So I can honestly not remember the last time I entered into this blog, but I know it's been too long. I thought I'd do some catch up and then post a race report from the 70.3 I just completed in an additional post. Maybe this will help me get back into the swing of things.
I had all these high aspirations to be blogging regularly and completing 100% of my workouts and blogging weekly. Both again have become aspirations. I've been focused on the workouts and it's been near two months since my last post (eek). I questioned myself at the beginning if blogging was something I would enjoy and have time to do, the initial part is true I've enjoyed it but I don't seem to have time to write regularly.
I will say since last post, I've moved apartments and been in town very few weekends. Despite that I feel that I am preparing well for this upcoming race/event. I've thought more of it lately as an event and celebration of a journey that started a year ago to the date of the event.
One thing that I've taken to since beginning the "Peak" Phase of training is a strength class called Sculpt, it's a fun change to my lifting routine and I've enjoyed making it a regular Wednesday evening event. I also have been going to at least one yoga class a week. I find that the meditation and stretching has been a therapy in an of it's self letting me reflect on the process of this journey and thinking positively about the "toeing the line".
Peak phase has also led to fewer social engagements as my weekends are filled with long rides and runs, and let's face it household chores. I've been trying to continue to see friends and spending time as able with them. I will say that I had a brief flu like illness last week that resulted in me missing workouts. I felt particularly guilty about this because I spent an evening out with friends- my book club. Will and I also continue to balance our workouts and our efforts to plan our wedding, its been a balancing act for sure but I enjoy the journey together.
One day in the recent past, I got out of the pool a little disheartened that I hadn't finished my swim but there was thunderstorms moving in. I hopped out knowing I had done my best with the time I had. A woman that was also walking into the locker room complimented my swimming, asking me how far I had gone. She was amazed and stated she had just started swimming again. I provided her with compliments as well I had noticed her swimming as I was in a break from a set and encouraged her. I think that's something I love the most about the triathlon spirit is the ability to cheer each other on in workouts and in races even as we complete our own race. I've seen her since that day and we always say hello in passing.
Less then 40days until the race and what I'm taking most from the journey is to find ways to enjoy it. Because it's not always pleasant but if I can insert a fun workout and make sure to take the time to spend an evening or afternoon with the friends I care about or the people I love then the journey will be worth it at the end.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Monday, June 29, 2015
Chattanooga Water Front - Recap
The first time I ran a marathon I texted my dad, "it is a good day to die". This may seem particularly morbid if taken out of the context, our love and memories of watching Star Trek: The Next Generation. It was a family activity in the evening as my dad made dinner, or when staying home sick we'd get to watch this show with my dad. My mom also watched my memory is just of this being a part of time with dad. Worf the Klingon use to say the phrase when entering uncertain circumstance.
My dad use to tell me each gymnastics competition as a child "Qa Pla", klingon for SUCCESS! I revert and recall fondly these memories as I prepare for my newer hobby and activity of triathlon. Yesterday as I walked toward an unknown open water start format, a bike course I didn't drive, and an uncertain run course. I thought how much I loved my two years of racing alongside my dad. He raced recently in MN and I impatiently awaited the results. Yesterday I felt he was in my shoes as I got a text after seeking results of Will and me. I look forward to the day we can toe the line together again!
Chattanooga is a beautiful town nestled along the TN river and close to the Smokies. I love visiting. The heat in TN has been suffocating the past two weeks. We had a small break in humidity last weekend for our 100mile ride. This humidity quickly returned and made outdoor running at 5am feel like a slice of what I imagine hell to be, immediate perspiration upon exit from an air conditioned setting, and filled lungs with heavy damp air that made a 40minute easy run feel like you had survived. We had perfect weather in Chattanooga, with storms and a front that moved through Friday night. Humidity broke and we woke up feeling grateful for 60 degrees and a projected high of 84 with light winds. Saturday prior to the race we dropped our bikes and spent our time witnessing sheer joy with friends and their son at the TN aquarium. I'm glad we got to spend this time relaxing and also experiencing the Aquarium alongside a little, he's joy at the sharks and turtles and every new exhibit was so precious and made the trip wonderful. That evening we ate outside on the porch of our bare bones cabin, a practice run for the Ironman event coming up in September. I will say I didn't sleep the greatest but that the evening of relaxation and company was wonderful prior to my first start at a triathlon in 11.5 months, my last race was Vineman in July of 2014.
We left our bikes in transition over night, an option provided. I thought it'd be great I set my bike exactly where I prefer it near a post so I have the area under the post to put my bag. We got to this race site and my bike had been moved over night, placed in order of number - lame but understandable. Set up transition. I debated for far too long what race top to wear. The water was 85 degrees making wet suit an non issue. I debated because I felt prideful and uncomfortable in a bra top because I feel out of shape still without regular yoga. I realized that I was being absolutely ridiculous, wear the top you've had regular open water swims without wetsuit, and suck up your insecurities. I feel badly and juvenile even admitting to it. I'm 120lbs and close to the best shape of my life, but I want to also acknowledge that I am aware of insecurities and have them myself.
We (Will, Chris, and I) decided to walk to the starting point of the swim opting out of taking a bus to the field they set us in for organization of the swim start. We listened to the anthem as we waited in a Porta Potty Line, nothing like the camaraderie we feel in these lines conversations are brief but contain a lot of information.
