Today I headed to the gym after work. I got one mile in before Hector got his hands on me. He streatched me out...much more bendy than last week. And then we did some legs. He wasn't too hard on me.
He then tried to work the knots out of my IT band. OH MY GOD!! Let's just say it hurt. I didn't cry or anything (there's no crying in baseball!), after all it was a good pain. I know it did me some good, my left leg feels tons better, almost as good as new. My right leg is better, just not 100%.
I'm thinking sports massages will be a wise investment.
Monday
Saturday
June 28, 2008
5 miles today on the Lake Front. I definately feel better...I'm not sure if that's drug induced (I took some Alieve before I ran), but it's better than it has been!
Wednesday
June 25, 2008
Today I went for a run with Big John. Much faster than I have been running the last 2 days. He knew I was hurting, and we took it about a minute slower per mile. We did three miles in the misty rain in about 38 minutes.
I followed this up by lunch and a nap and headed to the gym. Hector and I did arms followed by a streatch again. I was so inflexible and tired. Hector told me to go home. I've never had him tell me to go home before. It was really weird...sorry Bethie-- No more working out for you. You've over done it. Your body needs to rest. Go home. Never thought I'd hear that one! I guess it's a good thing.
I followed this up by lunch and a nap and headed to the gym. Hector and I did arms followed by a streatch again. I was so inflexible and tired. Hector told me to go home. I've never had him tell me to go home before. It was really weird...sorry Bethie-- No more working out for you. You've over done it. Your body needs to rest. Go home. Never thought I'd hear that one! I guess it's a good thing.
Tuesday
June 24, 2008
Yet again, I schleped myself to the gym. 14:41 average on the elliptical for 3 miles. I would give dearly for someone to roll out my IT bands!
Monday
June 23, 2008
Today I headed to the gym with some dread...my knees are still killing me.
I did a 1/2 mile to warm up and then Hector. Thank goodness he took pitty on me and streatched me. He was rolling me out and trying to break up the lactic acid. We did arms because my knees were so sore. He knew they were bad because I usually don't complain about things hurting. After that, I finished out 2 1/2 miles for a total for 3 easy on the ellptical.
I did a 1/2 mile to warm up and then Hector. Thank goodness he took pitty on me and streatched me. He was rolling me out and trying to break up the lactic acid. We did arms because my knees were so sore. He knew they were bad because I usually don't complain about things hurting. After that, I finished out 2 1/2 miles for a total for 3 easy on the ellptical.
Sunday
June 22, 2008
Yeah!! I'm officially a Triathlete! 
Today I finished my first triathlon, the US Women's Triathlon Series, in Naperville. Here's the skippy:
The start of the race was delayed an hour due to lightning and thunder. I wasn't too nervous, but then again, I was preoccupied with trying to get Elaine to relax, so I guess that kept my mind off of things. Then I saw the GOTR people Sandaya was in tears and in my wave, so I went to her after Elaine's wave had gone.
I was not happy with my swim. I just couldn't get a good rhythm going. I ended up doing most of it backstroke (except for the turns). I discovered that I had more power if I used both arms at the same time. My wetsuit really did help with buoyancy, so that helped with my funky backstroke modification. But I did finish in 15:23...not bad for just learning to swim
My first transition was ok. I know how I can do both transitions better now.
The bike was interesting. I'm glad I brought my camel
back, I also know that I can push myself a little bit more. I also learned that I need to tuck my shoelaces into my shoes! My lace got caught in the chain...I was hoping on one foot, almost like a dog peeing on the fire hydrant!
I liked the run. Again, I could have done the transition better. I didn't like that there were no clocks on the course. I think I could have run better if I had taken the time to put on my watch.
I really had no concept of time for this race. The swim felt much longer than 15 minutes. But then again, the bike felt much shorter than 53 minutes. I felt as if I was running at least 12:00 or better for the end of the run. I am happy that I felt stronger as the race progressed. That's a great feeling...when others are dying and I'm happily going along slower, but steady. This is especially good since I ran 7 miles yesterday. Generally it's best to rest before a race, not do a long run!
I also realize that I do need to plan to eat a little something for breakfast. I'm very used to not eating before my runs, however that plan didn't work for the tri. Due to the rain delay, I didn't hit the water until well after 9:00. I chowed down some Shot Blocks on the bike and by the second lap of the bike I felt much better. I think part of my problem was nutrition.
My knees are also VERY sore. I'm concerned because of marathon training. I believe it's due to biking. One knee was sore from the Wondergirl 5k, but both are sore now. I think that I should try to get my runs done on the elliptical (that's low impact), go easy on the bike (and ask one of the boys to adjust it), and I think the swimming should be just fine.
