Having spent last week as my "recovery" with only 4 workouts to log, I started this week feeling a little out of shape. But I didn't need to worry.
I postponed my "recovery" ride to saturday last week. And enjoyed a very windy, but nice 30 mile ride up CO Rd 6. I'd like to think that I could've even done 40 miles... but I didn't push it.
Monday I introduced Matt to the thrills of trail running. My first "real" run since the marathon. I felt great. And well, I could've run all day. The trail was in good shape and I loved the constant up and down of the ridgeline through the woods. It was a fun workout.
Tuesday I headed back to the lake for a swim. It's been 2 weeks since I've been the water, and now I've really got to get serious. Most of the summer I've been swimming, but not pushing the distance or the pace. Well, it's not long before my half ironman, so I'd better get comfortable at 45 min - hour long lake swims. I did my usual 35 min swim in Little Long Lake, and it was good. Swimming back I tend to lose my focus, so I'll have to work on that. Seems like I'm not moving at all. Tonight I'll go for another swim at the same distance, then next week start adding on.
Wednesday night was a brick workout. 16 miles on the bike immediately followed by a 20 min. run. I felt strong on the bike, averaging 17.0 mph. That felt a bit like a tempo effort. Then the run is as tough as ever. Who'd have thought that running 2 miles would be tough.... but after the first 1.5 miles my legs get looser and running does become a little easier.
I've been riding my bike to work lately. My way of saying, 'screw you gas guys!' Not that it makes a lot of difference. But 5 miles round trip is 5 miles less on my car. If I was really serious I'd ride it in the morning and at lunch, but for now I'm still driving in the morning, then riding my bike back after lunch.
Miles are miles, and it probably helps. Well, I'd better get going. Time to get ready for the lake. Afterwards it's off to the Ox Yoke to check in with our fellow tri-buddies. It'll be fun to hear what everyone has been up to lately over a burger and a beer.
Catch ya' later!
-Kate
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Friday, August 04, 2006
Back online
Well, I'm back.
Guess I don't have any excuses now that I have DSL and a newer computer!
I can't believe the last time I blogged, it was April. Heck I even had to think for minute what my user name and password was. Yikes. I promise, I'll be back more regularily now.
This last weekend (saturday) I ran a marathon on Grand Island in Lake Superior. Just off the shore of Munising, MI. Let me tell you - from the Twin Cities, that is a LONG drive!! 9 hours, half of which was 2 lane road. Boring!
It could have been a great race, and I think I might have even been able to P.R it - or at least come close. Except for the fact that it poured rain the ENTIRE time! Take the rain, add 300 runners on a dirt trail, and wa-la you have a slippery muddy mess. Then send them out onto the beach in the deep sand for a few hundred yards, and well... it proves to be a bit more challenging than you'd like. Even staying upright was a challenge. The good news is, I only fell once, skinned me knees long about mile 14, but was able to rinse one layer of mud out of them with my water bottle. Tweeked my ankle, but not severly - just made it a little sore to run up hill with much power. And didn't come home with a single blister! Not sure how that happened, given my feet were wet for 4 hours and I had enough sand in my shoes to build a sandcastle. Good socks! But I finished, in 4:40. When the footing was good and nothing was hurting too badly, I could maintain a 9:30 pace easy. But with it being so slippery, I had to slow to a walk in many places.
It was good experience, I guess.... Having not run a marathon in over a year, I had forgotten how much the last couple miles can hurt! But overall I felt strong, and my nutrition was the best it's ever been (I'm starting to really like Hammer Products). I never once felt delirious!
My next challenge is the Lake Geneva Half Ironman on the 9th of sept. Then 3 weeks later is Twin Cities Marathon. No marathons for over a year, and here I go throwing 2 marathons and a half ironman into a 3 month period of time. Heck, no one ever said I was totally logical!!
Well, I'd better get going. Time to head out on the bike for a 30 mile "recovery" ride!
Catch ya'll later!
-Kate
Guess I don't have any excuses now that I have DSL and a newer computer!
I can't believe the last time I blogged, it was April. Heck I even had to think for minute what my user name and password was. Yikes. I promise, I'll be back more regularily now.
This last weekend (saturday) I ran a marathon on Grand Island in Lake Superior. Just off the shore of Munising, MI. Let me tell you - from the Twin Cities, that is a LONG drive!! 9 hours, half of which was 2 lane road. Boring!
It could have been a great race, and I think I might have even been able to P.R it - or at least come close. Except for the fact that it poured rain the ENTIRE time! Take the rain, add 300 runners on a dirt trail, and wa-la you have a slippery muddy mess. Then send them out onto the beach in the deep sand for a few hundred yards, and well... it proves to be a bit more challenging than you'd like. Even staying upright was a challenge. The good news is, I only fell once, skinned me knees long about mile 14, but was able to rinse one layer of mud out of them with my water bottle. Tweeked my ankle, but not severly - just made it a little sore to run up hill with much power. And didn't come home with a single blister! Not sure how that happened, given my feet were wet for 4 hours and I had enough sand in my shoes to build a sandcastle. Good socks! But I finished, in 4:40. When the footing was good and nothing was hurting too badly, I could maintain a 9:30 pace easy. But with it being so slippery, I had to slow to a walk in many places.
