I ROCKED!! I did awesome and I'm so proud of myself.
We got down to the swim start about 15 minutes before my start time. I was watching all the swimmers and was amazed by how terrible some people were, (and then I remembered my Pleasant Prairie experience) My heat got into the water and I stayed back not wanting to get in the middle of thrashing bodies. I started to swim and felt good. I was relaxed and strong. I really liked how the swim was set up because the spectators could easily watch you from the shore. I could see Jeremy follow me the entire way. I could hear him cheering for me which was definitely encouraging. He said I ended up passing almost everyone in my heat :)
I finished the swim and got to transition in 40 min. I ripped off my wet suit, got a snack and threw on my spin shoes. I was off on the bike and passing people the whole way. We started by heading north and directly into the wind. This was definitely where I felt the wind the most. My legs were on fire as I kept shifting gears trying to find a comfortable one to ride. My only complaint with the race was that the bike route was crowded. We were on Lakeshore Drive and had 2 lanes to ride in but other bikers were not respectful about the riding lane and passing lane (we were in Chicago and the drivers here don't seem to understand the difference between driving lanes and passing lanes either) So I was always trying to maneuver around people. My average speed ended up being just over 20mph and I finished the ride in 1:14.
Back in transition I slid on my running shoes and took off. I felt good for about the first mile and then my legs started feeling like lead. The sun was hot and I was tired. I made myself keep running. Every mile they had a water station so I would allow myself to walk by the water station to grab a drink but then I had to to start running again. You don't realize how long a mile really is until you have to run it! The last 1/4 mile I picked up my pace. As I crossed the finish line I heard them say my name and you have no idea how proud I was. I managed to keep my run pace at 9:47, which is considerably slower then what I train, but I didn't stop :)
I finished the race in 3hrs and 41secs. I wanted to break the 3 hour mark but can't really complain about 41 seconds. What a difference between the first race and this one. Jeremy and my sister were somewhere down at the finish line but I didn't see them. I ended up walking back to find my bike and I even rode it home. I felt so great the rest of the day. Yeah, my legs were a little tired but besides that I was hyped. I conquered my fear of swimming and I finished the triathlon.
I am officially addicted! I love the sport and there will definitely be more in my future. There will be pictures posted soon. So check back to see me swimming and running :)
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Chicago Tri!!!!
So today is the day....my start time is just under 2 hours away. My heart is racing and my stomach is a little bubbly. We couldn't ask for a better day. It is beautiful right now!
Last night I got my transition bag ready, had an early dinner, watched the Brewers dominate the Cubs and went to bed really early (before 8pm). This morning I was up at 4:10. I made a couple eggs and a piece of toast and then Jeremy drove me downtown so I could rack my bike and set up my transition area. Then we came back home to hang out for a few hours.
The race started at 6am...there will be people finishing before I even get back down there. I am in the 34th wave. I certainly hope I have something good to report this afternoon!
Last night I got my transition bag ready, had an early dinner, watched the Brewers dominate the Cubs and went to bed really early (before 8pm). This morning I was up at 4:10. I made a couple eggs and a piece of toast and then Jeremy drove me downtown so I could rack my bike and set up my transition area. Then we came back home to hang out for a few hours.
The race started at 6am...there will be people finishing before I even get back down there. I am in the 34th wave. I certainly hope I have something good to report this afternoon!
Monday, August 22, 2011
South Shore Tri
The 3rd triathlon I finished this summer was also a sprint and was on the south side of Chicago. My goal was to finish the race in 1 hour and 23 minutes, 10 minutes better then my last race.
The swim was taking place in Lake Michigan and that made me a little nervous but when we got out there I realized the water was so shallow you couldn't even swim in places because your hand hit the ground. Come to find out it is much more tiring trying to run through water then it is to just swim. Regardless I still shaved a minute off of my swim time.
I was really impressed with my transition time. I had started riding my bike with no socks. This saved at least 45 seconds not trying to dry off my feet and put socks on. I also had all my gear laid out properly at this race. My first transition I completed in 2 minutes and 15 seconds. I was off on the bike where I dominated. Only one girl passed me...(and she might have been a man at one point). I was flying, averaging just under 23mph. I finished my ride in 35 minutes.
I saved time on my second transition by having cool elastic shoelaces. I no longer need to waste the 30-45 seconds it takes to tie my shoes :) The run was shady and fast. I finished my 3.1 miles in 26 minutes. I placed 8th in my age group and had a total time of 1 hour 18 minutes and 49 seconds. That was 15 minutes better then before!! I'm loving this.
