way longer than any conversationalist or gone-green folks would think appropriate.
The race itself? Funny to say the least. Training for an Ironman distance doesn't exactly train your anaerobic system to sprint shall we say? I couldn't settle down in the swim, felt fine on the bike, because I probably didn't power through it like I should a true sprint, and then felt great actually coming off the bike to run. Stopped during run for a bathroom break - not generally something a true sprinter does! And then splashed through puddles and thunder and lightning with an authentic smile on my face- what other normal people must do on a Sunday morning!
Another race experience behind me! Each one a learning experience!
More calm in the swim, more pain in the bike, and more push through the run.
Life's good if these are all you're worried about.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Snot-nosed news
Short of trying Prednisone for relief of congestion and sinus problems that follow my swims...literally, the Rx was called in last Thursday; I searched for some other options.
First, I was baffled as to how five days on the steroid was going to change what happened on Tuesday when once again I was exposed to the trigger!
Second, I could go to sleep and tomorrow would be better anyway made me think the solution lay somewhere else.
It's not the first time I've searched for solutions but I was getting more desperate, in large part because I was getting more severe reactions from the stimulus and feeling like I lose two days a week if I swim two, or three if I swim three...I'm not very effective making phone calls, talking to people...basicially doing what I need to do for work or for parenting!
I did what any modern girl does and googled it. A USA Masters Swimming forum served up exactly what I needed. I poured over pages of a forum where supportive athletes shared their trials and offered up solutions. There were my exact symptoms over and over:
Congestion that begins after a swim in the indoor pool about 4-6 hours later when it really becomes unbearable for the remainder of the day, and knowledge I'll feel better the next day.
The severity that is better on shorter days and worse on long, that is progressively worse as the my swimming increases in duration and or frequency- and more severe reaction almost every time.
The collective conclusion is that with more exposure the immune system's response gets stronger and stronger to fight what it perceives as foreign. Indoor pools seem the worst- whether it's chlorine for sure no one really can say. Outdoor pools do effect most who are symptomatic less- and lake or open water even less yet if at all. Blowing out the nose though too is part of the equation- the more forceful blowing out nose for breathing means the tissues of the nose become inflamed- much of the congestion problem.
Sprays- OTC, or Rx haven't helped after initial improvement, seasonal daily intake of Rx pill for allergies also seems to have no effect, OTC decongestants, allergy meds....no effect other than drugging me so I want to nap or feel like a fog!
The solutions: nose plugs, vaseline in the nostrils- both seemed to work for others- so I made my way to the store! I battled with the plugs staying in place more than I swam yesterday- but the 45 minutes I was in the pool- proved no problems the rest of the day. One or two sneezes I can deal with. Not one person asked if I had a cold or swam- major success!
Haven't decided if I will find some plugs with a little strap so I won't lose them in the lake. Less concerned about loss than about them coming off my nose! And a little concern for the fact I have an Olympic distance tri on Sunday and its Wed- I'll have swum once more with the nose plugs and can't say "I'm used to them" yet.
Oddly, my allergy doc did ask in passing- two years ago if I wore nose plugs. At some point over this time he also I think asked if I blew bubbles out my nose. I don't know that he followed that with any statement- it might have been information gathering on his part...but it seemed then he was on the right track, we just didn't pursue it. And at the time I looked at him as if, "of course" I breath out my nose and that it might be crazy to think I'd wear nose plugs.
Call me crazy. I can breath.
First, I was baffled as to how five days on the steroid was going to change what happened on Tuesday when once again I was exposed to the trigger!
Second, I could go to sleep and tomorrow would be better anyway made me think the solution lay somewhere else.
It's not the first time I've searched for solutions but I was getting more desperate, in large part because I was getting more severe reactions from the stimulus and feeling like I lose two days a week if I swim two, or three if I swim three...I'm not very effective making phone calls, talking to people...basicially doing what I need to do for work or for parenting!
I did what any modern girl does and googled it. A USA Masters Swimming forum served up exactly what I needed. I poured over pages of a forum where supportive athletes shared their trials and offered up solutions. There were my exact symptoms over and over:
Congestion that begins after a swim in the indoor pool about 4-6 hours later when it really becomes unbearable for the remainder of the day, and knowledge I'll feel better the next day.
The severity that is better on shorter days and worse on long, that is progressively worse as the my swimming increases in duration and or frequency- and more severe reaction almost every time.
The collective conclusion is that with more exposure the immune system's response gets stronger and stronger to fight what it perceives as foreign. Indoor pools seem the worst- whether it's chlorine for sure no one really can say. Outdoor pools do effect most who are symptomatic less- and lake or open water even less yet if at all. Blowing out the nose though too is part of the equation- the more forceful blowing out nose for breathing means the tissues of the nose become inflamed- much of the congestion problem.
Sprays- OTC, or Rx haven't helped after initial improvement, seasonal daily intake of Rx pill for allergies also seems to have no effect, OTC decongestants, allergy meds....no effect other than drugging me so I want to nap or feel like a fog!
The solutions: nose plugs, vaseline in the nostrils- both seemed to work for others- so I made my way to the store! I battled with the plugs staying in place more than I swam yesterday- but the 45 minutes I was in the pool- proved no problems the rest of the day. One or two sneezes I can deal with. Not one person asked if I had a cold or swam- major success!