So here's the stats for the race:
Overall Place: 1413 out of 1919
Division Place: 195 out of 236
Time: 1:54:52
Swim: 15:23
Trans 1: 5:58
Bike: 53:35
Trans 2: 3:19
Run: 36:38
The average time was 1:47:07 and the winning time was 1:07:something. I don't think it's to bad for my first tri!
Today I finished my first triathlon, the US Women's Triathlon Series, in Naperville. Here's the skippy:The start of the race was delayed an hour due to lightning and thunder. I wasn't too nervous, but then again, I was preoccupied with trying to get Elaine to relax, so I guess that kept my mind off of things. Then I saw the GOTR people Sandaya was in tears and in my wave, so I went to her after Elaine's wave had gone.
I was not happy with my swim. I just couldn't get a good rhythm going. I ended up doing most of it backstroke (except for the turns). I discovered that I had more power if I used both arms at the same time. My wetsuit really did help with buoyancy, so that helped with my funky backstroke modification. But I did finish in 15:23...not bad for just learning to swimMy first transition was ok. I know how I can do both transitions better now.The bike was interesting. I'm glad I brought my camel
back, I also know that I can push myself a little bit more. I also learned that I need to tuck my shoelaces into my shoes! My lace got caught in the chain...I was hoping on one foot, almost like a dog peeing on the fire hydrant!
I liked the run. Again, I could have done the transition better. I didn't like that there were no clocks on the course. I think I could have run better if I had taken the time to put on my watch.
I really had no concept of time for this race. The swim felt much longer than 15 minutes. But then again, the bike felt much shorter than 53 minutes. I felt as if I was running at least 12:00 or better for the end of the run. I am happy that I felt stronger as the race progressed. That's a great feeling...when others are dying and I'm happily going along slower, but steady. This is especially good since I ran 7 miles yesterday. Generally it's best to rest before a race, not do a long run!
I also realize that I do need to plan to eat a little something for breakfast. I'm very used to not eating before my runs, however that plan didn't work for the tri. Due to the rain delay, I didn't hit the water until well after 9:00. I chowed down some Shot Blocks on the bike and by the second lap of the bike I felt much better. I think part of my problem was nutrition.
My knees are also VERY sore. I'm concerned because of marathon training. I believe it's due to biking. One knee was sore from the Wondergirl 5k, but both are sore now. I think that I should try to get my runs done on the elliptical (that's low impact), go easy on the bike (and ask one of the boys to adjust it), and I think the swimming should be just fine.
So here's the stats for the race:
Overall Place: 1413 out of 1919
Division Place: 195 out of 236
Time: 1:54:52
Swim: 15:23
Trans 1: 5:58
Bike: 53:35
Trans 2: 3:19
Run: 36:38
The average time was 1:47:07 and the winning time was 1:07:something. I don't think it's to bad for my first tri!
Saturday
June 21, 2008
7 miles today, easy. I was pacing for the group, so it was fun. Elaine and I talked about our Tri plans for most of the run.
Elaine and I went to get our packets for our Tri. The expo was pretty good. I got my wetsuit! It was 20% off...awesome! If I do 3 or 4 tris with it, it would pay for the rental fees if I hadn't bought it. So I figure it was a good enough deal. I feel like a badass with my body markings...but it would be much cooler if the marker didn't smear so much!
I also was talking with someone today about my fears of drowning...he told me I shouldn't do the race then. I told him he was an asshole and that I didn't need my own fears reflected back at me. Allowing me to express them is wonderful, but don't reinforce them. I know I could drown. It's a possiblity. However, I know that I worked hard, I have a wetsuit and that it's bad publicity for the race if I do die. So the odds are, I'll finish. I just didn't need that the day before! How hard is it to give positive re-inforcement? Come on, people!
Wish me luck people! With any luck the next post you read will be written by a triathlete!
Elaine and I went to get our packets for our Tri. The expo was pretty good. I got my wetsuit! It was 20% off...awesome! If I do 3 or 4 tris with it, it would pay for the rental fees if I hadn't bought it. So I figure it was a good enough deal. I feel like a badass with my body markings...but it would be much cooler if the marker didn't smear so much!
I also was talking with someone today about my fears of drowning...he told me I shouldn't do the race then. I told him he was an asshole and that I didn't need my own fears reflected back at me. Allowing me to express them is wonderful, but don't reinforce them. I know I could drown. It's a possiblity. However, I know that I worked hard, I have a wetsuit and that it's bad publicity for the race if I do die. So the odds are, I'll finish. I just didn't need that the day before! How hard is it to give positive re-inforcement? Come on, people!