The swim was taking place in Lake Michigan and that made me a little nervous but when we got out there I realized the water was so shallow you couldn't even swim in places because your hand hit the ground. Come to find out it is much more tiring trying to run through water then it is to just swim. Regardless I still shaved a minute off of my swim time.
I was really impressed with my transition time. I had started riding my bike with no socks. This saved at least 45 seconds not trying to dry off my feet and put socks on. I also had all my gear laid out properly at this race. My first transition I completed in 2 minutes and 15 seconds. I was off on the bike where I dominated. Only one girl passed me...(and she might have been a man at one point). I was flying, averaging just under 23mph. I finished my ride in 35 minutes.
I saved time on my second transition by having cool elastic shoelaces. I no longer need to waste the 30-45 seconds it takes to tie my shoes :) The run was shady and fast. I finished my 3.1 miles in 26 minutes. I placed 8th in my age group and had a total time of 1 hour 18 minutes and 49 seconds. That was 15 minutes better then before!! I'm loving this.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Pleasant Prairie take 2
So after the first terrible experience I knew I had to get right back in there and try again. So I signed up for the sprint tir on July 10th at the same place the first one had been. The sprint is half the distance of the full. We swam 1/2 mile, biked 15 miles and ran 3.1 miles.
Jeremy and I were driving up the morning of the race and I was really excited. I had been practicing for the swim in Lake Michigan and training even harder. This race started at 7 and we were supposed to be there by 6:30. We were a couple miles away from the race complex at around 6:30 and we realize all the roads are closed. I start to panic and realize I might miss the race. Finally we talk to a cop who tells us we need to go back to the center of this little town and park at target. There is a shuttle that will take people from target to the Rec Plex center. By the time we get to target and onto the shuttle I knew I was going to be late. I handed Jeremy all of my transition gear and told him to meet me where I would be coming out of the water. I grabbed my wetsuit and ran to the start. I got there in plenty on time and even had a chance to warm up.
As my wave entered the water I got nervous remembering what happened last time. I stayed to the back and as the whistle blew I put my head down and just started to swim. I started passing people and before I knew it I saw the each. I was out of the water in 14 minutes!! I saw Jeremy and grabbed my stuff. As I ran into transition I was psyched. I felt great!
I hopped on my bike and headed to the road. I was flying on my bike...on the same coarse I barely completed 2 weeks prior. I finished the bike in 44 minutes and was off on the run. I was getting tired and had gotten a blister on my big toe from running to the start of the race when I thought I was late. But, I finished my run strong, with a time of 28 minutes.
I finished the race in 1 hour and 33 minutes and placed 8th in my age group out of 97. I was so excited!! I had not only finished but I did pretty well. I'm officially addicted now :) I came up witha list of things to do better. I needed to improve my long transitions times. I wanted to do slightly better on the run. And of coarse I want to keep practing that swim. Next race...sprint tri on the south shore of Chicago July 30th...get ready Chicago Emily is coming!!
Jeremy and I were driving up the morning of the race and I was really excited. I had been practicing for the swim in Lake Michigan and training even harder. This race started at 7 and we were supposed to be there by 6:30. We were a couple miles away from the race complex at around 6:30 and we realize all the roads are closed. I start to panic and realize I might miss the race. Finally we talk to a cop who tells us we need to go back to the center of this little town and park at target. There is a shuttle that will take people from target to the Rec Plex center. By the time we get to target and onto the shuttle I knew I was going to be late. I handed Jeremy all of my transition gear and told him to meet me where I would be coming out of the water. I grabbed my wetsuit and ran to the start. I got there in plenty on time and even had a chance to warm up.
As my wave entered the water I got nervous remembering what happened last time. I stayed to the back and as the whistle blew I put my head down and just started to swim. I started passing people and before I knew it I saw the each. I was out of the water in 14 minutes!! I saw Jeremy and grabbed my stuff. As I ran into transition I was psyched. I felt great!
I hopped on my bike and headed to the road. I was flying on my bike...on the same coarse I barely completed 2 weeks prior. I finished the bike in 44 minutes and was off on the run. I was getting tired and had gotten a blister on my big toe from running to the start of the race when I thought I was late. But, I finished my run strong, with a time of 28 minutes.