I feel anxiety knowing that my significant other is on the race course, especially when his swim start is after mine as it was yesterday. I suspect that I'd feel the same if my dad was awaiting start. In most races I've participated in the guys go out first. I like to know that my family is safely in the water and on their way in the race before I enter the water. I don't know why but it is absolutely the truth. The swim start was a time trial start except we got in with sets of three and "monkey" crawled down a dock to where a volunteer read our number and said "GO". We were off on a downstream swim. I felt someone drafting me the entire race, making it obvious by the regular brushing of my toes in the water.
It was a HOT swim. And in my case was left un-timed and unofficial, my attempt to start my watch was unsuccessful. The bike which our friend Chris had told us had 500feet of climbing was much more challenging, I should have read the complete email and driven the course. It was a fun smooth course though along primarily an interstate road that one lane of traffic was blocked for us. At mile 11.2 Chris passed me, yelling something about the climbing. I didn't see Will on course. Of fun mention was the tri bottomsALOT of people including her. I didn't see too many of my own age group, but it wasn't of relevance because start times were determine by some equation of past swim times, I wasn't near anyone in my age group... which I still cannot figure out if that's a good thing or not. I finished 6th in my age group in the swim. It was somewhat disheartening to be passed by women and men in their 50's but I also realize that I have a lot of racing left in my life and maybe one day I'll be passing 30 somethings :)
of a lady who passed me reading "you just got passed by a GIRL". I got passed by
I didn't have a particularly stellar race, my transitions were both under 3minutes - I can definitely improve my bike to run. I felt so unsteady I had to sit down to put my shoes on, and clean my feet from grass that was in the transition zone. I also applied sunscreen in each transition, it's important that I do this because of a significant family history of skin cancer.
The run actually felt particularly terrible, it was getting hot. I had consumed too much water and felt a bursting bladder. I ran for four miles before I had to make a stop to use a bathroom. I had been searching desperately for one since right after mile one. I walked a hill and the stairs - yes there were stairs on this course. I saw Will and felt relief that he looked good running. I finished to shouts from my friends Lindsey, Chris, and their son. Chris improved his Olympic time. I feel satisfied with mine at 3:14:35. There is still room for improvement obviously and that is what Will felt that he wasn't happy with his performance. I reminded him that we are on a journey to the Ironman, we are not at the peak of fitness at this day. Our peak is going to be in late September and we'll have bad days and days that we worry about each other, it's part of the process, we will feel triumphant and progress in increments and we're in it together and on our own at the same time.
This journey is terrible, trying, and terrific all the same. I feel that I am constantly pushing myself to fit things in, find time that may not exist in the week total hours, and be free of regrets. I'm simply doing my best as an age group athlete with a fantastic life to find the time needed to know that on race day in September I won't look back and wish I had spent more times with friends looking at the fish -socializing and living in precious moments or our lives. So I don't update this blog enough because I am frantic at times, running from the gym to a happy hour with my girlfriends or to dinner with my partner in all of this and in my life.
My advice to myself in the next 90 days of this Ironman journey and for the rest of life, Let it Be and know that I and we've trained and will enjoy the swim, ride, and run in the days and years to come. Enjoy the moments along the way whether it's a day at the aquarium, an exchange of love and support from family, a night on a patio or deck, or hearing friends cheer as you cross your finish line whatever line that maybe. This life is a constant transition and journey.
My dad use to tell me each gymnastics competition as a child "Qa Pla", klingon for SUCCESS! I revert and recall fondly these memories as I prepare for my newer hobby and activity of triathlon. Yesterday as I walked toward an unknown open water start format, a bike course I didn't drive, and an uncertain run course. I thought how much I loved my two years of racing alongside my dad. He raced recently in MN and I impatiently awaited the results. Yesterday I felt he was in my shoes as I got a text after seeking results of Will and me. I look forward to the day we can toe the line together again!
Chattanooga is a beautiful town nestled along the TN river and close to the Smokies. I love visiting. The heat in TN has been suffocating the past two weeks. We had a small break in humidity last weekend for our 100mile ride. This humidity quickly returned and made outdoor running at 5am feel like a slice of what I imagine hell to be, immediate perspiration upon exit from an air conditioned setting, and filled lungs with heavy damp air that made a 40minute easy run feel like you had survived. We had perfect weather in Chattanooga, with storms and a front that moved through Friday night. Humidity broke and we woke up feeling grateful for 60 degrees and a projected high of 84 with light winds. Saturday prior to the race we dropped our bikes and spent our time witnessing sheer joy with friends and their son at the TN aquarium. I'm glad we got to spend this time relaxing and also experiencing the Aquarium alongside a little, he's joy at the sharks and turtles and every new exhibit was so precious and made the trip wonderful. That evening we ate outside on the porch of our bare bones cabin, a practice run for the Ironman event coming up in September. I will say I didn't sleep the greatest but that the evening of relaxation and company was wonderful prior to my first start at a triathlon in 11.5 months, my last race was Vineman in July of 2014.