Haven't decided if I will find some plugs with a little strap so I won't lose them in the lake. Less concerned about loss than about them coming off my nose! And a little concern for the fact I have an Olympic distance tri on Sunday and its Wed- I'll have swum once more with the nose plugs and can't say "I'm used to them" yet.
Oddly, my allergy doc did ask in passing- two years ago if I wore nose plugs. At some point over this time he also I think asked if I blew bubbles out my nose. I don't know that he followed that with any statement- it might have been information gathering on his part...but it seemed then he was on the right track, we just didn't pursue it. And at the time I looked at him as if, "of course" I breath out my nose and that it might be crazy to think I'd wear nose plugs.
Call me crazy. I can breath.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
TheTruth About Rest Days
Rest days are honestly hard! Especially when you've slugged through an Iowa winter that seems twice as bad as the last one and the one before that too! Once its finally nice out there its hard to be told on a no- wind, cloudless
day, take it easy, rest, go get a massage in a cool dark room.
That's the agenda for tomorrow however and I've learned to look ahead and not behind! The three days following rest are reason enough to take it seriously. Some serious hours on the bike, some pretty serious running after that and then a more serious brick. What do other people do on a three day weekend?
I'm hoping the grass doesn't grow, the dog doesn't need walking, and there are no emergencies that need attention at work.
There is that issue of the book promised June 1 or around there. I'm leaning toward around there right now. There's that issue of payroll being due real soon after the weekend is over. There's that issue of the floor being cause for additional allergies.
None of that is too bad- I can lay around and work on some of those things. There's no gas in the grill for the three day weekend. Now that is a problem.
Got a rest day in your calendar? Schedule it, just like you would a work hard day- its when the progress is made, or at the least the groundwork for the progress. Enjoy it- in the middle of that 4 hour ride you'll be glad you did! (even if yous is only one or two)
day, take it easy, rest, go get a massage in a cool dark room.
That's the agenda for tomorrow however and I've learned to look ahead and not behind! The three days following rest are reason enough to take it seriously. Some serious hours on the bike, some pretty serious running after that and then a more serious brick. What do other people do on a three day weekend?
I'm hoping the grass doesn't grow, the dog doesn't need walking, and there are no emergencies that need attention at work.
There is that issue of the book promised June 1 or around there. I'm leaning toward around there right now. There's that issue of payroll being due real soon after the weekend is over. There's that issue of the floor being cause for additional allergies.
None of that is too bad- I can lay around and work on some of those things. There's no gas in the grill for the three day weekend. Now that is a problem.
Got a rest day in your calendar? Schedule it, just like you would a work hard day- its when the progress is made, or at the least the groundwork for the progress. Enjoy it- in the middle of that 4 hour ride you'll be glad you did! (even if yous is only one or two)
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
JOY of it
With the tri training group we've got going this summer, I'm learning and relearning basics. The most basic of all is so simple it's often overlooked.
What's not fun, won't be done.
As much as you can focus on improvements with drills and skills, with running for instance: bounding drills, heel-to-butt kicks, straight leg running, accelerations, arm technique cheek to cheek and proper strike and foot roll....
Ultimately when you actually go out and run you will do it more often and get better because of it when you can focus on the gratitude for being able to do it, the beauty of the surroundings, the sound of the birds, the quiet of a country road, or even the sound of Bob, Billy, Bruce and whoever lives inside your ipod if you must.
The more constipated you get about improving your form or focus on your breathing, the harder your experience becomes and the more that you will come to dread it. Don't make it work.
In fact, if you've started using time, pace and heart rate as indicators of success so much that you forgot why you run in the first place, try leaving it all behind next time.
Just run. For the Joy of it. Run like a child. Light post to light post, over and back of the lines on the side walk, backwards when you feel like it... there are no rules. Get back to making it play. Unless your sport pays the bills for you, take having fun while you're doing it, seriously.
What's not fun, won't be done.
As much as you can focus on improvements with drills and skills, with running for instance: bounding drills, heel-to-butt kicks, straight leg running, accelerations, arm technique cheek to cheek and proper strike and foot roll....
Ultimately when you actually go out and run you will do it more often and get better because of it when you can focus on the gratitude for being able to do it, the beauty of the surroundings, the sound of the birds, the quiet of a country road, or even the sound of Bob, Billy, Bruce and whoever lives inside your ipod if you must.
The more constipated you get about improving your form or focus on your breathing, the harder your experience becomes and the more that you will come to dread it. Don't make it work.
In fact, if you've started using time, pace and heart rate as indicators of success so much that you forgot why you run in the first place, try leaving it all behind next time.
Just run. For the Joy of it. Run like a child. Light post to light post, over and back of the lines on the side walk, backwards when you feel like it... there are no rules. Get back to making it play. Unless your sport pays the bills for you, take having fun while you're doing it, seriously.
Monday, May 24, 2010
In the Swim
Swimming a triathlon is a different animal for several reasons!
New-to-tri people have primarily swam in a pool where the bottom is visible, the side is readily available for rest and a push off, standing up is quite often an option, and there is little risk of having to share a lane with too many people.