I finished the race in 1 hour and 33 minutes and placed 8th in my age group out of 97. I was so excited!! I had not only finished but I did pretty well. I'm officially addicted now :) I came up witha list of things to do better. I needed to improve my long transitions times. I wanted to do slightly better on the run. And of coarse I want to keep practing that swim. Next race...sprint tri on the south shore of Chicago July 30th...get ready Chicago Emily is coming!!
Bad Blogger
So I have been a terrible blogger and was recently reminded of this by my brother. Part of the reason I have slacked off so much was because my first Triathlon was sooooooooo awful. It was the most painful thing I think I have ever done.
June 25th came around and Jeremy and I drove up to Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. I checked in and racked my bike. I went to a couple different talks about transitions and the race coarse. We went to check out the lake and look at the swim. I was definitely nervous. The swim looked really long but I thought I was ready.
In the morning we were up at about 4:45 so I could get to the race center and set up my transition area. The race started at 6 and my wave was scheduled to leave about 6:30. Jeremy, my mom and dad were all watching as I nervously entered the water. As our wave left I felt OK. I was trying to concentrate on my stroke and breath. I made about half way through the coarse and someone knocked me under. I came up coughing and chocking on lake water and couldn't catch my breath. After that it seemed like everyone who swam by me was pushing me or swimming over me. I seriously didn't think I was going to make it. Then this very kind soul named Glen came to my rescue. He swam beside me and tried calming me down and literally helped hold me up in the water while I coughed all over him. About 50 minutes later I finally emerged from the lake feeling like I had been beaten for hours.
I walked slowly to the transition area and pulled off my wetsuit. I could see my mom, dad and Jeremy all cheering for me by the sidelines but all I wanted to do was cry and go home with them. I put on my biking gear and took my bike towards the road. I thought I would be able to regain my composure on the bike and make up a little time. But, I had inhaled and swallowed so much lake water I felt short of breath and nauseous the whole time. I made it a few miles on my bike and had to stop and throw up a bunch of gross brown water. Finally I finished the ride in an hour and fifty nine minutes.
The run was awaiting me. I had said from the beginning that I would always be able to get through the run. However, I didn't take into account not being able to breath. I started out on the run with a slow jog and made it maybe 1/4 mile before I had to stop and catch my breath. I decided the only way I was going to make it through was to walk. So that is just what I did. I found a girl who was content to walk with me and we finished the run in an hour and forty five minutes. We were the last two to cross the finish line. But we did it. I finished my first tri in an embarrassing 4 hours and 43 minutes.
I fell into my moms arms at the end feeling very defeated. I thought that my triathlon career was done already. However by the time I got home that night I was forgetting the pain. I was ready to try again. I went right to the computer and signed up for a sprint tri on July 10th back in Pleasant Prairie.
June 25th came around and Jeremy and I drove up to Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. I checked in and racked my bike. I went to a couple different talks about transitions and the race coarse. We went to check out the lake and look at the swim. I was definitely nervous. The swim looked really long but I thought I was ready.
In the morning we were up at about 4:45 so I could get to the race center and set up my transition area. The race started at 6 and my wave was scheduled to leave about 6:30. Jeremy, my mom and dad were all watching as I nervously entered the water. As our wave left I felt OK. I was trying to concentrate on my stroke and breath. I made about half way through the coarse and someone knocked me under. I came up coughing and chocking on lake water and couldn't catch my breath. After that it seemed like everyone who swam by me was pushing me or swimming over me. I seriously didn't think I was going to make it. Then this very kind soul named Glen came to my rescue. He swam beside me and tried calming me down and literally helped hold me up in the water while I coughed all over him. About 50 minutes later I finally emerged from the lake feeling like I had been beaten for hours.
I walked slowly to the transition area and pulled off my wetsuit. I could see my mom, dad and Jeremy all cheering for me by the sidelines but all I wanted to do was cry and go home with them. I put on my biking gear and took my bike towards the road. I thought I would be able to regain my composure on the bike and make up a little time. But, I had inhaled and swallowed so much lake water I felt short of breath and nauseous the whole time. I made it a few miles on my bike and had to stop and throw up a bunch of gross brown water. Finally I finished the ride in an hour and fifty nine minutes.
The run was awaiting me. I had said from the beginning that I would always be able to get through the run. However, I didn't take into account not being able to breath. I started out on the run with a slow jog and made it maybe 1/4 mile before I had to stop and catch my breath. I decided the only way I was going to make it through was to walk. So that is just what I did. I found a girl who was content to walk with me and we finished the run in an hour and forty five minutes. We were the last two to cross the finish line. But we did it. I finished my first tri in an embarrassing 4 hours and 43 minutes.
