Post Ironman

  It has been about 3 weeks now since I finished my first Ironman.  I had heard of post Ironman....stress type things while doing my training. What do you do after you finish the race? Do you keep training? Wait, I don't have to bike 6 hours this weekend? I can have a life? WHAT? I can sleep in? I'm not sure what the usual
"aftermath" for most people is, but I definitely had some sort of  post "Ironman PTSD". When I say PTSD I don't mean I had the desire to do another. In fact, I am cool with my one ironman for the time being. Maybe when I am fat and older I'll do another.

Firstly, I literally did nothing for a week after the race. I had no desire to bike (i didn't even go to work on my bike), run, and i even cancelled my swim club membership. This was followed by the shock of having weekends back,  the attempt to get "back into exercise", the "I want to try a new sport", then the "I want to train differently" stages. I've kind of been all over the place. I am ok with it, haha.

Honestly, I got sick after the race.  I felt like crap (just a cold, but still), but was relieved that this happened post exercising for 13 hours. Sometimes, when you finally STOP doing things...your body freaks out. My first attempt to run was weird and awkward (a few weeks later). I felt out of shape. I mean doing 4 miles vs. double digits? what? I tried to run fast, which felt weird too.

So now what?  Well, I workout when I want to workout. I run as fast as I feel like for that day. I do TRX more often. My mountain bike has seen more use than my road (weird).  I went to my first cyclocross race (and did it actually), which was a blast. I got a tattoo, saw my parents, cleaned out my entire room (well that's still in the process), caught up with old friends, gone on dates (ya, i finally can now), drank beer (wait, that's not different), and re-evaluated a lot of things. I can't complain....but I definitely am so glad I did the Ironman.  It means so much more than just a time or a medal, especially for me.  It definitely means ....

1: i am sort of an overachiever...which goes along with my mountains of trophies from being 8 years old. 2: Despite injuries/set backs/stuff, can still be done 3: i am a smarter racer than I ever imagined 4: goal setting is something I should keep doing 5: YOLO 6: cliche, but put your mind to something, have fun, and anything's possible. 7: i don't actually like lists that look like a big paragraph. 8: friends/family rock. 9: I could barely run down the street my soph year in college (i kind of had an 80 year old back). and now what back problems!?? and finally 10: work hard, play harder.

I'm trying to drag people in with me to do some more races next year. If you're looking for a ass-kicking let me know :)

I need to get my laundry.



I was meant to ride bikes. Check out the basket. HARDCORE

Until next time..

Ironman Florida....RACE REPORT!

I am currently sitting here...having a beer and it's SNOWING outside. and snowing pretty fiercely. First snow of the year. Apparently when I left for Florida Boston decided to get cold just in time for me to come back.

Anyways, so I SURVIVED! I really enjoy writing race reports, so sorry if this is too long.

Arrival: So, we arrived late Wednesday night. So late that the hotel people weren't even there. We didn't even plan how we were going to get from the airport to the hotel. luckily we had our dear friend Breno to come pick us up. The theme of this trip tended to be mike and I not really planning out things well but still being ridiculously lax about everything. 

The good thing about this trip was having a few days before the race to hang out and also a day to hang after.  Thursday was spent checking in, eating, and heading to the athlete dinner.  They gave us awesome swag...well they damn well should considering the price of this event. I have to admit Thursday night I could ONLY think about the race. I tried so hard to not, but that's all I thought about. I did manage to sleep still...we got like 10 hours total sleep. haha. Friday we set up our bikes, dropped off some of those many bags we had to put together, ate more food, etc. We made sure to go to bed early.

Race Day! Pre race: Alarm went off at 4:50. This actually isn't that early considering other triathlons. We were only a few miles from the start, which was long enough not to walk, so my parents dropped us off. It was already 73 degrees and humid. Great. I didn't expect this.  Special needs bags were dropped off and we waited in line for the bathrooms (the most important pre race activity you can do). I didn't even eat much for breakfast because I was so full from dinner last night (and cheez its). We were still in transition when they told us to leave.  Slacking. Again, lax about everything. 

Swim (goal- around 1 hour. actual- 1:01.09): We walked out to the beach with the 3000 (73% men mind you) other participants while checking out the conditions. Wow. Holy waves.  There was a rip current...and it looked nasty out there. Well here goes nothing. I body surfed instead of warming up and watched the pros go first. Then it was our turn. The gun went off and immediately i was getting pushed and shoved...although I was in the front ish. I struggled a bit trying to get some space.  The way out consisted of giant waves, tons of people, and swallowing salt water. I cut the course super close because of the current and basically head butted each buoy.  I got a little relief one we made the first turn...then the way back felt nice actually. The waves kind of pushed you along.  This was a two loop course, so after 1.2 miles we got out of the water, ran on the beach, then headed back into the waves.  I was still fighting with stupid people going the wrong way.  Even though I couldn't see that well where I was going I could tell I was getting close to kayakers. After a while I got sick of swimming and was ready to be done.  I kind of stopped caring how fast I was going...bc honestly it felt like drowning. Turns out I went faster than I figured. Coool.

T1 (5:30): I jumped out of the water, ran over to the wet suit strippers (so much fun), then headed to get my bike bag.  It was nice bc they shouted your number so that someone would have the bag ready for you.  Then we ran to a changing room where you got your own volunteer (i actually got like 3 bc i was out front in the swim) to get all your stuff together for you.  I had no idea they did this so i basically told them how awesome they were.  I got slathered with sun block and headed out.

Bike (Goal: 6:30-7 hours, actual: 6:40.02): The only thing I worried about for maybe one sec as i took off with my bike was the fact that I forgot a tire lever in case i got a flat.  I told myself no worries...i never flatted during training it won't happen. That somehow put me to ease (and didn't happen) and I took off.  Being a swimmer i am always prepared to get passed like crazy on the bike.  Yup, like crazy. I watched fancy shmancy bikes pass me ridiculously fast.  Ok, people we are only 10 miles in, chill out. I kept to my plan with keeping a cadence of 95-100 the whole time (spinning a bit more so my legs wouldn't completely die). Most people passing me were doing the opposite....they were cranking it out.  I passed maybe 2 people in 60 miles haha. I felt pretty good though. I passed time by looking at my watch every 20 min taking in liquids and food.  It was hot...no dehydration.  I probably took in close to 2000 calories on the bike, which was great for me. The course was flat except maybe one hill, which  was a relief to do something different. I actually passed a huge group up the hill, then they passed me again of course. I even got my first penalty for drafting (total BS considering i was slower than everyone), which made me sit in a tent for 4 min.  This was sort of nice...i ate some food and talked to people.  I continued to get more bored and my ass kept hurting.  All considering that's not bad problems to have. I passed the most people the last 20 miles....where i think people were starting to die. Thank goodness I kept to my cadence.   Heading back in town I could not WAIT to get off my bike. oh and i definitely stopped 4 times to chill/go to the bathroom. who cares...right?  what else....oh some guy asked for my number too. haha. It was in the 80s by then, which worried me.  I still had a marathon left...wow. 

T2 (4:24): Nothing too crazy here. I got my run stuff and more sun block.  It felt really good to start running.  That was one helluva long bike ride. 