Lake swims change the rules. Goodbye bottom of pool, lane ropes, polite swimmers, rests at 25 or 50 yards.
The fun of it is having the experience! Suddenly though, becoming efficient becomes your best friend. Save energy, keep yourself focused on the moment and then readying yourself for the next event!
If you're already swimming a 50 in a minute or less- you can benefit from fitness swimming as you ready for your first tri- more endurance based sets and preparation for longer distances without breaks. If your pace is slower than that however, you will benefit from spending a greater proportion of your time doing drills to get more efficient with better technique.
Catch up: Swim like superman with both arms in front and take one stroke at a time, slapping the hand at the top before taking another stroke with the other hand. It helps with body position, learning to glide where you have the least resistance to the water, and will help you become more powerful in each arm stroke.
Single Arm: Keep one arm extended the entire time, swim with just one arm stroke, breathing as you need to- two or three strokes between breathes if you can.
Fist Swimming: Literally close your fist and swim that way. You can also open up one finger at a time with each 25. You'll learn to really use the most optimal arm pattern.
These are just a few to get you started- perform drills consistently when you swim- some days spending much more time and focusing on the purpose of the workout as a technique-enhancing session rather than a cardiovascular workout. You'll get better- faster, and have more economy resulting in less fatigue after the swim- with more technique work!
New-to-tri people have primarily swam in a pool where the bottom is visible, the side is readily available for rest and a push off, standing up is quite often an option, and there is little risk of having to share a lane with too many people.
Lake swims change the rules. Goodbye bottom of pool, lane ropes, polite swimmers, rests at 25 or 50 yards.
The fun of it is having the experience! Suddenly though, becoming efficient becomes your best friend. Save energy, keep yourself focused on the moment and then readying yourself for the next event!
If you're already swimming a 50 in a minute or less- you can benefit from fitness swimming as you ready for your first tri- more endurance based sets and preparation for longer distances without breaks. If your pace is slower than that however, you will benefit from spending a greater proportion of your time doing drills to get more efficient with better technique.
Catch up: Swim like superman with both arms in front and take one stroke at a time, slapping the hand at the top before taking another stroke with the other hand. It helps with body position, learning to glide where you have the least resistance to the water, and will help you become more powerful in each arm stroke.
Single Arm: Keep one arm extended the entire time, swim with just one arm stroke, breathing as you need to- two or three strokes between breathes if you can.
Fist Swimming: Literally close your fist and swim that way. You can also open up one finger at a time with each 25. You'll learn to really use the most optimal arm pattern.
These are just a few to get you started- perform drills consistently when you swim- some days spending much more time and focusing on the purpose of the workout as a technique-enhancing session rather than a cardiovascular workout. You'll get better- faster, and have more economy resulting in less fatigue after the swim- with more technique work!
Getting Stronger the Right Way
For triathletes gaining strength is a dual-edged sword. Yes, you want strength for power but no one wants more bulk or to spend energy where it isn't directly related to dividends in better swim, bike or run performance. To get better at those you have to do those specifically.
Some amount of injury prevention and elimination of imbalances or compensation is worth the investment of time and energy, however.
Athletes like linear movements and need non-linear movements. We set up some unilateral and multiplanar exercises for our group in order to help them with weaknesses before they become a problem.
Single leg Russion deadlifts, single leg touches to the floor, lunges with a forward reach, pick up and press are all options for lower body work where you can focus on one leg at a time and easily identify problems or favoring one leg over the other.
Hip Bridges and Ham curls provide functional ways to strengthen the hamstring/glute area while also challenging the core by using a ball.
Including calf raises, shoulder external rotation and retraction, and a variety of core including: rotation, stabilization, lateral flexion, back extension, and small amounts of forward flexion (we are already too good at this one!) comprise a well-rounded core work session that should be done twice a week at the least.
Tune in for a few drills for the swim!
Some amount of injury prevention and elimination of imbalances or compensation is worth the investment of time and energy, however.
Athletes like linear movements and need non-linear movements. We set up some unilateral and multiplanar exercises for our group in order to help them with weaknesses before they become a problem.
Single leg Russion deadlifts, single leg touches to the floor, lunges with a forward reach, pick up and press are all options for lower body work where you can focus on one leg at a time and easily identify problems or favoring one leg over the other.
Hip Bridges and Ham curls provide functional ways to strengthen the hamstring/glute area while also challenging the core by using a ball.
Including calf raises, shoulder external rotation and retraction, and a variety of core including: rotation, stabilization, lateral flexion, back extension, and small amounts of forward flexion (we are already too good at this one!) comprise a well-rounded core work session that should be done twice a week at the least.
Tune in for a few drills for the swim!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
End of the Suspense!
So in the last two months just what have I been doing? Training- that's what!
And it there a multitude of extra projects at work that take up that little time it takes to dedicate to a blog! A business school for our newest trainers at the club, finishing the plans for summer programs, post-testing and celebrating successes with our Go Red participants, and the ups and downs of family life; learning a sister-in-law has to struggle through breast cancer and that the same sister-in-law just became a grandma for the third time - just a week before her surgery.
