tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49697019789156136012024-03-05T17:43:59.867-08:00See you at the Finish Line!This blog will chronicle my training for the 2011 triathlon season. Training is tough, yet fun and very therapeutic!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.comBlogger78125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-85633387796472362142015-12-10T08:10:00.001-08:002015-12-10T08:10:49.629-08:00Analysis by Paralysis! Fit Minute on KYOO 99.1 FM<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eqxfS8ZG7qM" width="459"></iframe><br /><br />
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When it comes to exercise and fitness, we can suffer from "analysis by paralysis." In other words are bombarded with so many different exercise tips that we end up not doing anything! <br /><br />
<br />Not sure what to do? How about an exercise that does the following:<br /><br />
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Burns calories<br /><br />
No equipment needed<br /><br />
Reduces stress<br /><br />
Low impact<br /><br />
Improves mood<br /><br />
Tones muscles<br /><br />
Is FREE!<br /><br />
Don't let analysis by paralysis prevent you from getting healthy and fit!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-1381580666517226152015-11-23T06:50:00.001-08:002015-11-23T06:51:22.982-08:00Fit Minute: Who Am I? KYOO 99.1fm<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lHhrCLsFXkI" width="459"></iframe><br /><br />
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On today's Fit Minute we played a game of "Who Am I?"<br /><br />
Can you guess who this is:<br /><br />It helps stabilize blood pressure;<br />Helps eliminate allergies;<br />Strengthens the immune system;<br />Helps fight bronchitis and asthma.<br /><br />
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Give up? Tune in to find out!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-9565528763457904042015-11-16T09:47:00.001-08:002015-11-16T09:47:53.377-08:00Take the "Work" out of Workouts! Fit Minute! 11-16-15 on KYOO by Jeff White<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5-4masTVVZE" width="480"></iframe><br /><br />
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<div>Quite a few people don't really care to exercise. They see workouts as just that: WORK! The misconception is you have to do high intensity training or work extremely hard to get results, but that's not the case. There are quite a few activities that are fun, low intensity, easy on the body, and still yield results!</div>Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-69224556080001849162015-11-09T10:39:00.001-08:002015-11-09T10:39:31.127-08:00Fit Minute on KYOO: Dealing With the Afternoon Slump! by Jeff White<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/67rYxg_luO0" width="480"></iframe><br /><br />
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Picture this: It's 2:00 in the afternoon and you're at work. You're having a great day, then BAM! You can barely keep your eyes open! What happened?? You just got hit with that dreaded afternoon slump! We've ALL been there, and it's no fun. There are healthy ways to beat the afternoon slump. Tune in to Fit Minute and find out how!<br /><br />
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Get more fitness tips at www.JeffWhiteFitnessSolutions.comTrimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-53975268266224316002015-10-19T10:25:00.001-07:002015-10-19T10:25:15.920-07:00Tips For the Upcoming Flu Season! By Jeff White<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hio6BiIJYPA" width="459"></iframe><br /><br />
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<div id="eow-description">Flu season is fast approaching! Here are some great tips for dealing with the upcoming flu season! Get more great tips at www.jeffwhitefitnesssolutions.com</div>Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-3901969545552085672015-09-17T06:12:00.001-07:002015-09-17T06:12:06.765-07:00Fitness Tip: Say "no" to the Sedentary Lifestyle! By Jeff White<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xGKvzAvUPUM" width="459"></iframe><br /><br />
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Do you have a desk job? If so, not counting sleep, many of us spend can spend up to 11 hours a day SITTIND DOWN. that's a long time! Our bodies are not designed to sit, they are made to MOVE! It's time we say "no" to the sedentary lifestyle!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-18747050526732883442015-08-27T09:15:00.001-07:002015-08-27T09:15:33.708-07:00What's Your Body Type? By Jeff White<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G7OcAXrYSao" width="459"></iframe><br /><br />
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There are 3 distinct body types: Ectomorphs are slender with a fast metabolism. Endomorphs are heavier and have a difficult time losing weight. Mesomorphs are in the middle: They can gain weight or lose weight with relative ease. <br /><br />
Knowing your body type is essential if you want to reach your fitness goals because there may be certain exercises (and foods) that are better suited for you!<br /><br />
Read more in my book "The 3 Pillars of Strength: Increasing Your Physical, Mental, and Spiritual Fitness." Available on Amazon:<br /><br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Pillars-Strength-Improving-Physical-Spiritual/dp/0692424776/ref=la_B00XHZGTS2_1_1/182-4916938-0963459?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1439594661&sr=1-1">http://www.amazon.com/Pillars-Strength-Improving-Physical-Spiritual/dp/0692424776/ref=la_B00XHZGTS2_1_1/182-4916938-0963459?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1439594661&sr=1-1</a>Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-85926418328301999552015-08-24T11:48:00.001-07:002015-08-24T11:48:27.124-07:00Full Body Workout in Less than 10 Minutes! By Jeff White<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aheStgkcZZk" width="459"></iframe><br />Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-51935104950977096532014-01-06T06:51:00.001-08:002014-01-06T06:51:29.658-08:00Finding Your FOCUS: Tips on Improving Your Concentration and ProductivityDo you have trouble staying focused or get easily distracted? If so, read my tips on improving your concentration skills. To be a success in this world, the ability to focus is a must have!<br />
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<a href="http://www.jwfitnesssolutions.com/blog/2014/01/05/Find-Your-FOCUS.aspx">Finding Your FOCUS: Tips on Improving Your Concentration and Productivity</a>Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-72993943505104859212014-01-02T06:09:00.001-08:002014-01-02T06:09:47.654-08:00New Years Resolutions! What's Yours?<a href="http://www.jwfitnesssolutions.com/blog/2010/12/30/New-Years-Resolutions-Whats-Yours.aspx">New Years Resolutions! What's Yours?</a><br />
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Many people set New Year's Resolutions, but few people keep them! How about you? Will you keep your resolutions? Read here for tips on keeping yours! Happy New Year!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-19209330361611964542013-11-08T14:30:00.001-08:002013-11-08T14:30:05.445-08:00Say "NO" to Bullying! 11/04 by JW Fitness Solutions | Motivation Podcasts<a href="http://www.blogtalkradio.com/jw-fitness/2013/11/04/say-no-to-bullying#.Un1l09KdWVk.blogger">Say &quot;NO&quot; to Bullying! 11/04 by JW Fitness Solutions | Motivation Podcasts</a>Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-85596067206948432782012-02-21T17:22:00.000-08:002012-02-21T17:24:07.131-08:00The Dangers of Addiction: Prescription Drugs<a href="http://www.jwfitnesssolutions.com/blog/2012/02/14/The-Dangers-of-Addiction-Prescription-Drugs.aspx">The Dangers of Addiction: Prescription Drugs</a><br /><br />I wrote this article after the sudden death of Whitney Houston. Prescription drugs are just as dangerous as illegal drugs!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-84596666546947067772011-06-13T18:41:00.000-07:002011-06-14T21:52:52.975-07:00Mission Accomplished!Well, race day has come & gone, and what a day it was! I went into the race pretty loose because I took all the pressure off myself as far as my finish time. If I didn't reach my goal it was ok, because I didn't train as much as I should have. It's not an excuse, it's reality! You don't just wake up and do a half ironman, it takes MONTHS of preparation & training. <br /><br />With me working full time, being a personal trainer and trying to get my yoga certification, that took time away from tri training. Doing the "down dog" or "triangle pose" is great, but that don't really help me at mile 45 of the bike! lol<br /><br />So I went into this loose relatively loose. The goal was to finish in 1 piece. The morning of the race I got my gear checked in early and felt at ease. I pretty much chilled and checked out the other athletes. I always look at them and wonder how they trained and eventually compare myself to them: Are they ready? Am <em>I</em> ready? But I was still pretty loose regardless. <br /><br />Here I am getting set up at daybreak and after I got everything up & and ready. These pics are courtesy of my wife the Resident Photographer: <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3448-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3448-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/pre2011.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 565px; height: 799px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/pre2011.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />After a while it was time to head over to the swim start:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/preII.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 540px; height: 720px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/preII.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I'm still feeling pretty relaxed at this point, because I feel if I take my time I can finish the race. At 7:30am, the race starts,and we're off! Time to start the 1.2 mile swim:<br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3454-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3454-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I'm on the left, in front of the dude in the light blue shorts.<br /><br />I'm not a fast swimmer, but the swim is the easiest part for me. Partly because it's so monotonous. I can swim pretty much the same speed for an hour or more if need be. My only concern is getting kicked in the face, because some people don't swim in a straight line!!!! I wear contacts, so getting kicked is NOT a good look! To minimize the chance of getting hurt, I start in the back on the left. That way I can see everyone in front of me, and pass people if I can as the swim goes on. <br /><br />It took about 20 minutes to get into a good swimming rhythm. People were all over the place at the start of the swim, and I had to keep looking forward a lot because there was a lot of congestion in the water. One guy was swimming so close I could see the whites of his eyes thru his goggles as I breathed on my right side. Another guy swam at an angle & I could feel the water vibration from his feet kicking right up on my ear. That SUCKS!!! It's not like you can stop and say <em>"WTF are you doing??" </em> You gotta keep swimming! lol<br /><br />After a while, people eventually got their own space and you had room to swim. I could swim comfortably, tried to swim using as little energy as possible, because I'd need it on the bike & run! Here I am finishing the swim:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3457-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3457-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I'm feeling pretty good at this point. My swim felt good and I wasn't tired at all. I'm saying <em>"1 down, 2 to go!"</em> at this point.<br /><br />There's no resting once you finish the swim. No resting on your laurels cuz the clock is ticking! No time to catch your breath. Get your bike & go!<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3459-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3459-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3462-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3462-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />This is a VERY hilly course, and it starts going uphill soon as you get on the bike:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3463-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3463-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />This is why I try use as little energy as possible on the swim. Why wear yourself out on the shortest part (and many times easiest part) of the race?<br /><br />When I start the bike, my wife leaves and does her own thing: she goes back to the hotel to take a nap! Then she gets up and goes to Subway for lunch,then meets me to snap pics when I finish the bike portion of the race.<br /><br />As for me, the bike started out easy enough. I rode at my own pace, passing some people then getting passed. I wasn't worried about how fast others were going, just riding my own race. But what DID worry me was the heat: The sun was coming out & it was starting to get hot out there! Luckily I had my electrolytes.<br /><br />Two hours into the ride I start to feel a twinge in my left hamstring. NOT GOOD, because I still had another 20 or so miles to ride over rolling hills. I pop another electrolyte. <br /><br />The hills are coming fast & furious, so I really try to pace myself going over the hills. I ride an easy tempo going uphill, then go fast as I can on the downhill to make up time. Sometimes I'd stand & stretch my legs on the downhill to try ease the discomfort and catch my breath.<br /><br />2.5 hours into the ride I hit Sugarloaf Mountain. I thought I was ready for it, but my left leg was not! Halfway up the hill my leg cramps up and I have to jump off the bike or fall over. <strong>Dammit man!!! </strong> I had to walk up Sugarloaf. On the way up I pop another electrolyte pill. At this point I'm eating these things like they're Starburst or something...lol<br /><br />I finally get up to the top of Sugarloaf and the leg cramp is gone. I think the walking actually helped me, but at the same time, I didn't want to walk. Oh well, what can you do?