Run (Goal: 5 hours. actual: 5:08.20): One of my favorite things about this race was the volunteers and spectators.  There were TONS of aid stations and plenty of locals dressed up, partying, playing music, and cheering you on.  I felt pretty good right off the run, while other people didn't look so good already (tons of walkers).  Right away I told myself to walk the aid stations. I was not prepared for this marathon the right way, so it would be wise to walk/run from the beginning.  At around mile 7 my legs got heavier and heavier.  I stuck to my plan and did some random run/walks.  I had no nutrition plan for the run....I like to just go with how I feel.  I took in lots of water/sometimes perform at the beginning. Mile 13.1 we got our special needs bags.  I changed my socks and grabbed gumby to go in my back pocket.  That made me smile...and at this point I was totally hurting so smiling at anything helped. I ended up seeing this woman i talked to on the bike out there.  She was hurting as well.  We walked/talked for a little while ( probably a whole mile actually).  Then we decided to do a 4 min run, 2 min walk.  it was hard for me to run slow...so when we ran it was at like 8:45-9 min/mile pace.  That seemed to feel better.  People were definitely hurting BAD out there....on the side...in ambulances ...walking the whole thing....anything could happen.  I got hungry at like mile 16 and took in something solid, which really just dried out my mouth.  I also couldn't get myself to pee on myself ( i actually did this in timberman...too stubborn to stop), so i stopped a few times for potty breaks. I ended up going ahead of my new friend because she was waiting for someone.  I felt ok then all the sudden the legs (maybe mile 20ish) said...........enter pain cave. THIS SUCKS I WANT TO BE DONE! haha. I never once thought I wouldn't finish, but man i was ready to be done.  I walked a lot more because I really wanted to just be able to finish strong. I even craved a hamburger. I was doing something right! I have to admit...the weather was nice in the dark.  The spectators were still going strong too! Some dude in some weird costume came up next to me and got me to run with him for a little while. My legs were pretty much numb and i started to just run the rest....i kept running/passing people until i got to the finish. I heard Julie Tracy you are an IRONMAN.  I was so happy. my volunteer was so concerned for me and kept asking if I was ok.  I was perplexed....I felt awesome somehow.  I was smiling/happy/not sick. I did it....I raced smart and finished strong.  I did exactly what I had hoped. 

Total time: Goal: under 13 hours. actual: 12:59.25. talk about just making a goal...

I am still on an adrenaline rush, to be honest.  I never thought in a million years that my race would somehow go this well. We felt like celebrities after because everyone in restaurants were like OMG YOU ARE AN IRONMAN? we even had to take pics with students from Mississippi.  Shortly after this woman "borrowed us to show her friends". Hilarious.....

"We don't do that where we are from........." imagine a thick southern accent and a fat girl. 

Most challenging thing I have ever done by far.  People ask if I am doing another next year. nope.  I am very happy with that.  Maybe in many many years...who knows. but for now, i am good. 

congrats to mike for winning his age group :) and breno for a great finish as well!  you both made my weekend even more awesome.   

Somehow I am not that sore.  I was sore the first few days, but nothing like I expected.  Train smart :o)

going for a run tomorrow. 

2013 races so far include....tough mudder in may, patriot half in june (havent signed up) and vegas world champs 70.3 in sept. let me know if anyone wants to play.

Week 26

TAPER!!!!!! I finally feel like I am tapering....and it's weird.  I had all this time this weekend. I tried to just rest and relax, but i didn't really know what to do with myself. I feel alright...i usually go into a taper slump where i just feel off, but everything should work out come race day.

btw, there's a hurricane coming. but somehow i think our flight is just right after the problems. So far...still on for wed evening departure. That would suck to be delayed...who knows when we would be able to get out. That would suck. I'm crossing my fingers we keep our flight. Sandy, get over yourself.

Mon 10/22: OFF. Monday beers :)

Tues 10/23: 18 mile bike (1 hour), 3 mile run (26 min).  My race bike was in the shop...and I didn't feel like bothering with my old bike. So...being an exercise physiologist has it's perks. I jumped on one of our metabolic cart bikes (which is a great workout bc you go by watts) and cranked it out.  Of course I got a few beers after the run. Per usual.

Wed 10/24: TRX. Nothing crazy. Got some overtime hours at work. boom.

Thurs 10/25: 3000 yard swim, 11 mile bike (50 min). I got out early at swim practice. Oh the joys of masters swimming. and taper. thanks.

Fri 10/26: 6.2 mile run (56 min), TRX. I opted to do my "long run" earlier than usual just because I could. I kept a steady pace, but no records shattered. It felt weird, but towards the end I was feeling better. Taper slumpin.

Sat 10/27: 32 mile bike (2 hours), 1.5 mile run (14 min), TRX. Shortest weekend long ride in a long time. All this time....what to do. Oh I played some cornhole. gotta get back for winter league...we need our 3rd winners title of course.

Sun 10/28: 14 mile bike (1 hour), TRX. This was actually just me commuting around. I went to swim practice but failed to actually read my emails saying it was earlier than usual. Then i was going to go to practice at 6. then I didn't. I bought a bird hat, some bike tubes, and some goldfish.  And doing laundry. I feel so productive.


Weekly Totals:

3000 yard swim,  75 mile bike (4 hours 50 min), 10.7 mile run (1 hour 36 min), TRX x4 Hat. I thought about doing a list of the crap I have to bring...and my plans. but really...im not that OCD about plans. I have an idea in my head. It won't go perfectly anyways, so why bother stressing over it (nutrition mostly). So, I guess this means this is my last post before the race. I have to say I am more excited than anything at this point. I already put in all the work i could possibly do. It didn't go perfectly, which it never does. but I did the best i could...and now it's time to just have fun. The run is going to hurt a lot (i am not prepared), but such is my life. LETS DO THIS!

Week 25

I just finished drinking a black IPA from 21st amendment. SO GOOD! Recommended. That and SlumBrew. I am branching out my beer tastes...it's part of the training.  First sort of week of Taper. WHY AM I TIRED? probably bc I still worked out for like 5 hours today. Not going to lie...I kind of hit a wall. I'm bored riding 9084903428934 miles every weekend (usually by myself). It's time to RACE. well, by race i mean finish.  good timing on my part.

Here's the week at a glance.

Monday 10/15: OFF. Who wants to do anything on a monday? Come on people.

Tues 10/16: 60 min bike (19 miles), 5.4 mile run (43 min), TRX. I did another run with a visit to the bar again in the middle. I like those. Everyone should do that.

Wed 10/17: TRX. I was going to bike, but then I didn't. Self-coaching is the best way.

Thurs 10/18: 3.4 mile run (29 min), TRX. Again, I was going to swim, but I just didn't feel like it. Can you tell that this is getting old? hahah.

Fri 10/19: OFF. I got a massage. I have a back of rock apparently. ouch

Sat 10/20: 7.1 mile run (1 hour 5 min), TRX, 18 mile bike (1 hour). I started the morning off with the Komen 5k, representing UKE running. We rocked it out (literally) singing/dancing/being ridiculous with so many songs on the course.  Props to the UKE star pattie for bleeding for the race.  After showing the crowd how we have fun.....I headed home to go out for another run...i know. i am a tool. but i needed to do a little more ok?  I'm not sure what I did in between that and the bike, but after I had some slumbrews...aaawww yeah.

TEAM UKE RUNNING!!!!!!

Giant shoe, obviously.

Sun 10/21: 3200 yard swim, 17 mile bike commute (1 hour 30 min), 50 mile bike (3 hours 10 min), 2 mile run (18 min). Phew, despite a "taper"...this was like a 5 hour long workout.  I pretty much was pooped out by the end of the day. Did I mention I hit the wall yet? I rode my old road bike for 30 miles and felt like a giant hippo on wheels. My race bike is getting a tune up.  OMG, thank goodness I don't ride that thing more than 6 miles usually. I am so ready to JUST DO THIS RACE. LETS DO IT. ok, that's all.

WEEKLY Totals: 

3200 yard swim,  104 mile bike (6 hours 40 min),  17.9 mile run (2 hours 6 min) Not too shabby for a taper week. This week will be even less. Ahhh. One week till I leave. I can't believe it's so soon.  nervous excited nervous excited denial excited nervous ....what? Here's another random pic                                                  Obviously I am a JT-REX. I hunt larabars, burritos, and beer.

