Hey folks, just a quick little reminder. We've got just 6 precious weeks left, so now is a really good time to take one more final inventory of your supplies and such and start placing your orders. Are you getting new running shoes for race day? New tires for the bike? Running low on body glide? Now is the time to get that stuff in so you are ready to roll!
I got yesterday's swim in last night. I normally like to work out in the mornings, but I don't have a place to swim Tuesday mornings. So I went to the masters swim at the YWCA. Wow is the water and air temp warm in that pool! I got in 500m before the masters swim and about 2500 during the masters and a few hundred after. During my set after I noticed a pain in my shoulder and stopped swimming immediately. I am not too concerned, this is the first time I have swam long sets two days in a row. I ignored one of the sets the coach prescribed which had us breathing only 5, 4, 3, and then 2 times per 25m length. I just wanted to swim.
When I got home from work yesterday, my new Adamo saddle was waiting for me. So, I put that on this morning and went out to do the 30/30s. Man do I like those work outs. I head out to a lake by me and do laps around it. I typically blow a few stop signs each lap, but it is infrequently traveled. My legs are fatigued, but once I warmed up I hit my watts just fine. I'm glad to only have an hour long work out today.
I am at the point in my training when my pants don't fit. I really have to crank my belt tight to look like I'm not sagging my pants like all the cool kids.
I've also taken my nutrition to the next level. We ordered greasy, cheesy burgers for take out the other day... and I passed (though I snuck a few fries). Last night at our block's National Night Out block party I skipped the pizza and lemon bars and had watermelon and some sort of noodle salad. I may be the only one to consider a Chipotle burrito healthy, but that is what I had for lunch yesterday - yummy! I've had a big salad every day this week and lots of fruit (typically 2 bananas, 2 nectarines, a plum, watermelon throughout the day, and frozen blueberries and peaches in my morning smoothie.) I'm feeling good right now, though sleepy and fatigued.
As always, I'm motivated by what I see in these forums and what ENers post on Facebook. Good stuff!
Did my last 30/30's for this program today, what fun! I have been doing them outside and was inspired by someone's posting yesterday about how much they hurt. I made myself push that much harder and yes, the quads do get a little squeamish when called upon that much! Got off the bike and heard some rumbling, started the brick and then the rains came, I mean torrential. I don't mind some rain, it's just water after all, but there was way more lightning than I prefer (which is none). So my 10' at Z3 was a little fast today as I was trying to get out of the storm as fast as possible. Felt great, it's still very warm and obviously humid (100%, eh?) so aside from the fear of electrocution, good day.
Marianne & Linda - both of you are right on attitude-wise. Your comments yesterday Linda about enjoying every moment is one we all need to embrace and I appreciate the reminder. Marianne, my son turned 11 today and your comments about your 16 yr old had me tearing up, my Mother's Day card said "you are the best mom any kid could ever get, you are so fit, I wish I could be like you,...you always make me smile'. How do you hold on to that???? So many moms think I'm crazy - I mean, I get a babysitter for Saturday mornings so I can train (my husband works), what kind of mother does that? Well, I think our kids should see their parents in action, whatever the hobby/interest is. It's not all about them (and they need to know that, to prevent primadonna disease) and if they see we have passion then they will have passion too, right???
Good health and training to all. And Nemo is right, start placing your orders. Last Tuesday afternoon I ordered a Speedfill from a place called Triplesports.com. Free shipping on all orders over $25 and it arrived on Friday!!! Check them out if you are having trouble finding stuff, price was lower than any of the local shops that would have had to order from a distributor that MIGHT have had it in stock and Amazon was going to charge $8 for shipping.
2:30 run bagged and tagged! Sticky for sure (72 at the start with 70 dew point), but I feel like I've run in worse. Maybe--EGADS!--I'm acclimating? Not bad for this old northern girl whose favorite running temp is 32 degrees.
Not much to report re the run. I am just feeling very good these days--get up each morning looking forward to tackling the training for the day. It's all compounded by the fact that I'm just so grateful that life has done such an about face after Keith's crash. Pinch me, I am so excited and grateful to be back on the horse. Nothing--no how, no way, no body--is going to interfere with my enjoyment and fun in taking part in this with all of you. More highs and lows on this run, and the best 30' was from 1:30-2:00--felt really great. Now the last 30' I was looking forward to being done, but I tried not to dwell on how slow the minutes were ticking by--just makes it worse. Tried to turn my head off and just git 'er done. You know how it is, suddenly 20' seems more daunting than 2 hours. Wishing all of you good runs this week too!
@Nemo--started making the list in my head this morning during the run. Not only to buy stuff, but to go in the basement and start digging out stuff I already have and has been packed away since '08!
@David--nice work, and good reminder for me to eat well today. Sometimes on LR days, I like to let myself not care and reward with junk. A few treats will be in order, but otherwise eating healthy is the way to go.