<br /><br />The rest of the ride was uneventful. Here I am finishing the 56 mile ride:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3464-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3464-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I start the run pretty tired. The ride took 3.5 hours,and my legs were burning! It was really hot & humid too, so I knew it was gonna be a tough run. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3466.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3466.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />I usually start the run slowly, to get my running legs together. Ever try run after riding a bike? Your legs feel like bricks! That's exactly how mine felt, but I knew if I finished the bike in 1 piece, I'd finish the race. <br /><br />I start the run feeling as good as a person can feel running in 90 degree Florida heat. Basically I felt like crap! lol It was hot and I knew I had at least 2.5 hours of running to do... There were plenty people out cheering us on. Right before my wife took this pic, I told her I'd text her at mile 10 so she could come back to the race to watch me cross the line. Where was she going? Shopping of course! lol <br /><br />My goal was to run the first 7 miles, then hold on for dear life, but by mile THREE I knew I was in trouble. Big trouble! I was starting to overheat. The heat was just too much. They had aid stations at every 2 miles on the run, and I grabbed as much ice & water I could. I poured ice down my suit (front & back) and put some in my cap. <strong>IT WAS HOT!!!!</strong><br /><br />At mile 4 I had to walk. I was in survival mode. This is where my lack of training/conditioning came into play. Mile 4 of the run is where I hit the wall, with 9 miles to go in the hot sun.<br /><br />At this point I'm doing a run/walk: walk to an object, run to another. Run in the shady areas, walk in the sun. I did that over & over. <br /><br />By mile 9 my feet are KILLING ME. I really wanted to quit at that point. But how could I? Four miles to go! Besides, I'd NEVER forgive myself if I did. I finally make it to mile 10 and send the text to my wife letting her know. I keep walking/running.<br /><br />About 30 minutes later she sends the following text:<br /><br /><em>An athlete passed out. Ambulance here too hot out here!!</em><br /><br />Wow. This is serious! I decide to shut it down & walk at that point. Eff that!!<br /><br />I'm now at mile 12. At this point I reflect on the day, what it took to get here, and how I feel about it. Even though I hurt, i feel GOOD! I'm proud of myself. My time wasn't the best, but the encouragement from the other athletes makes me feel good. And I was able to complete the race, even though I felt I needed another month of training. <br /><br />It's now mile 13 and I start to pick up my pace. I see the finish line & start a slow, painful jog:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-76ed823a0c1d647 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="76ed823a0c1d647"></OBJECT><br /><br />Victory! I made it! God is Good! I survived this EXTREMELY tough day! <br /><br />Now it's time to eat! Notice the limp and the broken sunglasses! LMAO<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-51151797b3036b30 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="51151797b3036b30"></OBJECT><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaFG5WNqVRxw-t9Bauf2VJYy0Bpl4iBxFL4ZD3H-paJxhSbEXIYEp2L310FyWiNCvfYUQ5dHrFsatUDXOJSYzNQhN1FmWDBWny2or21f2bbyY1bZn_0l9wp6K9xgvOZco3JcdPTMFRrw0/s1600/medal2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcaFG5WNqVRxw-t9Bauf2VJYy0Bpl4iBxFL4ZD3H-paJxhSbEXIYEp2L310FyWiNCvfYUQ5dHrFsatUDXOJSYzNQhN1FmWDBWny2or21f2bbyY1bZn_0l9wp6K9xgvOZco3JcdPTMFRrw0/s200/medal2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618296334329884498" /></a><br /><br />This race was TOUGH, but I gutted it out. I know it's crazy to do them, and sometimes dangerous, but I like to push myself to my limits to see what I can do. You only live once, why not make the best of it. <br /><br />After the race it was time to shower and eat again:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhefhJ-pA2tzrFLQfG2S9NCN6lD_gHcjSJEWCniPJx8TavRBo4oKVltBTs9ScGfSn0C2jAvpQFUTZsldSBDWJ4CgGVsNXHsFQDb8GbkHI-kgTe0iRUT3Lu23pMy5reQeFFWbR1-7f7h0am6/s1600/Friendly%2527s+1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhefhJ-pA2tzrFLQfG2S9NCN6lD_gHcjSJEWCniPJx8TavRBo4oKVltBTs9ScGfSn0C2jAvpQFUTZsldSBDWJ4CgGVsNXHsFQDb8GbkHI-kgTe0iRUT3Lu23pMy5reQeFFWbR1-7f7h0am6/s200/Friendly%2527s+1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618297202142503186" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.friendlys.com/menu/">Friendly's</a> is the BEST! lol <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRIvEqnPtJPIQBtzNt-6jFi648v7VQXxfgPuZUVKRUQ0YXjA2fu0-aOCPXHr7p4qwqlwC2QCLM5QI2bwMQ8gIs36LkZcJJcME4anBnbaJ3SzMgVqRoCah14zdKVqHew7P0asFRFKopec-/s1600/Friendly%2527s+2.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRIvEqnPtJPIQBtzNt-6jFi648v7VQXxfgPuZUVKRUQ0YXjA2fu0-aOCPXHr7p4qwqlwC2QCLM5QI2bwMQ8gIs36LkZcJJcME4anBnbaJ3SzMgVqRoCah14zdKVqHew7P0asFRFKopec-/s200/Friendly%2527s+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618297197672986290" /></a><br /><br />I'm still pretty sore as I write this, but I feel good. I gave it my best shot,and have no regrets. There's something about crossing that finish line that can't be put into words. It's setting out to do something,after months of planning and preparation, and finally seeing your hard work pay off. <br /><br />Triathlon is like life to me: You have many facets of it,and sometimes it doesn't go as planned. You may not get what you want when you want it, but if you keep working hard, you'll eventually reach your goal. It takes a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and determination. Many times you'll feel like giving up, but if you do, you'll probably regret that decision. But if you DO stay the course, the victory is just as sweet!<br /><br />It's not about finshing a race for me. It's about testing my physical and mental limits. Trying to see how much I can take, and what I'm willing to do to complete the task at hand. I try use what I learn from this sport and incorporate it into my daily life: <br /><br />The race is not always to the swift, but to those that keep running." Anonymous<br /><br />That's my story! It was a tough day, but one I wouldn't change. I'm tired, but feel stronger for it. What's the next challenge? I'm ready! bring it on!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xzSqiy7s6SWF2zaUqemMODshMuX7voZdWu1qb3bN3bdUd4ocm-nYNl7rptY8ZBfXa-9ZXYdZKITNoWLuBTOKm8H8b2_PvGRUbzAlxS-SeTbtP121yDgyTkJzUsQLll4_Z0zcPPtHUbl8/s1600/finisher+2011.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2xzSqiy7s6SWF2zaUqemMODshMuX7voZdWu1qb3bN3bdUd4ocm-nYNl7rptY8ZBfXa-9ZXYdZKITNoWLuBTOKm8H8b2_PvGRUbzAlxS-SeTbtP121yDgyTkJzUsQLll4_Z0zcPPtHUbl8/s200/finisher+2011.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618304528027084034" /></a><br /><br /><br />Till next time, Peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-91844364221540394992011-06-10T08:06:00.000-07:002011-06-11T14:13:51.054-07:00Almost HomeWell, The Day is just about here! Right now, I feel like I've gotten on a roller coaster: I'm strapped in and we're slowly going up the incline for that first huge drop. It seems like it takes FOREVER to make it to the top, and in that brief moment of time you get really nervous, anxious, and downright scared! <br /><br />That's how I feel right now!<br /><br />Part of my nervousness is the fact that I didn't get to train as much as I would've liked for various reasons. But that's life. In many aspects of our lives that happens. We just get really busy and can't do everything we set out to do any given day. Even though I'm not as prepared as I'd like, I'm still ready to go. I won't go for a personal best this time. It'll all be about just finishing!<br /><br />Last weekend I did a 3 hour bike ride on Saturday, followed with a 10 mile run on Sunday. Those 2 training sessions were GREAT for me and my confidence. I've said this a million times: These races are just as mental as they are physical. It takes a lot of mental toughness to push yourself when you think you're at your limits...<br /><br />In addition to those training sessions, I swam on Thursday for the 1st time in about 2 weeks. I HAD to swim, so I went to Seaworld: It's really the pool at Bally's, but it feels like Seaworld because everybody can see the pool while you swim, and it feels like I'm on display like I'm at Seaworld or something...lol<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_usJuqP0VHggZcwqgtagEDxuif6poIx3ZUKJGCqH0r7QFWYZVXDo13nDYgcL9kIsbmSf5J16kbmvww4X4lzgbnB_A_BdL1h2T5d4Ua8mCckv_w8Qc4sRrJ7fjvDFAbmuRvXguOly3bKOf/s1600/pool1.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_usJuqP0VHggZcwqgtagEDxuif6poIx3ZUKJGCqH0r7QFWYZVXDo13nDYgcL9kIsbmSf5J16kbmvww4X4lzgbnB_A_BdL1h2T5d4Ua8mCckv_w8Qc4sRrJ7fjvDFAbmuRvXguOly3bKOf/s200/pool1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616611249884862578" /></a><br /><br />I wrote a blog about this pool a while ago. Click <a href="http://trimaster1.blogspot.com/2010/03/sea-world.html">>HERE< </a>to read more about it...lol<br /><br />All in all, I had a good swim. I did my normal routine, which was to swim for 60 minutes total, with 35 minutes of non-stop forward crawl at a moderate pace. With that said, I did have some good, quality workouts. The key now is to put it all together. That's where I'm lacking...<br /><br />Anyway, there's not much more I can do now but brace myself for this wild roller coaster ride! lol<br /><br />So here I am the day before, getting everything together. I have all my gear packed and ready, and here's my "food" for the race:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/b0d1bf08.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/b0d1bf08.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />People are surprised that we eat during the races. Not really sure why, but I think people believe you'll get sick if you eat while working out? Maybe you will (if you eat a Bic Mac & fries, lol) but the stuff above is designed to be eaten before during, or after workouts.<br /><br />The electrolytes will help prevent/minimize cramping on the bike & run, the Clif Bars will keep me from starving/bonking, the GU is for energy, and the Gatorade & water (not shown) will keep me hydrated. <br /><br />The weather tomorrow will be interesting. The forecast is for showers, with a high of 95 and a low of 73. I hope it DOES rain while I'm running, because that'll keep me cool. Running in the Flawda heat & humidity is NO JOKE! <br /><br />My race plan is pretty simple: race MY race. I won't worry about those around me, I'll just focus on how I'm feeling and try keep an even tempo the entire day. <br /><br />On the <strong>swim</strong> I'll take my time and conserve as much energy as possible. Total 1.2 mile swim time: 45 minutes. <br /><br />The <strong>bike</strong> will be interesting because of those hills. I weighed in last night at 210 pounds. The heavier a person is, the more difficult it is to ride over hills. I plan on spinning an easy gear yet keeping up a good pace. I'll ride up the hills an easy tempo, as if I'm riding the bridges in Clearwater. <br /><br />People think of Florida as being flat, but this part of Florida has hills. BIG HILLS! This here is Sugarloaf Mtn. We hit this bad boy around mile 30 of the bike:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqR08arEssRmlLdNbTCDpUseGJsAdWT9kxbY2NXo1-3Nw_5deoapevISaAIReVvpPvhppExxZGkoTIEgQNRdhde_X50_O5Xa1FGXN5ihvfMURH4bcPUACdoyAeKSHx6csWO9KYw-zI3yyt/s1600/SugarLoaf1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqR08arEssRmlLdNbTCDpUseGJsAdWT9kxbY2NXo1-3Nw_5deoapevISaAIReVvpPvhppExxZGkoTIEgQNRdhde_X50_O5Xa1FGXN5ihvfMURH4bcPUACdoyAeKSHx6csWO9KYw-zI3yyt/s200/SugarLoaf1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617058976643034066" /></a><br /><br />Pics don't do this monster any justice! lol<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9dN7dbKKvCE3_sfXEZtXSri2VtLPcAXrF2V9jg4GOY2Baw46d19q4DQVBfbJXDnrLLE7lBgt6q-zkeJEoOc7h1Jy4VGpz_g4Exnf08o9nj-RRc2HvCcsPdSjwU3nvbM-G5GIewtX6U8t/s1600/sugar_mtn.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9dN7dbKKvCE3_sfXEZtXSri2VtLPcAXrF2V9jg4GOY2Baw46d19q4DQVBfbJXDnrLLE7lBgt6q-zkeJEoOc7h1Jy4VGpz_g4Exnf08o9nj-RRc2HvCcsPdSjwU3nvbM-G5GIewtX6U8t/s200/sugar_mtn.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617058858178124370" /></a><br /><br />With that said, my goal is to complete the 56 mile bike in 3-3.5 hours.<br /><br />The<strong> run</strong> will be the x factor. I liken my races to gas in a car. I start the swim with a full tank. I'm slightly past 3/4 full when I start the bike, and by the time I finish the bike I'm at about 1/2 tank. On the run is when I start to really burn gas! lol I'm usually good till mile 7 or so, but at mile 8, that yellow light comes on and I need fuel! My energy level starts to decrease and I start to struggle. <br /><br />This all comes down to training, conditioning, and pacing. I think I try go too hard on the bike, or maybe I start out too fast on the run? Either way, that's something I have to work on, because this is where I have the most problems and lose the most time. Tomorrow I'll see what I can do to rectify that! <br /><br />My goal is to finish the run between 2.5 - 3 hours, thus having a finish time around 7 hours or so. This doesn't count the time it takes in the transition areas (starting the bike & starting the run) however, so I might have to add a couple minutes to my finish time. <br /><br />I'm also wearing this 1 piece suit because this will help minimize how much time I spend in the transition areas:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/8bec7d3f.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/8bec7d3f.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />This is pure speculation of course, but at the end of the day, I just want to finish! It's all about starting something and finishing it at this point. I'd like a "fast' time, but if it doesn't happen I'll be happy with whatever time I get. These races aren't easy AT ALL. I'll just be happy being able to complete it.