I fell into my moms arms at the end feeling very defeated. I thought that my triathlon career was done already. However by the time I got home that night I was forgetting the pain. I was ready to try again. I went right to the computer and signed up for a sprint tri on July 10th back in Pleasant Prairie.
Friday, June 17, 2011
8 days left
So....there are only 8 days to go until my first big race!! I'm excited and scared at the same time. I did manage to go and swim in Lake Michigan the other day. I was pleasantly surprised with how it went. the water wasn't super cold. My wet suit felt good. The only problem is I can't see the bottom of the lake and that totally freaks me out. Not just freaks me out but I get disoriented. First I swam straight out into the lake and then I turned myself around and crashed into the wall. I'm hoping its easier to swim in a straight line when there are more people present.
My body feels good right now. I feel strong and fast. I'm excited to race, however I think this up coming week will be a long one as I wait in anticipation!!
My body feels good right now. I feel strong and fast. I'm excited to race, however I think this up coming week will be a long one as I wait in anticipation!!
Monday, May 23, 2011
This weeks workouts
Monday - Ran 4.5 miles
Tuesday - Swim for 1 hour, Bike for 1 hour
Squat, Pushups, 1 arm row
Pullups, Side/Back Extension, Hamstring Curl
Incline Bicep Curl, Fly, Crunches
Skullcrusher, Shoulder Press, Leg lifts
Wednesday - Run 1 hour, Bike 1 hour
Thursday - Swim 1 Hour, Run 1 hour
Lunges, DB Chest Press, Reverse Crunch
Lat Pulldown, Cable cross, Deadlifts
Standing curl, Tricep Extension, Lateral raise, crunches
Friday - TBD
Tuesday - Swim for 1 hour, Bike for 1 hour
Squat, Pushups, 1 arm row
Pullups, Side/Back Extension, Hamstring Curl
Incline Bicep Curl, Fly, Crunches
Skullcrusher, Shoulder Press, Leg lifts
Wednesday - Run 1 hour, Bike 1 hour
Thursday - Swim 1 Hour, Run 1 hour
Lunges, DB Chest Press, Reverse Crunch
Lat Pulldown, Cable cross, Deadlifts
Standing curl, Tricep Extension, Lateral raise, crunches
Friday - TBD
Thursday, May 19, 2011
I'm tired
I'm tired and I'm getting worn down this week from work, home and trying to fit in my workouts. I only have about 6 weeks left before my first race so I can't stop now. This week has been incredibly busy at work which is a good thing, but I find myself struggling with myself to finish my workout rather then go home and get my chores done.
Monday I ran 6 miles and lifted weights. Tuesday I swam 1.2 miles and ran 6 miles. Wednesday I lifted weights and today I swam over a mile in 40 minutes. That's my best time so far and I was proud of myself. Tomorrow I will probably get another swim in and hopefully a bike ride. Thank goodness it's almost the weekend!!
Monday I ran 6 miles and lifted weights. Tuesday I swam 1.2 miles and ran 6 miles. Wednesday I lifted weights and today I swam over a mile in 40 minutes. That's my best time so far and I was proud of myself. Tomorrow I will probably get another swim in and hopefully a bike ride. Thank goodness it's almost the weekend!!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Thursdays
If Monday's are my best days, Thursdays are probably the worst. My body is tired and sore from pushing it hard the past 3 days. My legs have been sore since Monday when I lifted but I have been stretching and working through it.
Today I wanted to lift, run 8 miles and swim for 45 minutes. I started my workout with weights...today focusing on back, biceps and abs. I then moved on to my run. After the first mile my legs were feeling good and I found my rhythm. I reached mile 4 and was still feeling good...and then it happened. I had to pee. I hate it when I have to pee. It ruins the whole momentum I've built up. So, I ran to the bathroom and then decided to do another set of weights. When I made it back to the treadmill I couldn't get going. I ran another mile and a half. I felt kinda shaky. I hoped off and headed downstairs to the pool. The pool felt good. My breathing was under control and I swam for my 45 minutes. I did about a mile. I got out and showered, managed to have a small snack and then I was back to work. Half way through my session I realized I should of had a bigger snack. I started getting faint and queasy. Luckily I made it through my session and went to get some lunch.
Feeling much better now. Maybe I will finish my run when I get back to work later.