@Heather--I call it "extreme self care." I was actually on Oprah a decade ago as the mom with 4 kids who "got it", lived it, and embraced it. You have to take of YOU before we can be good moms, wives, and friends. The kind of mom who gets a babysitter on Sat. morning will likely have a very balanced perspective, a positive self-image, and a lot left over to give to the family. The kids turn out respectful, generous, and considerate b/c not every single flippin' minute revolves around them. I did the same when my children were little, and my boys adore me and I them. They are each other's best friends, choose to spend time with each other and me and Keith. We are very close and respectful of each other's hopes and dreams. I could go on for days, but will stop now. It's OK to do what you're doing, it really is. xoxo
Well, Mother Nature decided to have some fun with me this morning. Left for my run at 5:00 and it was 77 and 95% humidity (just like Gina's run yesterday). I did a 5 mile warmup and took it a little slower than usual to see if that would help me hit the HMP and MP intervals. It did as I did the 3 miles away from my house at 5:50 pace and then turned around and was jogging to recover when I noticed the sky was black towards my house and I could see lighting. I decided 3 minutes was enough recovery and went hard again. Made it about .5 miles at 6:00 pace and the pouring rain started. Then the wind picked up and was strong enough that it pushed me off the side walk twice and I felt like I was running in place. Next the hail came and hurt pretty bad so I found a balacony at an appartment to stand under. I watched about 5 minutes of the storm and the wind let up and hail stop, so I finished up the 3 mile interval on the way home in the pouring rain. Ended up holding 6:20ish pace which wasn't to bad considering the conditions.
After a quick change of clothes I finsihed up on the treadmill. To further abuse myself I went with no fan or air circulation at all. Did the 30' easy at 6:40 pace and then was able to hold onto my MP of 6:00 for the last 20'. The total ended up being 19.57 miles in 2:10 exactly
BTW, had my second masters swim last night wiht the new program I found and half way through I moved up a lane ... I'm in the middle lane of 5 now and am motivated to work really hard to move up another lane before Kona. I ended up finishing up the 2500 yard workout with 4 x 100 on 1:40 and the last one in 1:17!
@Michele - I do still have my normal full time corporate job. I actually work quite a few hours, but I have some flexibility and control so I am able to get my workouts in and still spend time with Theresa and Abigail everyday... I have about zero free time ever though and that is a choice I make. To be honest I can't handle free time as I get bored in about 2 seconds and have to be doing something. I have a horrible habit of turning hobbies into jobs, probably because just about anything I do, I do 100%. For better or worse this Triathlon game is slowly becoming much more like a job than a hobby. I'm still enjoying every minute of it though.
Heather - Right on with the attitude outlook! This is, after all, our fun. And it is, isn't it? I've honestly had more fun training this summer with all of you than any year in the past.
David - I keep having to put giant saftety pins in the backs on my pants and skirts.
In a college art history class, I had a professor claim the doryphorous' muscles were completely unrealistic. No one ever looks like greek statues. One of my friends brought in the current Abercrombie & Fitch catalog as a rebuttle. Now I'm starting to get tiny baby doryphorous ab lines, which is completely crazy and kinda cool (thanks plank and balance ball!) I think the Greeks would have liked triathlons. Are spears allowed?
And beware underestimating the chipotle burrito! I managed to make about a 450 calorie lunch there the other day when I thought it was way closer to the 700 I needed. A handy Chipotle calorie calculator.
And beware underestimating the chipotle burrito! I managed to make about a 450 calorie lunch there the other day when I thought it was way closer to the 700 I needed. A handy Chipotle calorie calculator.
@Beth - Thanks for the calculator! I love my burrito bols, but have been avoiding them because I didn't know how to 'score' them for LoseIt. The only bad thing seems to be the amount of sodium, which I can live with by sweating more! As far as the Greeks go, didn't they invent the pentathalon? I'm sure if they had bicycles in 600-700 BC they would have included them -- probably with some kind of spears or discuss throw while riding.
I love my 11 year old son... just a bit of warning though, they go thru puberty and ????? well they come out the other side! = a bit of angst. and saying goodbye to your sons.. very hard, that "leaving"....see Toy Story 3!!! good workouts today for me! bike, run/swim.... m
All- thanks for the fun. At the MOO rally you all said to just jump in the forum which I've taken it to heart and so glad I did. You get what you give and the closer we get to race day I find this forum to be my daily crutch/candy. Each day I can't wait to hear how everyone is doing and am enjoying the banter.
Linda - I was going to ask what your grown boys thought of all you and your husband do and you answered already, you both are truly blessed. Look forward to meeting you in Madtown in a few short weeks.
It felt weird to "sleep in" until almost 5:30. On the drainer for the 30/30s then out the door for the BRick, hit HMP nicely.
Stories of good, well balanced kids warms my heart- seriously. Makes me wish I had 1 or 2.
Nemo and Linda- I started that list last night as well. Too funny! going to get sneakers and gu tonight; body glide, tread, and sleeveless wetsuit in a few weeks. I have already purchased my Fig Newtons!
And Linda- agree- appetite is low, but know I need the calories. Last night I was so hungry and angry waiting for the Sears repair guy, I ate too many pretzel M&Ms. I had bought them for after the RR, but my resolve splintered. All through the earlier part of the day, I wasn't hungry. What a waste... stupid.. stupid.. stupid.