<br /><br />How will I do?? I really don't know, but I do know that no matter what happens, I'm going to keep smiling and give it 110%! <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/14d805cf.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 596px; height: 799px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/14d805cf.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><strong>Let's do this!</strong><br /><br />Stay tuned! Till next time, peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-56842042402237272512011-06-04T20:01:00.000-07:002011-06-04T22:23:52.900-07:00Emergency Stopping Only!This time next week I'll be in Clermont, Florida (hopefully sleep) because it'll be time to race in the <a href="http://floridachallenge.com/">Florida Challenge Triathlon!</a> I can't believe the day is just about here! Time truly flies when you have a million things to do at the same time...lol <br /><br />I'm a little nervous about this one because I haven't trained as much and as hard as I would've liked. This year I've been busier than I've ever been, and unfortunately the last 2-3 weeks my training took somewhat of a back burner.<br /><br />But these last few weekshave been VERY productive! I did an hour long presentation at Raymond James Financial on 5-24-11 talking about health & fitness in front of about 100 employees. It was very well received, and hopefully they'll invite me back to speak again.<br /><br />I FINALLY completed my yoga classes on 5-29-11. I submitted my final exam, and hopefully I'll be a certified yoga instructor by July. Fingers, toes, and eyes crossed on that one! lol <br /><br />Luckily, I DID do some light training while doing the above, so it's not like I didn't do anything at all. But at the same time, I didn't do as much as I'd like. Don't get me wrong, I feel I can finish. If I didn't think I could I wouldn't even race. My question is how will I do? How will I feel crossing the finish line? Will I feel like a million dollars, or feel like I got <em>HIT</em> with a million nickels? lol<br /><br />Even though I've done this race 8 or 9 times previously, I don't take it lightly. Swimming 1.2 miles, riding a bike 56 miles, then running a half marathon is no joke. The mental preparation is just as important as the physical, and that's what I'm going to really work on this week. I have 1more hard training day (tomorrow) and then I'm on cruise control. Getting ready for races like this take months, and the week before the race is not the time to put in hard training. You want your body refreshed and ready to go on race day, not tired and still recovering from a hard workout the a couple days before...<br /><br />Which leads me to today's training session, which was back to the bridges for some good hill training.<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d0838aef.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d0838aef.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I have quite a few cycling jerseys, and I decided to dust this one off and wear it. I like this one because it's a pic from an actual professional bike race. The shot is taken from by a pro photographer <a href="http://www.grahamwatson.com/">(Graham Watson)</a> riding on a motorcycle at the back of the peloton. You can see a couple guys ahead of the pack in the distance, and the others fast approaching with their different color helmets. The shot makes it seem like you're riding with them:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c37a9ced.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c37a9ced.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Well, <strong><em>I</em> </strong>like it...lol <br /><br />Anyway, back to the training. Here's a quick vid I took before I started my ride:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-f5d6d519ab3c9ae8 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="f5d6d519ab3c9ae8"></OBJECT><br /><br />The goal today was to ride 3 hours pretty much as hard as I could over the bridges. The bike course is quite hilly, so I MUST simulate the race conditions as much as I can. <br /><br />It was a great day to ride the bike. Here are a couple pics at the top of the the <br />1st bridge I ride:<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c9493803.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c9493803.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Pictures really don't do this view justice. Th is the Gulf of Mexico and the water looks GREAT. Views like this make it a little easier to ride over & over these big a** bridges! <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/055ab878.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/055ab878.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I usually ride the bridges in a seated position, kinda taking my time, but today I wanted to really push and "hurt" myself. What I mean is I wanted to ride so hard that my legs would be burning by the time I was done. I do that because I want my legs to get prepared for next week. So I did alot of standing and pedaling, trying to ride up the bridges as fast and as hard as I could. To be honest, I couldn't stand & ride all the way to the top. I'd get about 3/4 to the top and I'd have to sit down and slow my pace. But the damage was done. My legs felt it! lol <br /><br />About an hour into the ride I stopped and took this quick vid:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-6fade0982f9d17d4 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="6fade0982f9d17d4"></OBJECT><br /><br />It was a coincidence that I stopped right at that sign. That's fine, cuz it's my new motto: <strong>Emergency Stopping Only: Do NOT stop!</strong> I will NOT stop! No matter what happens next week, I'm gonna keep going! <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e6cd052e.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e6cd052e.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I was feeling good at this point. My legs were holding up pretty well. I was drinking my water & Gatorade, took an electrolyte tablet, ate half a Clif Bar, and took 1 Gu. About 40 minutes later I head back to where I'm parked, which is by the other bridge.<br /><br /><br />The 2nd bridge is a little longer and harder than the 1st one, and I purposely ride this one last for that very reason. I need to make sure my legs can respond 2-3 hours into a ride when things get really tough. The last thing you want as an endurance athlete is to have your body fail on you when you need it most, which could 3, 4, or 5 hours <em>after</em> you start your event. You gotta dig deep and find that extra bit of energy, and to find it you have to locate it while training. <br /><br />Two hours into my ride and I'm still feeling good. I'm surprised to be honest with you, because when I say good, I mean I did NOT feel like I had been riding for 2 hours. MAYBE for about 30 minutes of riding, amazingly. I was still riding aggressively and wanted to see how far I could push myself. So far my body was responding well.<br /><br />I started to feel fatigue 2:45 into my ride. My legs felt tired, but no cramping (thank goodness.) I was still able to push hard, but I could feel my energy levels dropping slightly. That's fine, because on race day I won't ride as aggressively because I'll be saving energy for the run. <br /><br />Here are pics on top of the other bridge as I was shutting it down:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3433.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3433.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3434.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3434.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />It was a GREAT day to be outside, and quite a few people were out enjoying the perfect weather. I will never get tired of this view. They always say <em>"never say never,"</em> but I'm sayin NEVER! lol <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3431.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3431.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3428.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3428.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-2dc2bffc7eec6a97 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="2dc2bffc7eec6a97"></OBJECT><br /><br />I'm sure after seeing these short vids why I enjoy coming out here to train! <br /><br /><br />After my ride I took my customary 15 minute cool down walk. I like to do that so I get the lactic acid out my legs, and to let them know subliminally that it ain't over yet! They still need to do some work, especially next week! lol<br /><br />After my walk I get to do what I do best: lay down and relax! lol<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3442.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3442.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />You can see the 1st bridge in the distance:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3436.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3436.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />What I like about Florida is you can ALWAYS find a small secluded spot where you can chill by yourself away from everybody. Sometimes you just need to get away from everybody, even if just for a couple minutes. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3438.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/100_3438.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-d4b829a1c9582351 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="d4b829a1c9582351"></OBJECT><br /><br />All in all,I had a GREAT ride. 3 solid hours with little problems. I think my swim and bike will be fine, but the run is the x-factor. Based on previous races, I'm able to get off the bike and run the first 7 miles w/o many issues, but at mile 8 all hell seems to break loose! It's like I have a major energy leak and it becomes a major struggle. I'm sure it's a combination of the heat and being out there for 6 + hours. I'm just plain tired at that point! lol <br /><br />I really don't want to walk, but if I have to I can walk with the best of them. I can walk to EGYPT if I have to, but I'd rather not! lol<br /><br />So tomorrow, I'm going for an 8- 10 mile run. That will be my last major workout b4 the race. We'll see how THAT goes! <br /><br />But whatever happens next week, I'll give it my best shot, and I'll accept whatever fate has in store for me!<br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, Peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-56130556958891213762011-05-04T18:32:00.000-07:002011-05-04T20:06:40.970-07:00My Mind Says "yes!" But My Body Says "Man Sit Down!"Sometimes your body will tell you things, but we just don't want to listen! This past Saturday I planned on going for a 10 mile run. My <a href="http://floridachallenge.com/">big race</a> is on June 12th. That is FIVE WEEKS AWAY!! Every training session counts!<br /><br />The only problem with that is sometimes your body could care less when it is. If it wants you to take a break that's what you'll do. I'm usually pretty good at listening to my body and taking a break, but it's crunch time. I don't have TIME to take a break, but this weekend I really didn't feel like training. But with the race 5 weeks away, that means I really only have 4 weeks to prepare. So I felt like I HAD to get out there.<br /><br />Here I am before my run:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/b6cf4cfd.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/b6cf4cfd.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I really didn't feel like running, and I even voiced it in my pre-run video:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-44013f0739a27415 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="44013f0739a27415"></OBJECT><br /><br />The day looks like every other in Florida:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/4ee8d29b.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/4ee8d29b.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />My problem is simple: I'm 42, but I still think I'm 25! Yep, I can say it. Then I'm a big sports fan. I see pro athletes like Dwayne Wade & Derrick Rose get hurt then keep plying at high levels. As an athlete, how can a person NOT get pumped to see others struggle thru adversity and prevail??<br /><br />Well, a really big factor is these guys are in their early 20's. They can bounce back quicker than my old a**! I'm getting like Shaq: He was out for half the season due to an injury. Battled back and played in a game 2 weeks ago. Dude played for FIVE MINUTES before he hurt his calf muscle! The difference between him and Wade? About 12 years. The difference between me & Shaq? About 4. Dammit man! lol <br /><br />So anyway, I start my run slow, cuz I'm not into it mentally. 15 minutes in I feel a little better. 20 minutes in my Achilles heel starts to hurt. I try shrug it off by stopping to stretch it a bit. I resume running and then it REALLY starts to hurt!! At that point I give up. I turn around and start the long walk back.<br /><br />Yep, my right Achilles heel is hurting. This is the same foot where I had the plantar fascitis issues last year. I need a foot transplant! I think my heel will be fine in about 2 weeks, but that's 2 weeks I can't run. This really sucks, because I feel like I'm really falling behind schedule. <br /><br />But I can't worry about that right now. All I can do is focus on what I CAN do, which is bike & swim. I'll deal with the run later. Besides, what will worrying do besides give me more grey hair?? lol<br /><br />So, on my walk back, I decided to make the best of it and act like a tourist and take pics as I walked. There are some really nice houses on Bayshore & here are a couple of them:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/2b50edd7.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/2b50edd7.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d277f2dd.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d277f2dd.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/6f23a8e1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/6f23a8e1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Each house is different, and I've always liked the architecture out here, as well as the water (of course:)<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/34568864.