We left our bikes in transition over night, an option provided. I thought it'd be great I set my bike exactly where I prefer it near a post so I have the area under the post to put my bag. We got to this race site and my bike had been moved over night, placed in order of number - lame but understandable. Set up transition. I debated for far too long what race top to wear. The water was 85 degrees making wet suit an non issue. I debated because I felt prideful and uncomfortable in a bra top because I feel out of shape still without regular yoga. I realized that I was being absolutely ridiculous, wear the top you've had regular open water swims without wetsuit, and suck up your insecurities. I feel badly and juvenile even admitting to it. I'm 120lbs and close to the best shape of my life, but I want to also acknowledge that I am aware of insecurities and have them myself.
We (Will, Chris, and I) decided to walk to the starting point of the swim opting out of taking a bus to the field they set us in for organization of the swim start. We listened to the anthem as we waited in a Porta Potty Line, nothing like the camaraderie we feel in these lines conversations are brief but contain a lot of information.
I feel anxiety knowing that my significant other is on the race course, especially when his swim start is after mine as it was yesterday. I suspect that I'd feel the same if my dad was awaiting start. In most races I've participated in the guys go out first. I like to know that my family is safely in the water and on their way in the race before I enter the water. I don't know why but it is absolutely the truth. The swim start was a time trial start except we got in with sets of three and "monkey" crawled down a dock to where a volunteer read our number and said "GO". We were off on a downstream swim. I felt someone drafting me the entire race, making it obvious by the regular brushing of my toes in the water.
It was a HOT swim. And in my case was left un-timed and unofficial, my attempt to start my watch was unsuccessful. The bike which our friend Chris had told us had 500feet of climbing was much more challenging, I should have read the complete email and driven the course. It was a fun smooth course though along primarily an interstate road that one lane of traffic was blocked for us. At mile 11.2 Chris passed me, yelling something about the climbing. I didn't see Will on course. Of fun mention was the tri bottomsALOT of people including her. I didn't see too many of my own age group, but it wasn't of relevance because start times were determine by some equation of past swim times, I wasn't near anyone in my age group... which I still cannot figure out if that's a good thing or not. I finished 6th in my age group in the swim. It was somewhat disheartening to be passed by women and men in their 50's but I also realize that I have a lot of racing left in my life and maybe one day I'll be passing 30 somethings :)
of a lady who passed me reading "you just got passed by a GIRL". I got passed by
I didn't have a particularly stellar race, my transitions were both under 3minutes - I can definitely improve my bike to run. I felt so unsteady I had to sit down to put my shoes on, and clean my feet from grass that was in the transition zone. I also applied sunscreen in each transition, it's important that I do this because of a significant family history of skin cancer.
The run actually felt particularly terrible, it was getting hot. I had consumed too much water and felt a bursting bladder. I ran for four miles before I had to make a stop to use a bathroom. I had been searching desperately for one since right after mile one. I walked a hill and the stairs - yes there were stairs on this course. I saw Will and felt relief that he looked good running. I finished to shouts from my friends Lindsey, Chris, and their son. Chris improved his Olympic time. I feel satisfied with mine at 3:14:35. There is still room for improvement obviously and that is what Will felt that he wasn't happy with his performance. I reminded him that we are on a journey to the Ironman, we are not at the peak of fitness at this day. Our peak is going to be in late September and we'll have bad days and days that we worry about each other, it's part of the process, we will feel triumphant and progress in increments and we're in it together and on our own at the same time.
This journey is terrible, trying, and terrific all the same. I feel that I am constantly pushing myself to fit things in, find time that may not exist in the week total hours, and be free of regrets. I'm simply doing my best as an age group athlete with a fantastic life to find the time needed to know that on race day in September I won't look back and wish I had spent more times with friends looking at the fish -socializing and living in precious moments or our lives. So I don't update this blog enough because I am frantic at times, running from the gym to a happy hour with my girlfriends or to dinner with my partner in all of this and in my life.
My advice to myself in the next 90 days of this Ironman journey and for the rest of life, Let it Be and know that I and we've trained and will enjoy the swim, ride, and run in the days and years to come. Enjoy the moments along the way whether it's a day at the aquarium, an exchange of love and support from family, a night on a patio or deck, or hearing friends cheer as you cross your finish line whatever line that maybe. This life is a constant transition and journey.
 |
| My Results within my age-group. I like to see and reflect on areas for improvement. I tied for 30th in my first race in the 30-34 age group. Fitting :) |
Sunday, June 21, 2015
100
This week I passed the 100 day count toward the Ironman. I have written nearly enough, access to this blog has been difficult since I don't have internet at home. I've had a lot to say, some self doubt but mostly positive gains toward my goal of becoming an Ironman.
Yesterday I with Will and our friend Chris woke up early to rainy conditions and met several hundred other bikers to take on the Harpeth River Ride. We three completed the metric last year. Chris another triathlete entered this race again. Will and I, ignoring the training plan decided that completing our first 100mile (century) ride should be an endeavor that was supported, entered the Century division. The day was almost perfect for a ride of the distance although it did get hot and the humid felt sweltering at the end. Will and both tested ideas within our bike plans for the Ironman. It look me a little longer then I had hoped but I finished in 8hours. It was a really hilly course and in order to cope with the hills and the fact for the majority of the final 40miles I was on my own I screamed out that I hated them and included the mile mark. It was cathartic and I made it through. I don't know why but it made it better. It was nice to know the feeling of being alone on course and being able to suffer through it, good practice. I also understand the reason for bike catchers at the end of the Ironman bike leg, it was difficult to imagine being able to stop and remove my feet from the shoes and unclip. But doable.