It was good experience, I guess.... Having not run a marathon in over a year, I had forgotten how much the last couple miles can hurt! But overall I felt strong, and my nutrition was the best it's ever been (I'm starting to really like Hammer Products). I never once felt delirious!
My next challenge is the Lake Geneva Half Ironman on the 9th of sept. Then 3 weeks later is Twin Cities Marathon. No marathons for over a year, and here I go throwing 2 marathons and a half ironman into a 3 month period of time. Heck, no one ever said I was totally logical!!
Well, I'd better get going. Time to head out on the bike for a 30 mile "recovery" ride!
Catch ya'll later!
-Kate
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Spring in the North Country
Time flyes when you're having fun! Sorry it's taken me so incredibly long to log on to my blog again. The move back north was uneventful. Just incredibly busy at work. Things have settled into a routine, and I'm so happy to be back in Minnesota.
I really do enjoy it here.
My training was a little hit and miss when I first got back, and then I had to get reacquainted with the hills again. My hamstrings were definitely singing the first week or so!
But now I've getting into a nice groove, getting out on the road bike a couple times a week. Getting to the pool some - not as much as I'd like, but the lap swim time is limited, so I do what I can. I bought a mountain bike and have been biking to work a few times a week. It's nice to add 5-10 miles of biking a day to the log book. My running has been the one thing that's probably lacking. With the additional biking to work, and not having a good route to take from home, running has gotten pushed to the back burner. I need to make it a priority again since I now have 2 marathons on the calender. My trail marathon the end of July and then I registered for the Twin Cities Marathon the other day. I'm very excited about both races.
Today I need to go out for a long run - except for the fact it's pouring rain with no end in site - maybe tuesday... so I think I need to buck up and take on mother nature today. Yuck. I missed my long run last week, so I really do need to get out there.
The week before I did an enjoyable 9+ miles on trail and felt like I could've kept going. Always fun.
Well, I'll do better to keep blogging again. Until next time!
-Kate
I really do enjoy it here.
My training was a little hit and miss when I first got back, and then I had to get reacquainted with the hills again. My hamstrings were definitely singing the first week or so!
But now I've getting into a nice groove, getting out on the road bike a couple times a week. Getting to the pool some - not as much as I'd like, but the lap swim time is limited, so I do what I can. I bought a mountain bike and have been biking to work a few times a week. It's nice to add 5-10 miles of biking a day to the log book. My running has been the one thing that's probably lacking. With the additional biking to work, and not having a good route to take from home, running has gotten pushed to the back burner. I need to make it a priority again since I now have 2 marathons on the calender. My trail marathon the end of July and then I registered for the Twin Cities Marathon the other day. I'm very excited about both races.
Today I need to go out for a long run - except for the fact it's pouring rain with no end in site - maybe tuesday... so I think I need to buck up and take on mother nature today. Yuck. I missed my long run last week, so I really do need to get out there.
The week before I did an enjoyable 9+ miles on trail and felt like I could've kept going. Always fun.
Well, I'll do better to keep blogging again. Until next time!
-Kate
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Another week in the sun
Guess I've been deliquent in blogging lately. Heck, I even been delinquent in responding to emails. So here I am, playing catch up.
Tonight I had a great run. After I lost the lead in my legs after a couple miles, I just kept running. 3 miles became 4 and I figured I'd just keep going. 7.5 miles later, I arrived back home. It was great. I ran without any preconceived expectations, and really enjoyed it.
Last night I went out on the bike, and had a great ride. It was a little windy, but not as bad as some nights. I've only got a couple more rides on my bike in the sun before I start complaining about the cold up north! A week from now, I'll be back in my warm fuzzies thinking it's downright cold, when all the natives are thinking it's warm!
My swimming has been coming along well. Next week is my last week with the Master's group. Coach says he has something special planned. I'm a little nervous! But I'm sure it'll be great. I'm learning how to do flip turns, and the other night we got to go off the starting blocks. That was a little scary. Flip turns are tough, and they force you to hold your breath a little longer than is comfortable. Most times I come up gasping for air with water up my nose. But I'm starting to get them.
Well, that's all for tonight. Until next time!
Tonight I had a great run. After I lost the lead in my legs after a couple miles, I just kept running. 3 miles became 4 and I figured I'd just keep going. 7.5 miles later, I arrived back home. It was great. I ran without any preconceived expectations, and really enjoyed it.
Last night I went out on the bike, and had a great ride. It was a little windy, but not as bad as some nights. I've only got a couple more rides on my bike in the sun before I start complaining about the cold up north! A week from now, I'll be back in my warm fuzzies thinking it's downright cold, when all the natives are thinking it's warm!
My swimming has been coming along well. Next week is my last week with the Master's group. Coach says he has something special planned. I'm a little nervous! But I'm sure it'll be great. I'm learning how to do flip turns, and the other night we got to go off the starting blocks. That was a little scary. Flip turns are tough, and they force you to hold your breath a little longer than is comfortable. Most times I come up gasping for air with water up my nose. But I'm starting to get them.