So a little struggle to get in a long bike ride, the allergy reactions to a chlorinated pool that create a day of sneezing and congestion after an early morning swim, and the sore hips that set in at about an hour and a half of a two hour run....small things to complain about. Do I keep one breast or get rid of them both and eliminate potential problems? Do I want to face that question instead? I've got choices that are better than that and I'm going to appreciate it and remember pain is relative.
I've also got renewed inspiration in a group of first time tri-ers! Our beginners tri group is awesome. We've had two group swims now, a strength/core work out and one each bike and run workout.
Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses but they are doing great and supportive of each other! We meet at West next Wednesday at 5:30 to run hills - so join us if you're local and up for an hour challenge. Anyone can do this- and you'll be a stronger runner for it!
One gal on a mountain bike battled through a 13 + mile bike ride finishing against the wind. Made me feel rather silly complaining about my ride on a tri-bike.
Watch for some of the pointers in each sport we've shared with this group over the last couple weeks. Consider creating an out-of-comfort zone challenge of your own!
Some days when I have to run and am not 'feeling it' I remind myself that race day in November I am going to regret not going. Having the choice is a gift. I have lots of gratitude and then I go out and do it whether I feel it or not!
And it there a multitude of extra projects at work that take up that little time it takes to dedicate to a blog! A business school for our newest trainers at the club, finishing the plans for summer programs, post-testing and celebrating successes with our Go Red participants, and the ups and downs of family life; learning a sister-in-law has to struggle through breast cancer and that the same sister-in-law just became a grandma for the third time - just a week before her surgery.
So a little struggle to get in a long bike ride, the allergy reactions to a chlorinated pool that create a day of sneezing and congestion after an early morning swim, and the sore hips that set in at about an hour and a half of a two hour run....small things to complain about. Do I keep one breast or get rid of them both and eliminate potential problems? Do I want to face that question instead? I've got choices that are better than that and I'm going to appreciate it and remember pain is relative.
I've also got renewed inspiration in a group of first time tri-ers! Our beginners tri group is awesome. We've had two group swims now, a strength/core work out and one each bike and run workout.
Everyone has different strengths and weaknesses but they are doing great and supportive of each other! We meet at West next Wednesday at 5:30 to run hills - so join us if you're local and up for an hour challenge. Anyone can do this- and you'll be a stronger runner for it!
One gal on a mountain bike battled through a 13 + mile bike ride finishing against the wind. Made me feel rather silly complaining about my ride on a tri-bike.
Watch for some of the pointers in each sport we've shared with this group over the last couple weeks. Consider creating an out-of-comfort zone challenge of your own!
Some days when I have to run and am not 'feeling it' I remind myself that race day in November I am going to regret not going. Having the choice is a gift. I have lots of gratitude and then I go out and do it whether I feel it or not!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Support
As a sport and exercise psychology major (MS- thats a master of _ _ _ _ as opposed to just b_ _ _ _ _ _ _), I know the importance of support for any exercise or fitness goals.
Obviously a lack of support would be a slight ding in the success scale. You want to quit smoking and your spouse continues to offer you cigarettes- not helpful! You want to lose weight and your mother-in-law brings over your favorite dessert, thanks!
I also know there is a difference between positive support and just neutral support. If you want the best chance for success you have to surround yourself with people who know you can do it even when you're having a bad day.
There has to be a positive show of support. Not just staying out of your way or not caring if dinner is later than usual. Ideally, they'd be saying- "let's just plan on dinner late so you can get your workout in" or "tell me what I can do to help with dinner to make it easy for you." Whether or not you take them up on it- you know you have their support and no guilt need apply!
So at lunch with my mom, who by the way is in her mid 80's, she asked just what this thing was I'm doing. By thing, she meant the Ironman. For some reason she could only remember the marathon, a thought for which I think other family members may have contributed!
I tell her about the swim and the bike, followed by the marathon.
"You're going to kill yourself!" Her exact words. Not usually at a loss for words, what do you say to that? In my world its called living! Seeking new goals, not necessarily easy ones, making sure that the regrets you have are about things you have done or tried, not about the things you were afraid to do. (I think that one came from my sister so there is family hope!!)
We live in different worlds my mother and I. Different generations. Different values in some areas.
So I'm working on a recruiting campaign at the moment. Hiring a coach puts someone else on my side- even if I had to pay her to do it! The guy who asks how training is going a couple times a week in the swim lane beside me. The ONE who said he'd be at the finish line if I'm going to be there. I think the deck is still stacked in my favor. Maybe I'll give my medal to my mom.
Obviously a lack of support would be a slight ding in the success scale. You want to quit smoking and your spouse continues to offer you cigarettes- not helpful! You want to lose weight and your mother-in-law brings over your favorite dessert, thanks!
I also know there is a difference between positive support and just neutral support. If you want the best chance for success you have to surround yourself with people who know you can do it even when you're having a bad day.
There has to be a positive show of support. Not just staying out of your way or not caring if dinner is later than usual. Ideally, they'd be saying- "let's just plan on dinner late so you can get your workout in" or "tell me what I can do to help with dinner to make it easy for you." Whether or not you take them up on it- you know you have their support and no guilt need apply!