Wish me luck people! With any luck the next post you read will be written by a triathlete!
Thursday
June 19, 2008
Today I biked 19.5 miles down to Piper's Alley and back with an extra loop around Portage to Laramie and then out to Austin to Montrose then Central to home.
Drivers are ridiculous! Grrr... come on people! Give bikers some space!!
Drivers are ridiculous! Grrr... come on people! Give bikers some space!!
Wednesday
June 18, 2008
Today I kicked ass! I ran 3 miles around the park and to Cicero and back. Later I went to the gym and worked out with Hector (Core) and did another 3 miles on the elliptical. After that I swam 4 sets of 8 lengths freestyle with 2 lengths backstroke as a rest between each set.
I also talked with hot stair climber guy...he brought me an article about this race in Colorado. It looks AMAZING. It's an 50 mile Ultra that crosses mountains, rivers and snow belts. He photocopied the pictures in color; I was blown away. Absolutely gorgeous! I was looking at the article thinking...."I wanna do it!" (Yet, another way to say "You know you're a crazy runner when...) He also mentioned the Men's Health Urban Challenge. I really want to do that race, it's basically an urban, longer version of the Muddy Buddy, but with out the bike. I was looking at that race before. I think it's the week after the marathon, but I've done crazier things...
I'm so happy I didn't say anything stupid this time (a Miracle!). I did drop my keys and he tossed them to me...too bad my uncoordinated self missed the catch and then picked them up looking about as graceful as a new born wildebeest. Yeah, that was awesome...I practically bolted to the locker room after that.
I also talked with hot stair climber guy...he brought me an article about this race in Colorado. It looks AMAZING. It's an 50 mile Ultra that crosses mountains, rivers and snow belts. He photocopied the pictures in color; I was blown away. Absolutely gorgeous! I was looking at the article thinking...."I wanna do it!" (Yet, another way to say "You know you're a crazy runner when...) He also mentioned the Men's Health Urban Challenge. I really want to do that race, it's basically an urban, longer version of the Muddy Buddy, but with out the bike. I was looking at that race before. I think it's the week after the marathon, but I've done crazier things...
I'm so happy I didn't say anything stupid this time (a Miracle!). I did drop my keys and he tossed them to me...too bad my uncoordinated self missed the catch and then picked them up looking about as graceful as a new born wildebeest. Yeah, that was awesome...I practically bolted to the locker room after that.
Tuesday
June 17, 2008
Today I went for a bike ride with Elaine. We rode from her house (near Old Orchard) on a trail up to the Botanical Gardens. It really was much easier than I thought. I still don't shift very efficiently (about 14 miles total). I know it's just a matter of having more time on the bike. I did learn that I can keep a fast cadence, even though I do enjoy just a nice slow peddle.
I hope that I can get myself out on the bike more so that I can work on speed, increased and consistent cadence and being more comfortable shifting gears. *Sigh* That sounds like a tall order for Sunday. I have to remember...my first 5k wasn't stellar either. I have to be proud for just finishing--There's no where to go but up!
I hope that I can get myself out on the bike more so that I can work on speed, increased and consistent cadence and being more comfortable shifting gears. *Sigh* That sounds like a tall order for Sunday. I have to remember...my first 5k wasn't stellar either. I have to be proud for just finishing--There's no where to go but up!
Monday
June 16, 2008
I thought I had an appointment with Hector...turns out I missed his call canceling it. His mom's garage was broken into!! SCARY!
I talked with Hot Stair Climber Guy today! :) I feel like I was less stupid than the last time we chatted. (I still babble on about the stupidest things...what's wrong with me?!?!!). Anywho, he mentioned that the registration for Go Vertical had opened (I already registered), apparently it's supposed to close quickly, people are wanting to do it more than previous years...who knew? He asked me how running was going (I unfortunately babbled on about the marathon...ugh...SHUT UP BETHIE!!). He also mentioned the Run for the Kids (again--already registered--CHECK!!) and some endurance race in Colorado...it sounded really interesting. Someday, I'll stop acting like Rainman around him...maybe...if I'm lucky.
I ran 3 miles on the elliptical and then swam 4 sets of 6 freestyle with two laps of backstroke in between each set as a rest. So I did 200 yards backstroke, and a total of 600 yards of freestyle. Total swim time was 45 minutes. I really did try to work on form today. I think that I have the endurance to do the distance, ('cuz I'm stubborn), but I need to work my form so that I can be more efficient.