Today I wanted to lift, run 8 miles and swim for 45 minutes. I started my workout with weights...today focusing on back, biceps and abs. I then moved on to my run. After the first mile my legs were feeling good and I found my rhythm. I reached mile 4 and was still feeling good...and then it happened. I had to pee. I hate it when I have to pee. It ruins the whole momentum I've built up. So, I ran to the bathroom and then decided to do another set of weights. When I made it back to the treadmill I couldn't get going. I ran another mile and a half. I felt kinda shaky. I hoped off and headed downstairs to the pool. The pool felt good. My breathing was under control and I swam for my 45 minutes. I did about a mile. I got out and showered, managed to have a small snack and then I was back to work. Half way through my session I realized I should of had a bigger snack. I started getting faint and queasy. Luckily I made it through my session and went to get some lunch.
Feeling much better now. Maybe I will finish my run when I get back to work later.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Morton
I love Mondays! I usually get my best workouts on Mondays. Generally I rest Saturday and Sunday so I'm ready to go on Monday! Today was no exception. I felt great. This morning I did a 10 minute fast run, I went about 1.35 miles (can't remember exactly) then I lifted. I focused on legs and shoulders today. But I know I was pushing myself...I started getting sore while I was lifting...that's always fun :) On my way home from work I stopped by Uptown bikes (I love them, so friendly and helpful) I discovered that you need a special adapter for an air compressor to fill up road bike tires. At least I think that's what I got, I'm learning as I go. Anyway, it worked. I filled my tires up on my awesome bike and then I went for a ride. I did 15 miles in about 55 minutes...I know, I need to improve that time. Then I ran another 2.5 miles.
However, the problem is I have a Morton's neuroma...which in English mean I have an enlarged nerve in my foot and it hurts like hell. I have noticed that it is especially painful when I get off my bike and try to run. I don't exactly know how to describe how painful it is. I guess I would say it kinda feels like a scorching hot needle is going through my 2nd and 3rd toe every time I put my weight on it.
About 8 months ago I went to see a podiatrist about this pesky problem. She made me costume orthopaedics which work wonderfully on a day to day basis but this biking/running thing is gonna kill me. My next option would be to get this nerve surgically removed which is kinda hard to do for a girl who is currently uninsured (thank you America for not providing health care) I managed to run through the pain and it eventually got a git more bearable after the first mile. All in all I was pretty happy with my workout and am excited to see how I feel tomorrow.
Thank you for finally being warm enough to play outside!!
However, the problem is I have a Morton's neuroma...which in English mean I have an enlarged nerve in my foot and it hurts like hell. I have noticed that it is especially painful when I get off my bike and try to run. I don't exactly know how to describe how painful it is. I guess I would say it kinda feels like a scorching hot needle is going through my 2nd and 3rd toe every time I put my weight on it.
About 8 months ago I went to see a podiatrist about this pesky problem. She made me costume orthopaedics which work wonderfully on a day to day basis but this biking/running thing is gonna kill me. My next option would be to get this nerve surgically removed which is kinda hard to do for a girl who is currently uninsured (thank you America for not providing health care) I managed to run through the pain and it eventually got a git more bearable after the first mile. All in all I was pretty happy with my workout and am excited to see how I feel tomorrow.
Thank you for finally being warm enough to play outside!!
Monday, April 18, 2011
It snowed today
It snowed today! It's April 18th and it snowed...I'm so disgusted with Chicago weather. Why can't it just be a pleasant 70 degrees outside. I want to ride my bike :(
Well this week is my rest week which is perfect since I will be leaving to go to Wisconsin Wednesday night. Today I lifted for about 30 minutes. I focused on legs and shoulders today and then ran 4 miles. I started cramping after about 3 miles and the last mile was a rough one. Tomorrow I will lift and swim for about a mile. Wednesday I will do the same. My goal is to try to run 5-6 miles when I'm at home in Wisconsin. My parents live about 4 miles from town and if the weather cooperates I would love to be able to run to town and back Thursday or Friday. Fingers crossed it doesn't snow.
Well this week is my rest week which is perfect since I will be leaving to go to Wisconsin Wednesday night. Today I lifted for about 30 minutes. I focused on legs and shoulders today and then ran 4 miles. I started cramping after about 3 miles and the last mile was a rough one. Tomorrow I will lift and swim for about a mile. Wednesday I will do the same. My goal is to try to run 5-6 miles when I'm at home in Wisconsin. My parents live about 4 miles from town and if the weather cooperates I would love to be able to run to town and back Thursday or Friday. Fingers crossed it doesn't snow.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Swim Workout #1
One of my clients has been helping me out with my swimming. She was a collegiate swimmer and a coach for a few years. She went to the pool with me a few weeks ago and needless to say she impressed me!! So today I tried one f the swim workouts she gave me. I thought I was going to die at the half way point but glad to say I powered through!!