Week 24

Last difficult weekend............DONE. see ya later. no more. I am now on my way down the hill. Ok, thanks, finally.  Made it through a rough few weeks of training.

The week.

Mon 10/8: TRX. If you haven't caught on...I don't do much on Mondays. As it should be.

Tues 10/9: 15 mile bike (45 min), 2 mile run (18 min), TRX. Honestly, I was sore still.........that 18 mile run was .............fun. BTW, it's my half bday, so i halfly celebrated.

Wed 10/10: off. unusual for my week. but instead I went to a work type dinner and ate my face off with a bill of ridiculous amounts. I couldn't move I was so full. Wow.

Thurs 10/11: 60 min bike (18 miles), TRX, 2.6 mile run (20 min). I normally swim on these days, but I heard there were hardly any lanes....so I didn't go. This is what I did instead. It doesn't look that exciting.  Wait........oh but it was? I think i divided it with beer in the middle. per usual.

Fri 10/12: off. I ended up cancelling a massage bc i had to work. lame

Sat 10/13: 90 mile bike (4 hours 35 min), 10 mile run (1 hour 33 min). Ok. So the bike was done all INSIDE.  I woke up with the temp being 29 degrees at first....so i decided to at least do 30 miles inside. Then, I got everything ready to ride outside.........rode 1 mile and completely WIMPED out.  My  double socks, double gloves did nothing. I wasn't prepared and I didn't want to get sick.  I have to admit I felt really wimpy, but whatever.  I ended up kicking ass inside and doing way more than intended. Plus, KONA was online.  I was motivated. Inspired. Everything.  90 miles inside training= rubber on my back tire pealing off.  Today I looked at it.....it's gross how the tire gets destroyed. I'm seeing purple stuff. Anyways, the run felt badass....I ran faster than intended.....which is good prep. Beat yourself up a bit before the real deal.

Sun 10/14: 4500 yard swim, TRX, 35 mile bike commute (2 hours 45 min). I will be honest. This Ironman training never really HIT me up until the last week or so. But man, did it hit me this day. I was  planning on biking a little and running easy. I was mid trainer, did some TRX, then passed out on my bed for 2 hours instead of finishing everything.  I then realized that this was a lot of training...and I was not recovered.  I am pleased how far I got without feeling completely exhausted though....but it has been hitting me harder than before.  SMACK.........stop body. And let me tell you, i felt it monday at work............i passed out at my desk multiple times just bc i didn't have enough food in me. Thankfully  that's the hardest training. Now for the easier stuff!!!!!!!!!!!!

TOTALS

4500 yard swim, 158 mile bike (9 hours 5 min), 14.6 mile run (2 hours 11 min), TRX x5 another random iceland pic. bc it was so awesome. I am dancing? I am happy to be close to being done with this race. It's been ridiculous.

Week 23

One word. PHEW. One of the toughest weeks in the books fo....sho. Due to lack of a running plan/playing catch up, I had to do my longest bike and run........in the same weekend. I figure, well I might as well do the longest run of my life on 100+ mile tired bike legs. It will simulate race day better. I think. You know that feeling when you finish something and you can't believe you actually physically could do that? I still feel that way.

Mon 10/1: OFF. Mondays. aren't meant to be much. 

Tues 10/2: 60 min bike (20 miles), 6 mile run (54 min). Ok, so sometimes I get creative with my workouts and I have to say...this is one of my favorites.  I rode on my trainer for 60 min (kind of boring), then ran 3 miles to a bar to meet my coworkers, drank 3 beers, then ran 3 more miles back towards home. You know those people who grab beers during a race and you can't believe they can stomach that? I am one of those people. and proud to be.

Wed 10/3: 65 min bike (22 miles), TRX. Can't remember, but this looks boring.

Thurs 10/4: 3500 yard swim, TRX. Sprint workout. Here I go again trying to pretend I can go fast at swimming.

Fri 10/5: off. I got another massage....it was necessary. I still have like 3 paid for. Win.

Sat 10/6: 103 mile bike (6 hours 20 min). So, I wanted to get creative...considering my other bike rides haven't been new or anything worth talking about. So, I took the commuter rail to Beverly Ma (North Shore about 20 miles), then rode up the coast all the way to New Castle, NH. It was gorgeous out.  After Hampton beach, the views were amazing. I felt good. I was going fast. maybe too fast....something's not right.  I felt so in the zone that it didn't matter.  I stopped to eat a PB&J then turned around to head back.  2 Min into the way back............OMG. HEADWINDS from HELL.  Not just light headwinds, but in your face i want to knock you off your bike headwinds.  Honestly, it didn't occur to me much that I was being pushed the whole way up.  I struggled for about 25 miles in these winds when I finally got a little relief (not much) in Ma. I got back to Beverly and just missed the train. I thought the train was coming in 1 hour, but oh i was wrong. I waited 2 hours to get on a train to go home hahaha. A stranger got me beer and we hung out.  Chipotle on the way home, then I crashed. Ouch.

Beautiful coast of NH...Rye beach to be exact. Tail winds, happy still.

Fall is here :)

Sun 10/7: 18 mile run (2 hours 57 min). Wow, this was the longest by 5 miles for me ever. At mile 8 i couldn't believe still had 8 more miles (i was planning on doing 16ish). The games your mind plays on you during such a long workout is crazy. At one point I was ready to stop, then another my legs felt numb and i felt actually better (weird right). I ended up running faster at the end....but took random walk breaks (bc of this accelerated training i dont want to kill myself). ended up being good. I was sore  yes, but what a runners high.  It's like nothing else!

I just realized that I never did (and won't) do 26.2 miles in one week for my training. hahahha. but hey, as long as i am healthy...whatever.

TOTALS

6900 yard swim, 171 mile bike (10 hours 40 min), 24 mile run (3 hours 51 min), TRX x2 can i just say i am kind of tired? ok, that's all.

Biking in Boston: Fighting the Massholes, Part 1.

                         

Let’s face it. Biking in Boston sucks. The drivers are nuts, the roads are narrow (although I have to admit, they are trying to add bike lanes. PLUS!), and there’s just a lot of people to get in your way. I hate to start this paragraph like this, but I remember the first time I decided to start commuting in Boston very vividly.  Why not save some money, exercise, and get to Citysports (where I worked) probably faster???  Well, lets just say I witnessed an unfortunate accident. None the less,  I decided to not commute by bike after that.

Despite this accident I would rather not describe on a blog, I eventually got hooked on bikes. I now commute over 30 miles a week in Boston and then ride another 100 or so in/around Boston.   I’ve had countless close calls and only one accident involving a car (one involving myself and my bike only haha).  Keep in mind a few things when commuting/riding in the City………

Be aware of EVERYTHING around you.  What’s ahead, what’s to the side, the other side, the lights, the people, etc.  When it’s busy, a car or person can jump out from surprise (or a blind spot).

Don’t wear headphones. I admit sometimes I have them in one ear. I am dumb.

Use lights when it’s dark.  Make yourself known.

Don’t be surprised if you start talking to cars.  And swear a lot. WHAT THE F**K???? USE YOUR BLINKER!!! They probably can’t hear you, but if it makes you feel better do it.

Just because you are in the bike lane doesn’t mean cars don’t think they can join in too.  The ones that float into the bike lane are my favorite (and by favorite I mean I hate them so badly). I’ve actually slapped my hand on cars to let them know…hey you are in a bike lane…and um there’s a bike coming?  Or just use your rearview mirrors better.

Bikers (or cyclists whatever) aren’t perfect either.  I sometimes run lights just so I don’t have to clip out.  But when it comes down to it, we are on a bike.  You in a car. Let’s all just chill out and get along.