All in all training has been going pretty well, the heat of Nashville summer is definitely upon the city. I've been running as much as I can outside in the early morning hours- there is something liberating about a 530dawn run to get the morning started. Progress is progress no matter how small. :) Until next time
Yesterday I with Will and our friend Chris woke up early to rainy conditions and met several hundred other bikers to take on the Harpeth River Ride. We three completed the metric last year. Chris another triathlete entered this race again. Will and I, ignoring the training plan decided that completing our first 100mile (century) ride should be an endeavor that was supported, entered the Century division. The day was almost perfect for a ride of the distance although it did get hot and the humid felt sweltering at the end. Will and both tested ideas within our bike plans for the Ironman. It look me a little longer then I had hoped but I finished in 8hours. It was a really hilly course and in order to cope with the hills and the fact for the majority of the final 40miles I was on my own I screamed out that I hated them and included the mile mark. It was cathartic and I made it through. I don't know why but it made it better. It was nice to know the feeling of being alone on course and being able to suffer through it, good practice. I also understand the reason for bike catchers at the end of the Ironman bike leg, it was difficult to imagine being able to stop and remove my feet from the shoes and unclip. But doable.
All in all training has been going pretty well, the heat of Nashville summer is definitely upon the city. I've been running as much as I can outside in the early morning hours- there is something liberating about a 530dawn run to get the morning started. Progress is progress no matter how small. :) Until next time
Saturday, April 11, 2015
The Lost Week
It's funny my last post was about the commitment it takes to become an Ironman and the demands placed on a person while doing so. I hoped to find a healthy balance and felt as though I really had been doing so.
Last week I was blessed to asked by the love of my life to spend our lives together in marriage. I of course said yes. That happened Tuesday after a great two workouts, one in the morning and a swim in the evening that was hurried in order to make our dinner reservation for our one year anniversary. Despite the occasion I really didn't suspect that the night would include a proposal. Although we've been planning our lives together, talking of the future and even spent a good deal of time engagement ring shopping. What occurred after 1047pm after I said of course and yes is really what I've decided to call "the Lost Week of our Engagement". I will include that my now fiance and also a training partner of mine, Will, had a much better and less disturbed week. He stated that he had nerves since he had picked up the ring and felt relief whereas my emotions of excitement took me out of the gym and into daily Happy Hours with Friends and telephone calls with family, Will was able to better focus and complete those workouts.
The weekend brought family visitors, my aunt and uncle Kris and Clay came from St. Louis to celebrate Easter with me and I'm so thankful. We had such a great time - eating, visiting, and celebrating. Easter has always been a favorite holiday of mine a family time that has been important. Traditions abound and although I did not attend Easter Vigil Mass (my aunt and uncle are not Catholic). We did have brunch and the traditional Powers family egg fight, it was good that two Powers (Kat and myself were present), Will has been initiated and much to my chagrin Clay beat me in the finals.
We had easter morning brunch out as is the tradition in my household and it was delicious
My work out total for the lost week, 2 of 12.... And on we go.
I'm not dwelling on that and simply got back into my mileage, after coming down with a short lived stomach virus (don't worry it wasn't from the delicious brunch). My office has had something going around and with allergies as well it was rough. I was able to complete all my workouts this week despite this.
This Saturday has been longest logged run in some time. I ran with the Fleet Feet training group, I train between this group and East Nasty. I like Fleet Feet because they start at 7am, I don't care much for drives to Brentwood and Cool Springs so if they run there (which they switch between these two locations and Green Hills) I tend to run on my own or with East Nasty. I like East Nasty, I love East Nasty but they begin at 8am - a little late for me, and they have fewer pace groups which is especially difficult when the 2hour pace group is really pacing for a 1:45 half marathon finish, it to be honest is disheartening to me because I really want to finish between 1:55 and 2:00 but just cannot keep up with their pace. (Wah Wah, suck it up buttercup) I pace well with Fleet Feet and finished my 13.5 in just over 2:15, it felt hard but I know on race day in two weeks the excitement will help me through. The weather today was perfect and I'm so hopeful that the weather is similar on race day. It was 45degrees and warmed to 60 by the end of the run. The past week has been humid and threatened severe weather making running out difficult, I think to myself the weather is going to vary and you never know what your race conditions for the half marathon, olympic, half ironman, or full will be like (Suck it UP and run).
I was confirmed to work at the BROOKS expo tent which means I'll spend the Friday before the half marathon, out of my regular job of social work and instead be at the Country Music Expo all day. I'm very excited about this for several reasons; I had planned to take the day off to reduce my stress (Fridays are stressful in homeless housing work) and really be able to focus on ensuring I'm well hydrated and relaxing, I like expos - the atmosphere can be electric as people get their packets and experience the pre-race activities, and by securing a spot I will get a new pair of shoes and a running jacket as my payment (CHA CHING!). I love to volunteer for races not just for stuff but when essentials like running shoes are included I can't complain!