She had me doing drills which I hate...probably because I'm not very good at them. I started with swim/kick/pull rotation. Then I moved to side swim and technique drills. The endurance part of the workout was about 960 meters and then I got a 80 meter cool down. Altogether I was in the pool for over an hour. I love the way I feel when I'm getting out of the pool. I feel refreshed and strangely energized. After my swim I lifted for about 30 minutes. I did some chest, bicep, triceps and ab work.
So far this week I've stuck to my schedule. Monday I did a 7 mile run. Tuesday I lifted, focusing on my legs. Then I took a spin class and finished my workout with 20 laps in the pool. Today was my long swim. Hopefully I won't run outta steam for the rest of the week!
She had me doing drills which I hate...probably because I'm not very good at them. I started with swim/kick/pull rotation. Then I moved to side swim and technique drills. The endurance part of the workout was about 960 meters and then I got a 80 meter cool down. Altogether I was in the pool for over an hour. I love the way I feel when I'm getting out of the pool. I feel refreshed and strangely energized. After my swim I lifted for about 30 minutes. I did some chest, bicep, triceps and ab work.
So far this week I've stuck to my schedule. Monday I did a 7 mile run. Tuesday I lifted, focusing on my legs. Then I took a spin class and finished my workout with 20 laps in the pool. Today was my long swim. Hopefully I won't run outta steam for the rest of the week!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Make up day
Since I was so unproductive yesterday I needed to step it up today. I got to work at 6am and was feeling good and motivated so I started my workout with a 5 mile run. I was only scheduled to do 4 miles today but figured I better step it up from being a slacker the past 3 days. After my run I lifted weights for about 30 minutes. I don't usually do a hard weight workout on the days I'm doing heavy cardio. Today I did some abs and back. I started with a cable row and crunches on a bosu. Then I did some bicycles on the bosu, TRX reverse flys, TRX bicep curl, cable cross, assisted pull ups and ended with some wide grip pull downs. After my weights I headed down to the pool where I swam for about 50 minutes. I kinda lost track of how many laps I did but I'm pretty confident I did my mile.
My workout felt good today. I was excited to get back into it. Tomorrow I need to have a good day in the weight room. I plan on running for about 8 miles and then spending a solid hour lifting. I'll let you know how it goes!! I gotta tell you I'm glad I opted for the full triathlon, as crazy as it sounds I don't think a sprint tri would have challenged me :)
My workout felt good today. I was excited to get back into it. Tomorrow I need to have a good day in the weight room. I plan on running for about 8 miles and then spending a solid hour lifting. I'll let you know how it goes!! I gotta tell you I'm glad I opted for the full triathlon, as crazy as it sounds I don't think a sprint tri would have challenged me :)
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Dedication
My brother helped me set up this blog. He thought it would be cool if I tracked my triathlon training and I totally agree but I've been slacking big time. I promise to start talking more about my actual training. I haven't worked out since Saturday...but Saturday was a good workout. I took a spin class, swam a mile and lifted for about 45 minutes. Today I had big workout plans but didn't get much accomplished.
My grandma has Alzheimer's disease and this awful disease is running its course on her and our family. When I'm working out I have a lot of time to be alone with my thoughts and more often then not my thoughts circle around her. The disease has taken quite a toll on her over the past week and I feel angry and sad about losing the grandma that I love so much. This is what I was thinking about this morning when I was trying to workout. And this is why I didn't get much done...it's really difficult to run through tears because it makes breathing difficult.
The point is, I have decided to dedicate all my races to my grandma. She was always taking my brother, sister, and I to the track to run around or to the swimming pool or letting us ride her bike. She was always encouraging us to be active and try new things. I know she would be proud of me and I want to do something that lets her know that I'm proud of her too!
My grandma has Alzheimer's disease and this awful disease is running its course on her and our family. When I'm working out I have a lot of time to be alone with my thoughts and more often then not my thoughts circle around her. The disease has taken quite a toll on her over the past week and I feel angry and sad about losing the grandma that I love so much. This is what I was thinking about this morning when I was trying to workout. And this is why I didn't get much done...it's really difficult to run through tears because it makes breathing difficult.