Wear a helmet.  Really? You aren’t cool by not wearing one.  You may think so, but you won’t feel it when you hit your head somewhere.  Or wait, you will totally feel it. ouch

Watch out for car doors. When you see a person sitting in a parked car along the street…be extra careful.  Some people are smart and look in their mirrors, but some are not. They might even yell at you after hitting the door…then drive off!

Get comfortable in tight spaces. It takes a little practice riding between parked cars and cars that are stuck in traffic.  But, when you get good at it….you can say….haha suckers….you are in a car stuck in traffic and I am biking faster than you! And not as fat as you!

Clip out early if you aren’t used to clips (if you even use them).  If you don’t need to stop well whatever just clip back in.  At least you were prepared.

Expect to be yelled at. Even by bikers with baskets when you don’t even do anything.  People will yell at you for riding too far in the lane, riding side by side with a friend, or for being ridiculously good looking in spandex.  Embrace it. It’s entertaining. Plus, they are too stressed out about something that’s going to go away in 5 sec.

Expect to be honked at.  People are just jealous you are biking and they aren’t.  It’s okay.

Don’t be dumb.  If there’s a red light and traffic crossing, DO NOT GO. DUH.  I’ve watched bikers just think they rule the road and cut off cars who DO actually have the right away.  Don’t be stupid. You do not rule the road if you are a douche. You only rule the road when you are awesome.

Wave to other cyclists/bikers. Be friendly and overly excited to see someone else out there.  It puts a smile on faces.  Plus we have to stick together, yo.

Offer help if you see someone on the side of the road (with a bike….and maybe other people).  Once I stopped out of exhaustion to rest and someone asked me if I was okay.  It was heartfelt. But I was fine.

Bring a debit car and ID. You never know when you might stop at a bar for beer. Oh, and so people can identify you if you get into an accident. But the first is more important.

Massholes will always be massholes. Be ready for anything.

Oh, and watch out for potholes. and don't carry an umbrella. 

Don't be like this guy.

Most important, have fun.  You get places quicker and get some good exercise in. 

Yay biking!

Week 22

This is it...5 more weeks to go (well now I am technically 1 month).  Time to make magic happen!  This was a rough week in terms of training (and other things I won't mention here). But ended up being a great week....and I am starting to actually think this might go.........sort of well? WHAT?

Also, I'm having crazy thoughts of getting another bike. YES I KNOW i have 3 bikes already. But bikes are FUN and AWESOME. I kind of thought I'd take a year off/do fun random races next year. But I made vegas....which means I have to pretend im super suuurious again (we all know that's not really true). but having a sick tri bike would make me look really fast/cool, therefore I would automatically become cooler/faster. Obviously. Not sure. I spend all my money on bikes as it is.

The week!

Mon 9/24:  Off. I have successfully continued my training to include sunday/mon/tues at the bar. or some combination of. It's really adding to my training, i think. no, seriously.

Tues 9/25: 21 mile bike (65 min), 3 mile run (24 miles). Back in business. The 3 miler was sort of quick and felt good. I was really surprised. I hit the bar after. I know...I am awesome.

Wed 9/26: 22 mile bike (70 min), TRX. The weather in Boston this week=crappy.  I also learned that I am tearing my tire up on the trainer. it's starting to smell like rubber in my room ..........yum? not really. Note to self.......put new tire on before race.

Thurs 9/27: 4 mile run (36 min), 3800 yard swim. Starting to feel more comfortable back running.  Hey it's 4 miles more than before but 22 miles less..........damn. Btw, i totally go to sprint workouts consistently. It's like i am pretending I can sprint? HAHA!  I also almost got hit by cars way too many times.  I am uncomfortable.

Fri 9/28: Off. I got a massage. this is a trend you will notice...i have a ton of already paid for from when i broke myself and never went. SCORE! Then I obviously did nothing Friday night. per usual.

Sat 9/29: 74 mile bike (4 hours 30 min), 10 mile run (1 hour 40 min), TRX. This was definitely one of the tougher workouts I've done thus far.  The weather seriously sucked, but I definitely can't go 70-80 miles on my trainer. So I split it up.  Did 36 on the trainer then 38 outside with a friend.  I have to say riding when it's damp, wet, sort of rainy kind of stinks.  My feet went numb and cold....then on my run they stayed numb for another 4 miles.  I also did not decide to do my run after until halfway through the bike. So, basically I didn't prepare...I didn't eat much. I also was covered in black rubber bc i had to change my tube quickly before going out for the 2nd part of the ride.  My tube has lasted over 2500 miles...that's unbelievable. I only had to change it bc i broke the valve and couldn't pump it up.  That's impressive.  Go awesome tube.  The 10 miles was weird...considering i havent ran.  I purposely walked every 3...but finished. Legs sore, but no pain. GOOD!

Sun 9/30: 5400 yard swim, TRX, 34 mile bike commute (3 hours 15 min). 5400 yards???? That's the most I've done in ages.  Solid workout though. I was surprised how much i commuted this week too. that's cool. I was toast. then i had some beers.

WEEKLY TOTAL

9200 yard swim,  151 mile bike (10 hours), 17 mile run (2 hours 45 min), TRX x4

TOUGH week ahead my friends. Long weekend of training...the longest run of my life and longest ride of my life. Thank you thank you thank you to my awesome friends for the encouragement, making fun of me, and just posting random shit to FB.  Everything is helpful. I found this old pic...and made me LOL. literally. UC DAVIS!!!!!!!!!!

Week 21

So, can I just point out one thing first? Ok, thanks. So my original "plan" was 24 weeks (not that I have been actually following it, but that's not the point). I am apparently unable to count correctly...my race is definitely not in 3 weeks. I was pretty sure I started week 1 when I was supposed to, but maybe I was just so excited (who wouldn't get soo so excited to start devoted your entire life to hurting your body!????). I have a MS and I cannot count. I wasn't even close.. I just realized this too.
*pats self on back*

Ok, down to business.

Mon 9/17: OFF. I slowly started to hurt more and more from riding 210 miles in a week. And slowly starting to wish I had not. but it's still pretty badass.

Tues 9/17: 3 mile run (28 min).  So I lied. I didn't time this, I just made up that time. I was nervous to run. It's scary. but it went ok, actually.  I probably went slower.

Wed 9/18: 65 min bike (19 miles), TRX. A good old fashioned trainer workout. Nothing exciting to say about that. call me maybe?

Thurs 9/19: TRX. I am such a slacker.

Fri 9/20: off. Seriously, hurt so good/bad. I got a massage and turned down people to go out. Training sometimes and is taking a toll on my body.

Sat 9/21: 5.1 mile run, 19 mile bike (65 min). Now this was a fun day. I woke up early to run to Northeastern (faster than taking the dumb train. i hate the train. smelly gross people). Then met up with pattie and friends to head to big dog 5k where she made her debut with UKE running. Bascially she sings/plays the ukulele while running. Awesome. She did great.  And this was my first 5k ever (not including triathlon 5ks).  So i automatically PRed. We managed to still go like 11 min miles even though we were kicking dancing shouting stopping doing everything but running normally.

Sun 9/22: 57 mile bike (4 hours), 2 mile run (17 min), TRX, 16 mile commute bike (1 hour 30 min). HUB ON WHEELS! So I last minute signed up for this even in Boston (gov center) to be on Team Larabar.  There are 10, 30 and a 50 mile ride around the city to choose from. Of course I choose the 50. I have to admit, I was not very happy at the beginning, but i guess I expected it to be super crowded and slow.  I didn't really like riding my brakes though. Once it broke off to 30 and 50 things got better.  I rode along with some middle age men for a little while.  We were hauling pretty good.  I think i held my own pretty well for a chick. After it was done there was a partay...I ate a burrito then headed home for some beer of course.

So they closed off the Freeway for us to bike all over it. That was cool. I was weaving all over the place. Just like how i used to drive in california anyways.