Until Next week :)
Last week I was blessed to asked by the love of my life to spend our lives together in marriage. I of course said yes. That happened Tuesday after a great two workouts, one in the morning and a swim in the evening that was hurried in order to make our dinner reservation for our one year anniversary. Despite the occasion I really didn't suspect that the night would include a proposal. Although we've been planning our lives together, talking of the future and even spent a good deal of time engagement ring shopping. What occurred after 1047pm after I said of course and yes is really what I've decided to call "the Lost Week of our Engagement". I will include that my now fiance and also a training partner of mine, Will, had a much better and less disturbed week. He stated that he had nerves since he had picked up the ring and felt relief whereas my emotions of excitement took me out of the gym and into daily Happy Hours with Friends and telephone calls with family, Will was able to better focus and complete those workouts.
The weekend brought family visitors, my aunt and uncle Kris and Clay came from St. Louis to celebrate Easter with me and I'm so thankful. We had such a great time - eating, visiting, and celebrating. Easter has always been a favorite holiday of mine a family time that has been important. Traditions abound and although I did not attend Easter Vigil Mass (my aunt and uncle are not Catholic). We did have brunch and the traditional Powers family egg fight, it was good that two Powers (Kat and myself were present), Will has been initiated and much to my chagrin Clay beat me in the finals.
We had easter morning brunch out as is the tradition in my household and it was delicious
My work out total for the lost week, 2 of 12.... And on we go.
I'm not dwelling on that and simply got back into my mileage, after coming down with a short lived stomach virus (don't worry it wasn't from the delicious brunch). My office has had something going around and with allergies as well it was rough. I was able to complete all my workouts this week despite this.
I had some great swims this week! Fast and smooth is how they felt, I always like the workout that is a straight swim! It's my favorite.
I found joy in riding my trainer last night vs. going to the downtown YMCA. All day I heard about the terrible traffic downtown and street closures. The NRA is in town, it was a beautiful day, and I knew that I'd be sitting in my car for a long time if I tried to get to the YMCA. I opted to open my house windows and get on my trainer - I rode for longer then needed because I was watching Jeopardy. I love Jeopardy and hadn't watched it because of training and other things.
Even with a focus on workouts this week, I've found good balance. Attending a Happy Hour, going out for dinner, and just staying relaxed.
This Saturday has been longest logged run in some time. I ran with the Fleet Feet training group, I train between this group and East Nasty. I like Fleet Feet because they start at 7am, I don't care much for drives to Brentwood and Cool Springs so if they run there (which they switch between these two locations and Green Hills) I tend to run on my own or with East Nasty. I like East Nasty, I love East Nasty but they begin at 8am - a little late for me, and they have fewer pace groups which is especially difficult when the 2hour pace group is really pacing for a 1:45 half marathon finish, it to be honest is disheartening to me because I really want to finish between 1:55 and 2:00 but just cannot keep up with their pace. (Wah Wah, suck it up buttercup) I pace well with Fleet Feet and finished my 13.5 in just over 2:15, it felt hard but I know on race day in two weeks the excitement will help me through. The weather today was perfect and I'm so hopeful that the weather is similar on race day. It was 45degrees and warmed to 60 by the end of the run. The past week has been humid and threatened severe weather making running out difficult, I think to myself the weather is going to vary and you never know what your race conditions for the half marathon, olympic, half ironman, or full will be like (Suck it UP and run).
I was confirmed to work at the BROOKS expo tent which means I'll spend the Friday before the half marathon, out of my regular job of social work and instead be at the Country Music Expo all day. I'm very excited about this for several reasons; I had planned to take the day off to reduce my stress (Fridays are stressful in homeless housing work) and really be able to focus on ensuring I'm well hydrated and relaxing, I like expos - the atmosphere can be electric as people get their packets and experience the pre-race activities, and by securing a spot I will get a new pair of shoes and a running jacket as my payment (CHA CHING!). I love to volunteer for races not just for stuff but when essentials like running shoes are included I can't complain!
Until Next week :)
Friday, March 27, 2015
Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder
It's been an incredibly long while since I've posted anything on this blog, it maybe an indicator about my busy schedule, commitment to blogging, lack of something to say, or just general inability to get somewhere with wi-fi. Probably a combination of these things. Yes the last is true I live in an apartment without wi-fi so posting from my phone may look more like a tweet (and I've never participated in such an activity). I think of wise cracks while training frequently but by the time I exit the gym going to a coffee shop seems daunting and more likely I'm rushing to work in the morning or ready to crash.
It's week three of training for the Ironman, I'm feeling generally well. Although after a longer run on an indoor track due to rain this week I felt an odd twinge in my left quad along with lower back pain. I've taken kindly to my heating pad though and despite the minimal discomfort continue to be able to complete work outs. Speaking of which I've completed a 92% of my scheduled workouts thus far. I'm hoping to be even more consistent (read more about this below). I am getting into the swing of things, getting up early before work to be in the line of 5am gym goers, leaving work on time to return to the gym for another session, and very occasionally missing an evening session with a planned make-up to visit with friends over a Happy Hour or other event. Some aches, some pains, but mostly satisfaction knowing that I'm well on my way to the Ironman start and finish line.