Well, that's all for tonight. Until next time!
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Consistancy
Another week closer to heading back to Minnesota. But based on the forecast up there, I think I'm glad I'm here in sunny florida. The early part of the week was downright frigid - frost advisory monday night. But it's finally warmed up into the 80s :)
So the training lately hasn't been much to write home about, but it's been consistant. I was looking at my training log for 2006 so far, and the one word I'd use to describe it would be "consistant." I've gotten at least one hour + workout in per week, and 4-5 35-50 min workouts per week. I haven't been cycling as much as I'd like 1-2 times a week as opposed to the 3-4 I was hoping to get in. But the highlight has been the swimming improvements.
I didn't make it to my Master's class this week. Work had to take priority, but I managed 2 swims on my own. Thursday a 1 mile swim and then tonight an easy 1400 meters. Tonight I finally got back on the bike for a nice ride 15 miles avg 16.3 mph. The back half of the bike ride was entirely into the wind - going out I was avg 17.3 mph! Oh well. It was good practice riding into the wind.
Monday I got a long run in 9 miles with a 9:09 pace including walk breaks. I felt great. The morning was cool and crisp, and I felt fresh. I could've run forever. It reminded me how much I really enjoy running.
The next few weeks I hope to increase the training a bit. A few more miles running and cycling. It's hard to believe I'll be back to MN in less than a month! I can't wait to get back and workout with my friends again. It definitely helps to have others to train with.
Until next time!
So the training lately hasn't been much to write home about, but it's been consistant. I was looking at my training log for 2006 so far, and the one word I'd use to describe it would be "consistant." I've gotten at least one hour + workout in per week, and 4-5 35-50 min workouts per week. I haven't been cycling as much as I'd like 1-2 times a week as opposed to the 3-4 I was hoping to get in. But the highlight has been the swimming improvements.
I didn't make it to my Master's class this week. Work had to take priority, but I managed 2 swims on my own. Thursday a 1 mile swim and then tonight an easy 1400 meters. Tonight I finally got back on the bike for a nice ride 15 miles avg 16.3 mph. The back half of the bike ride was entirely into the wind - going out I was avg 17.3 mph! Oh well. It was good practice riding into the wind.
Monday I got a long run in 9 miles with a 9:09 pace including walk breaks. I felt great. The morning was cool and crisp, and I felt fresh. I could've run forever. It reminded me how much I really enjoy running.
The next few weeks I hope to increase the training a bit. A few more miles running and cycling. It's hard to believe I'll be back to MN in less than a month! I can't wait to get back and workout with my friends again. It definitely helps to have others to train with.
Until next time!
Friday, February 10, 2006
Another week of training
I'm not sure where this past week went. Work this week has been back to the grindstone. Plenty of long hours. Monday which was supposed to be an easy day at work - ended up being longer than planned, and I simply ran out of time to workout. That was 3 days of non-training. Yikes. I don't like to make a habit of that. But I took the weekend off from training since Matt was here.
Tuesday I only had a short opening for a workout - so I got in a quick 20 min run and some GF-type exercizes. Better than nothing I guess!
Wednesday I finally made it back to the master's swim. I can tell that it's been a week, I didn't feel as confident in the water as I had on thursday. But I survived the workout, and tried to push my comfort zone a little bit. Maybe some day I'll get those 3-2-1-0 workouts!
Thursday I knew I had a long day on the schedule at work. So my only options for workouts were going to be first thing in the morning or 8 at night - I opted for the early morning. So 5am I headed out for a 5 miler before showing up to work by 7am. I was glad I did it when I left for home at 8pm in search of dinner.
Tonight I got back out on the bike. I finished work at 4pm - yay! Not quite an hour before running out of daylight - a mandatory nap took a little longer than planned! 48 min. on the bike, just over 12 miles. This weekend shouldn't be so bad at work, so hopefully I can get in some quality workouts then.
Until next time.
-Kate
Tuesday I only had a short opening for a workout - so I got in a quick 20 min run and some GF-type exercizes. Better than nothing I guess!
Wednesday I finally made it back to the master's swim. I can tell that it's been a week, I didn't feel as confident in the water as I had on thursday. But I survived the workout, and tried to push my comfort zone a little bit. Maybe some day I'll get those 3-2-1-0 workouts!
Thursday I knew I had a long day on the schedule at work. So my only options for workouts were going to be first thing in the morning or 8 at night - I opted for the early morning. So 5am I headed out for a 5 miler before showing up to work by 7am. I was glad I did it when I left for home at 8pm in search of dinner.
Tonight I got back out on the bike. I finished work at 4pm - yay! Not quite an hour before running out of daylight - a mandatory nap took a little longer than planned! 48 min. on the bike, just over 12 miles. This weekend shouldn't be so bad at work, so hopefully I can get in some quality workouts then.
Until next time.
-Kate
Thursday, February 02, 2006
Positive Reinforcement
So I'm very excited after tonight's swim workout. I haven't been to my Master's group since early last week. Nor have I really worked out in the past few days. I've been recovering from being sick earlier this week. I went to swim tonight, and afterwards Coach pulled me out of the water. I wasn't sure what he was going to say - in fact I was a little scared... But he put my worries to rest, and said that he was so impressed by my improvement since I had started. He actually wanted to know my "secret." I wish I could've said that I had been practicing every day, but I'd really only been swimming with the group. It was great to have such positive feedback.