So at lunch with my mom, who by the way is in her mid 80's, she asked just what this thing was I'm doing. By thing, she meant the Ironman. For some reason she could only remember the marathon, a thought for which I think other family members may have contributed!
I tell her about the swim and the bike, followed by the marathon.
"You're going to kill yourself!" Her exact words. Not usually at a loss for words, what do you say to that? In my world its called living! Seeking new goals, not necessarily easy ones, making sure that the regrets you have are about things you have done or tried, not about the things you were afraid to do. (I think that one came from my sister so there is family hope!!)
We live in different worlds my mother and I. Different generations. Different values in some areas.
So I'm working on a recruiting campaign at the moment. Hiring a coach puts someone else on my side- even if I had to pay her to do it! The guy who asks how training is going a couple times a week in the swim lane beside me. The ONE who said he'd be at the finish line if I'm going to be there. I think the deck is still stacked in my favor. Maybe I'll give my medal to my mom.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Official week 1 down
This has truly been the first week under tutelage of new coach so it's fair now to say how it's going. I've had a great week of workouts and yet have to say that I was without Dusty most of the week so I had much more ease in fitting workouts in around just work. I can fit my office and computer work in around workouts but not as easily around taxi-ing and meals and other details that always seem to crop up with kids!
Don't get me wrong, wouldn't change a thing, in fact he's one of the people that even now when I'm training I really want to be at the finish line. (So if you want to volunteer to take him down, let me know!) That finish line moment will be mostly for me I suspect but along those last few miles knowing who will be there will get me through.
This next week will be a test but not as challenging as some as its spring break, so I'll really have a pretty good first three weeks when I think about it. That will feel good- and even better that it will practically be April by then and outdoors training can start anytime as far as I'm concerned. Two and a half hours on the bike trainer is a pretty long time to hang out with yourself without any scenery! OK, not entirely alone, Truman occasionally removes the sweat from my face and then insists I throw his bone a few times but even he gets bored!
I do feel a difference already. I'm spending a lot more of the run and bike time in lower zones to enhance ability to use fat for fuel which will mean I have much more endurance in the long run- pun intended! I'm wanting a snack all the time too so between eating exercise and working there are mounting dust-bunnies under the bed. Better go do that marathon right now.
Don't get me wrong, wouldn't change a thing, in fact he's one of the people that even now when I'm training I really want to be at the finish line. (So if you want to volunteer to take him down, let me know!) That finish line moment will be mostly for me I suspect but along those last few miles knowing who will be there will get me through.
This next week will be a test but not as challenging as some as its spring break, so I'll really have a pretty good first three weeks when I think about it. That will feel good- and even better that it will practically be April by then and outdoors training can start anytime as far as I'm concerned. Two and a half hours on the bike trainer is a pretty long time to hang out with yourself without any scenery! OK, not entirely alone, Truman occasionally removes the sweat from my face and then insists I throw his bone a few times but even he gets bored!
I do feel a difference already. I'm spending a lot more of the run and bike time in lower zones to enhance ability to use fat for fuel which will mean I have much more endurance in the long run- pun intended! I'm wanting a snack all the time too so between eating exercise and working there are mounting dust-bunnies under the bed. Better go do that marathon right now.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Coach to Coach training
It's been about 25 years since I put on a mask and drooled on a bike for a VO 2 test but I did it again on Friday. Suprising to me it went faster than I imagined. If you know VO 2 testing, you know that isn't great. It isn't golf. You want to go far and have a high VO 2 so you have longer to onset of fatigue and the ceiling that keeps you from doing more.
Part of the brevity of the test was the one minute vs three minute intervals I had imagined. That makes it hard and quick or quickly hard. The one plus was the comfort of the mask- it was remeniscent of Hannibal Lector in Silence of the Lambs but green. That'll haunt you for a while. Big perk is I got to take it home and I can wash it in the dishwasher. I'm trying to think when I might want to wear it again.
So the findings? Vo2 close to 50ml/kg/min which is pretty good considering that an average college age female is 37-42-ish. Yet, my problem seems to be where I've taken to training at higher intensities (due partly to short of time workouts) is not optimal for fat burning. I am going to have to go back to long slow workouts for a while and get my body used to burning fat for fuel in order to help me with the duration of this event I've got on the calendar.
I went for an endurance run today with no HR indications - and found I was wayyyyyy out of fat burning zones if we take the bike test to run. Something like 20-30 beats over - that's a lot of slowing down. Hoping that with more exposure to longer runs that's going to change sooner rather than later. Likely it will- long runs on the treadmill haven't been high on my list of things I love to do.
Swim tomorrow and run again Tuesday. Bike is getting tuned up so its ready for a long, and quiet, ride on Wed. Coach Julie sent me a week of workouts post VO 2 and so here we go!
Part of the brevity of the test was the one minute vs three minute intervals I had imagined. That makes it hard and quick or quickly hard. The one plus was the comfort of the mask- it was remeniscent of Hannibal Lector in Silence of the Lambs but green. That'll haunt you for a while. Big perk is I got to take it home and I can wash it in the dishwasher. I'm trying to think when I might want to wear it again.