Views were awesome. 

WEEKLY TOTALS

111 mile bike (7 hours 40 min), 10.1 mile run (1 hour 40 min), TRX x2 I slightly tamed it down (hard to believe taming things down is still over 100 miles of biking). Hopefully feeling better this week. Right now I am paranoid about my foot. "it feels weird" "maybe i shouldn't run" "what am i going to do". emotional rollercoaster. it will be fine. i think.

OH and notice I boycotted swimming this week. I dunno, i have old shoulders. they need a rest from that grueling (sarcasm) once a week routine. 

Im so full of it. 

Week 20

Another full week....not running.  What do you do when you can't run? Bike. A LOT. and when you can't hardly move your legs, keep biking. well, maybe take a break and sit in the grass for a few min...but keep GOING. haha. I've taken so much aleve this week. and iced my foot so much (mostly while writing reports at my desk at work).

How do you train for a marathon in just over a month? You just do. Drink some adrenaline or something. or whatever.

Here's the week. records flying all over the place. eggs in your face.

Mon 9/10: TRX. Every week im pretty sure I say how much i love this thing. well i just did again.

Tues 9/11: 25 mile bike (70 min), TRX. Trainer workout. I try to do one of these a week at least. it's perfect for interval training. I randomly went out drinking with some old friends. That hurt a little in the morning. but nbd.

Wed 9/12: 30 mile bike (1 hour 50 min). I was goin to head out for the last GLV group ride, but felt like going earlier than they leave. So I did my own wellseley/natick/needham ride. Nothing exciting. It's the worst time in the world to go biking after you get out of work at 4pm. I was biking faster than the cars were moving. I was also getting really close to the cars too. I've grown to not care as much.

Thurs 9/13: 4200 yard swim. I always seem to go to the "sprint free" day at masters.  I am not a sprinter but I sure like to pretend to.  This workout kicked my ass. As does all the sprinting workouts do. I never do butterfly or breastroke anymore. The only time i do backstroke is while pulling on the lane line.  Yes, I still do that.

Fri 9/14: 40 mile bike (2 hours 30 min). Since I knew i had a BIG ride on sunday, i just went ahead and burnt my legs out a day easlier. Plus it was going to rain saturday. That's not very fun.  I went to walden pond and back, my favorite and most carless route. It's all back roads for the most part. If anyone wants me to take them...let me know.  You can always extend it easily too.

Sat 9/15: TRX.  I ran a lot of errands. and Stuff.

Sun 9/16: 100 mile bike (6 hours 15 min), TRX, 15 mile commute (1 hour 15 min). I was supposed to go on an organized ride out 20 miles from my house, but those plans fell through last min. So i had to think of some alternative to get in 100 miles.  So, I did my walden---> concord---> carlisle ride (55 miles) and back to refill bottles/eat pb&j. then did my dover medfield ride (45 miles).  I have to admit. At mile 80 I had to stop and sit in the grass for a little. my legs were dead. Some guy even asked me if i was okay. haha. No choice but to just get back.  I've never been on my bike that many miles in one week. FUCK YA!  Oh and i added up my weekly bike commute too. it counts.

WEEKLY TOTALs

210 mile bike (13 hours), TRXx3, 4200 yard swim, no running as of today i have 6 weeks left. SIX WEEKS LEFT till IF. PS: so, i am leaving on Halloween. and plan on dressing up on the plane. ideas for costumes? thanks.

Here's a random picture of me and a horse from iceland. haha

Week 19

Recovery week. Ahhhh I like these. It was necessary considering I have been biking ALL the miles ALL the time. Again, I drank my face off one particular night, but hey...we all recover in different special ways right?

I am also learning quickly how training for an Ironman is a freaking emotional rollercoaster (self talk...that is...all the crazy thoughts in my head). One minute i am jumping up and down I AM SO PUMPED! THIS IS GOING TO BE AWESOME. then the next ........I HATE THIS...THIS IS GOING TO SUCK SO BAD! yes in all caps. I am Ironman Bipolar. Self diagnosed.  Yesterday i was never going to train for one again. Today I may do another one in like 10 years. Bi-freaking-polar. haha.

Anyways....here's the week!

Mon 9/3: 4500 yard swim, 16 mile bike (1 hour 15 min), TRX. Happy Labor Day! I love having a real job and getting paid for not working on holidays. Thanks. I got myself up really dang early to go to swim practice. I am giving myself a pat on the back. Good job.

Tues 9/4: 28 mile bike (1 hour 10 min), TRX. I was flying...on the trainer. Well, I didn't actually go anywhere...but fast intervals. I love TRX. Everyone should have one.

Wed 9/5:  off.  A dear friend was in town...so I overate at a BBQ place then felt sick. Obviously awesome!

Thurs 9/6: 18 mile bike (55 min), 3 mile run (28 min). OMG I RAN??? What was I thinking?? This felt weird , but not painful. Ok, that's good right? Stay tuned...

Friday 9/7: 7 mile bike commute (30 min). I actually didn't do anything, but just added up some bike commuting so it actually looked like I did something. Happy Birthday Lisa....we drank a lot of margaritas. It was fun. I stole some Tabasco sauce from Boloco. SHH.

Sat 9/8. 48 mile bike (3 hours 15 min). What's better than riding 48 mile after a night of margarita drinking??? I call it training under harsh conditions. It's relevant. Anyways, the margaritas didn't really bother me....it was the WIND.  I went out with a friend to the blue hills....we climbed...a lot...with the wind in our faces the whole time. It changed direction pretty much whenever we did just to laugh in our faces. It was a tough ride, but good. I hate biking in the city. On our way back we rode past some people yelling that jesus was the way out.  We found the way out by taking a right then going straight.

Sun 9/9: 4 mile run (37 min), 7 mile bike commute (30 min), 4400 yard swim, TRX, sit on a boat and have a beer. Oh ooops. i think boating should be included in my training. Anyways, I swam AGAIN? What's wrong with me. Ok, don't answer that. But anyways, that run was not very good. I was fine for 3 miles then went for the 4th for kicks....ouch foot. OUCH. I get it, you hate to run. Please stop. I then solved my run depression by hanging on a friends boat and going to Hull, MA (sea dog brew pub!). It was awesome....relaxing. Great way to top the weekend off.

WEEKLY totals

8900 yard swim, 124 mile bike (7 hours 20 min), 7 mile run (1 hour 5 min), TRX x4 PS: i got an MRI today due to lack of time and lack of foot healing. No bone broken (thank goodness), but my tendon sheath is very angry at me. Shut up tendon sheath and do your job.  Get over yourself!!! Another week off running...ICE ICE ICE drugs drugs drugs. maybe i won't have to crawl the marathon after all! PSS: my knee is healing well from that fall i took a few weeks ago. haha

just a view from the boat. nbd

 

Week 17/18

Hello! Sorry I lack on posting. It's been an interesting few weeks. After that (awesome) race, I pretty much couldn't put weight down on my foot the entire next week.  Being paranoid as I get with injuries and this ironman coming up....I got it x-rayed and was in the clear. Well, we think. Currently resting it..../freaking out about not running.  However, I made some progress yesterday by successfully completing 3 miles and being able to put weight down on the foot after too. Hooray. 23 to go. hah.

by the way, you know how you sign up for ridiculous races and think...i have SO MUCH TIME. well now i have exactly 2 months. holy moly!

Week 17

Mon8/20: off.

Tues 8/21: TRX. I drank like a 6 pack the night before and was really hungover. hey had to celebrate a successful race :)

Wed 8/23: TRX, 28 mile bike (1 hour 40 min). I don't remember what this was. sorry haha

Thurs 8/24: TRX, 4300 yard swim. I can now say I successfully can get myself to swim ONCE a week. I am totally paying too much money for masters to do this. but hey it's something right?