I'm getting closer to being able to swim a 1/2 mile in the pool. That's really good because I did something stupid...I registered for the Naperville Triathlon on Sunday. EEK!! It's because I'm a metal whore. Here's hoping I don't drown...I just have to think positive thoughts, right?
I talked with Hot Stair Climber Guy today! :) I feel like I was less stupid than the last time we chatted. (I still babble on about the stupidest things...what's wrong with me?!?!!). Anywho, he mentioned that the registration for Go Vertical had opened (I already registered), apparently it's supposed to close quickly, people are wanting to do it more than previous years...who knew? He asked me how running was going (I unfortunately babbled on about the marathon...ugh...SHUT UP BETHIE!!). He also mentioned the Run for the Kids (again--already registered--CHECK!!) and some endurance race in Colorado...it sounded really interesting. Someday, I'll stop acting like Rainman around him...maybe...if I'm lucky.
I ran 3 miles on the elliptical and then swam 4 sets of 6 freestyle with two laps of backstroke in between each set as a rest. So I did 200 yards backstroke, and a total of 600 yards of freestyle. Total swim time was 45 minutes. I really did try to work on form today. I think that I have the endurance to do the distance, ('cuz I'm stubborn), but I need to work my form so that I can be more efficient.
I'm getting closer to being able to swim a 1/2 mile in the pool. That's really good because I did something stupid...I registered for the Naperville Triathlon on Sunday. EEK!! It's because I'm a metal whore. Here's hoping I don't drown...I just have to think positive thoughts, right?
Sunday
June 15, 2008
Today was the open water clinic.
Cue Jaws Music...
Elaine and I drove up to Pleasant Prairie, just over the boarder. Ok, aside from my getting into the wetsuit issues, swimming in one is great! It definitely creates buoyancy and as a result makes me feel more comfortable. The clinic gave me a chance to see where the Danskin Tri will have their swim leg, and gave me some additional swim time. I got some good pointers. For my first time in open water, I don't think it was too bad! Elaine is an awesome swimmer...she's totally going to kick my ass in the tris...We also heard about Naperville Triathlon next weekend. I told Elaine, I'd do it if it gave medals. She told me that most tri's don't give medals. If that's the case, I don't have to worry about my pathetic swimming abilities for another month!
Elaine and I also hit the Jelly Belly Factory and Nike Outlet... Good work out, and good shopping makes a good day!
Cue Jaws Music...
Elaine and I drove up to Pleasant Prairie, just over the boarder. Ok, aside from my getting into the wetsuit issues, swimming in one is great! It definitely creates buoyancy and as a result makes me feel more comfortable. The clinic gave me a chance to see where the Danskin Tri will have their swim leg, and gave me some additional swim time. I got some good pointers. For my first time in open water, I don't think it was too bad! Elaine is an awesome swimmer...she's totally going to kick my ass in the tris...We also heard about Naperville Triathlon next weekend. I told Elaine, I'd do it if it gave medals. She told me that most tri's don't give medals. If that's the case, I don't have to worry about my pathetic swimming abilities for another month!
Elaine and I also hit the Jelly Belly Factory and Nike Outlet... Good work out, and good shopping makes a good day!
Saturday
June 14, 2008
Today was my first day ever as a pace group leader. I was so nervous. I was worried I'd have to lead all by by myself. Thank goodness there were several others there!! Elaine's knee was bothering her, so she ran with the 12:00's. It really made me feel better to know that my old group leader was there...circle of life, I guess! It was a six mile run. My Garmin was pacing weird...I think I need to set it to average pace...I'm not sure. But, thanks to Maria's (other pacer) we had a perfect pace...1:12:05! I was so pumped!! We went to breakfast after the run, it was good to meet the new 12's. Good times!!
After a shoe shopping trip with Elaine, I created a 5 mile loop to the gym. I didn't like the stretch of Oak Park Avenue by Reed Center. I definitely won't take that stretch again. I swam 600 yards as 6 x 25 yard lengths with a minute rest in between. Tomorrow is the open water clinic...I hope it goes well!!
After a shoe shopping trip with Elaine, I created a 5 mile loop to the gym. I didn't like the stretch of Oak Park Avenue by Reed Center. I definitely won't take that stretch again. I swam 600 yards as 6 x 25 yard lengths with a minute rest in between. Tomorrow is the open water clinic...I hope it goes well!!
Wednesday
June 11, 2008
I ran 3 miles easy miles with 13:00 splits for 39:00.