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/34568864.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I'm not a fast walker, and since my heel was hurting, there was no way I was going to try walk fast. The last thing I wanted to do was make the injury worse! So I took my time! <br /><br />My run/walk on Saturday was about 80 minutes. I was far from tired, more aggravated than anything. It's really frustrating when things don't go as planned, but that's how life goes! <br /><br />Here's my post run vid:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-82ea5a54c30f2f10 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="82ea5a54c30f2f10"></OBJECT><br /><br />I feel much better as I type this. I can do jumping jacks and walk with minimal pain, but no running yet. I won't try run for AT LEAST 2 weeks. Thelast thing I want to do is reaggravate it and can't run on race day at all. (Walking 13.1 miles while in pain would be TORTURE!!!!) I'll just focus on my bike & swim in the meantime. I had some good runs before I got hurt, so I hope I can keep that fitness level up. If anything, the swim will help my heel because of the water itself. I don't have to deal with gravity and I can really flex my feet while I swim.<br /><br />But I learned someting VERY important (again:) I know my body. I MUST learn to take a step back when it tells me it needs a vacation day! Well, I'm all ears now! lol<br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-16577879875820575132011-04-24T13:24:00.000-07:002011-04-24T15:14:27.355-07:00Going VerticalI can't believe it's April 24th. Time is really going by fast! That means my race is getting closer & closer, and that also means every training session counts! In January & February you can kinda slack a bit on your workouts, because you still have plenty time to get it together. But come April, EVERY WORKOUT COUNTS! Every lap in the pool, every mile ran, every pedal stroke. Which brings me to this weekend's workout: Hitting the bridges. <br /><br />I'm sure I sound like a broken record, but riding hills is tough for me. I'm not making excuses, and I'm not I'm not complaining at all. It is what is is. Kinda like how some have a tough time with algebra. It just means I have to work harder than others to excel at them. Sometimes it's best to know what your weaknesses are so you can work on them. <br /><br />The plan this weekend was to hit the bridges and ride them for 3 hours. Here I am before I headed out:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dba67f18.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dba67f18.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />As an FYI, I got this jersey before T-Mobile became a household name in the US. Back in the early/mid 90's they were a powerhouse in the pro cycling world. They were the Lakers of cycling:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimT0mZXnCIcN8dUOWMqrFbA8AAfHLUlK_PPcFSX947RrEuHnekcPZyFsBR2YagNwSGjvRFpu2mdBxPlB6pjbV_H-o3qNSOp2_ajo4kwckNNSMjFwUXkO2Utl790hi2_-scS8TzcnsDO7k/s1600/TMobile+II.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimT0mZXnCIcN8dUOWMqrFbA8AAfHLUlK_PPcFSX947RrEuHnekcPZyFsBR2YagNwSGjvRFpu2mdBxPlB6pjbV_H-o3qNSOp2_ajo4kwckNNSMjFwUXkO2Utl790hi2_-scS8TzcnsDO7k/s200/TMobile+II.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599259442101684626" /></a><br /><br />This team no longer exists, but I still have my kit! LOL<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9F-oEPm0ZwiUmgNkwB06QAgKYmGfvDVtI88jlfGEB4KM4pIehd3s6rwPFr7RQ5BWJ_8SigvM6E-5CNrTN0eNhMOMRxwo3lHKahW1Fezzs3smzKkBGdO6J6loDC-5fliuQRy0Xrv9HNhwH/s1600/Tmobile+I.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9F-oEPm0ZwiUmgNkwB06QAgKYmGfvDVtI88jlfGEB4KM4pIehd3s6rwPFr7RQ5BWJ_8SigvM6E-5CNrTN0eNhMOMRxwo3lHKahW1Fezzs3smzKkBGdO6J6loDC-5fliuQRy0Xrv9HNhwH/s200/Tmobile+I.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5599259335852074786" /></a><br /><br />I was feeling pretty good this morning as I got ready for my ride. The bike is the most important aspect of the race, because if my legs are cramped up there's no way I'll be able to run. Unfortunately that's happened tome before & I've had to walk the majority of the run as a result. NOT FUN.<br /><br />Here's a quick vid before I start my ride:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-62fd80f778df6154 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="62fd80f778df6154"></OBJECT><br /><br />The plan today was to try different riding styles up the bridges: Sometimes I'd attack & try sprint as fast as I could. Other times I'd sit in the saddle & ride at an easy pace. Other times I'd ride seated, but at a faster pace. The goal is to hit my legs in a variety of ways, in hopes they can recover enough for the next time up the bridge. <br /><br />Basically I'd just be riding the bridges back & forth, back & forth. I do this to try simulate the rolling hills I'll see on race day. This would be a boring ride, except I really DO like riding hills & bridges. I like the challenge of it. But the views make it that much easier to do:<br /><br />Here's a pic at the top of 1 of the bridges:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e39e0473.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e39e0473.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />The pics really don't do the view justice, especially on that pic. Going down the bridge is an incredible view of the Gulf of Mexico. <br /><br />On this pic Mexico is straight ahead (even though we can't see it;)<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ea2e4093.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ea2e4093.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />45 minutes into my ride I'm feeling pretty good. To be honest, I felt like I just got on the bike. Here's a quick vid I took at that point: <br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-9ecd5fdfb9ae1e15 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="9ecd5fdfb9ae1e15"></OBJECT><br /><br />Up to this point I'd taken my time over the bridge. I wasn't trying to push it, just taking my time. In Flatwoods I can start off aggressively, because there are no hills there. Sometimes when riding the bridges, I can feel fine, then halfway up I'll get a leg cramp or feel like I hit a wall and can barely pedal and will fall over! So I'm ride defensively on the bridges.<br /><br />I'm now an hour into my ride & I still feel good. Really good! It's now time to get a tad aggressive on these damn bridges! I start to ride as hard as I can, standing & really pushing it as far as I can up the bridge. I get anywhere from halfway to 3/4 of the way up before I sit and pedal. What I have to work on is my tempo and relaxing AFTER I ride all out. The key for me is to not fight the hill, but try ride WITH it. It's hard to explain, but the more you "fight" the hills/bridges, the more energy you use. I have to work on that. <br /><br />I've been riding now for 90 minutes and I feel STRONG. I head over to the 2nd bridge now, which is the hardest. I've eaten half a Clif Bar, taken 2 electrolyte pills, and a Gu. I ride the hardest bridge last because that's the best way for me to improve. 2 hours into my ride I want to have to work VERY hard. How else will you get better? You have to keep pushing yourself. <br /><br />The views from this bridge are just as nice as the other one:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/569e7a05.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/569e7a05.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/f7799603.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/f7799603.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />This bridge is HARD!! It's longer than the other one, and seems like it takes forever to make it to the top. When I try stand & pedal I get about halfway up before I have to sit down. It takes me about 2 minutes to get to the top. I guess that would make me a "2 Minute Brotha?" Yeah, but ONLY in this instance! lol<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5b9843ea.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5b9843ea.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />2:15 into my ride I start to feel the effects. My left leg is starting to feel a twinge, like a cramp is trying to come. When that happens, I try to work them out by standing & pedaling at an easy cadence on the flats. I also become more aware of food & drink intake. Luckily I didn't get any cramps today, but I was definitely tired. <br /><br />After the dust settled, I accomplished my mission today and rode 3 full hours. Here's another quick vid:<br /><br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-dd293c2eadcf420c class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="dd293c2eadcf420c"></OBJECT><br /><br />I was pretty tired when I shot that one. Riding bridges really wears me out, but it's a GREAT workout!!<br /><br />I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised that I felt much better within minutes of getting off the bike. That's a VERY good sign. That means my legs are recovering pretty well. That's GREAT, but there's s till work to do. can't get over-confident. Gotta stay focused and can't rest on my laurels! <br /><br /><br />After my ride I did my customary walk to get rid of the lactic acid in my legs:<br /><br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-c31b6d06ed528b2c class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="c31b6d06ed528b2c"></OBJECT><em></em><br /><br />This is a great place to train, and a great place to relax AFTER a workout:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/67359dd3.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/67359dd3.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />The cool thing about living in Tampa is if you like the beach, there are PLENTY spots you can hit. Even find some nice, secluded spots like this one.<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dd25d0ae.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dd25d0ae.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Sometimes I like the chillin out more than the actual workout! lol <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e8514619.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e8514619.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/721bb54e.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/721bb54e.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />All in all, I had a great workout. I'm still not fast on the bridges, but that's not my primary goal. My goal is to ride them at a good pace, while still having enough energy to run afterwards. I expect people to pass me on the bike come race day, but I want to pass them right back on the RUN! So I have to make sure I'm fresh starting the run, but still have a good ride. I'm hoping come race day I'll be able to do that. Luckily, I still have time to make that a reality. I don't have a lot of time, but I plan on using every workout forthcoming to make it happen!<br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-82713650002410141192011-04-16T13:16:00.000-07:002011-04-16T14:46:41.402-07:00A Run Extension!Since the IRS extended the tax deadline to Monday, I decided to extend my run also! lol Sometimes you just gotta go for it, and today I did! I decided to up my run from 7 miles to 10. (OK, it was closer to 9.7, but I like the sound of 10 better! lol)<br /><br />But seriously, I wanted to up the mileage and see how my body would respond. I need to get some longer runs under my belt, and now is a good a time as any to start. I must admit, I was a tad nervous about going for a longer run, seeing how I haven't run this far since last September. The thing is, running in this Florida heat SUCKS. There's no other way to describe it. The heat just wears you down and can make for a long, tortuous run. lol Running on the treadmill is ok, but I haven't done 1 triathlon where the run was on a treadmill in a nice air conditioned gym. It was ALWAYS out in the heat and this bloody awful sun. I MUST train in this heat. <br /> <br />So, to help compensate for running in HORRID weather, I go run where at least it's a nice place to go and you can kinda enjoy it, even though it's mad hot: Bayshore. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/f8f52aee.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/f8f52aee.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Peep the guy on the kayak:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c2845f11.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c2845f11.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I do much better running from Point A to Point B, instead of watching the seconds tick by while running on the treadmill. This is a great place to run. <br /><br />Because it's so hot out here, I always carry plenty of water & Gatorade with me:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c7409d03.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c7409d03.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Here I am as I head out for my run:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/55557b98.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/55557b98.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />What makes this run different is not only am I running a little further, but I'm wearing my Ironman 70.3 hat. I don't wear this hat often, but I wanted to wear it today to get mentally ready to run a longer distance. Sometimes you have to psyche yourself out, and this was my way of doing it. I wanted to imagine myself in a race today, not out there as a runner, but as a traithlete. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5c5a6881.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5c5a6881.