I love my 11 year old son... just a bit of warning though, they go thru puberty and ????? well they come out the other side! = a bit of angst. and saying goodbye to your sons.. very hard, that "leaving"...
I agree M. My youngest is 12. Puberty soon to follow....then I know what is coming, they want more independence from mom I have gone through 4....#1 was hard, 2,3,4 were easier and now wondering if #5 son will be hard again??? Prolly. One lesson learned-sons leave their moms and the relationship changes. Guess that is the way it is supposed to be. Not easy though.
I am at the point in my training when my pants don't fit. I really have to crank my belt tight to look like I'm not sagging my pants like all the cool kids.
David- time for a greasy burger or a piece of pizza
Laughing reading all the "skinny" posts!! Can't tell you how many people have said, "you look thin, have you lost weight" etc, etc....I assure them I am fine, just training hard!!
Linda- So glad the LR went solidly!!
Michele- Pret*els and M&Ms ?!! Salty/sweet!! Mmmmmm
Must have been something in the water with all you folks having so many boys!!!
Knocked out 3500 in the pool today. The 6 by 400s, tedious !!
Putting final touches on the RR plan. New shoes ordered.
Sending Mojo to all you peeps doing the LR manana!!
@Linda, Matt, Nemo - I forgot to thank you guys for the swim advice. Linda, I love your recommendation and actually used today exactly as you laid it out. It felt great just to swim and not worry about effort or times. I skipped my swim yesterday so hopefully I'll feel a little better when I get back to the pool tomorrow morning for the long endurance workout of the week.
On the long run front...I headed out just before 5am this morning for another 2:30 run. I was actually feeling good about this one and looking forward to nailing the intervals. I neglected to tell you guys in this thread and in my race rehearsal report that my right quad has been a little "crampy" feeling since finishing the race rehearsal last Friday. It really started bothering me Monday night and yesterday. I got serious about stretching it, rolling it, even icing it. So I set out this morning hoping it would loosen up and not impede this important workout...
It was a little tight in the beginning but didn't limit me at all in the first hour. Other than that tightness/crampy feeling in that one specific spot (bottom of the quad on the inside of the thigh just above the knee) I was feeling great, even in the soupy, humid conditions. I had to hold myself back a bit on the 25' @ Z1. Then the 3 x 10' @ Z3 (6:20/mi) started. I was cruising comfortably hitting the 3 intervals at 6:19 / 6:15 / 6:18. But as soon as I finished my last Z3 interval (about 1:10 into the run) my right quad and knee locked up and I couldn't get running again! I was doing an out & back so I was almost at my furthest point from home. I walked for about 20'. Finally I was able to get running again, albeit a shuffle struggling to maintain a 9:00/mi pace. I made it the 7 miles back home doing run/walk and having cut the total run short by about 3.5 miles.
I'm not sure what the hell this is, but it looks like running (and maybe even biking) are out of the question for a couple days until I start to feel some relief. It's extremely painful to walk at this point. The tightness of the lower quad doesn't allow me to bend my knee past about 80 degrees. I'll be pulling out all the tools tonight (with the help of A Tx A) - I hope it's a short-term, quick-fix thing.
Hope everyone else's long run goes exceptionally well!! I'll be thinking of you guys.
Felt really slow and sluggish doing those 6 X 400's. 6 X 150's felt smoother and easier not sure if it took me that long to loosen up or get out of my fatigue state or if it was just mental beacause they are shorter and the end was nearing.
Need a good night sleep to be ready for that 2 1/2 hour long run tomorrow.
Hoh boy Jim. Good on the swim, it's a great way to stay in the water, keep the feel, but take a bit of a break when needed. I'm LP and here to help. Not good news on the quad. You're certainly being very grown up about resting it the next few days--of course, you know it's exactly what that needs. I'd post the event in the Med forum and see what kind of feedback the docs have. I'm the queen of quad issues, and as a matter of fact, Leigh Kinesio taped my L quad today to show me how to do it. Let me tell you it's amazing. The taping takes a lot of the load off the quad muscles. It's a subtle yet powerful sensation. Maybe it can help you support the area as you baby it. Leigh is planning to post a video on it ASAP.
Here's a pic of the taping. This could be just the ticket for me to help mitigate quad pain in the marathon. Taping and wearing my Zoots Active compression shorts is hwat I'm planning. I remember in one of the Lance books that guys on the Tour were asking for the "magic tape." Keep y'all posted on it. Oh, if you do this, be preapred to stop traffic. I'm already sick of people asking and commenting.
@Bob--slow and sluggish but it's in the bank! You are just an animal these days. Awesome.
Jim- REST MAN REST!!!! You gotta take some down time with that quad issue. Get thee to the Medical Forum ASAP and hook up with those guys to get you some help. I'm not doing the long run tomorrow because of this calf- we don't need any more injured cowboyz or cowgirlz!
RE: The taping of various parts. I have been taping my patella for awhile now and it really helps. Prior to yesterday I have used Kinesio tape. Yesterday I used Rock tape. The Rock tape DID NOT stay on. Just FYI. If purchasing, go with Kinesio tape.