Otherwise this week has been spent recovering from something that put my body into a tail spin - I was so sick sunday night and monday. It's taken me all week to get my feet back under me. Yesterday I just went for a super-easy bike ride - 1 lap around the Polo club, for a total of 25 min, very easy.
I may not get much training in this weekend, but it will be worth it.
Until Next time.
-Kate
Otherwise this week has been spent recovering from something that put my body into a tail spin - I was so sick sunday night and monday. It's taken me all week to get my feet back under me. Yesterday I just went for a super-easy bike ride - 1 lap around the Polo club, for a total of 25 min, very easy.
I may not get much training in this weekend, but it will be worth it.
Until Next time.
-Kate
Saturday, January 28, 2006
Windy Days
This week has been a challenge training-wise. The first week of competitions at the horse show has required some long days. The good news is, we are done showing now for another week. Today I had enough time to get in a nap and a workout. Yesterday, too.
Thursday I left home at 5am and didn't return until 9pm. That was a crazy long day.
Friday I managed a 6+ mile hour run. It was nice to run again, since it had been a full week, and even that run was bad... But last night I felt good. I ran well, and didn't feel too tired. I actually felt like myself again.
Today was an easy day, and I got out on the bike tonight, for an almost hour ride. Both yesterday's workout and today's were very windy. I feel like I'm getting more confident riding in the wind.
Until next time!
Thursday I left home at 5am and didn't return until 9pm. That was a crazy long day.
Friday I managed a 6+ mile hour run. It was nice to run again, since it had been a full week, and even that run was bad... But last night I felt good. I ran well, and didn't feel too tired. I actually felt like myself again.
Today was an easy day, and I got out on the bike tonight, for an almost hour ride. Both yesterday's workout and today's were very windy. I feel like I'm getting more confident riding in the wind.
Until next time!
Wednesday, January 25, 2006
More Masters
Isn't there a saying, "No rest for the weary." That is becomming my slogan. If I can make it to bed by 9pm, I'm usually ok, but anything after that leaves me exhausted by mid-day. Especially when the alarm goes off at 5am or before!
But even with long days, I'm still managing some workouts. I'm consistant with my 6 day a week training, so far. And twice a week Master's group.
I did a short run last saturday, and it literally sucked the last tiny bit of energy out of my system. I ended up walking the last half mile home.
Monday and today I hit the Master's swim group again. Monday I had a challenging gear day - first I was late, then I ripped a hole in my swim cap, my goggles are getting old, so they decided to leak, then we were using paddles, and they kept coming off my hands. It seemed like it was one thing after another. But through all of that, the coach complemented me on becoming more comfortable and profecient in the water.
I'm feeling better with my swimming, and I can feel the improvements. Every time I go, I learn something new. It's a challenging workout, he keeps pushing us to a higher level. For example, we do a 3-2-1-0 interval - 3 breaths per 25, then 2 breaths per 25, then 1, and then 0. I'm ok for the first 25 with 3 breaths, and then with enough rest, 2 breaths. But after that I'm done! I'm still working on breathing every 3 strokes more consistantly, and the 3-2-1-0 workout helps improve my breath control.
Well, it's already late, and I'm missing out on some sleep. Enough sleep even helps my attitude - go figure! I don't get cranky nearly as fast when I'm not exhausted!
Until Next time!
But even with long days, I'm still managing some workouts. I'm consistant with my 6 day a week training, so far. And twice a week Master's group.
I did a short run last saturday, and it literally sucked the last tiny bit of energy out of my system. I ended up walking the last half mile home.
Monday and today I hit the Master's swim group again. Monday I had a challenging gear day - first I was late, then I ripped a hole in my swim cap, my goggles are getting old, so they decided to leak, then we were using paddles, and they kept coming off my hands. It seemed like it was one thing after another. But through all of that, the coach complemented me on becoming more comfortable and profecient in the water.
I'm feeling better with my swimming, and I can feel the improvements. Every time I go, I learn something new. It's a challenging workout, he keeps pushing us to a higher level. For example, we do a 3-2-1-0 interval - 3 breaths per 25, then 2 breaths per 25, then 1, and then 0. I'm ok for the first 25 with 3 breaths, and then with enough rest, 2 breaths. But after that I'm done! I'm still working on breathing every 3 strokes more consistantly, and the 3-2-1-0 workout helps improve my breath control.
Well, it's already late, and I'm missing out on some sleep. Enough sleep even helps my attitude - go figure! I don't get cranky nearly as fast when I'm not exhausted!
Until Next time!
Friday, January 20, 2006
14 hour work days
In a single word, exhausted. Yesterday was an incredibly long day, started working at 5:30am, and finished after 7pm. Needless to say, after that the only thing on my agenda was dinner, so I took the day off from training. Today appeared to have the same outlook when I started working at 6am. Luckily, I had a short break mid-day and was able to scoot home and get in a 45 min ride on the bike. It was crazy, windy, but it was a good workout. I had hoped to get in a swim since I missed the Master's group last night, but I'm beat after getting home close to 7pm again. I'll swim this weekend. Hopefully tomorrow after getting to work at 5:45, we'll be done earlier!