So the findings? Vo2 close to 50ml/kg/min which is pretty good considering that an average college age female is 37-42-ish. Yet, my problem seems to be where I've taken to training at higher intensities (due partly to short of time workouts) is not optimal for fat burning. I am going to have to go back to long slow workouts for a while and get my body used to burning fat for fuel in order to help me with the duration of this event I've got on the calendar.
I went for an endurance run today with no HR indications - and found I was wayyyyyy out of fat burning zones if we take the bike test to run. Something like 20-30 beats over - that's a lot of slowing down. Hoping that with more exposure to longer runs that's going to change sooner rather than later. Likely it will- long runs on the treadmill haven't been high on my list of things I love to do.
Swim tomorrow and run again Tuesday. Bike is getting tuned up so its ready for a long, and quiet, ride on Wed. Coach Julie sent me a week of workouts post VO 2 and so here we go!
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Time to get serious
January and Febuary in fitness are crazy! It's a good thing for me they are- however amidst early morning voice mails and emails, mid day catch on up the same, and late evening last chance check on any customers who need service- all between articles, appointments, interviews, and working with staff members...my workouts are there but sporatic.
This week has been better and now I'm about to leave for four days of 'off' for the most part if you're talking tri-specific workouts. I have stocked up on several good base building rides over the last week- 3 2-hour and a couple longer runs- 2 60-minute (indoors) and a couple swims- the weak link due to more scheduling issues (and a soft pillow calling).
I'm feeling fit and ready and looked over an epic/extreme camp option for June that is one long mega weekend of swim, ride, run and eat basically. Sounds like a great time- and crazy that there are other people who actually would also think that was fun!
Monday is March 1. I get on track with training programs this day and will do some testing late next week to get going.
Here we go!
This week has been better and now I'm about to leave for four days of 'off' for the most part if you're talking tri-specific workouts. I have stocked up on several good base building rides over the last week- 3 2-hour and a couple longer runs- 2 60-minute (indoors) and a couple swims- the weak link due to more scheduling issues (and a soft pillow calling).
I'm feeling fit and ready and looked over an epic/extreme camp option for June that is one long mega weekend of swim, ride, run and eat basically. Sounds like a great time- and crazy that there are other people who actually would also think that was fun!
Monday is March 1. I get on track with training programs this day and will do some testing late next week to get going.
Here we go!
Monday, February 8, 2010
Super Sunday Weekend
This weekend I got a heavy does of biking and ran short of running goals. About to make up some running mileage right now.
My intention was to pre-plan for getting in what I need to this week with the hope of running outdoors - in shorts- while in Vegas- two mornings! However the weather may prevent me from getting to the airport or getting off the ground.
I hit intensity hard on Sat and Sunday and then finished the bike Sunday with the two-hour limit and a brick to short run. Even so, made it for the Super Bowl!
I've got more red meat in me than usual- weekly I've had at least two or three red meat meals and I think it's just necessary for doing the kind of endurance that its going to take. I've got an Irish lamb stew recipe that is slowcooker friendly and is even 'clean'- so that helps a lot. If its something I can get Dusty to eat, so much the better. He's not tired of it yet! Lamb is surprisingly more tender than beef and we both like it better.
I'm behind on swimming but am going to let that worry go until the weather makes it a bit easier to get in regularly- shoveling takes its toll on my time and I can't fit it all in. Another four weeks still gives me plenty of time to ramp up and I can keep the minimum swim times and then give it more attention in a month.
Time to hit the treadmill now!
My intention was to pre-plan for getting in what I need to this week with the hope of running outdoors - in shorts- while in Vegas- two mornings! However the weather may prevent me from getting to the airport or getting off the ground.
I hit intensity hard on Sat and Sunday and then finished the bike Sunday with the two-hour limit and a brick to short run. Even so, made it for the Super Bowl!
I've got more red meat in me than usual- weekly I've had at least two or three red meat meals and I think it's just necessary for doing the kind of endurance that its going to take. I've got an Irish lamb stew recipe that is slowcooker friendly and is even 'clean'- so that helps a lot. If its something I can get Dusty to eat, so much the better. He's not tired of it yet! Lamb is surprisingly more tender than beef and we both like it better.
I'm behind on swimming but am going to let that worry go until the weather makes it a bit easier to get in regularly- shoveling takes its toll on my time and I can't fit it all in. Another four weeks still gives me plenty of time to ramp up and I can keep the minimum swim times and then give it more attention in a month.
Time to hit the treadmill now!
Monday, February 1, 2010
New Month New Goals
I actually reserved a room in AZ and started worrying about how to transport my bike. Knowing me, until I have this figured out, this will be my biggest worry. Finding a way to get it there, get it assembled and tuned and then taken apart and flown to my door step afterwards will be a load off my mind!
A company that does this of course doesn't come close to touching Iowa soil. So I'll be seeking input from tri coaches, Bike World and anyone else willing to share expert advice. I need simple. I'll worry about getting me to starting line and then finish line if someone else will take care of the rest!!
I've officially got just under 10 months. I'm getting more serious about a program but have definitely decided I need a coach in some form, for the accountability and back and forth volley of what I'm doing, how its going, taking a look at the micro and macro cycles. It's like getting organized at work to me. I have the year all planned out and specials, promotions, events, professional development- then its easy to go into action- I'm not constantly planning and starting from scratch. Things come up and you consider them too but for the most part you just have down a timeline and do it. That's what I need from a coach- someone to work on my business of training while I work away in the business of training.