Hey Hey Hey "it's Long Run time!" (sung to Fat Albert song).. and I am gonna have some fun! On my long run! gonna get up real early gonna roll out of bed gonna drink me some coffee and head on out the door driving up the road to meet my buddies in the dark and humidity trying to beat this heat!
Hey Hey Hey it's long run time! and I am gonna have some fun! who knows what we'll laugh at who knows what we will see who knows what we will feel like! but I am gonna be outside not doing any work! gonna talk and laugh and sweat a whole whole bunch.
Hey Hey Hey it's long run time! and I am gonna have some fun! gonna burn off some calories and lose a little weight gonna try my best to run fast and gonna bring it on home!
Hey Hey Hey, y'all run long! and you better have some FUN!
*** ha!! got my fruit rollups, gatorade powder and IM Perform packed! humidity will be very high at 5:15 a.m. and running with Heather and David! and if you don' t have "Party Train" by Gap Band!! we is rollin' down by the river in the morning! m
Marianne you completely cracked me up. That song is awesome. When I go out the door tomorrow I believe that will be singing in my head. Thank you for putting a smile on my face.
I got the 30/30s and the brick run done. The ride really felt good. My legs haven't felt that good in a while. The run felt strong too.
Good luck to everyone running long tomorrow. Let's crush it!
80 degs 78% humidity and I haven't left the house yet! will leave in a few'.... son been throwing up but I think I can leave worry free, he has doc appt today. the 16 year old. m
Hot Humid and horrible here. T-Storms all around too. But I still wish I were out there with you guys doing the 2:30 long run today :-( Today is gonna be rough for me mentally. My plan is to do a 30 min warmup on the trainer at home and then hit the YMCA to do run/bike/run using the a spin class for the second bike. Depending on the weather (T-storms) I may try to run to the YMCA (3 miles) to keep it interesting. If not, I'll hit the dreadmill which I guess would be less impact on the calf anyway.
Burrito calculator...I had no idea those things could hide so many calories!
Jim: x3 on the Kinesio tape. I was very skeptical about it---it's JUST TAPE, c'mon how's it gonna hold back all the forces upon muscles and joints? Well, it works. This seems like a great opportunity to rest up---not just the knee, but mentally too. You've been so driven and consistent with your training...maybe a couple of days to absorb all of it is what you need.
So I did that long run last night. I told myself I would not think about the weather, would not look at the temp reading in the car, would not complain about how hot and humid it was. So I just did it. No emotional judgements about the conditions or how I was performing in it. Most of the run I did on trails because I was carrying 70 oz of water with me and didn't want to pound my joints on pavement with all that extra weight. Also, trail running keeps me focused on my feet (or else I trip over a root/rock). I set my watch to alarm every 11 minutes to drink. The hydration was spot on---30oz/hour for 89 degrees and humidity (okay I checked the condtions AFTER the run!). I felt really good and most important, very content during the run. I did not stop and walk for any of it; and ran "hard" up every hill. It's really given me alot of confidence for my run at IMWI.
I'm not sure if it's the sense of urgency of the impending race, but I'm finally feeling motivated and looking forward to the next workout. Better late than never! I wish I could bottle the enthusiasm of the first 6 weeks of OS and the drive of the last 6 weeks of Race Prep and drink from it for all the weeks in between. That being said, the energy and support of this group is tremendous. I'd be sitting around playing video games and watching Ninja Warrior all day long if it weren't for you guys and gals. Thank YOU!!!
I definitely sit at my desk and play with the burrito calculator a bit too much before lunch I will add my own endorsement to the Kinesio tape, it's really easy to apply, and last year held through the entire HIM to keep my patellar tracking properly. Anytime I have a little twinge I start using it with great success. Awesome stuff.
Did my long run last night after work, and the humidity was brutal in the sense that I was completely soaked by the time I got back to my apartment (to the point where a man in the elevator asked if I jumped in the lake after my run with all my clothes on!). But, I got it done, hit all my targets, and managed to stay well-hydrated which is making me look forward (kinda...) to my race rehearsal on Friday.
Posted By Kitima Boonvisudhi on 05 Aug 2010 07:53 AM
I'm not sure if it's the sense of urgency of the impending race, but I'm finally feeling motivated and looking forward to the next workout. Better late than never! I wish I could bottle the enthusiasm of the first 6 weeks of OS and the drive of the last 6 weeks of Race Prep and drink from it for all the weeks in between.
That being said, the energy and support of this group is tremendous. I'd be sitting around playing video games and watching Ninja Warrior all day long if it weren't for you guys and gals. Thank YOU!!!
Couldn't agree more. Nothing like an Ironman to create a sense of urgency.
I got my long run in this morning. I have been indulging by bringing my ipod along (in the handy arm band I got at the IMWI camp) which has been soooo nice. Today I listened to Jack Johnson, Dave Matthews and finished up with Bob Dylan (sp?). Part of the chorus of the last song was "Everybody must get stoned" which pretty much sums up how I felt on the run. I was tired... felt kinda off balance when I would slow down and get water. My legs are sore, IT bands and tight and though I got to my HM pace for good chunks of the run, I tried to take it easy. It would be easy to go out too hard and get injured. I got in 17 miles in 2:16... I was hoping for more but am glad I did not bite off more than I could chew.