Last week I fell while running outside, yes, I've always been somewhat of a klutz - I feel as though I was frequently injured (not severely, thankfully) as a competitive gymnast and a child. This has unfortunately continued into adulthood. Although prior to last year I had stayed relatively accident free in my triathlon life. Last year I suffered two bike accidents and one blown tire all in a four week period - so at least it's sporadic. And this continues this year. I fell while running outside in public, I was mortified as I hit the ground on the place called the pedestrian bridge in downtown Nashville. I can claim that the sun was just rising and I just didn't see the slight (minuscule) elevation change in the pavement. But really what happened was I was scraping my feet up this bridge which like much of Nashville contains quite the hill. It was silly nevertheless and as I searched for witnesses I saw none although just moments before I had said hello to other's making their way across the bridge. I bruised up my right hip as I fell and had a small abrasion on the palm of my left hand, my right hand was spared because I was carrying a water bottle in it. This is nothing compared to the accident (non sport related) that occurred the very next day after long spin and some weights. I was moving my shower caddy into my gear bag and as I shoved the caddy down the guard on the razor slipped deeply cutting my left ring finger. It was quite bloody and terribly painful. I was thankful to have a nurse at work who didn't look but did assist with applying more pressure to the wound that was continuing to bleed. She assessed based upon my description that the wound would not be a candidate for stitches - it is deep and circular in shape near the tip and nail of the finger. Because of the cut I remained out of the water for the remainder of the week. No swimming :( I missed a long run as well because I decided to take a weekend with friends to see a show in Knoxville, TN and decided to catch a Lady Vols Basketball Game (the first in the women's tournament).
I've always told friends and family that people always come first, my folks definitely taught me this. I'm thankful to be able to prioritize in that way. I know many athletes - casual age groupers both runners and triathletes that miss out on life moments with friends to get the follow the plan get 100% of their training accomplished. I think it's super important to stick to a plan and follow it closely, but this Ironman experience is going to be so much better when I see my friends and family out on the race course and at the finish line. They'll have experienced to and probably will have heard one too many stories about my klutzy self or workout that was not as expected, whether you read it through this blog or hear it over a beer at a Happy Hour. Moments like these are important to me to share the journey with the people that make my life a happy and fruitful journey. Thanks for reading!
Saturday, February 28, 2015
Ice in the South and Unplanned "Winter" Training
Since 2/15/15 (two weeks ago almost) Tennessee has been essentially in a state of stupor. Rain, Sleet, Ice, and Snow have made impacts on our beautiful city of Nashville. And although in the past two weeks there have been improvements on the roads, people have been able to get out of their driveways and groceries even have bananas stocked again. There continue to be slippery spots on the roads and sidewalks requiring a caution but not consistent enough for yaktrax.
Thankfully being from MN I'm somewhat prepared to run in the snow and ice and in fact had quite the invigorating run on the date of greatest snow/sleet Presidents Day. The mayor issued a warning to drivings - don't and most businesses were closed because of the ice. The run was slow but filled with fun, I found myself smiling despite all the ice pellets hitting my arms. Even a water induced blister on my right foot couldn't make me hate this run it went from a planned 3 or 4 miles to 11 joyful and carefully slow miles. I felt accomplished.
Then the cold continued and with it cancellation of most group runs - in both of my running groups. It was the right decision for safety. The YMCA was closed or open very unique hours, making it difficult to get to the gym especially with my increased hours at work due to cold weather. I've worked a lot of overtime being paid in comp time (leave, hour for hour). This is part of the job of a homeless outreach worker, being flexible when their are identified needs, it makes planned trainings difficult with early work hours and late evenings. But think of the vacation I can take in the future.
I refocused my training realizing that Ironman specific training begins in just over a week. On Friday, I made a point to get to the gym on time. The YMCA is a beautiful place on Fridays the few and committed people that are there on a Friday make me feel both motivated and thankful that I'm one of "those". I must admit it was a tough workout for me. I was looking forward to Will returning from a business trip later that night and felt tired with all stressors of my job, it seemed particularly rough this week. But I started with a 5000m Row, and I thought of my good friend Amy B. :) we use to row together on Saturdays prior to the farmers market downtown in Minneapolis. I felt great by the time I was through and almost left it at that. But I just knew that I do need to get into the routine again of multiple workouts. So I sat on a spin bike and did sets of climbs for just over and hour. Felt pretty good.
Today I sit in Starbucks smelly and sipping a small coffee. I'm the girl in the corner hurriedly typing before I head out to the gym to do some basic lifting sets after just completing a 9+ mile run with my training group. I struggled today on the course with glutes that felt tired and I know that there is more to come.
At night I am beginning to read Triathlete again to get me back into the mindset of training. Every morning I wake up and it's freezing temperatures I struggle to remember that last year the Country Music Half was 62 degrees, I let myself think about how training in the cold may not prepare me for the conditions on race day. I certainly hope we get a spring warm up soon.
I guess here begins the real Ironman Journey, I am feeling encouraged and excited to embark. I'm ready and looking forward for the training (call me crazy and you can, I am), races, and day to day life as an Ironman in Training. Last night after reading I thought to myself, "am I an Ironman?". The answer is simple not yet but I'm on my way.