Wednesday I had a fairly good workout. I was still tired then, even without getting up before daybreak. I dragged my butt out the door for a 25 min high RPM bike, followed by a 30 min run. I felt much better after I finished my workout. And actually I felt better after my mid-day workout this afternoon, too.
Until next time!
Wednesday I had a fairly good workout. I was still tired then, even without getting up before daybreak. I dragged my butt out the door for a 25 min high RPM bike, followed by a 30 min run. I felt much better after I finished my workout. And actually I felt better after my mid-day workout this afternoon, too.
Until next time!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Tuesday
Today I went back to the Master's Swim group. Another challenging workout of 1800-2000 meters. The pool was cold (the heater broke) and so part of it was covered and we had to swim only 25 meter lengths... Which was good since we did this breathing exercize, and had the pool been 50 meters, I definitely wouldn't have made it. As it was I spent a good portion of that exercize light headed! It was chilly enough I wanted my wet suit! But once we got going, it wasn't so bad. I worked with paddles and found that they really helped my stroke.
Before heading to swim, I got in a quick 3 mile run. It was tough - hotter and more humid than I thought it was.
Monday I went for a 1:20 bike ride - my fastest average yet - 17.2 mph. for 22.8 miles. For a short interval, I really pushed the pace, and was able to sustain 24.8 mph.
Well, better get going. Until next time!
Before heading to swim, I got in a quick 3 mile run. It was tough - hotter and more humid than I thought it was.
Monday I went for a 1:20 bike ride - my fastest average yet - 17.2 mph. for 22.8 miles. For a short interval, I really pushed the pace, and was able to sustain 24.8 mph.
Well, better get going. Until next time!
Sunday, January 15, 2006
Exhausting Week
I thought I had blogged since monday - but apparently not. Oops. Now I have a lot to catch up on. It's been a busy week.
At work I had 3 mornings this week where I started at 6am - that makes for a long day. Now that it's sunday night I can definitely feel the week taking effect. I'm exhausted! It was all I could do tonight to get out there for a 30 min. run. Last night I attempted to run, but stopped because I was feeling light headed and woozy. I think I must have been dehydrated. It's been significantly colder these past 2 days (today I wanted long underwear this morning - 40 with an icey north wind) and I probably haven't been drinking enough during the day.
Earlier this week though, I had some great workouts. Namely tuesday and thursday when I met up with a Master's swim group near here. WoW!! What an amazing workout. I'd been swimming for a half hour - tues and thurs I spent an hour and half in the water, and lost count of distance around 2000 meters.
Tomorrow when I have more time, I'll tell you about the master's program. I'm going to try to make it as much as I can. I think it'll really improve my technique!
Until Next time!
At work I had 3 mornings this week where I started at 6am - that makes for a long day. Now that it's sunday night I can definitely feel the week taking effect. I'm exhausted! It was all I could do tonight to get out there for a 30 min. run. Last night I attempted to run, but stopped because I was feeling light headed and woozy. I think I must have been dehydrated. It's been significantly colder these past 2 days (today I wanted long underwear this morning - 40 with an icey north wind) and I probably haven't been drinking enough during the day.
Earlier this week though, I had some great workouts. Namely tuesday and thursday when I met up with a Master's swim group near here. WoW!! What an amazing workout. I'd been swimming for a half hour - tues and thurs I spent an hour and half in the water, and lost count of distance around 2000 meters.
Tomorrow when I have more time, I'll tell you about the master's program. I'm going to try to make it as much as I can. I think it'll really improve my technique!
Until Next time!
Monday, January 09, 2006
Monday
As I look over last week's training log, I can't decide whether it was a good week or not... Parts of it were really, quite good. Then there were parts that were not good at all! Getting in a run after a 12 hour day - good, a couple good swims, super... but then there's the fact that I ate out a lot, took one day off, then the next day I only had time for a 20 min workout the next... But then I got home from work late last night, without enough daylight to complete my scheduled bike ride, so I opted for a run and went for an hour and twenty minutes - somewhere around 8 miles. Go figure.
So today, my day off, I got up and went for a long ride - my legs tired quickly, so I turned for home, and only got in just over an hour ride, nearly 18 miles. Then I headed to the pool with the goal of 800 meters. I did an easy 1000 instead.
Swimming has all of a sudden gotten a lot easier for me. This is great. I'm able to go the length of the pool with fewer strokes than I did even a few weeks ago. yay! I haven't timed myself per interval, but today I did 1000 meters in less than a half hour - even with some drill work thrown in there.
Now I can sit back and enjoy the remainder of this beautiful day. Hmmm. High 70's, blue skys and sunshine - don't you wish you were here?? :)
Until next time!!
So today, my day off, I got up and went for a long ride - my legs tired quickly, so I turned for home, and only got in just over an hour ride, nearly 18 miles. Then I headed to the pool with the goal of 800 meters. I did an easy 1000 instead.