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />This is how I like to run: Hat low, shades on. You can't see my eyes, and I can't see yours. All can see is the road in front of me. I'm focused man! lol<br /><br />Anyway, the mental preparation is just as important as the physical preparation, and how a person gets prepared is as varied as their training routines. Whatever works! <br /> <br />Here's a quick vid I took before my run:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-6725f7a997826e7f class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="6725f7a997826e7f"></OBJECT><br /><br />I started the run feeling pretty good. As always, I started out slow, just to get the kinks out and see how my body would respond. It was really windy out,which is GREAT for me because it kept me cool. It takes me almost 30 minutes to get warmed up, and at 30 minutes I was feeling good. All systems were go! <br /><br />I ran to Ballast Point today, since I ran a little further. Bayshore has ZERO cloud cover, but I do get a little when I do the extra distance:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dacccab7.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dacccab7.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />It took me about 40 minutes to get to Ballast Point which is almost 5 miles for the halfway point of my run. Overall I felt good. It was still windy, but I was starting to feel the heat. <br /><br />Ballast Point is a combination park/fishing pier. There were a lot of people out today having a good time:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/91506e59.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/91506e59.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/60c3be45.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/60c3be45.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Running around places like this also makes running "easier" because my mind isn't on the pain.<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/a105470c.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/a105470c.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />It also keeps the workouts fresh, because you never know what you'll see.<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d2cad26d.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d2cad26d.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />After a couple pics, a bathroom break & a water bottle fill up I headed back to complete my run.<br /><br />Seeing how I stopped, it took me a couple minutes to get back into a running groove. I don't mind that, because sometimes I'll stop during races at the aid stations, or even walk becauseI'm just plain tired. It's good I learn to run hard, stop, then resume running hard. This was an indirect way to replicate what I do in an actual race.<br /><br />Around mile 9 I start to feel tired. I'm feeling the heat even though it's still windy. The way I felt 75 minutes into the run is how I usually feel 2-3 miles into an actual race. <em>THIS is 1 of the most crucial aspects of my training, and one that's hard to reproduce in training.</em> When I start to feel really fatigued, I can't start walking. I have to learn how to maintain my form and keep running. If I slow my pace that's ok. I gotta keep running. <br /><br />The thing is, it takes me running 9-10 miles in training to feel how I feel 2 miles into an actual race. That's because in a race I start the run tired. I usually don't start my training runs tired. I start them refreshed and energized. This is why the longer runs are most important. I gotta work on that...<br /><br />Anyway, I finished my run in about 1:25 minutes. I was tired, but not exhausted. My conditioning is coming along nicely and my confidence is slowly increasing. I'm cautiously optimistic about my race. You can't get too confident, because overconfidence can lead to carelessness. I've done that in the past & each time something bad happened: 1 race I crashed & bruised my shoulder. Another race I wans't properly hydrated and had severe leg cramps on the bike. I barely finished the bike, and had to walk the majority of the 13.1 mile run. <br /><br />All because I started to believe my own hype. So I gotta make sure I'm fully prepared and treat the race (and training) with the respect it deserves!<br /><br />Here's a vid I took after my run:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-e8e0b2b8c32018f class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="e8e0b2b8c32018f"></OBJECT><br /><br />All in all, I had a FANTASTIC run. I felt good pretty much the entire way, and I'm not really tired as I type this. It was a beautiful day out on bayshore today, and I was just feeling really calm, relaxed and happy as I chilled after my run in my usual spot:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/883f8cb4.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/883f8cb4.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/400f458f.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/400f458f.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Of the 3 sports, running really clears my mind, even though biking is my fav. That runners high is real! lol Today was a good day. I know I can run "10" miles no problem, and that's an important thing to know when preparing for an event.<br /><br />Monday I'll be in the pool for 60 minutes. Tuesday it's weights. Wednesday is yoga. Thursday I'll be on the treadmill to do some speedwork. Friday is weights at home, and next Saturday I'll be hitting the bridges again for a good bike ride. I havea busy schedulewith work, the PT job, and training, but I wouldn't have it any other way!<br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-35475124756336963562011-04-09T21:41:00.000-07:002011-04-10T16:44:17.762-07:00Making Do!Saturday's are my long training days. I'll either go for a long bike, a long run, or a combination of both. <br /><br />I really wanted to go ride the bridges, but it's still Spring break season, and that means more traffic in that area. I would've had to get over there really early to avoid all the traffic, but to be honest, I didn't feel like getting up really early! I'm not a morning person and if there's a chance I can sleep in, I'm gonna take it! So, instead of getting in some quality hill training, I decided to do a long ride (49miles) yesterday at Flatwoods.<br /><br />As much as I love this sport, it can be stressful if you let it get to you. You have THREE sports you have to get ready for: Congrats on being a great runner, but it means nothing if you can't swim. Being a great cyclists is wonderful, but if you struggle and suffer thru the run and have to walk that'll make for a long day...<br /><br />Training for these races is a delicate balancing act. If you want to be competitive, you have to be good at all three. No weak links. Hence my aggravation yesterday. I need to ride the bridges to get ready for the hills. Yeah, I've done this race many times before, but I'm a year older and you can't rest on your laurels from years past. In order to get ready, you gotta train properly.<br /><br />It's my fault I didn't get up extra early to avoid the crowds, but I didn't want to, so I have nobody to blame but myself. But I still wanted a good ride, so I just went to Flatwoods instead. <br /><br />It's starting to get HOT! <strong>Very hot!</strong> That's another thing about racing in Florida: You gotta get used to the heat, and the only way to really do that is to train in it. My goal today was to ride 49 miles, 42 of it as hard as I could. I wanted to leave it at the park, to try & compensate for the lack of hills.<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e2c05084.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e2c05084.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />This is 1 of my fav jerseys. Festina was a pro cycling team in the 80's and 90's. Some people collect basketball & football jerseys, I collect cycling jerseys! lol<br /><br />On the way to the park I stop to get gas and run up on a motorcycle club. They were about 20 deep. I couldn't resist getting a couple pics of them:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/57daf7e5.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/57daf7e5.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/9d1f7cd2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/9d1f7cd2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I really like motorcycles, but would never get one. I think I'll stick with my Cannondale! They were looking at me, I was looking at them. Quite funny actually. lol<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e0f319f2.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e0f319f2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I make it to the park and man is it hot! As I get ready to ride I'm already sweating. Here's a quick pre-ride vid:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-d51ffba033391e0a class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="d51ffba033391e0a"></OBJECT><br /><br />Luckily, when riding the bike, you get a nice breeze if you ride fast enough, so I wasn't too concerned with the heat. If I were running it'd be a different story. I'll worry about that when I run. lol<br /><br />I was feeling pretty good on the ride today. I stayed in the aero position the majority of the ride and kept my cadence high, while still turning a pretty big gear. When on training rides, I try to push harder than I would in a race because I don't have to run afterwards. I can literally get off the bike & chill. <br /><br />There were a lot of people out today, but I still had the park to myself: <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/6f4e5ba5.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/6f4e5ba5.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />This is 1 thing about Flatwoods that I like: it's like an escape and you can get lost in your own thoughts without having the distractions of cars, and things like that. You can literally put your head down & go!<br /><br />An hour into the ride I'm still feeling strong. I'm cruising along at 19mph riding all alone, passing all types of cyclists, joggers & rollerbladers, feeling better about my decision to come out here to train. Yes, i need to ride the bridges, but I'm getting a good ride in. <br /><br />But I must say this: <br /><br /><strong>IF YOU ARE GOING TO JOG OR RUN WEARING HEADPHONES, PLEASE BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS! DON'T GET MAD AT ME IF I SCARE THE CRAP OUT OF YOU WHEN I ZOOM PAST YOU BECAUSE YOU'RE IN THE MIDDLE OF THE PATH! GET YO A** OVER! IT'S NOT MY FAULT YOU DIDN'T HEAR ME SAY <em>"ON YOUR LEFT"</em> THREE TIMES!!!</strong><br /><br />Sorry, but i just had to say that! lol<br /><br />2 hours later I'm still going strong and have ridden 37 miles. I'm averaging 18.5 mph, a tad slower than the first hour. I would prefer to do a negative split, but I still haven't mastered that on the bike. I can do it somewhat when running, but not when I'm riding. I have to work on that. <br /><br />But at this point I'm feeling really good! Two hours into the ride and I hadn't been passed once! I think I jinxed myself, cuz as soon as I was about to proclaim myself "King for a Day" this guy passed me like I was standing still.<br /><br />Dammit man! lol<br /><br />But it's all good, cuz people like that motivate me. It just shows me there's room for improvement. And getting passed like that is good for you. It keeps you humble, hungry and motivated. I think I have only tapped into half of my physical potential. Maybe 50% is on the high end? I dunno, but I do know I can get better, simply based on the fact that I got passed by a guy going at least 23mph, and on a bike that's FAST.<br /><br />I shut it down on the 6th lap & ride the last 7 miles at an easy 15mph for a cool down. I was really happy with the ride and feel pretty good about my conditioning. Total ride was about 2:45.<br /><br />After the ride I sit up, eat a bit, relax, and enjoy the day:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/36772a94.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/36772a94.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Here's a quick post ride video:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-772126b24f31278a class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="772126b24f31278a"></OBJECT><br /><br />I said before that getting ready for a race can be stressful, but even I have to remind myself to enjoy the journey. All we can do is prepare for whatever we're trying to do, and at the same time, try find a way to enjoy it. Sometimes when we accomplish something, we look back on the preparation more so than the actual finished product. I have to remember that...<br /><br />After my ride I did my customary 15 minute cooldown walk followed up with 15 minutes of yoga stretches on my Chicago Bulls towel. GO BULLS!<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/505dfc46.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/505dfc46.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />All in all, a GREAT RIDE. My endurance is good, but as with anything, there's room for improvement. I'm not gonna worry about the hills because I'll get on the bridges in due time. Long as I stay productive and train hard in the capacity I have available at the time that's all can do!<br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-26222394717952071092011-04-03T12:14:00.000-07:002011-04-03T13:48:13.619-07:00The Love Haters!Yesterday (4-2-11) it was time for another good run, and I went back to 1 of my fav spots, Bayshore. I have a love/hate relationship with running. There are times when I feel GREAT and get that runners high where I feel unstoppable and can run forever. Then there are other days when the YARDS just drag by. My feet hurt, it's hot, and I'm just plain TIRED! (I'm just keeping it real!)<br /><br />Part of the love/hate relationship stems from the fact that running just isn't easy for me anymore. The years of running have taken a toll on my body. The older I get, the longer it takes for me to warm up, and for the first 15 minutes I'm going thru my "checklist:" <br /><br /><em>How do your knees feel?<br />Achilles heel ok?<br />Slow down! We got a long way to go!<br />Which stride today? Long strides or short shuffle strides?<br />It's really hot, gotta run defensively today.<br />Loosen your shoulders, mofo!