Thankfully being from MN I'm somewhat prepared to run in the snow and ice and in fact had quite the invigorating run on the date of greatest snow/sleet Presidents Day. The mayor issued a warning to drivings - don't and most businesses were closed because of the ice. The run was slow but filled with fun, I found myself smiling despite all the ice pellets hitting my arms. Even a water induced blister on my right foot couldn't make me hate this run it went from a planned 3 or 4 miles to 11 joyful and carefully slow miles. I felt accomplished.
Then the cold continued and with it cancellation of most group runs - in both of my running groups. It was the right decision for safety. The YMCA was closed or open very unique hours, making it difficult to get to the gym especially with my increased hours at work due to cold weather. I've worked a lot of overtime being paid in comp time (leave, hour for hour). This is part of the job of a homeless outreach worker, being flexible when their are identified needs, it makes planned trainings difficult with early work hours and late evenings. But think of the vacation I can take in the future.
I refocused my training realizing that Ironman specific training begins in just over a week. On Friday, I made a point to get to the gym on time. The YMCA is a beautiful place on Fridays the few and committed people that are there on a Friday make me feel both motivated and thankful that I'm one of "those". I must admit it was a tough workout for me. I was looking forward to Will returning from a business trip later that night and felt tired with all stressors of my job, it seemed particularly rough this week. But I started with a 5000m Row, and I thought of my good friend Amy B. :) we use to row together on Saturdays prior to the farmers market downtown in Minneapolis. I felt great by the time I was through and almost left it at that. But I just knew that I do need to get into the routine again of multiple workouts. So I sat on a spin bike and did sets of climbs for just over and hour. Felt pretty good.
Today I sit in Starbucks smelly and sipping a small coffee. I'm the girl in the corner hurriedly typing before I head out to the gym to do some basic lifting sets after just completing a 9+ mile run with my training group. I struggled today on the course with glutes that felt tired and I know that there is more to come.
At night I am beginning to read Triathlete again to get me back into the mindset of training. Every morning I wake up and it's freezing temperatures I struggle to remember that last year the Country Music Half was 62 degrees, I let myself think about how training in the cold may not prepare me for the conditions on race day. I certainly hope we get a spring warm up soon.
I guess here begins the real Ironman Journey, I am feeling encouraged and excited to embark. I'm ready and looking forward for the training (call me crazy and you can, I am), races, and day to day life as an Ironman in Training. Last night after reading I thought to myself, "am I an Ironman?". The answer is simple not yet but I'm on my way.
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Novice
What I've learned is that I'm novice, not to be self-deprecating but I feel that especially today. It's been almost a month since I last wrote in my blog. I thought to myself at the time of first entry it would be relatively easy to writer down a few thoughts after a work out but what I chose not to remember was that I don't have easy access to Internet at home - I choose that and after a work out all I often feel interested in is sleeping so I can get up and complete my daily routine again. Along with beginning to increase my training I've been pulling some strange shifts at work due to cold weather here in Nashville and my job as an outreach social worker. In the past weeks I've tallied many hours of overtime/comp time, at least I'm earning vacation and enjoying the work but I'm just generally exhausted.
Maybe also I don't have a lot of interesting things to say about my training? While I'm in the pool I find myself thinking a lot especially as I push off the wall from flip-turning and I find myself being entertained but as soon as I am out of the pool and out of the shower I find myself immediately focused on my sleep and recovery. The moment has passed.
I've been training on my bike trainer and in spin class regularly, I attend classes at the YMCA (a variety of the gyms here). What I've noticed in class is that I find myself wishing I was alone completing my workout. The up-downs, hills at effort 7, and constant reminders to be powerful and think of speed, although helpful for people looking for motivation, annoy me. If you tell me to increase the gear, constantly and "we don't go down hill" - you're not reasonable. I've been on my bike trainer an increasing amount and have found that I'm willing to spin hard there without the loud club music while I watch Jeopardy. It's a happy place and time for me.
I also have been running consistently outside, logging few miles when needed on a treadmill or track. Last year I spent much of training with a group East Nasty, they are a supportive group of runners locally, unfortunately the group runs are timed awkwardly for my schedule - 2 hours after work and 8am Saturdays. I haven't been getting to these runs. I've been running as a St Jude Hero, preparing for the Country Music Half Marathon. I've reached my initial fundraising goal and have set a personal goal of doubling this contribution - which would provide one day of cancer treatments to a child. With this opportunity I was allowed access to a training group through Fleet Feet, a somewhat local small business. I've attended several of their Saturday training groups which are more conveniently timed at 7am, but sometimes not so with location (I pick and choose when I attend). I won't run with them when it's a 40minute drive but less then that and I will. The Fleet Feet group also has greater running pace groups allowing me access to a group of runners that are within my true goals. I will most likely begin to run with East Nasty when they hit the actual course in a few weeks. I love to run from LP Field, but I may also just run solo the same path at a time I choose.