Fri 8/25: 18 mile commute bike (1 hour 30 min), TRX. To be honest, I started biking to work. I live just over a mile. isn't that sad? However, my foot wasn't cooperating AND i save like 15 min of sleep! and the miles actually accumulate over the week. so win?

Sat 8/26: 102 mile bike (6 hours 15 min), TRX. First century ride EVER!  I rode to Providence and back. I have to admit, the ride there was awesome. No cars, no stresses, just straight up riding. The way back sucked. I went a different way, ended up on a really busy road, then had to take random back roads (which were nice but had no idea where i was going), then once i got back to where i knew i was...there were just a lot of cars. Too many cars too close to me...makes me uncomfortable. I know i am on a bike and im not perfect...but i am ON A BIKE....please.....you are IN A CAR. YOU CAN HURT ME. so just be careful people....bikers can be idiots but take a moment. I ended up at 87 miles once home but set out to do 100. I got cussed out by some crazy woman with a basket on her bike when i was 98 miles in. Come on lady, stop....i just wanted to be home. Otherwise successful and feeling good about biking :P

Sun 8/27: 32 mile bike (2 hours 10 min). Ouch a bit sore, but since i'm not riding had to keep the bike thing going, right?


WEEKLY totals: 

4300 yard swim, 180 mile bike (11 hours 30 min), no running, TRX x5 record bike total :) Week 18:  Mon 8/29:  TRX. sore. Tues 8/30:  70 min bike (20 miles), TRX, 3800 yard swim. I literally got home from work and went from one workout to the other until it was time for bed. intense haha. Test set at swim practice. I can actually hold just under 1:10's on 100s free. on 1:20. the interval was actually too easy for me! I am actually getting somewhere.  Wed 8/31:  15 mile bike (45 min), 12 mile bike commute (1 hour). wahoo. Thurs 9/1:  15 mile bike commute (1 hour 15 min). So, I went on a booze cruise, biked home, fell off my bike. hahaha. road rash. haven't done that in a while (biking home post drinking fun).  Fri 9/2: off, obviously.  Sat 9/3: 48 mile bike (3 hours), 3 mile run (30 min), TRX. I honestly was going to do a really long bike....but I was totally sore from falling off my bike. In fact, my shoulder is STILL sore. But, you gotta get back up. The run felt weird....but like I said, i could walk after at least. Sun 9/4: 59 mile bike (3 hours 50 min), TRX. An awesome ride out to Carlisle with a friend. Love that route....non-stressful. perfect day out too. WEEKLY totals:  3800 yard swim, 157 mile bike (10 hours), 3 mile run (30 min), TRX x 4 until next time! 2 months to go...

Week 16

Hello! RACE WEEK!

First of all, I hadn't done a triathlon in over a year. Last year was a disaster for races, so I was pretty pumped about getting back into it.

Before my race report, the weekly mileage...very short version.

Weekly totals:

3000 yard swim, 123 mile bike (7 hours), 19.6 mile run (2 hours 50 min), TRX x2 I didn't really taper as you can see. I basically did the 2 day taper and had some good training days. Can't back off mileage too much. Check out that run...hell yah. Ironman Timberman 70.3 Well, I went up early to Franklin NH Friday (the race wasn't till Sunday) to chill at a lake house up there. We were fortunate enough to crash at such an awesome place. We got there kind of late-ish drank some beers ate some food then passed out (hey I was tired from work).    It was extra nice to have a day to just chill before racing.  We all woke up at around 8am and jumped in the lake for a short swim.  The water was refreshing and perfect. Although honestly I JUST unpacked and my bathing suit smells nasty. I'm not sure what was actually in that lake, but whatever. It was good at the time. We made a ton of bacon, some awesome burritos, and then headed to check in. I said goodbye to my bike (maybe literally, im not sure) and headed back to chill at the house. Wake up time= 4am. Basically you don't sleep much before doing a triathlon.  The weather was awesome.  Couldn't ask for anything better.  The water temp ended up being 72, which meant wetsuit legal. I hate my wetsuit, but hey if everyone else is going to wear one I will too. I successfully went to the bathroom 3 times before actually getting ready to put the wetsuit on.  The 3rd time being the clutch. I felt like a million bucks. Well, I started out kind of not so well.  I bought a new tri suit that was...well BROKEN. the zipper was missing a piece. So, I went ghetto...and safety pinned the damn thing so I wouldn't be running around with a busted open tri suit (although that would have maybe been bad ass).  We walked over towards the start (my wave was 20 min after the first).  I listened to the national anthem and peed in my wetsuit. I took in a ton of liquids that morning...what can i say. First thing first...the SWIM.  I have managed to sort of swim these last 3 months, but not really. once a week....sometimes. I made sure to get a sweet spot for the start because well I was going to kick everyone's ass (in my head at least).  The swim started out shallow. Most people made the mistake of walking/trying to run through the shallow-ness. I watched the pros and copied them by doing dolphin dives (pushing off the bottom like a freakin dolphin of course). I quickly pulled away FAST from the wave....with only one girl by me.  I drafted her for a bit until I lost sight of her.  The swim was fine...I managed to not hit ANYONE or get kicked.  I just kind of did my own thing. I saw tons of different colored caps everywhere.  Ended up 2nd out of the water in my age group 29 min. Ok, wet suit strippers time. love that.

The BIKE. Lucky for me, I came up a month or so ago and rode the course. So, I had somewhat of an idea what I was in for.....HILLS HILLS HILLS at the beginning...a nice slight down hill with rollers ...then back. It was a tough course, but I loved it. At one point I was worried I was going too quick for my own good...but I just kept at it best I could while the old men passed me with their 2000 dollar loud zip wheels.  whatever. haha. I took in only 2 bottles of liquid (one water, one very concentrated electrolyte bottle), 3 gu's and some chomps. I was surprised I took NOTHING from aide stations. In fact, I felt like I had to pee a bit on the bike (theme of the race)...weird right? I am actually hydrated! Ended up going 3 hours 2 min on bike...ave 18.4 mph. Baller. 56 miles didn't feel nearly as long the first time i did this in RI.

The RUN. I am super weird. I LOVE running after biking. In fact, I prefer that "heaviness" feeling.  I tend to get a little too overly excited though.  Felt great......................at the beginning. Going with my theme of needing to pee, i was way too stubborn to stop to actually go to the bathroom so obviously i just kind of peed here and there throughout the run. Hey, it's just #1. Who cares. Anyways, the aide stations rocked...they were so into it and kept you going. My favorite part about aide stations are always the sponges. The course was 2 loops so you knew what you had to do the 2nd time around.  After about 5 miles I started getting sock awkward rubbing blistering...awkwardnessssssss. Great.....I had what 7 miles to go? I kept looking at my time and my pace was just getting slower and slower...then kind of peaked just under 9 min/miles towards the end.  My legs hurt like hell. And i certainly wanted to get my shoes off asap. Ended up going 1:56 half marathon...and my best ever is 1 52. so not bad at all. 

Total time: 5:32 10th place overall age group

There's more. We stayed around for awards because the relay got 2nd...BAD ASS! and mike got a 4th place.  They gave out syrup haha. it was awesome.  So, there are 40 total slots that go to the top people for the world championship in vegas. I was told i had a chance because if no one claims the spot it rolls down until someone does. I just brushed that off...how would I qualify for an event so big like that? NO WAY. i went to get my bike and just so happened to pass the tent to hear JULIE TRACY. WHAT???? People were yelling at me do you want the spot???? I'm pretty sure my heart skipped several beats and I ran over ....HELL TO THE YES! I got a spot to go to the world championship in vegas for 2013. I still think it's nuts. Looks like i'm not retiring after all. 