</em><br /><br />Yes, these are actual thoughts that go thru my mind. If a person saw me running, they'd have no clue I was doing this, or if I was in pain. One of the keys to excelling in sports (or anything we do for that matter) is to make it look effortless, and having proper form is the key to making that happen. If you look at pro athletes, many times you can't tell if the race or game has just started, or if they've been going at it for 3 hours. Having proper form helps minimize injuries, maintain your pace, and keeps you motivated psychologically. Your conditioning has to be on point for that, and that means a lot of time training.<br /><br />On the flip side, if you can visibly see the strain on a person's face, their form has broken down, etc. then you know it's just a matter of time before they fall apart.<br /><br />Anyway, it was yet another beautiful day in Tampa Bay!<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/72a7c8cb.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/72a7c8cb.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/583e9394.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/583e9394.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />A lot of these pics may look the same, but that's because pretty much every day is sunny in Florida. lol Before my run I took a quick video:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-b10e68c4628fbdc1 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="b10e68c4628fbdc1"></OBJECT><br /><br />I was feeling REALLY GOOD yesterday morning. Downright excited to run! Brotha was HYPED and I don't even know why! I was loving the run yesterday! lol! <br /><br />I've been running in the grass a lot lately to give my knees, ankles & Achilles heel a break, so as a result, my pace is slower than normal. Add in my checklist as described earlier & I start off pretty slow. At first, I didn't like running on grass because it really does slow me down even more. I really do enjoy running faster, but I can save those "fast" days for the treadmill or an actual race. Race days you want to give it 150% and leave it all out there, because the last thing you want to do is say "I could've done better." It's too late then. Give it your all. Leave it on the course!<br /><br />The grass is getting thicker out here, so my running has slowed as a result:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/1faa3963.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/1faa3963.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Then add in the rain we've had recently & I have to watch for the puddles too:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/cb2925f7.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/cb2925f7.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />After I completed my checklist, I was feeling pretty good. I picked up my speed, but resisted the urge to pick it up too much because I wanted to go for a "negative split." This occurs when you run the 2nd half of your workout faster then the 1st half. In other words, I wanted to finish strong. That's key in any race and sometimes I have a problem with that. Partly because I don't pace myself as well as I should. One part of my is competitive, and wants to push it so I can catch as many people as I can, or run (or bike) at a high level for an extended period of time.<br /><br />The only problem is my energy levels can't sustain that high pace for only so long. So this is something I must work on. <br /><br />I was debating on running either 7 or 9 miles today, but since I decided to go for a negative split, I decided on 7. I ran the 1st 3.5 miles with a conservative pep in my step, trying my best to hold back. It's really tough when the weather's so nice and people are out running along with you, but I held back. I really wanted to run on the concrete, but stayed on the grass. I hit the turn-around at 30 minutes. <br /><br />I was still feeling good, but about 45 minutes in I started to get a little fatigued. I know it was the grass, because I had to pick up my feet a little more than normal. But I kept trying to push it. I wasn't going all out, just tried to keep a decent pace. Technically, for the negative split to be a success, I should've completed the 7 miles in 59 minutes, but I didn't. I finished the run in 65 minutes. <br /><br />Am I disappointed? Not really. That's why you train: to make adjustments and modifications. I was tired, but not exhausted or anything like that. I had a good run actually. No leg problems,no stomach cramps, none of that crap. Just broke a good sweat! lol After my 20 minute cool down walk I felt GREAT. I still was happy and felt I could have kept running. <br /><br />Here's my post run video: <br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-ce38f400d12715ad class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="ce38f400d12715ad"></OBJECT><br /><br />Overall, I'm happy with my progress. I know I could've run further, but I can save it for another day. As always, I relaxed for a few and just enjoyed the day and the sights. I'll NEVER get tired of this view:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/69d3af84.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/69d3af84.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I saw a lot of stingrays today. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/7ab9ab79.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/7ab9ab79.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />Yes, it's all about the race, but you MUST enjoy the journey too! Most people only see the end result which is crossing the finish line, but it takes a lot to even make it to the starting line. Might as well enjoy that aspect of it, and that's what I plan on doing! Scratch that. I will LOVE that aspect of it! :)<br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, Peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-14499579681607037422011-03-26T20:12:00.000-07:002011-03-26T22:40:22.983-07:00This Week at the ImprovToday was a big day for me training wise: It was my first day riding the bridges since my last race. The <a href="http://floridachallenge.com/">Florida Challenge</a> bike course is 56 miles of rolling hills, and the only way you can really get ready riding hills is to, well, ride hills. lol <br /><br />Tampa is pretty flat, so I go to the closest place I can to get some hill training, which is in Clearwater, Florida on the big bridges.<br /><br />Even though I've done this race many times, I get nervous with the hills. They're my biggest challenge. I've been fortunate enough to finish this race each time I've started it, but I had trouble on the hills every race. They BURN! Towards the end of the bike, my legs hurt so bad sometimes I want to quit and go to McDonalds!! LOL But of course I never do, and that's why I like this course: It pushes me to my physical & mental limits. <br /><br />There's no faking it riding uphill. When riding on a flat road, you can coast pretty much as long as you want, pedal a little bit, coast, and you'll keep moving. Same with riding on an indoor trainer. You can put out minimal effort and keep moving. Can't do that on a hill. No coasting allowed! Either keep moving or you'll literally fall over! Unfortunately that has happened to me TWICE in a race. Your legs burn, yet you MUST keep moving. The last thing you want to do is get off your bike & start walking up the hill. Mentally it demoralizes you. <br /><br />Then your weight can play a factor too. You're fighting gravity: The lighter you are, the "easier" it is to go uphill. The heavier you are, the harder it is and the more energy it takes to lug your big a** uphill. Doesn't matter if it's fat or muscle. Weight is weight. But no matter how much you weigh, you gotta get your legs used to the hills!<br /><br />Which brings me to my ride. The goal was to ride the bridges for 3 hours today, back & forth to simulate rolling hills. Here I am before I head out. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/Heinekin_edited-1-1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 598px; height: 799px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/Heinekin_edited-1-1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I'm not a Heinekin drinker, but I sure do like the jersey! lol<br /><br />It was a perfect day for a bike ride! This time of year is picture perfect. I rode the 1st bridge back & forth for a little more than an hour when I stopped & took these pics:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/079df5c5.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/079df5c5.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />This is the Gulf of Mexico, and straight ahead is the state of Texas, but it's too far away to see it. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5c043ae1.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5c043ae1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I liken this type of riding to running on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike, only the scenery is a little better! lol<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d72d6ba0.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/d72d6ba0.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Here's a quick video I took after I snapped the pics:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-4497e464a41564f1 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="4497e464a41564f1"></OBJECT>.....<br /><br />I've been coming out here for years and still can't get enough of it. Something about the water is relaxing!<br /><br />All in all, the 1st part of my ride went well. I didn't have any leg problems, and to be honest, it felt as if I didn't take a 5 month layoff from riding the bridges. I rode up the bridge seated, in an easy gear, at a relaxed pace. I wasn't racing up the bridge, but I did try ride at a good speed. It takes about 90 seconds to ride up this bridge, so I try pace myself and was pleased with my effort. <br /><br />After 2 more laps I took this video and rode over to the other bridge. <br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-45913d03caf0d63c class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="45913d03caf0d63c"></OBJECT>....<br /><br />I park my car at this bridge so I stop for a quick minute to exchange my water bottles. This bridge is harder than the 1st, so I like to do this bridge last. Why do the hardest bridge last? It's simple: How else will I get better? <br /><br />I get up the bridge & I'm feeling pretty good. At this point I've been riding almost 2 hours and feel VERY good. I'm starting to feel confident in my biking. At this point, I know my swim is on point. I'm ready for the swim. My biking is better than I anticipated. I don't have the speed yet, but I think I'll be ready for the 56 miles much sooner than I anticipated. The run is my weak link. It's the worst of the 3 at this point. I can't run 13 miles yet. MAYBE 10, but even that would be a stretch. <br /><br />Anyway, after the 1st lap I notice that my bike feels funny? My rear wheel seems to be slipping from underneath me. I stop & check my tire: I got a flat! Mother-Father!! I have no idea how I got it. I didn't hit anything or roll over any glass. Who knows. Those things happen. Just gotta go with the flow! <br /><br />I head back to the car to change it:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/0ab72454.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/0ab72454.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c4f4a7c0.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/c4f4a7c0.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><br />I change the tire in about 10 minutes time. I was about to finish my ride when I had a thought: <em>why not do a quick run? You had a great ride, let's test your legs real quick? Why not?</em><br /><br />Yeah, why not??<br /><br />Sometimes a little improvisation is good! It keeps you on your toes. Besides, I had never run over here for training. A little hill running might dome some good. Besides, my run sucks right now anyway! lol So this brick might do me some good. <br /><br />So, that's what I did: I did a 40 minute run/walk. I got to the top of the bridge and took these pics:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/0781c3bd.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/0781c3bd.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Did I mention it's Spring Break? People were OUT today! Traffic to get to the beach was backed up for MILES. <br /><br />Thankfully, they have bike lanes & barriers on the bridges because I HATE riding on the road. Hit & run drivers are a major problem down here. People will hit you and keep going w/o a 2nd thought. I refuse to be a statistic, so I ride as far away from traffic as possible! Eff that!!<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/caf17eec.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/caf17eec.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-1c996213659de7dc class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="1c996213659de7dc"></OBJECT><br /><br />My total workout was 2:40 minutes. All in all, it was a great workout. The spur of the moment brick was a nice twist. My legs responded well to the change. I was tired, but not as tired as I thought I'd be. <br /><br />After the ride I laid out & just relaxed and enjoyed the day:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/199f7807.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/199f7807.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />There were a lot of people riding by on boats & jet skis from my vantage point. I wasn't on the beach, but can tell you it was jam packed with tourists & people from all over the U.S. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/02b04f64.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/02b04f64.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />All in all, it was a GREAT workout. I feel really good as I type this. My legs feel good, and it was just an overall nice day. People were out just having a good time. <br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-49b220430dc82410 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="49b220430dc82410"></OBJECT><br /><br />Next weekend I'll do another run on Bayshore. At the end of April or early May I'll do a beach run. Running on sand is TOUGH, but it'll be a great training session. Just gotta build up to it first! <br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, Peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-9707801643734088542011-03-19T19:41:00.000-07:002011-03-19T22:17:50.451-07:00Sight SeeingToday was a great day to go for a run, and that's exactly what I did! It was back to Bayshore for another 7 mile run. I'm still not in race shape yet, but I'm confident I will be by June. The key is to be consistent in my training and gradually increase the intensity and distances of my bike & run.