Now I need to weasel my way out of a meeting at work and try to recover.
Long run in the books! today was a test- 75 degrees with 80 percent humidity when I headed out a little after 6 am.
Picked a hilly two loop route so that I could circle back to grab more fluids at the half way point. Nutrition was a bottle of gu brew each lap with an S-cap and roctane gel at the halfway. felt spot on. just wanted more water as the run went on!
Started off easy with 4 miles at LRP and then got to work. 3 miles at 8:48 pace (10 seconds above HMP but it's mostly uphill so I was happy to hold onto that! felt like flat out effort). recovered back to the house. refueled and back out. 1.5 miles at 8:40, recover and then another .75 miles at 8:05 (flat/downhill/easy). after that, I eased back into LRP and just stayed steady for the remainder of the run. I definitely lost steam on the last few hills, but considering the earlier intervals, I'll take it. Winded up with 15.39 miles and 9:46 avg pace. Definitely a big confidence boost considering the triple H (heat, hills, humidity).
I did crack up when I came down the drive way and Dave was sitting on the front porch stairing out into space!
@Nemo- so what's the plan with the calf?? lemme know how I can help.
@Kitboo- okay gotta ask. what's the video game of choice??
Comments
I got yesterday's swim in last night. I normally like to work out in the mornings, but I don't have a place to swim Tuesday mornings. So I went to the masters swim at the YWCA. Wow is the water and air temp warm in that pool! I got in 500m before the masters swim and about 2500 during the masters and a few hundred after. During my set after I noticed a pain in my shoulder and stopped swimming immediately. I am not too concerned, this is the first time I have swam long sets two days in a row. I ignored one of the sets the coach prescribed which had us breathing only 5, 4, 3, and then 2 times per 25m length. I just wanted to swim.
When I got home from work yesterday, my new Adamo saddle was waiting for me. So, I put that on this morning and went out to do the 30/30s. Man do I like those work outs. I head out to a lake by me and do laps around it. I typically blow a few stop signs each lap, but it is infrequently traveled. My legs are fatigued, but once I warmed up I hit my watts just fine. I'm glad to only have an hour long work out today.
I am at the point in my training when my pants don't fit. I really have to crank my belt tight to look like I'm not sagging my pants like all the cool kids.
I've also taken my nutrition to the next level. We ordered greasy, cheesy burgers for take out the other day... and I passed (though I snuck a few fries). Last night at our block's National Night Out block party I skipped the pizza and lemon bars and had watermelon and some sort of noodle salad. I may be the only one to consider a Chipotle burrito healthy, but that is what I had for lunch yesterday - yummy! I've had a big salad every day this week and lots of fruit (typically 2 bananas, 2 nectarines, a plum, watermelon throughout the day, and frozen blueberries and peaches in my morning smoothie.) I'm feeling good right now, though sleepy and fatigued.
As always, I'm motivated by what I see in these forums and what ENers post on Facebook. Good stuff!
Did my last 30/30's for this program today, what fun! I have been doing them outside and was inspired by someone's posting yesterday about how much they hurt. I made myself push that much harder and yes, the quads do get a little squeamish when called upon that much! Got off the bike and heard some rumbling, started the brick and then the rains came, I mean torrential. I don't mind some rain, it's just water after all, but there was way more lightning than I prefer (which is none). So my 10' at Z3 was a little fast today as I was trying to get out of the storm as fast as possible. Felt great, it's still very warm and obviously humid (100%, eh?) so aside from the fear of electrocution, good day.
Marianne & Linda - both of you are right on attitude-wise. Your comments yesterday Linda about enjoying every moment is one we all need to embrace and I appreciate the reminder. Marianne, my son turned 11 today and your comments about your 16 yr old had me tearing up, my Mother's Day card said "you are the best mom any kid could ever get, you are so fit, I wish I could be like you,...you always make me smile'. How do you hold on to that???? So many moms think I'm crazy - I mean, I get a babysitter for Saturday mornings so I can train (my husband works), what kind of mother does that? Well, I think our kids should see their parents in action, whatever the hobby/interest is. It's not all about them (and they need to know that, to prevent primadonna disease) and if they see we have passion then they will have passion too, right???
Good health and training to all. And Nemo is right, start placing your orders. Last Tuesday afternoon I ordered a Speedfill from a place called Triplesports.com. Free shipping on all orders over $25 and it arrived on Friday!!! Check them out if you are having trouble finding stuff, price was lower than any of the local shops that would have had to order from a distributor that MIGHT have had it in stock and Amazon was going to charge $8 for shipping.
2:30 run bagged and tagged! Sticky for sure (72 at the start with 70 dew point), but I feel like I've run in worse. Maybe--EGADS!--I'm acclimating? Not bad for this old northern girl whose favorite running temp is 32 degrees.