I'm awkwardly sore still...i ran on my foot weird...but i feel super pumped. 

Until next time....

back to business. 

Week 15

Recovery weeks for me tend to mean...hey you should probably go out a lot and drink beer because you don't have to get up to run/bike 2o390329832093290 miles. So, basically i'm counter productive with this "recovery thing". but i don't really care. weeeeee

On the plus side. I AM RUNNING! again. kind of. just in time before this half ironman thing I am doing this weekend. Basically training through the race (2 day taper?). because i should. fun fun

Monday 8/6: I don't remember. i tend to take mondays off now

Tuesday 8/7: 3000 yard swim, 40 mile bike (2 hours 45 min), 4 mile run (35 min)

So, randomly two cases got cancelled at work because no one was there to even do them. So i figured...fuck it. I'm not going to work. and im barely using benefit time anyways. so, what better use of a day off then to do all of the triathlon stuff? DUH. I also picked up my bike from receiving a new chain/cassette. it sounds...........beautiful. i forgot the feeling of riding a new bike chain. helllooooo. i dropped off my mtn bike too. then picked it up again. i also day drank. Wed 8/8: I went out after work instead of working out. oops. Thurs 8/9: 3 mile run (28 min), TRX. Nothing exciting. Friday 8/10: 20 mile bike (70 min), TRX. Weather sucked. Pouring rain. Sat 8/11:7 mile run (1 hour 2 min), TRX, 19 mile bike (60 min). At least I know I can run 7 mile straight again. Thank goodness. Hip tightens up still but just stretching everyday. and hope for the best. Sun 8/12: TRX, 21 mile bike (65 min), 3 mile run (28 min). The weather was lame...it kept saying it was going to rain. I ended up doing way too much trainer biking this weekend. The only thing fun is listening to music and dancing. on the bike. WEEKLY Totals:  3000 yard swim, 100 mile bike (6 hours), 17 mile run (2 hours 33 min), TRX x5 Fairly pleased I still get in 100 miles in on a recovery week. Time to get pumped for Timberman now. Please note my running is back increasing. HOORAH

Week 14

Hellllllo! First off, I'd like to say......my ass is sore. ok, now that that's out of the way...I actually had a pretty good week! Lots of crazyness, per usual. and one more thing...3 MORE MONTHS! and 2 weeks till half ironman. yikes.

Mon 7/30: TRX. I tend to get lazy on monday's. Sorry, I'm not sorry.

Tues 7/31: 21 mile bike (70 min intervals on trainer), 3 mile run (29 min), TRX. This is probably the first day in a while i did the "whole workout the book says to do". Pat on the back. I ran super slow....and it was ok. Not terrible, but not awesome. I'll take it considering. 

Wed 8/1: 17 mile bike (60 min), TRX. Ah yes, the GLV ride was cancelled because of rain...so I was left to sit on my trainer...it was boring.

Thurs 8/2: 4000 yard swim, 11 mile commuting bike (54 min).  I got out of work a little late...so I had to rush around a little to get to swim practice. not to mention it was at a pool a little further away and I didn't really know where it was. I was about to head out and of course there was a wall there...and I slammed my elbow (the non used to be broken one) against that wall that was there so hard I swore for a little while then sat down. then stood up and had to sit down longer. Ouch! there was a nice lump there...then i went to practice and got there 15 min late (not to mention i hadnt been there for 2 weeks). The coached just laughed at me. i like masters. 

Friday 8/3: TRX. I decided to rest the legs before an epic adventure the next day.  Did I mention I like trying to pretend to be EPIC? yes. I turned down people to go out. I am SO COOL! 

Sat 8/4: 95 mile bike (6 hours 15 min). SOOoooo. One crazy guy I know was crazy enough to go with me on this ride...so much better than solo-ing it. I plotted the route out...sort of. wrote down a few things on a piece of paper, which i ran out of room so ended up writing down only part of the route. I just looked at the route long enough to memorize it....thank you undergrad chem for those major skillz. Anyways, getting out of the city sucks.  The route was a bit twisty turny trafficy (i like T-s apparently) until Beverly...which was a good chunk of miles. So, those weren't exactly race speed, but managed to only miss a few turns. Beverly rocks...and everything above it too. After that it was easy...one road....wide open shoulders....love.  We ended up goin all the way up to hampton beach NH.  Got some food (even beer), then went back to Newburyport to discover the train wasn't going to take us back until 3 hours later. Got some ice cream then continued more south to Ipswich where we staked it out with a 6 pack of beer waiting for the train. The ride continued even after that...since you gotta bike home from the train. Anyways, a great day for riding. Had an awesome time. RECORD!

Sun 8/5: 6 mile run (54 min), TRX, STRETCH. I was surprised at this actually...my legs were tired and i ran as much in one day as i have in 3 weeks.  My hip definitely tightened up after just a few miles but kind of went in and out of feeling blah. It wasn't terrible though. It was just hot. I'll take 6 miles. Trying to get on track. Need to keep stretching a lot (and popping my back into place) ha. blah blah blah. haha

I took my bike in the shop....turns out I've been putting a lot of wear and tear on the poor thing. 1500 or so miles in 3 months...stretched out chain. and need a new cassette. Perfect timing right before the half ironman. and more money, eh. 

WEEKLY totals:

4000 yard swim, 149 mile bike (9 hours 39 min), 9 mile run (1 hour 23 min) 149???? really? i couldn't bike 1 more mile? haha. oh well. New record for the week and day :) New plan of attack for this Ironman: kick ass on the bike............survive the run. :) What I really do. It's perfect.

Week 12 and 13

Oops, I didn't blog last week...so I just combined the two weeks. Anyways, the last two weeks have been kind of rough.....my back decided to crap out again..and is affecting my hip still.  what can you do....i did have 10 weeks of AWESOME-ness training...can't believe I was able to do that still. Still plenty of time to pull it together (I can easily run 13 miles off adrenaline if i need to).  In other words....i am BIKING my FACE off!!!!!!! and maybe i should swim more.

Monday 7/16: TRX. Taking it easy...tight hip. yowza

Tuesday 7/17: TRX: and again.

Wednesday 7/18: 7.2 mile bike (commuting...37 min), 70 min bike (trainer 20 miles), TRX. I don't remember the details of this. Sounds like nothing exciting haha. OH I do remember. It was so hot as hell outside. My room was sweltering. I crashed on a friend's couch with AC in order to finally sleep.

Thursday 7/19: 7.1 mile bike (commuting...38 min), 4200 yard swim. This was a sprint free workout. Weird. I can't sprint. But at least it was freestyle.  We went to a masters swim club social after where I was totally social (for once during the week).

Friday 7/20: TRX, 65 min bike (20 miles). geez, slacker?

Sat 7/21: 20 mile bike (commuting...1 hour 30 min). I was going to do a regular ride...but then decided to opt out and head to harbor islands for some exploring. Worth the break from workouts!!!!

Gorgeous day! Caught Sean in the shot.

Sunday 7/22: 3 mile run (30 min), 40 mile bike (2 hours 35 min), TRX, 9 mile bike (commuting...50 minutes). The run felt ok....i ran extra slow. not great, not terrible. I'll take that. 

WEEKLY TOTALS: 

4200 yard swim, 123 mile bike (8 hours 15 min), 3 mile run (haha…..30 min), TRX x5

Ok, WEEK 13. The week i just finished as I am sitting here smelly from sitting my ass on a trainer for hours.

Mon 7/23: off.


Tues 7/24: 2.7 mile run (30 min). This was a funny, yet fail of a run.  I headed out to JP pond when it started to rain. I like running in the rain! But then it started to REALLY rain......and really thunder...and lightning. None the less, I had to take cover for like 15-20 min till this passed. haha. That's when my hip started to buckle up, then discovered I lost one of my keys. haha. ok, time to take another break from running...i get it! i get it!