<br /><br />Ironically, the swim is my weakest of the 3 sports, but it's my easiest! My goal in the swim is to finish the 1.2 miles using the least amount of energy I can. That way, I can go a little harder on the bike and (hopefully) the run. People rarely win a triathlon with a great swim, but you CAN lose it with a bad one. My swim is decent, and I can swim that distance right now if I had to because I swim year round because it's great exercise.<br /><br />Now the bike & run are different! lol Trying to keep up the level of fitness to be able run 13 miles and/or 56 miles year round is too much for me. Not only would I get burned out, but my knees couldn't take the pounding of the running. I do try to keep some level of fitness though: My goal is to be able to ride 40 miles at any given time, and run 7 also. If I can do that, it'll make it that much easier to get ready for races.<br /><br />Thankfully, I can do that as I type this, but I can't put it all together in the same day. That's not an easy thing to do, and that's where the training comes in: Mental AND physical training. You have to be in the right frame of mind to do all 3 disciplines back to back to back. It can take up to 8 hours to finish, so the mental preparation is just as important as the physical.<br /><br />To get my mind right, I like to watch old triathlons, Tour De France races, and track & field on dvd, read sports magazines and find motivational quotes. Quotes like <EM>“You are the only person in existence who can use your potential. It is an awesome responsibility.” Zig Ziglar </EM>and <EM>"In life, we choose whether or not we want to be a winner or a loser. To be a winner, we must devote time and hard work. To be a loser you do nothing, and that's exactly what you will get, nothing." ---Patrick Boles.</EM> Quotes like these really motivate me to get out there & give it 110%! I try avoid all negative thoughts, people, and actions, because all that will do is bring you down & prevent you from fulfilling your potential in anything you do... <br /><br />Anyway, I had a great run today! lol It was another perfect day. There were a lot of people out& about having a good time. <br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/6f3c7589.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/6f3c7589.jpg"></A><br /><br />I've been coming out here for years and I never get tired of it. It's quite relaxing and each time is like a new experience.<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e4f1021d.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e4f1021d.jpg"></A>.<br /><br />Here's a quick video I shot before I started my run:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-a7e820ad6f078d97 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="a7e820ad6f078d97"></OBJECT>.<br /><br />What makes it nice is there's so much to look at while you run. You have the water (of course,) all the people, and the million dollar homes across the street:<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ddeea14d.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ddeea14d.jpg"></A>.<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/920b9141.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/920b9141.jpg"></A>.<br /><br />Each house is different and some of them are VERY nice. Stopping to snap pictures of them while running won't help my training, so just take my word for it. They are nice! lol.<br /><br />But what really makes Bayshore so incredible is the water itself. It's very relaxing and makes running that much easier. Running on a treadmill is boring to me (even though I do it often) but I NEVER get bored coming out here! Now I said I won't stop to take pics of the houses, but I WILL stop if I see dolphins!<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/59beb873.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/59beb873.jpg"></A><br /><br />There were about 5 of them, and they came right up to the seawall! It was mad cool. I HAD to stop, because I don't see them every time I come out here.<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/301e7db6.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/301e7db6.jpg"></A>.<br /><br />I tell ya, this beats running on the treadmill, watching old reruns of SOUL TRAIN any day! lol<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/810b7960.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/810b7960.jpg"></A><br /><br />After this brief 10 minute intermission, it was back to the business at hand, which was to run. Seeing the dolphins got me fired up, and I felt like I had a bit more energy. I was still running on the grass, so I was running a little slower than if I were on the concrete, but I still felt good. I get to the turnaround and take a look at the water and what do I see this time? Stingrays! Should I snap a pic? Oh what the hell, you only live once! lol<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/895dad05.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/895dad05.jpg"></A><br /><br />Heading back, I'm feeling really good. I feel stronger than my last run and my mind is as clear as the sky! Any stresses I had before I came out here are gone. All I'm thinking about at this point is enjoying my run as I place 1 foot in front of the other:<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/20bd4b56.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/20bd4b56.jpg"></A><br /><br />I finish the 7 miles in about 70 minutes or so. It's not about time right now, it's about how I feel during and after the run. I want to have good form: I want people to look at me & think I just started running, even though I've been at it for 45 minutes. Why? because that would mean my form is good AND I look strong and not tired. I'm not quite there yet, but Will be soon!<br /><br />After the run I walked did my 20 minute cool down walk, then kicked my feet up and made a short video: <br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-7f519b8c4e54a84d class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="7f519b8c4e54a84d"></OBJECT><br /><br />I like to relax a bit before I head home. What's the rush?<br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e74eeb2d.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/e74eeb2d.jpg"></A><br /><br />Besides, if I DID rush, I woulda missed this:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-e45b746d4c4257c7 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="e45b746d4c4257c7"></OBJECT><br /><br />Kinda hard to see, but in person it's pretty cool! <br /><br />Overall, it was a great run. I'm feeling stronger & my confidence is growing. I'll stay at 7 miles for a couple more weeks, then move it up a bit. By race day I'll be doing 10 mile runs, but that's a little ways off. No worries though. I'm almost there!<br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-89663873370016483802011-03-12T21:39:00.000-08:002011-03-12T23:26:40.570-08:00Endurance & ConditioningThe official term is "Strength & Conditioning," but right now for me it's all about building up my <EM>endurance</EM> and conditioning! That's the 1 thing I hate about the off season: you take a (much needed) break from all the hard training. It's good to do that because you need the mental and physical break. It's good to get away from it to refresh your batteries, catch up with friends, and do other things that you can't do while training. But on the flip-side, when it's time to get back into it, it takes time to get that fire back! <br /><br />This is the most challenging part. You want to jump in and pick up where you left off last season, but at that point you were in peak condition because you were training consistently for months. Unfortunately, you're NOT in peak condition right now, and it can be frustrating when you want to push it, but just can't do it!<br /><br />That's where I am right now, and it's going to take me some time to get back to that level. The only way to do it is by working hard, being patient, and staying focused. Today I went back to Flatwoods Park for another 42 mile bike ride. The plan was to ride a bit more aggressively than I did a couple weeks ago. The only way to truly get better at any sport is to push past your limits. This is also a mental trick I like to play with myself. When I struggle in a race, I tend to think back to the hard training I've done and use that as a confidence boost to make it through. <br /><br />I decided to wearmy Marvel Comics jersey today in hopes of getting some superhuman strength! <br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/9c848370.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/9c848370.jpg"></A> <br /><br />Now some might look at my old ass wearing this jersy and think I'm crazy. (Kinda like how they were looking at me when I went to the gas station before my ride! LOL) But I don't care. If I truly cared what people thought I'd never do triathlons and go play basketball or something, but I like it, so that's all that matters! Besides, who doesn't like Marvel Comics?? lol <br /><br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/1b98a809.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/1b98a809.jpg"></A><br /><br />Today was a perfect day for a ride. Not too hot & not too cool. It was a great day to be outside! I got to the park & was ready to really push myself today.<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/710a2029.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/710a2029.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I took a quick video before I started the ride:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-95a4bdb37aa61c15 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="95a4bdb37aa61c15"></OBJECT><br /><br />What I really like about this place is I there are no cars to worry about. Hit & run drivers area real problem in the Bay area and I REFUSE to put my life in jeopardy because some a**h*le hits me and decides to leave me on the side of the road. So around the 7 mile loop I go. <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/437528a0.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/437528a0.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I had a pretty solid ride today. My average speed for the first 21 miles (3 laps) was 19mph. I felt really strong, but at the same time, I was riding slightly above my limits. But that's OK, because that's what I wanted to do. I don't push as hard during a race because I have to conserve energy after the bike for the run. <br /><br />I was able to pass quite a few people today, but I got passed by a 3 guys who were MUCH faster then me. What makes it amazing (to me) is they made it look easy! I really don't like to get passed. I take it as an insult like they said about my mother! lol But when I see that, it means that if THEY can go faster, then so can I! I just hve to keep working & trying to improve.<br /><br />Back to the ride, I was feeling good at mile 21, so I decided to keep pushing to mile 35 to see how my legs would respond. I got to mile 35 and saw that I had been riding for about 1:55 minutes. I slowed down a bit from the first 21 miles but that's ok. I decided to ride hard 1 more mile to have an average speed of 18 mph for 2 hours (36miles.) At that point I shut it down and rode pretty easily to catch my breath & rest my legs. <br /><br />After I ride I like to relax a bit and enjoy my surroundings while I eat another Clif Bar. There were people of all shapes & sizes out taking advantage of this perfect day:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5ffe68ac.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5ffe68ac.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/b0975aae.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/b0975aae.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />After relaxing for a few minutes, I took another quick video:<br /><br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-e03877a94286c743 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="e03877a94286c743"></OBJECT><br /><br />After my walk I did my yoga stretches, ate an apple and headed home. I ate a plate of chicken fettucini with spinach on the side for my post ride meal:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/01016fce.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/01016fce.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />All in all, I'm really happy with my ride today. If I had to keep riding I could have. I would've had to slow my pace, but that's ok. My bike endurance & conditioning is coming along nicely. It felt good to get out there and really push it. My legs are still burning as I type this, but it's OK. Some people will never understand why I like doing this, kinda like I'll never understand why some think being a wide receiver in the NFL running across the middle to catch a football is fun! lol It's all relative I guess! <br /><br />I guess the key is to find something YOU like to do, not what's popular or acceptable. You gotta do what pleases you, not someone else, and doing triathlon is what pleases me! lol<br /><br />I'm confident that I'll be ready for the race in June, but won't be easy because it'll be a lot hotter then. The summer heat down here is no joke but I'm getting mentally prepared for that. <br /><br />Next week it's more swimming and I'll be hitting the stationary bike for some interval training. Saturday I'll do another 7 mile run at Bayshore. Maybe I'll see some dolphins! Time will tell! <br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, Peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-66860202021768949282011-03-05T12:37:00.000-08:002011-03-05T14:11:07.068-08:00Back to Bayshore!Time sure is flying! Never mind the fact that I BARELY remember my 30's, lol but it's already MARCH! WTH! That means even though my race is in June, it'll be here before I know it. That means I gotta get serious about my training!