With limited time and too many hobbies, I don't want to dedicate the energy necessary to study myself and my program options! I'm too close to it. I know myself well enough to be either a pain or a help to a coach by telling them what works for me and what doesn't- but that will have to do!
I'm starting a one month challenge and getting off the busy New Year roller coaster of eating and sporatic exercise. I've been cross training, and doing tri-specific training as well- but not with real goals. Time to switch.
This week- cleaning up the eating with better planning, and also plan to get my bike to Bike World for a tune up, tire change for next few months of on-trainer training, and new magnet set up- the dog ate the last one. (Probably can't take him through an airport. Hope the vet isn't following.) I've been content with time and HR monitoring but now want to see mileage and rpms.
Weight and body comp today as well. I'm not concerned about weight loss, but would like to gain height this month?!
A company that does this of course doesn't come close to touching Iowa soil. So I'll be seeking input from tri coaches, Bike World and anyone else willing to share expert advice. I need simple. I'll worry about getting me to starting line and then finish line if someone else will take care of the rest!!
I've officially got just under 10 months. I'm getting more serious about a program but have definitely decided I need a coach in some form, for the accountability and back and forth volley of what I'm doing, how its going, taking a look at the micro and macro cycles. It's like getting organized at work to me. I have the year all planned out and specials, promotions, events, professional development- then its easy to go into action- I'm not constantly planning and starting from scratch. Things come up and you consider them too but for the most part you just have down a timeline and do it. That's what I need from a coach- someone to work on my business of training while I work away in the business of training.
With limited time and too many hobbies, I don't want to dedicate the energy necessary to study myself and my program options! I'm too close to it. I know myself well enough to be either a pain or a help to a coach by telling them what works for me and what doesn't- but that will have to do!
I'm starting a one month challenge and getting off the busy New Year roller coaster of eating and sporatic exercise. I've been cross training, and doing tri-specific training as well- but not with real goals. Time to switch.
This week- cleaning up the eating with better planning, and also plan to get my bike to Bike World for a tune up, tire change for next few months of on-trainer training, and new magnet set up- the dog ate the last one. (Probably can't take him through an airport. Hope the vet isn't following.) I've been content with time and HR monitoring but now want to see mileage and rpms.
Weight and body comp today as well. I'm not concerned about weight loss, but would like to gain height this month?!
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Ironjourney
My iron journey this week is slow going! So, I'm in the second week of experimenting with orientation for Trifuel, and its going fine. Just that the "iron" I've pushed most recently has been the ice chopper. I saw my driveway just in time to have it snow and blow about 3-4 foot drifts across it and my sidewalk again.
"nuff said- well except that I've not started my snowblower all winter and I doubt it wants to start today. This is not good. Once again weighlifting could take on a different form today. Kids are two hours delayed and yet my teenager is at his dad's so that's no help to me!
The mind is the biggest factor in training there's no doubt. For the last two weeks I've done an easy run in the evening as a second workout on two different days. I haven't preferred to run late in the day for about 20 years! My knees and head just feel better doing that early in the day. I could bike late, lift late, swim late(that's just a nuisance late in the day) but not run- or so I had my mind made up.
My mind set has changed to - if that's what I have to do, that's what I have to do. It has felt great actually!
I'm off to set my mind on clearing the driveway and then hitting the bike right now! I'll let you know how it goes!
"nuff said- well except that I've not started my snowblower all winter and I doubt it wants to start today. This is not good. Once again weighlifting could take on a different form today. Kids are two hours delayed and yet my teenager is at his dad's so that's no help to me!
The mind is the biggest factor in training there's no doubt. For the last two weeks I've done an easy run in the evening as a second workout on two different days. I haven't preferred to run late in the day for about 20 years! My knees and head just feel better doing that early in the day. I could bike late, lift late, swim late(that's just a nuisance late in the day) but not run- or so I had my mind made up.
My mind set has changed to - if that's what I have to do, that's what I have to do. It has felt great actually!
I'm off to set my mind on clearing the driveway and then hitting the bike right now! I'll let you know how it goes!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Change for Change
Following last week I'm up on both the consistency and quality scale. The change? A little research into a new program. A tri friend has been asking if I have a plan yet, meaning am I following a specific training plan to ready for the Ironman.
Well, the first time he asked I laughed. It was still almost 12 months from the Ironman. Although I was on an adrenaline high from signing up- new projects have that affect on me- I was thinking, really I'd peak too soon and other than base building or offseason training on a specific sport or strengthening muscles and connective tissue with weight training - I think I want to avoid getting too specific so I am not stale down the road in a few months.
Well, a month and a half later than same question has me thinking more about just when I am going to commit to a program. So I've looked at Gale B's book on tri training plans from one friend, and checked into Trifuel.com from another. I haven't given up on the idea of hiring a coach for more specific help but find that my schedule doesn't allow a lot of interaction with a coach anyway.