Wed 7/25: 31 mile bike (2 hours 5 min). I went to the GLV group ride for the first time. Had a blast...met a bunch of new people then ate burritos after. what more could i ask for?

Thurs 7/26: TRX, 70 min bike (21 miles). trainer ride...boring.

Fri 7/27: TRX and STRETCH. My massage got cancelled. boo. then i just enjoyed the day with sushi and fun with friends.

Sat 7/28: 40 mile bike (2 hours 30 min), TRX. Walden pond ride....it was nice out until I got home. Made it back just in time!

                                                           My sat night friend.

Sun 7/29: 40 mile bike (2 hours 15 min), TRX. I was planning on doing an epic ride adventure...but the weather forecast wasn't looking very good at all. I didn't want to get caught 30 miles away in a thunder storm. So, I biked the hell out of my trainer. I can't believe i was on there that long (thanks finding nemo!).

WEEKLY TOTAL:

2.7 mile run (30 min ouch), 132 mile bike (8 hours), TRX x 4

Week 11

YO! This was a weird week.  I hit my first road block (not literally...well almost), but hit multiple records with biking. I am at a hiatus with running, which sucks big time.  Old problem came back (I'm not entirely sure what caused it but think it's a combo of using old minimal shoes once and i need new Kinvara's). It's gonna be ok. Maybe. Call me maybe? I workout. 

But anyways, here's the week.

Mon 7/9: TRX. I was sore, so I stretched and did some random TRX things.  end of story.

Tues 7/10: 65 min bike (trainer....16 miles), 3 mile run (24 min). Made the mistake of running in minimal shoes. but honestly I don't think that could have JUST tightened up my left side THAT MUCH. ok, I am done with caps. :P

Wed 7/11: TRX, 6.5 mile bike (transportation...hell i count this...31 min), 4500 yard swim. I went to swim practice wow! Except I am really stupid and didn't realize it was IM/Stroke day.  First of all, I swim freestyle.  I swim backstroke to cool down and pull on the lane lines. I do not do butterfly and my hips sort of can do breastroke kick now.  Well, I did the most butterfly i have done in prob 5 years (in one practice). I eventually had to slack and swim free bc I didn't want to rip my shoulders quite yet.  Plus I jumped into an empty lane which shortly filled with college swimmers.  They even asked me to go in front. HAHAHAHAHA. silly college swimmers. I survived.

Thurs 7/12: 5.7 mile run (48 min), TRX.  This run sucked. It was ballsy hot out, I had no water, and I stopped often bc I thought I was going to pass out (ok not really but I definitely hurt). I cut the run short.  Turns out I was down 3 pounds...talk about dehydration. I killed my hip on this run....I can't tell you how awesome my IT band is feeling right about now....haha. 

Fri 7/13: OFF. I got a massage. holla atcha 

Sat 7/14: 83 mile bike (5 hours), 3 mile run (26 min), TRX. RECORD! wooohoo! I rode up to NH border...quite literally JUST the border and came back (after stopping in a gas station to buy water). This felt great, actually.  The 3 mile run actually felt good also....good indication of proper nutrition on the bike.  Hip felt tight though, but easily powered through. 

                                                        Crossing borders, bitches. 

Sun 7/15: 27 mile bike (1 hour 45 min), TRX. After I woke up limping all over the place I decided to skip the 2 hour run (ouch) and just go for an "easy" ride. It was harder than I anticipated...I was soreeeeeeeeeeeeee. 

WEEKLY totals! 

4500 yard swim, 12.7 mile run (1 hour 33 min) (blah),  132.5 mile bike (8 hours 21 min) RECORD!!!!!, TRX x5 I TRXed a lot, but a few of those are just a lot of stretching. I don't do hardcore workouts all the time with that thing.  So I'm basically not as hardcore as i make myself out to be. So basically, a recovery week is well needed.  I am currently on my 2nd day of being off to try to get this stupid hip thing back. I think I need to fall off my bike again to put my back and hips into place. You think i am joking but actually it might help...hahaha. I leave you with a cute monkey and dog. Have a nice day.

Week 10

Solid week. 

Nuff' said. 

Mon 7/2:  TRX.  I was actually kind of sore from my “recovery weekend workouts”.  For some reason that doesn’t seem right.  Haha.  Oh, by the way…first day at my new full time job J fantastic.

Tues 7/3:  65 min bike (17 miles), 3 mile run (26 min), TRX. I have the luxury of coming into work when I please when I don’t have patients.  I have a new alarm clock in my head that goes off early, so I figured why not get shit done before work?  So, I got my ass up at 5am and busted out a brick workout. It was nice coming home after work knowing I already did that.  But I was tired enough to pass out early…

Wed 7/4: 4000 yard swim, 6.5 mile bike (28 min), 60 min trainer ride (15 miles).  Happy 4^th of July!!! So, originally, the masters swim workout was at 9am.  Then, due to other crap…it moved to 5 30 am.  I had no real excuse not to go other than it was early.  So, I got myself up before 5am, biked in the rain to this workout, and actually enjoyed it.  I really miss having a coached workout….and someone to encourage you.  I swam on the same intervals as some couple in a few lanes over.  So glad I signed up for Cambridge masters team.  I think my swimming is actually going to start feeling ok soon.  Then I started drinking. Amuuuuurica!!

Thurs 7/5: 8.1 mile run (1 hour 7 min), TRX. I definitely enjoy my interval run workouts the most.  I’m not just running slow and steady…I am actually keeping a quick speed for a little bit.  More or less this was 20 min warm up, 10 min accelerations, then 6x 5 min 10 k pace odds and half marathon pace evens, then 10 min warm down.  I have no clue what my half marathon pace is now but I did like 8 min pace-ish then 7 min-7 45 for 10k. I ran around the Charles, which is always a good time.  It was humid out…I was dying at the end without water…but have to say one of the better run workouts again this year. Happy running.

Friday 7/6: OFF! I went to Pour House for a few beers and just relaxed. Also…ate sweet potato tots. Yummmm.  The weekend is going to be intense…..

Saturday 7/6: 10.4 mile run (1 hour 36 min), 2500 yard swim, STRETCH.  Wow.  This run down right sucked.  My heart rate was ridiculously higher than normal, so I spent a lot of the beginning trotting to try to keep that hr reasonable. Then my legs just felt like cement blocks.  Plus, it was muggy and humid out….the kind of run where you lick your lips to taste nothing but salt.  Strangely my last 3 miles I felt pretty good and got out of whatever funk I was in.  But geez, it only took 7 miles to get there.  Stretching necessary!  Hammie a little  angry. Skipped an optional bike due to feeling beaten to the ground…

Sunday 7/7:  73 mile bike (4 hours 30 min), 3 mile run (25 min). I turned down multiple “lets go out tonights” on sat night.  Turned out to be a good decision (not to mention I was half passed out by 9ish). best workout of the year so far, hands down. I hydrated/ate much better on the bike, therefore that run wasn’t terrible (actually It was good minus being HOT).  Plus, I biked to another state and had a great time (even flying solo). Longest bike ride ever!  FUCK YA!!!!!!!!! I ate a whole entire trader joes pizza after, then felt a little sick. 

Hooray

So this looked better in person, but it's on top of the giant hill in Roslindale...you could see all of Boston!

Because I have no problem posting pics of my legs............well....they are 3 different colors now. HOTTTTT! 

WEEKLY TOTALS: 

6500 yard swim, 24.5 mile run (3 hours 34 min), 111.5 miles (7 hours 3 min), TRX x3 Yeah..look at that swim. funny how i used to do 8000 yards in ONE practice.  Damn. So close to totals adding up to the ironman total.  basically there.

I leave you with ninja turtles.