Not much to report re the run. I am just feeling very good these days--get up each morning looking forward to tackling the training for the day. It's all compounded by the fact that I'm just so grateful that life has done such an about face after Keith's crash. Pinch me, I am so excited and grateful to be back on the horse. Nothing--no how, no way, no body--is going to interfere with my enjoyment and fun in taking part in this with all of you. More highs and lows on this run, and the best 30' was from 1:30-2:00--felt really great. Now the last 30' I was looking forward to being done, but I tried not to dwell on how slow the minutes were ticking by--just makes it worse. Tried to turn my head off and just git 'er done. You know how it is, suddenly 20' seems more daunting than 2 hours.
Wishing all of you good runs this week too!
@Nemo--started making the list in my head this morning during the run. Not only to buy stuff, but to go in the basement and start digging out stuff I already have and has been packed away since '08!
@David--nice work, and good reminder for me to eat well today. Sometimes on LR days, I like to let myself not care and reward with junk. A few treats will be in order, but otherwise eating healthy is the way to go.
@Heather--I call it "extreme self care." I was actually on Oprah a decade ago as the mom with 4 kids who "got it", lived it, and embraced it. You have to take of YOU before we can be good moms, wives, and friends. The kind of mom who gets a babysitter on Sat. morning will likely have a very balanced perspective, a positive self-image, and a lot left over to give to the family. The kids turn out respectful, generous, and considerate b/c not every single flippin' minute revolves around them. I did the same when my children were little, and my boys adore me and I them. They are each other's best friends, choose to spend time with each other and me and Keith. We are very close and respectful of each other's hopes and dreams. I could go on for days, but will stop now. It's OK to do what you're doing, it really is. xoxo
Well, Mother Nature decided to have some fun with me this morning. Left for my run at 5:00 and it was 77 and 95% humidity (just like Gina's run yesterday). I did a 5 mile warmup and took it a little slower than usual to see if that would help me hit the HMP and MP intervals. It did as I did the 3 miles away from my house at 5:50 pace and then turned around and was jogging to recover when I noticed the sky was black towards my house and I could see lighting. I decided 3 minutes was enough recovery and went hard again. Made it about .5 miles at 6:00 pace and the pouring rain started. Then the wind picked up and was strong enough that it pushed me off the side walk twice and I felt like I was running in place. Next the hail came and hurt pretty bad so I found a balacony at an appartment to stand under. I watched about 5 minutes of the storm and the wind let up and hail stop, so I finished up the 3 mile interval on the way home in the pouring rain. Ended up holding 6:20ish pace which wasn't to bad considering the conditions.
After a quick change of clothes I finsihed up on the treadmill. To further abuse myself I went with no fan or air circulation at all. Did the 30' easy at 6:40 pace and then was able to hold onto my MP of 6:00 for the last 20'. The total ended up being 19.57 miles in 2:10 exactly
BTW, had my second masters swim last night wiht the new program I found and half way through I moved up a lane ... I'm in the middle lane of 5 now and am motivated to work really hard to move up another lane before Kona. I ended up finishing up the 2500 yard workout with 4 x 100 on 1:40 and the last one in 1:17!
@Michele - I do still have my normal full time corporate job. I actually work quite a few hours, but I have some flexibility and control so I am able to get my workouts in and still spend time with Theresa and Abigail everyday... I have about zero free time ever though and that is a choice I make. To be honest I can't handle free time as I get bored in about 2 seconds and have to be doing something. I have a horrible habit of turning hobbies into jobs, probably because just about anything I do, I do 100%. For better or worse this Triathlon game is slowly becoming much more like a job than a hobby. I'm still enjoying every minute of it though.
Way to get it done, team!
Marianne - I love that story! Rock on, teenagers.
Heather - Right on with the attitude outlook! This is, after all, our fun. And it is, isn't it? I've honestly had more fun training this summer with all of you than any year in the past.
David - I keep having to put giant saftety pins in the backs on my pants and skirts.
In a college art history class, I had a professor claim the doryphorous' muscles were completely unrealistic. No one ever looks like greek statues. One of my friends brought in the current Abercrombie & Fitch catalog as a rebuttle. Now I'm starting to get tiny baby doryphorous ab lines, which is completely crazy and kinda cool (thanks plank and balance ball!) I think the Greeks would have liked triathlons. Are spears allowed?
And beware underestimating the chipotle burrito! I managed to make about a 450 calorie lunch there the other day when I thought it was way closer to the 700 I needed. A handy Chipotle calorie calculator.
@Beth - Thanks for the calculator! I love my burrito bols, but have been avoiding them because I didn't know how to 'score' them for LoseIt. The only bad thing seems to be the amount of sodium, which I can live with by sweating more!
As far as the Greeks go, didn't they invent the pentathalon? I'm sure if they had bicycles in 600-700 BC they would have included them -- probably with some kind of spears or discuss throw while riding. 
Beth - LOVE the pic, what a hoot, thanks!
All- thanks for the fun. At the MOO rally you all said to just jump in the forum which I've taken it to heart and so glad I did. You get what you give and the closer we get to race day I find this forum to be my daily crutch/candy. Each day I can't wait to hear how everyone is doing and am enjoying the banter.