The point is, I have decided to dedicate all my races to my grandma. She was always taking my brother, sister, and I to the track to run around or to the swimming pool or letting us ride her bike. She was always encouraging us to be active and try new things. I know she would be proud of me and I want to do something that lets her know that I'm proud of her too!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The Gear Part 2 - Road Bike
Do you have any idea how much a bike costs?? I sure didn't. I have been riding a bike that my grandma got after she had hip surgery in like 1994. Don't get me wrong I LOVE that bike! I really do. It rides well and it has sentimental value for me. However it wouldn't do real well in a race. If you know anything about bikes you know they have different size tires. The skinnier the tire, the faster the bike can go. My old bike is a hybrid which means it has mid size tires. It's great for city riding but would probably double my time when it came to racing. Which means I need a racing bike.
I went to a few store in the area to try to learn a little bit about what I need. It was quickly becoming clear to me that I would not be finding a road bike for a couple hundred dollars. I rode several different brands of bikes and as usual fell in love with the most expensive one. When I say expensive I mean this bike is going to cost me more then anything I have ever bought...except for my car. So I did whatever any logical person would do and I put it on my Christmas list....nope didn't work...suppose you could see that one coming. Well I'm back at square one.
At this point it's mid January. I go to good old REI and low and behold bikes are on clearance in the middle of winter in Chicago. AWESOME! They carry several different bikes but the one I found was a Novara Carama Pro. They only had one left and it was my size and it was really pretty (it has pink on it). It had been sitting there waiting for me to find it! The wonderful sales staff got me all hooked up with bike shoes, special pedals and a computer to track my distance, speed, ect. The best part about the whole thing was I got all that and the bike for less then the original price. Way to go me!!
This really cool bike had been sitting in my apartment for the past few months and finally it warmed up enough for me to go for a ride last week. It was GREAT! It's smooth and easy to ride. I love being able to track my distance. Being able to see my speed motivates me to go faster and challenge myself. I can't wait to take it out again!
I went to a few store in the area to try to learn a little bit about what I need. It was quickly becoming clear to me that I would not be finding a road bike for a couple hundred dollars. I rode several different brands of bikes and as usual fell in love with the most expensive one. When I say expensive I mean this bike is going to cost me more then anything I have ever bought...except for my car. So I did whatever any logical person would do and I put it on my Christmas list....nope didn't work...suppose you could see that one coming. Well I'm back at square one.
At this point it's mid January. I go to good old REI and low and behold bikes are on clearance in the middle of winter in Chicago. AWESOME! They carry several different bikes but the one I found was a Novara Carama Pro. They only had one left and it was my size and it was really pretty (it has pink on it). It had been sitting there waiting for me to find it! The wonderful sales staff got me all hooked up with bike shoes, special pedals and a computer to track my distance, speed, ect. The best part about the whole thing was I got all that and the bike for less then the original price. Way to go me!!
This really cool bike had been sitting in my apartment for the past few months and finally it warmed up enough for me to go for a ride last week. It was GREAT! It's smooth and easy to ride. I love being able to track my distance. Being able to see my speed motivates me to go faster and challenge myself. I can't wait to take it out again!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
The gear Part 1 - Wetsuit
So who would have guessed that getting all the gear for a triathlon is really expensive!! At first I thought all I would need was myself and a bike...and I guess that is technically all I would need. But as I have previously stated I'm not a strong swimmer and everyone seemed to think I needed to get a wetsuit. This magical suit would keep me warm in the cold lake waters, it would help keep me buoyant and help me swim much faster by cutting down on the water resistance. It seemed like a no brainier I had to get the suit!
I did a bit of research online to help me decide on the most expensive brand because of coarse it was the best. It has...
As I peel the rubber off of me I glance at the price, it's on clearance!! What a deal. I suddenly seem to remember it fitting perfectly.
Man.... I look good :)
I did a bit of research online to help me decide on the most expensive brand because of coarse it was the best. It has...
- Special "Glideskin" neoprene coating helps you move through the water with less resistance
- Strategically located neoprene panels maximize buoyancy and flexibility
- Sealed seams keep the warm water in and the cold water out
- Legs are cut at ankle v/s calf to increase flexibility and mobility
As I peel the rubber off of me I glance at the price, it's on clearance!! What a deal. I suddenly seem to remember it fitting perfectly.
P.S. There will be a picture coming soon of me actually in this rubber body suit :)
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Swimming
I remember my mom taking me to swimming lessons when I was a kid. We blew bubbles in the water and learned how to dive off the edge of the pool...I think I was probably 8 or 9 when I stopped taking lessons. Growing up in a very small Wisconsin farm town doesn't really give you the opportunity to swim much, and needless to say I've made it almost 30 years without being proficient. So, this was a real problem.