I was still sore from Monday. I had no idea that Hector kicked my ass that hard! But he did it again with arms and core. He had me kneeling on the ball today. I'm sure I'll get it, but it's still insane to me.
I also swam 400m in the pool. I think that it sorta stretched me out. It took between 10 and 15 minutes to swim the 16 lengths. I didn't think that was too bad. I did have to switch between backstroke and freestyle. For the indoor tri that will be fine, but I hope I can get stronger and have more endurance before Danskin!
I was still sore from Monday. I had no idea that Hector kicked my ass that hard! But he did it again with arms and core. He had me kneeling on the ball today. I'm sure I'll get it, but it's still insane to me.
I also swam 400m in the pool. I think that it sorta stretched me out. It took between 10 and 15 minutes to swim the 16 lengths. I didn't think that was too bad. I did have to switch between backstroke and freestyle. For the indoor tri that will be fine, but I hope I can get stronger and have more endurance before Danskin!
Monday
June 9, 2008
Today I ran 3 miles on the elliptical at a 12:40 pace. I was feeling a little tired from yesterday. Then Hector did arms and core. He had me try to balence on a ball. It pissed me off that I wasn't too good at it.
I did see hot stair climber guy...he's so pretty!
I think I need more sleep. :(
I did see hot stair climber guy...he's so pretty!
I think I need more sleep. :(
Sunday
June 8, 2008
Brick day!
Today I swam with Tina and Pete. Pete really gave me some good pointers for swimming. I really think that the streamline, push off the wall will help me in the tri that has the swimming in the pool. I probably swam at least 500 or 600 meters.
We also biked about 6 miles and ran a quarter mile. It was the mini Petina tri!
Today I swam with Tina and Pete. Pete really gave me some good pointers for swimming. I really think that the streamline, push off the wall will help me in the tri that has the swimming in the pool. I probably swam at least 500 or 600 meters.
We also biked about 6 miles and ran a quarter mile. It was the mini Petina tri!
June 7, 2008
Wondergirl 5k!
It was a good race...I didn't really time myself. I was running from the first girl to the last girl to check on them. I think that all the girls and buddies had fun! There was a small glitch with one of the girls over sleeping, but aside from that (and the heat and humidity) it was a fun day!
Friday
June 6, 2008
Got my new Garmin watch today!! I'm still working out how to use it, but I love the virtural running partner. You can set the pace and run against someone. 3 miles at an 11:30 pace.
Tuesday
June 3, 2008
I need new shoes! The shin splints!!!
John and I did 2 miles (Cicero) and then he took me on the in park mile loop in Portage. It probably wouldn't have been so bad if my legs weren't already shot. Then we did 2 more miles (to Naragansett). For a total of 5 miles.
Thank God for the good ol' LHN ice! (Thank you Mr. Miller!)
John and I did 2 miles (Cicero) and then he took me on the in park mile loop in Portage. It probably wouldn't have been so bad if my legs weren't already shot. Then we did 2 more miles (to Naragansett). For a total of 5 miles.
Thank God for the good ol' LHN ice! (Thank you Mr. Miller!)
Monday
June 2, 2008
Today I kicked my own ass.
I know it's going to be a crazy busy week, so I combined two of my runs. I did 7 miles, knocking out one of the 5 milers and the 2 miler. I also biked to work (4.77 miles), from work to the gym (3.5 miles) and then from the gym home (3.1 miles). I also did arms and core with Hector for an hour. He told me that I was looking thinner, but he's on crack because I can't seem to loose any weight. It's crap I tell you!!
I know it's going to be a crazy busy week, so I combined two of my runs. I did 7 miles, knocking out one of the 5 milers and the 2 miler. I also biked to work (4.77 miles), from work to the gym (3.5 miles) and then from the gym home (3.1 miles). I also did arms and core with Hector for an hour. He told me that I was looking thinner, but he's on crack because I can't seem to loose any weight. It's crap I tell you!!
Sunday
June 1, 2008
Run for the Zoo!
This was my very first 10k last year...Ironic that I ran like crap. Ok, so I was still faster than the first time I ran it...1:13:52. I was under 12:00 splits, so I shouldn't be upset, but I was still hoping for a PR.
All well, you can't have a PR every race...maybe next time.
This was my very first 10k last year...Ironic that I ran like crap. Ok, so I was still faster than the first time I ran it...1:13:52. I was under 12:00 splits, so I shouldn't be upset, but I was still hoping for a PR.
All well, you can't have a PR every race...maybe next time.
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