Swimming has all of a sudden gotten a lot easier for me. This is great. I'm able to go the length of the pool with fewer strokes than I did even a few weeks ago. yay! I haven't timed myself per interval, but today I did 1000 meters in less than a half hour - even with some drill work thrown in there.
Now I can sit back and enjoy the remainder of this beautiful day. Hmmm. High 70's, blue skys and sunshine - don't you wish you were here?? :)
Until next time!!
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Toughening Up
Today was the first of many 12 hour days at work. And even though it was a long day, it wasn't as intense as some will be. After spending 12 hours on my feet, I still had a run on the schedule. I haven't put together a weekly schedule yet, so how much I would run was up to how I felt. My legs were tired, but once I got going I didn't feel as poorly as I thought I might. So I opted for a solid hour run. I left the GPS at home, so I'm not sure about my pace, other than plain slow. So I logged somewhere around 6 miles. It was a good night to work on still getting a workout in after a long day at work on my feet. It's time to get tough.
Yesterday I went out on the bike. The wind was really blowing out of the west, but that didn't stop me. I'm working on riding in the wind, so come race day it doesn't blow my confidence. I did 2 loops around the Polo Club and it worked out to be 13.7 miles. Since half was into the wind and half was with a very fun tail wind - I averaged 16.7 mph. Returning on the loop I was able to maintain 23+ mph. That was fun, learning how to handle the curves and ride fast.
Until next time.
Yesterday I went out on the bike. The wind was really blowing out of the west, but that didn't stop me. I'm working on riding in the wind, so come race day it doesn't blow my confidence. I did 2 loops around the Polo Club and it worked out to be 13.7 miles. Since half was into the wind and half was with a very fun tail wind - I averaged 16.7 mph. Returning on the loop I was able to maintain 23+ mph. That was fun, learning how to handle the curves and ride fast.
Until next time.
Monday, January 02, 2006
Swim Breakthrough
This morning I headed out for an easy 3+ mile run. It was starting to really warm up, and the humidity was definitely a factor. I was glad I only needed to do an easy run today. I felt remarkably good after yesterday's brick workout. Last week I had "bricks" in my legs after a similar workout. I was pleased this morning to be running fairly well. Not fast, but I didn't need to go fast either. Today was just an easy "burn some calories" run.
Later today I went to the pool. The first time in a couple weeks. I had been having trouble with breathing to the right in the past, and with my stroke technique. Today was definitely a good day!
I got in the water, and started off, and without even thinking I found myself breathing to the right without any trouble. This is huge! There was a time, not that long ago, that I couldn't breathe to the right without feeling like I was the Titanic. So today when I found myself breathing to the right like I'd never had a problem, I was very excited.
I've also been struggling with my technique in the catch and pull phase of the stroke. Today I read some tips regarding that before I left for the pool, and I think that it really helped to have a good mental image of a correct stroke in my head when I got in the water. I worked on simply having good technique in the water, and after 800 meters I was finding myself struggling to hold on to the correct position, so I called it a day. No point in practicing poor form.
It was a very positive swim workout, and has me looking forward to the next one. I hope that by correcting my form and bilateral breathing I'll be able to not be the last guy out of the water this season!
Oh, and more good news! I've signed up for my next Half Iron Distance Tri for this summer. September 9 - the Lake Geneva Triathalon in Fontana,WI. Immediately following the HIM I'll drive to Madison to watch Ironman on sunday, and Monday I'll sign up for 2007!!! Another step along the road of life!
Until next time!
Later today I went to the pool. The first time in a couple weeks. I had been having trouble with breathing to the right in the past, and with my stroke technique. Today was definitely a good day!
I got in the water, and started off, and without even thinking I found myself breathing to the right without any trouble. This is huge! There was a time, not that long ago, that I couldn't breathe to the right without feeling like I was the Titanic. So today when I found myself breathing to the right like I'd never had a problem, I was very excited.
I've also been struggling with my technique in the catch and pull phase of the stroke. Today I read some tips regarding that before I left for the pool, and I think that it really helped to have a good mental image of a correct stroke in my head when I got in the water. I worked on simply having good technique in the water, and after 800 meters I was finding myself struggling to hold on to the correct position, so I called it a day. No point in practicing poor form.
It was a very positive swim workout, and has me looking forward to the next one. I hope that by correcting my form and bilateral breathing I'll be able to not be the last guy out of the water this season!
Oh, and more good news! I've signed up for my next Half Iron Distance Tri for this summer. September 9 - the Lake Geneva Triathalon in Fontana,WI. Immediately following the HIM I'll drive to Madison to watch Ironman on sunday, and Monday I'll sign up for 2007!!! Another step along the road of life!
Until next time!
Sunday, January 01, 2006
New Year
After a couple of days back in the dreary, snowy north country, I'm back in Florida. I got a couple easy 3 and 4 mile runs in. Barely enough to run off some of the large quantities of food I ate!
I had planned a workout last night after spending 12 hours travelling. But I felt too gross, and even though I knew it might make me feel better, this time I just couldn't get up the motivation to get out there.