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<br />Getting ready for a race isn't like cramming for a test in college. In college you could stay up all night the night before, stuffing your brain with crap you'll forget 5 minutes after the test. Can't do that with racing. It takes MONTHS to prepare. It seems like every day counts when getting ready for a race. The reason being is it takes time for your body to recover from hard training sessions, and it takes time for your body to adapt and be able to handle harder & harder workouts.
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<br />I've noticed that it takes my body a little longer to recover between workouts now too. Thru (often times painful) trial and error over the years, I've discovered the fine line between training really hard and not going over that line and over-training and hurting myself. I know when to take a day off from training now and not feel guilty about it. My body tells me what it can & can't handle, & I listen! lol I also know how to stay in decent shape in the offseason, so when it's time to hit it hard, my body doesn't go into shock. lol With that said, it was time for my first "real" run of the year, and that meant going back to Bayshore.
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<br />I don't hide my preference for running outside over the treadmill. I find it easier to run from point "A" to point "B" as opposed to staring at a digital readout on the treadmill. But even with that said, the treadmill has been a lifesaver for me because of sight knee problems. If I didn't have a treadmill, I know for a fact that my knees would've been shot years ago & I wouldn't be able to run at all...
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<br />So even though I don't run outside as much as I used to, I still love it, and I make those runs count by going to 1 of my favorite places to run:
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<br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/103a1782.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/103a1782.jpg"></A>
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<br />Bayshore runs alongside Tampa Bay, and the running path is uniterrupted for 3.5miles. No streets to cross or anything. Perfect for runners, bikers, and rollebladers! I always carry water with me on my runs, because it can get really hot here in Florida, and the last thing you want is to have a problem and be stranded with no water:
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<br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/09720ac1.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/09720ac1.jpg"></A>
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<br />I had been looking forward to this run with nervous anticipation all week, and was really curious to see what type of condition I was in, and how my new shoes would hold up. Here's a quick video I took before starting the run:
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<br /><OBJECT id=BLOG_video-d71bc1a0a75b44e5 class=BLOG_video_class width=320 height=266 contentId="d71bc1a0a75b44e5"></OBJECT>
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<br />In high school,I was running quick 6 minute miles. 20 years and 40 pounds later, I can run 7 minute miles for a little while if it were a life & death situation, lol but now I'm cruising between 8-9 minute miles when I'm at my best. Today, I wasn't at my best. This was a fact finding run. I'm simply trying to build up my conditioning, while saving my knees. That means running on the grass, which also means running a little slower:
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<br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/fc10b905.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/fc10b905.jpg"></A>
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<br />I'm competitive, but not to the point I want to be the fastest person on Bayshore. I'll save that for the actual races. No need for me to try set a Bayshore record today, only to be limping for the next 3-4! (I guess that makes me a part time competitor?) lol With that said, it's all about the "home run trot" today. Ever see someone hit a home run & causally jog around the bases? That's how I was jogging today. Not a care in the world, just chillin! lol
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<br />The cloud cover & breeze made for a great run. I worked up a good sweat but didn't overheat or get too uncomfortable. At the halfway point of my run (about 35 minutes in)- I start the slow jog back:
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<br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5e59f874.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/5e59f874.jpg"></A>
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<br />I was hoping to see some dolphins today, but no such luck. Just water as grey as the skies:
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<br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/be1fce63.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/be1fce63.jpg"></A>
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<br />I'm not complaining though, cuz it was still a great day! I ended up finishing my 7 miles in about 70 minutes, with a 15 minute walk cooldown. It was a good first run back, but I still have a lot of work to do. Running on grass is harder for me, cuz I feel it slows me down. But that's no excuse because I couldn't have run much faster on the concrete anyway! LOL Luckily I have time to get things in order! Here's a quick vid I took after the run:
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<br />Like I said before, cramming for a big race is impossible. It takes time to prepare mentally & physically for the big day. I'm not ready to race for 7 hours YET, but that's where my training & even writing this blog come in. It's all helping me get my mind right so when they day does arrive, I'll be ready to go.
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<br />Also, even though today's run was a tad slow & a tad tougher than I would've liked, mentally it's a victory because I know I can still run 7 miles. So next time I run I'll have that confidence in knowing not only can I make it, and I might want to increase my pace on mile 5 or 6 if I want. If it gets too tough, I can simply slow down. That's why you train: To see what you can & can't do!
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<br />After I kicked my feet up, ate my Clif Bar and relaxed for a few,
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<br /><A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/383465a2.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/383465a2.jpg"></A>
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<br />It was time to head home and eat. I ate an apple on the way home and then a meal of baked fish, yellow rice, mixed veggies, and 100% cranberry & apple juice blend.
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<br /> A href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/9c29ac37.jpg"><IMG style="WIDTH: 600px; HEIGHT: 800px; CURSOR: hand" border=0 alt="" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/9c29ac37.jpg"></A>
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<br />My triathlon training is now in full swing! The fire has been lit like the Olympic Torch I'm ready now to really hit it hard! Who knows what this year's journey will hold? I don't know, but I'm ready to find out! Thanks for reading! Till next time, peace! :)
<br />Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4969701978915613601.post-13435276004186595112011-02-26T19:58:00.000-08:002011-02-26T21:42:36.610-08:00Switching GearsWell, it's about that time: time for me to start training for my first race of the year! I've been working out consistently for several months now, but not training. Big difference between the 2!<br /><br />I've been having some great quality weekly workouts as of late: Hour long swims, indoor bricks (hour long rides on the indoor trainer followed with hour long runs on the treadmill,) and lifting weights twice a week. <br /><br />When I train for triathlon, I back off the weight training a bit. I don't lift as heavy, and I'll only lift once a week. But in the off season I live by the motto <em>"Go heavy or go home!"</em> lol<br /><br />My love of lifting weights doesn't help my triathlon training very much, because I tend to pack on the pounds in the off season. The extra weight would be great if I were trying out for the Raiders, but I'm not! lol In triathlon, the extra weight is a hindrance, because the more you weigh, the more energy used. And that extra weight is really felt when trying to run 13 miles in 90 degree heat...<br /><br />So, here I am. I'm ready to start training! I haven't registered yet, but I've decided to race in the <a href="http://floridachallenge.com/Home/tabid/205/Default.aspx"> Florida Challenge Triathlon </a> again: A 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13.1 mile run on June 12, 2011. <br /><br />I'm a tad worried, because they moved the race date from September to June. Anyone living in Florida knows June is HOT! And this race is really tough (for me) because of the hills on the bike. Then add in the fact that I now weigh 220 pounds with 18% bodyfat and I'm in for a long day! <br /><br />So now, it's all about triathlon training. My mentality is now changing. For the last several months, I was all about pumping iron. Here's a pic of me leaving the gym last Tuesday after a great weight training session: <br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/4a2f531e.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/4a2f531e.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Yes, it was a great session, but now I have to focus my energies on the upcoming race, so today I went to <a href="http://www.swfwmd.state.fl.us/recreation/areas/lh-flatwoods.html">Flatwoods Park</a> for a 42 mile bike ride. Here's me in "bike mode as I get ready to go:"<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/26e93666.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/26e93666.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />One thing I like about training is it allows me to "get away" from the daily stresses of life. Flatwoods is perfect because it's out in the middle of nowhere. Nothing but nature and silence:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dfeaee0a.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/dfeaee0a.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/16403b90.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/16403b90.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I hadn't ridden outside in about 6 or 7 weeks, so I was curious as to how my legs would respond. Riding the stationary bike is great, but it really can't compare to riding outside. You have to deal with the wind, the heat, hills, etc. etc. etc. When I ride the stationary bike, all I have to worry about is what episode of Soul Train or Caliente I'll watch to pass the time! lol <br /><br />I started my ride on the conservative side. I rode at an easy pace to gauge how my legs were feeling. Even though riding the stationary bike isn't the same as riding outside, it has definitely helped me keep my conditioning up to par because after about 10 minutes I was feeling good! I decided to hit the gas and see how hard I could go and how long! lol<br /><br />It was a perfect day to be outside. Not too hot and not too cool. Overall I felt good, but started to get tired around mile 35. The last lap I pretty much shut it down. The first 5 laps I rode like I was in the Tour De France, the last lap I rode like I was in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade! lol I ended up riding the 42 miles in about 2 hours and 25 minutes. <br /><br />After my ride I like to sit back, relax and clear my mind. My legs were quite tired, so I chilled for a few & watched people go by:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/69e2ac82.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/69e2ac82.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />After chillin for a few, it was time to do some yoga stretches. I like to do yoga after my workouts as a cool down. It really helps me to recover and now I can't imagine NOT doing it. I found a cool spot in the shade and did 15 minutes of yoga:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ceab9090.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ceab9090.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />All in all, it was a good ride. I'm not ready to race yet, but I still have time to get in race shape. But I'm officially ready & excited to get started! This week I also bought some new goggles, running shoes, and energy gels:<br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/400ad7a5.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 800px; height: 600px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/400ad7a5.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/f012a340.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/f012a340.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ceda782c.jpg"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 600px; height: 800px;" src="http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c268/trimaster/ceda782c.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />I like to buy 2 pairs of running shoes so I can rotate them. That makes them last longer. Also, they discontinue shoes kinda quick, so at least I have a style I like to last me a while! As far as goggles, there's nothing worse than swimming and having the band break or they become leaky! <br /><br />So, my season has officially started. It's going to be a challenge juggling home life, work and the PT business, but I'm up for the challenge! You only live once, so might as well make it count! <br /><br />Thanks for reading! Till next time, Peace!Trimasterhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15994300331337216662noreply@blogger.com0