Linda - I was going to ask what your grown boys thought of all you and your husband do and you answered already, you both are truly blessed. Look forward to meeting you in Madtown in a few short weeks.
Stories of good, well balanced kids warms my heart- seriously. Makes me wish I had 1 or 2.
Nemo and Linda- I started that list last night as well. Too funny! going to get sneakers and gu tonight; body glide, tread, and sleeveless wetsuit in a few weeks. I have already purchased my Fig Newtons!
And Linda- agree- appetite is low, but know I need the calories. Last night I was so hungry and angry waiting for the Sears repair guy, I ate too many pretzel M&Ms. I had bought them for after the RR, but my resolve splintered. All through the earlier part of the day, I wasn't hungry. What a waste... stupid.. stupid.. stupid.
I agree M. My youngest is 12. Puberty soon to follow....then I know what is coming, they want more independence from mom
I have gone through 4....#1 was hard, 2,3,4 were easier and now wondering if #5 son will be hard again??? Prolly. One lesson learned-sons leave their moms and the relationship changes. Guess that is the way it is supposed to be. Not easy though.
David- time for a greasy burger or a piece of pizza
Laughing reading all the "skinny" posts!! Can't tell you how many people have said, "you look thin, have you lost weight" etc, etc....I assure them I am fine, just training hard!!
Linda- So glad the LR went solidly!!
Michele- Pret*els and M&Ms ?!! Salty/sweet!! Mmmmmm
Must have been something in the water with all you folks having so many boys!!!
Knocked out 3500 in the pool today. The 6 by 400s, tedious !!
Putting final touches on the RR plan. New shoes ordered.
Sending Mojo to all you peeps doing the LR manana!!
WERD!!!!!
GO TEAM GO!!!!!!
So excited reading all your posts on How well training is going! Can't wait to cheer for you all in WI!
Keep up the good work!!!!!
On the long run front...I headed out just before 5am this morning for another 2:30 run. I was actually feeling good about this one and looking forward to nailing the intervals. I neglected to tell you guys in this thread and in my race rehearsal report that my right quad has been a little "crampy" feeling since finishing the race rehearsal last Friday. It really started bothering me Monday night and yesterday. I got serious about stretching it, rolling it, even icing it. So I set out this morning hoping it would loosen up and not impede this important workout...
It was a little tight in the beginning but didn't limit me at all in the first hour. Other than that tightness/crampy feeling in that one specific spot (bottom of the quad on the inside of the thigh just above the knee) I was feeling great, even in the soupy, humid conditions. I had to hold myself back a bit on the 25' @ Z1. Then the 3 x 10' @ Z3 (6:20/mi) started. I was cruising comfortably hitting the 3 intervals at 6:19 / 6:15 / 6:18. But as soon as I finished my last Z3 interval (about 1:10 into the run) my right quad and knee locked up and I couldn't get running again! I was doing an out & back so I was almost at my furthest point from home. I walked for about 20'. Finally I was able to get running again, albeit a shuffle struggling to maintain a 9:00/mi pace. I made it the 7 miles back home doing run/walk and having cut the total run short by about 3.5 miles.
I'm not sure what the hell this is, but it looks like running (and maybe even biking) are out of the question for a couple days until I start to feel some relief. It's extremely painful to walk at this point. The tightness of the lower quad doesn't allow me to bend my knee past about 80 degrees. I'll be pulling out all the tools tonight (with the help of A Tx A) - I hope it's a short-term, quick-fix thing.
Hope everyone else's long run goes exceptionally well!! I'll be thinking of you guys.
Felt really slow and sluggish doing those 6 X 400's. 6 X 150's felt smoother and easier not sure if it took me that long to loosen up or get out of my fatigue state or if it was just mental beacause they are shorter and the end was nearing.
Need a good night sleep to be ready for that 2 1/2 hour long run tomorrow.
Hoh boy Jim. Good on the swim, it's a great way to stay in the water, keep the feel, but take a bit of a break when needed. I'm LP and here to help.
Not good news on the quad. You're certainly being very grown up 
about resting it the next few days--of course, you know it's exactly what that needs. I'd post the event in the Med forum and see what kind of feedback the docs have. I'm the queen of quad issues, and as a matter of fact, Leigh Kinesio taped my L quad today to show me how to do it. Let me tell you it's amazing. The taping takes a lot of the load off the quad muscles. It's a subtle yet powerful sensation. Maybe it can help you support the area as you baby it. Leigh is planning to post a video on it ASAP.
Here's a pic of the taping. This could be just the ticket for me to help mitigate quad pain in the marathon. Taping and wearing my Zoots Active compression shorts is hwat I'm planning. I remember in one of the Lance books that guys on the Tour were asking for the "magic tape."
Keep y'all posted on it. Oh, if you do this, be preapred to stop traffic. I'm already sick of people asking and commenting. 
@Bob--slow and sluggish but it's in the bank! You are just an animal these days. Awesome.
Tracy- I just love you!
Great job Bob on getting the swim done. I felt the same way.