Today I hopefully made up for yesterday's lack of motivation. I got out on the bike for 1:20, and 21 miles. It was a good ride. Not too windy, warm and humid - 81. I averaged 16.6 mph and felt fairly good about it, since I was trying to "take it easy."
Afterwards, I immediately laced up my running shoes and went out for a painful 1.5 mile loop. I hope that one of these days running off the bike isn't quite so painful! I still managed to put in an 8:40 mile, but it was tough.
I'm excited to start up my 2006 training plan!
Until Next time.
I had planned a workout last night after spending 12 hours travelling. But I felt too gross, and even though I knew it might make me feel better, this time I just couldn't get up the motivation to get out there.
Today I hopefully made up for yesterday's lack of motivation. I got out on the bike for 1:20, and 21 miles. It was a good ride. Not too windy, warm and humid - 81. I averaged 16.6 mph and felt fairly good about it, since I was trying to "take it easy."
Afterwards, I immediately laced up my running shoes and went out for a painful 1.5 mile loop. I hope that one of these days running off the bike isn't quite so painful! I still managed to put in an 8:40 mile, but it was tough.
I'm excited to start up my 2006 training plan!
Until Next time.
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Wonderful Run
This afternoon I was sitting on my couch with my feet up after work feeling groggy and cranky. I was "off my game" and not feeling up to par. I knew that I had a run on my aganda for the day, but I wasn't feeling up for it. After much self talk, I decided to lace up the running shoes and head out, because I probably wouldn't feel any worse by doing it, and I just might make myself feel better...
And feel better I did. It was an AWESOME run. The sun was just starting to set and I was able to watch the sky turn from lavender, to pink to a bright orange. The temps had dropped to somewhere in the high 50s and the humidity felt like it was gone. I headed out without any clue on how far or how fast... I ended up cruising through 8 miles without hardly noticing it. I was plugged into my MP3 and simply ran for the joy of running. And you know what, after I was done, I felt great. It felt like the weight of the world was off my shoulders. (Now mind you, I'm not sure why I was carrying the weight of the world to begin with... but anyway..) I'm so glad I made myself get out there. Heck, I even treated myself to some Moosetracks Ice cream at the local Ice cream parlor tonight, too!
Last night I took the bike out for an easy 30 min spin around the polo club. I'm just trying to keep the frequency of biking up there, before I start adding on too many miles. I'm not training for anything just yet, so now is the time to enjoy it without the pressure of trying to get the miles in.
Well, tonight's my last night in the south for a couple days. Time to go to MI to celebrate "Belated Christmas" and I'll be back to running in the cold and slop again for a couple days... Just long enough to remind me why I winter in Florida...
Until Next Time.
And feel better I did. It was an AWESOME run. The sun was just starting to set and I was able to watch the sky turn from lavender, to pink to a bright orange. The temps had dropped to somewhere in the high 50s and the humidity felt like it was gone. I headed out without any clue on how far or how fast... I ended up cruising through 8 miles without hardly noticing it. I was plugged into my MP3 and simply ran for the joy of running. And you know what, after I was done, I felt great. It felt like the weight of the world was off my shoulders. (Now mind you, I'm not sure why I was carrying the weight of the world to begin with... but anyway..) I'm so glad I made myself get out there. Heck, I even treated myself to some Moosetracks Ice cream at the local Ice cream parlor tonight, too!
Last night I took the bike out for an easy 30 min spin around the polo club. I'm just trying to keep the frequency of biking up there, before I start adding on too many miles. I'm not training for anything just yet, so now is the time to enjoy it without the pressure of trying to get the miles in.
Well, tonight's my last night in the south for a couple days. Time to go to MI to celebrate "Belated Christmas" and I'll be back to running in the cold and slop again for a couple days... Just long enough to remind me why I winter in Florida...
Until Next Time.
Sunday, December 25, 2005
Holiday Weekend
Yesterday I took the bike out for an 18 mile (hour +) ride. It was a beautiful day, although slightly windy. I left the Polo Club through the west gate, and headed out to the aero club and Palm Beach Point Going into the wind, I was able to maintain 16-17mph on average, when I was protected from the wind, or had a tail wind I was able to cruise at 20-23mph. It was really quite fun. I think my average speed was 17mph and my average cadance was 90. I felt like it was a good ride, for my 3rd time out. I think that buying a new bike seat was probably the best investment I've made on that bike. Wow! What a difference.
After I got off the bike, I laced up my running shoes and went for a mile and a half incredibly painful run. It only took about 5 minutes for me to stop thinking about how painful it was, and about 10 minutes to finally feel like I was hitting my stride.
Today I elected to go for a run. I thought I might go for a long run since I had the time, but I wound up with a mid-day headache, and legs that felt like lead (or bricks as the case may be - from yesterday...) I made myself go anyway, thinking that getting the endorphans moving might have additional benefits. I hoped they would improve my outlook on life and help get rid of the headache. I ran a slow 4.5 miles (or thereabouts) in 45 minutes. I allowed myself 1 min. walk breaks every 10 min. I could tell that my legs were fatigued from yesterday, and it's significantly windier today than yesterday, so that slowed me down too. (I was glad I biked yesterday for that reason). Mentally/emotionally I feel a little better from my run, and my headache is nearly gone.