The day I decided to actually do the triathlon I brought my swimming suit to work and jumped in the pool. I didn't waste any time and "swam" to one end of the pool. When I got to the other side I grabbed hold of the wall and gasped for air...not so bad I thought. I continued going from one end of the pool to the other (gasping for breath in between) for about 30 min and was exhausted when I had completed my 10 lengths. I thought to myself, that had to be close to a mile. Not so much...I wasn't even close to 1/2 a mile...I was in trouble.
The next day I got in touch with one of the swim instructors at my club. She spent several hours with me in the pool trying to help me learn the proper strokes and breathing techniques. I can't thank her enough for everything she taught me. It's really amazing how much easier it is to swim when doing it properly. I actually have gotten to the point where I don't dread swimming. I won't go as far to say I like it, but it's not all that bad.
I'm very proud to say I've swam a mile on a couple different occasions!
The day I decided to actually do the triathlon I brought my swimming suit to work and jumped in the pool. I didn't waste any time and "swam" to one end of the pool. When I got to the other side I grabbed hold of the wall and gasped for air...not so bad I thought. I continued going from one end of the pool to the other (gasping for breath in between) for about 30 min and was exhausted when I had completed my 10 lengths. I thought to myself, that had to be close to a mile. Not so much...I wasn't even close to 1/2 a mile...I was in trouble.
The next day I got in touch with one of the swim instructors at my club. She spent several hours with me in the pool trying to help me learn the proper strokes and breathing techniques. I can't thank her enough for everything she taught me. It's really amazing how much easier it is to swim when doing it properly. I actually have gotten to the point where I don't dread swimming. I won't go as far to say I like it, but it's not all that bad.
I'm very proud to say I've swam a mile on a couple different occasions!
Sunday, March 6, 2011
About Me
Hi, my name is Emily. I'm 29, recently got engaged and my fiance, Jeremy, and I are both personal trainers in Chicago. So as you can imagine we both lead pretty active lifestyles. However, last summer I started getting bored with my workouts. (Yes, even personal trainers get in workout ruts.) So this is how I got myself in this situation of training for a triathlon.
Living in Chicago is wonderful and during the summer my favorite place to be is at the lakefront. I spend my afternoons biking or running along the lake. Last summer I saw people swimming in lake Michigan...it must have been a really hot day because I was a little envious of everyone in the water while I was sweating my ass off riding my bike home. I thought it might be kinda fun to jump in and swim and then ride home, of coarse I didn't. Doing a triathlon had crossed my mind a few times throughout the years but having to swim scared the shit outta me. I can barely doggie paddle let alone swim a MILE!! So, I went home and didn't mention this crazy idea to anyone. I ignored it and thought it would go away like most of my crazy ideas usually do. But, it kept coming back...every time I rode by the lake I had this overwhelming desire to do a triathlon. Finally after weeks of trying to convince myself this was crazy I casually mentioned something to Jeremy about maybe, sometime, possibly doing a tri. He thought it was a great idea! I would be great! I should do it right away! That's all I needed. The next day I told everyone I saw I was going to be the next triathlete champion. I wasn't just going to maybe do one...I was going to win!!
Living in Chicago is wonderful and during the summer my favorite place to be is at the lakefront. I spend my afternoons biking or running along the lake. Last summer I saw people swimming in lake Michigan...it must have been a really hot day because I was a little envious of everyone in the water while I was sweating my ass off riding my bike home. I thought it might be kinda fun to jump in and swim and then ride home, of coarse I didn't. Doing a triathlon had crossed my mind a few times throughout the years but having to swim scared the shit outta me. I can barely doggie paddle let alone swim a MILE!! So, I went home and didn't mention this crazy idea to anyone. I ignored it and thought it would go away like most of my crazy ideas usually do. But, it kept coming back...every time I rode by the lake I had this overwhelming desire to do a triathlon. Finally after weeks of trying to convince myself this was crazy I casually mentioned something to Jeremy about maybe, sometime, possibly doing a tri. He thought it was a great idea! I would be great! I should do it right away! That's all I needed. The next day I told everyone I saw I was going to be the next triathlete champion. I wasn't just going to maybe do one...I was going to win!!
Sunday, February 27, 2011
My New Blog!
Stay posted everyone- here's where I'll keep track of my every more while i train for the triathlon!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)