This weekend Will and I opted out of our Saturday training with a plan to be bike marshalls for a 5k/15k, all was according to plan. Last night I replaced my bike trainer tire with my road tire, and although I had some difficulty (#bikemaintenancelevelnovice) was able to do so successfully or so I thought. I was sorely disappointed and my plans for a cold (15degree) morning ride along with some runners was ended early when I stepped onto the pedal, felt the chain jump, but looked behind to find my derailer nearer to the big rings. No riding for me, instead I spent my early morning hours with drunken frat boys in the gear check tent, and an annoyed employee of the company putting on the race. She was quite nice, they boys reminded me a lot of past college experiences and made me thankful that I'm nearly thirty and at a place where I choose one glass of wine at dinner and an early morning alarm to go for a ride.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
January A New Beginning
* This is my first blog rambling, In the future I plan to post more frequently and have less content. My goal for this blog is to have a place to explore and record the transitions that life entails. This is especially relevant to my transformation as a girl with a goal to complete a sprint triathlon (4 short years ago) to training for my 30th year adventure Ironman Chattanooga.
I started this year actually much earlier in a bar in Chattanooga, after completing a volunteer shift with Will. We sat and discussed if each of us really was committed to register for and complete the Ironman Chattanooga event in 2015.
If I pushed the race back I wouldn't be 30 and Will was pretty committed to this race during the following race year of 2015. I was less so, thinking that Ironman Texas maybe a good substitute. After all, I'd still technically 30 (it occurs in May) but USA Triathlon would say otherwise. It's in May, meaning I wouldn't have the heat to suffer through, but I'd also have the unknown occasional southern snow threat limiting my outdoor training through the winter. Will urged me, that I could do this and should stick to the plan we had talked about early on in our relationship. Let's train for the Ironman. We'll train some together and some separately, hold each other accountable, and run our own races on the day in September. We will be together in celebrating accomplishments and pushing each other through tough times, workouts, and any trials along the way. I also thought to myself, I'm not really so busy; I work in a profession I love that can take alot out of me and training helps me energize myself (especially in Winter months, another reason to train in the Spring), I don't have responsibilities that many people in the late 20's & early 30's have (specifically a family with children), and why not. I should hesitate, I should enter this with great excitement and exuberance. But 17 hours, really?!? What if I am up 17hours racing, pushing my body to limits I didn't know existed?
So after our shift and a few beers, I became more committed. That day I woke up after individuals started in the water, slurped coffee from Waffle House, worked a few hour shift in the second transition, explored Chattanooga, and sat with new friends around a campfire discussing how I would become an Ironman. I drifted to sleep well before 10pm, next year I could still be on course to cross a finish line and hear the words "You are and Ironman". I woke up that night in a tent in Chattanooga, I looked at my watch it was 11:45pm. People were still out on course pushing their bodies to the finish line. We woke up early, packed our camp, and proceeded to "Ironman Village" (where the activities of transition and finish occur) - only hours after the last finishers crossed the line of Ironman Chattanooga 2014. It felt electric and I was nervous just hoping to get a spot. We did and that was that. Registered for the race
Since the registration, I completed my second full marathon. A weekend home in Minneapolis & St. Paul in the beginning of October, which I improved my time by almost 45minutes. I also ran a half marathon on a fabulous girls weekend to Savannah, GA. Although I was feeling the effects of a bad lunch from the day previous I was happy to finish the race and be surrounded by amazing friends!
I took a break from heavy activity over the holidays, still running occasionally (when I felt like it) & going to an occasional spin class with friends. I hadn't been in a pool since July - before my Vineman (70.3) adventure in Sonoma County. It felt freeing to stay out of the water, away from laps, and focus on other things and be more free with my time.
I gave myself a break that I needed. I decided to really start back in on January 1, 2015 with all the New Years Resolutioners - a bad time for a generally committed gym goer to refocus. But it made sense with the training schedule for Ironman Chattanooga set to begin in March. In November, I decided to set training out right by registering for and training with a running group for the Country Music Half Marathon, a race I completed last year and had a blast running (my first stand alone, half marathon, completed in 2:01:and change). I was pleased. This year I decided to #runforareason, to raise money and awareness of St. Jude. I opted to set a fundraising goal of $500.
I believe in the causes that St Jude supports; medical treatment for childhood disease without expense to families letting them focus on their child's health versus fear of cost, curing childhood cancer, and increase 5 years survival rates.
Please consider a donation in any amount.
The Beginning of January;
My first training run felt almost miserable - it was raining, I had new shoes that rubbed my arch in a way that made a blister, and I felt defeated that 4 miles felt so bad. But rationalized this with those factors in my, this will be worth it I can do it.
My spins have been going really well, I enjoy especially spending Monday evenings at the YMCA in Green Hills (a neighborhood in Nashville). There's an especially exuberant instructor named Marcus, Will and another friend joins me and life is good. The long ride is generally followed by a delicious smoothie.
My first swim occurred early in January and I thought throughout the 25minutes of the dread that I use to feel when I was a lifeguard and had to swim 500yds annually. I swam further, probably on this swim date but it was like I had not swam since July (truth). I felt unnatural in the water, not a problem normally. My kick was off and my shoulders hurt for days (literally).
More recently in the pool I feel less like a fish that forgot how to swim and I have come to dread my friends the New Years Resolution crowd that fill my pool (it is mine in my head). They cause such current feigning exercise (I know I'm being judgmental) that once on while flip-turning was moved across the lane and smacked my lane mate. I was mortified stood and apologized for the occurrence (eek!). So I re-evaluate, maybe their exercise is true with a current like that. I think to myself it's good prep for an open water swim in a river, and after an hour climb out of the pool feeling more accomplished then ever.
This is going to be a long journey for a 17 hour race.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)