So a funny Henry story - After my run today, I took Henry out to play ball in the parking lot while I stretched. It's pretty warm/humid out so it didn't take long for him to get hot. Behind my building is a fenced in pool and hottub. He's never been in the pool area before. But all of a sudden he takes off, and makes a beeline directly for the pool. The supports for the fence are far enough apart that he can get through - so he wiggles through the fence and gets in the pool!! I don't have my pool key, so I'm left to scold him from outside the fence until he decides he's had enough and comes back out. Much to the ammusement of the kids in the hot tub! It was really quite funny. If I didn't know better I'd think that he was part Labradore! I guess better the pool than the canals!
Until Next Time... Merry Christmas
After I got off the bike, I laced up my running shoes and went for a mile and a half incredibly painful run. It only took about 5 minutes for me to stop thinking about how painful it was, and about 10 minutes to finally feel like I was hitting my stride.
Today I elected to go for a run. I thought I might go for a long run since I had the time, but I wound up with a mid-day headache, and legs that felt like lead (or bricks as the case may be - from yesterday...) I made myself go anyway, thinking that getting the endorphans moving might have additional benefits. I hoped they would improve my outlook on life and help get rid of the headache. I ran a slow 4.5 miles (or thereabouts) in 45 minutes. I allowed myself 1 min. walk breaks every 10 min. I could tell that my legs were fatigued from yesterday, and it's significantly windier today than yesterday, so that slowed me down too. (I was glad I biked yesterday for that reason). Mentally/emotionally I feel a little better from my run, and my headache is nearly gone.
So a funny Henry story - After my run today, I took Henry out to play ball in the parking lot while I stretched. It's pretty warm/humid out so it didn't take long for him to get hot. Behind my building is a fenced in pool and hottub. He's never been in the pool area before. But all of a sudden he takes off, and makes a beeline directly for the pool. The supports for the fence are far enough apart that he can get through - so he wiggles through the fence and gets in the pool!! I don't have my pool key, so I'm left to scold him from outside the fence until he decides he's had enough and comes back out. Much to the ammusement of the kids in the hot tub! It was really quite funny. If I didn't know better I'd think that he was part Labradore! I guess better the pool than the canals!
Until Next Time... Merry Christmas
Friday, December 23, 2005
Friday
Today I gave up the bike ride for a quick nap. It was a beautiful day, but and would've been perfect for a ride... but I came home from work, and was really tired, so I was only going to take a quick nap. Well an hour later I was nearly out of daylight.
So I headed to the pool and got in a 1000m swim. It felt better than earlier this week. I even did some 400 and 200 repeats, and I wasn't as winded as I was on wednesday.
I think that tomorrow I'll go on a long-ish bike ride with a brick at the end. I mean, where else can you go on a bike ride on Christmas Eve??
Happy Holidays!!
So I headed to the pool and got in a 1000m swim. It felt better than earlier this week. I even did some 400 and 200 repeats, and I wasn't as winded as I was on wednesday.
I think that tomorrow I'll go on a long-ish bike ride with a brick at the end. I mean, where else can you go on a bike ride on Christmas Eve??
Happy Holidays!!
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Thursday
As I'm settling into a schedule in here, I need to sit down and write out a training plan for the winter. I have one in my head, but it always helps to put it on paper. So right now I feel like I'm training without any real goals yet. I don't know if I'm going to do a full marathon or only a half in April, so I'm not sure how much milage I should be adding to my running yet, and then I want to also increase my time on the bike, but if I do a full marathon, then I should be running more.... ahh, all these questions.
I've decided though, that I'll let myself train "how I feel" between now and the end of the year (so about another week). And in that time period I'll attempt to figure out my training plan for the next 4 months.
Tonight I did a GF-type workout. I started with a 1.5 mile loop that put me back at my doorstep. So I did some spiders and pushups. Went out for another 1.5 mile loop, this time pushing the pace (I could feel that! Wow! The longest 1.5 miles ever!) Then I did situps, planks, and a 2 min wall sit before heading out for my last 1.5 mile loop. This time I ran the loop easy (but nicely, it still was a 9 min pace - ish) then I finished up with some additional pushups and stretching. It was a good solid hour workout that got a little bit of everything in.
I hope to get out on my bike again tomorrow, and hopefully hit the pool for a longer swim workout.
Until then...
I've decided though, that I'll let myself train "how I feel" between now and the end of the year (so about another week). And in that time period I'll attempt to figure out my training plan for the next 4 months.
Tonight I did a GF-type workout. I started with a 1.5 mile loop that put me back at my doorstep. So I did some spiders and pushups. Went out for another 1.5 mile loop, this time pushing the pace (I could feel that! Wow! The longest 1.5 miles ever!) Then I did situps, planks, and a 2 min wall sit before heading out for my last 1.5 mile loop. This time I ran the loop easy (but nicely, it still was a 9 min pace - ish) then I finished up with some additional pushups and stretching. It was a good solid hour workout that got a little bit of everything in.
I hope to get out on my bike again tomorrow, and hopefully hit the pool for a longer swim workout.
Until then...
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