RE: The taping of various parts. I have been taping my patella for awhile now and it really helps. Prior to yesterday I have used Kinesio tape. Yesterday I used Rock tape. The Rock tape DID NOT stay on. Just FYI. If purchasing, go with Kinesio tape.
On my long run!
gonna get up real early
gonna roll out of bed
gonna drink me some coffee
and head on out the door
driving up the road
to meet my buddies
in the dark and humidity
trying to beat this heat!
Hey Hey Hey it's long run time! and I am gonna have some fun!
who knows what we'll laugh at
who knows what we will see
who knows what we will feel like!
but I am gonna be outside
not doing any work!
gonna talk and laugh and sweat a whole whole bunch.
Hey Hey Hey it's long run time! and I am gonna have some fun!
gonna burn off some calories
and lose a little weight
gonna try my best to run fast
and gonna bring it on home!
Hey Hey Hey, y'all run long! and you better have some FUN!
***
ha!! got my fruit rollups, gatorade powder and IM Perform packed! humidity will be very high at 5:15 a.m. and running with Heather and David! and if you don' t have "Party Train" by Gap Band!! we is rollin' down by the river in the morning! m
I got the 30/30s and the brick run done. The ride really felt good. My legs haven't felt that good in a while. The run felt strong too.
Good luck to everyone running long tomorrow. Let's crush it!
Ugh, I'd rather be running.
guess it'll keep me going thru my run ;-)
will report later on during the day on how it went (if it goes!!!!)
Jim: x3 on the Kinesio tape. I was very skeptical about it---it's JUST TAPE, c'mon how's it gonna hold back all the forces upon muscles and joints? Well, it works. This seems like a great opportunity to rest up---not just the knee, but mentally too. You've been so driven and consistent with your training...maybe a couple of days to absorb all of it is what you need.
So I did that long run last night. I told myself I would not think about the weather, would not look at the temp reading in the car, would not complain about how hot and humid it was. So I just did it. No emotional judgements about the conditions or how I was performing in it. Most of the run I did on trails because I was carrying 70 oz of water with me and didn't want to pound my joints on pavement with all that extra weight. Also, trail running keeps me focused on my feet (or else I trip over a root/rock). I set my watch to alarm every 11 minutes to drink. The hydration was spot on---30oz/hour for 89 degrees and humidity (okay I checked the condtions AFTER the run!). I felt really good and most important, very content during the run. I did not stop and walk for any of it; and ran "hard" up every hill. It's really given me alot of confidence for my run at IMWI.
I'm not sure if it's the sense of urgency of the impending race, but I'm finally feeling motivated and looking forward to the next workout. Better late than never! I wish I could bottle the enthusiasm of the first 6 weeks of OS and the drive of the last 6 weeks of Race Prep and drink from it for all the weeks in between.
That being said, the energy and support of this group is tremendous. I'd be sitting around playing video games and watching Ninja Warrior all day long if it weren't for you guys and gals. Thank YOU!!!
Did my long run last night after work, and the humidity was brutal in the sense that I was completely soaked by the time I got back to my apartment (to the point where a man in the elevator asked if I jumped in the lake after my run with all my clothes on!). But, I got it done, hit all my targets, and managed to stay well-hydrated which is making me look forward (kinda...) to my race rehearsal on Friday.
Everyone keep up the good work!
Couldn't agree more. Nothing like an Ironman to create a sense of urgency.
I got my long run in this morning. I have been indulging by bringing my ipod along (in the handy arm band I got at the IMWI camp) which has been soooo nice. Today I listened to Jack Johnson, Dave Matthews and finished up with Bob Dylan (sp?). Part of the chorus of the last song was "Everybody must get stoned" which pretty much sums up how I felt on the run. I was tired... felt kinda off balance when I would slow down and get water. My legs are sore, IT bands and tight and though I got to my HM pace for good chunks of the run, I tried to take it easy. It would be easy to go out too hard and get injured. I got in 17 miles in 2:16... I was hoping for more but am glad I did not bite off more than I could chew.
Now I need to weasel my way out of a meeting at work and try to recover.
Long run in the books!
today was a test- 75 degrees with 80 percent humidity when I headed out a little after 6 am.
Picked a hilly two loop route so that I could circle back to grab more fluids at the half way point. Nutrition was a bottle of gu brew each lap with an S-cap and roctane gel at the halfway. felt spot on. just wanted more water as the run went on!
Started off easy with 4 miles at LRP and then got to work. 3 miles at 8:48 pace (10 seconds above HMP but it's mostly uphill so I was happy to hold onto that! felt like flat out effort). recovered back to the house. refueled and back out. 1.5 miles at 8:40, recover and then another .75 miles at 8:05 (flat/downhill/easy). after that, I eased back into LRP and just stayed steady for the remainder of the run. I definitely lost steam on the last few hills, but considering the earlier intervals, I'll take it. Winded up with 15.39 miles and 9:46 avg pace. Definitely a big confidence boost considering the triple H (heat, hills, humidity).
I did crack up when I came down the drive way and Dave was sitting on the front porch stairing out into space!
@Nemo- so what's the plan with the calf?? lemme know how I can help.
@Kitboo- okay gotta ask. what's the video game of choice??