What I'm doing this week is trying on a 36 week program from trifuel. The last three years of training in zones has taught me that my HR zones are not going to change drastically so I know and can retest myself easily enough. The most refreshing thing about following this program is so simple. I've shifted activities and days and so everything feels different!
Try this! If you usually do this or that or don't because of your schedule, shift everything by a day and see what happens. I have time to play- I have more than 36 weeks so I'm not officially starting, I can try this on- and unless you're training for something coming up soon, so can you!
I basically did my long bike on a day that was my day off, did my long run on the next day and then a recovery on a day that was a recovery run. Today for instance, instead of going to the pool, I'm off to the trainer for a bike and then possibly a short run. If I am out of time before an appt. I'll split them up and do the short run later.
It is the same activities but it's like taking the backroads to a destination you go all the time. The scenery is different. I don't have that 'this is how I'm going to feel at this mark' ho-hum. It's great for the mental work!
Try to shift your schedule by a day or go to a group class you never attend. Try taking a day off in the middle of the week and taking advantage of your weekend days when you naturally have more energy anyway to get in more quality exercise.
Change takes change!
Well, the first time he asked I laughed. It was still almost 12 months from the Ironman. Although I was on an adrenaline high from signing up- new projects have that affect on me- I was thinking, really I'd peak too soon and other than base building or offseason training on a specific sport or strengthening muscles and connective tissue with weight training - I think I want to avoid getting too specific so I am not stale down the road in a few months.
Well, a month and a half later than same question has me thinking more about just when I am going to commit to a program. So I've looked at Gale B's book on tri training plans from one friend, and checked into Trifuel.com from another. I haven't given up on the idea of hiring a coach for more specific help but find that my schedule doesn't allow a lot of interaction with a coach anyway.
What I'm doing this week is trying on a 36 week program from trifuel. The last three years of training in zones has taught me that my HR zones are not going to change drastically so I know and can retest myself easily enough. The most refreshing thing about following this program is so simple. I've shifted activities and days and so everything feels different!
Try this! If you usually do this or that or don't because of your schedule, shift everything by a day and see what happens. I have time to play- I have more than 36 weeks so I'm not officially starting, I can try this on- and unless you're training for something coming up soon, so can you!
I basically did my long bike on a day that was my day off, did my long run on the next day and then a recovery on a day that was a recovery run. Today for instance, instead of going to the pool, I'm off to the trainer for a bike and then possibly a short run. If I am out of time before an appt. I'll split them up and do the short run later.
It is the same activities but it's like taking the backroads to a destination you go all the time. The scenery is different. I don't have that 'this is how I'm going to feel at this mark' ho-hum. It's great for the mental work!
Try to shift your schedule by a day or go to a group class you never attend. Try taking a day off in the middle of the week and taking advantage of your weekend days when you naturally have more energy anyway to get in more quality exercise.
Change takes change!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Nine days and hit a wall?!?!
I'm only nine days into 2010, granted I've got almost 10 1/2 months to get into Ironman shape, but I've already fallen off my grand plan. Where many of the athletes that fill Triathlete magazine are training in warm sunny Arizona and or will look forward to winter days that thaw in Boulder, here in blissful Iowa its been windchills below zero, 2 days of missed school.
Specific workouts get blasted from ideal into second best due to early checks on the computer and the phone to handle cancellations, reschedules, and trainers unable to get where they need to be. Unadvised travel cramps my chances to get things done when they need to fit into my schedule to allow for workouts to happen.
So my goal- of two lifts, two runs, three swims, and three bikes a week with the key workouts being a long bike on Sunday, long run on Wednesday and long Swim on Friday ? In terms of batting averages this week I'm planning to get the long bike today- that will put me at 6/10.
Must do better next week! Now if my nutrition side of things had been stellar perhaps that would be a wash. Not so much. I had meetings, ate food that was OK but not best for me for goals and too high in sodium and fat to feel good about it. Unfortunately my body and face are like a mirror into my dinner plate and I see and feel it immediately if it wasn't a good choice.
The good news- its supposed to be in double digits tomorrow (positive) and the holiday colored peanut m&m's are gone. Moving on !! Temptation today- Dusty's birthday. A little bit of chocolate frosting after a good meal is the goal. Life's all about the frosting!
Specific workouts get blasted from ideal into second best due to early checks on the computer and the phone to handle cancellations, reschedules, and trainers unable to get where they need to be. Unadvised travel cramps my chances to get things done when they need to fit into my schedule to allow for workouts to happen.
So my goal- of two lifts, two runs, three swims, and three bikes a week with the key workouts being a long bike on Sunday, long run on Wednesday and long Swim on Friday ? In terms of batting averages this week I'm planning to get the long bike today- that will put me at 6/10.
Must do better next week! Now if my nutrition side of things had been stellar perhaps that would be a wash. Not so much. I had meetings, ate food that was OK but not best for me for goals and too high in sodium and fat to feel good about it. Unfortunately my body and face are like a mirror into my dinner plate and I see and feel it immediately if it wasn't a good choice.
The good news- its supposed to be in double digits tomorrow (positive) and the holiday colored peanut m&m's are gone. Moving on !! Temptation today- Dusty's birthday. A little bit of chocolate frosting after a good meal is the goal. Life's all about the frosting!
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