Physical, Mental and Holistic Being

There are so many aspects of preparing for an endurance event. Everyone first goes to the physical training. Reality is, that’s the easy part. I laugh when my coach tells me that she wants to see me cross the finish line because this has taken so much time and energy and money the last two years. I shake my head when someone says they’ll help me finish by helping me train in one leg or another because this is such an important personal goal that they want to see me do it.

My reality is that last year it was a big focus. Yet, I truly didn’t have time to be disappointed while in AZ- I was too focused on the immediate details of getting myself and my gear out of there. I did not like using the term DNF to describe my race when asked at home, but then I talked about it very little with anyone but immediate family and very close friends. The why on that is about what I do. Training for an Ironman doesn’t bring me closer to someone contemplating getter started in exercise or to the trainer who is just building his or her business who can’t find the flexible time I have now, it puts more distance between us. So I don’t talk about it. It isn’t for anyone but me that I’m doing it so I haven’t missed that. I don’t need the pats on the back, and don’t want the raised eyebrows from people who think it’s extreme. It’s really just one step, one stroke, one revolution after another according to a plan. It’s doable. Though I do appreciate sharing the ups and downs of training with someone going through it; it’s like another language to others.

But I’d never risk a long term injury or damage in order to cross a finish line. I’d never keep training so low that race day is miserable just to save myself for that day to reach a goal. The truth is I’ve benefited every day that I’ve been able to dream it and train for it and I can’t imagine exercising without a goal any longer. I’ll put time and energy and money into a training program in 2012 and 2013 and so on even though it won’t be for Ironman endeavors. I’m living better every day I’m training. It’s all been worth it no matter what.

I don’t think too much about what I’m going to eat as a reward after I workout either which is counter to what I’ve found to be true for many fitness enthusiasts. I instead usually am thinking whether I am eating optimally to rebuild and then fuel the next workout. It’s just more fun that way for me.

The other way seems more like punishment that I have first to do first. I actually like the training. I write when I ride and run. I solve problems when I’m swimming. When I return I’m sweaty and smelly and dirty but my head is clear. I’ve had time to reflect on how fortunate I am to even be able to choose it. It’s a privilege not a right.

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.

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!