Have you ever biked somewhere, other than for the reason to train? This morning I taught my normal spin class at the Y and walked on the treadmill afterwards for 40 minutes (yes-I didn't run coach Lee Z!!!). After I did some core and lifted, I drove home to make a great protein smoothie and a yummy breakfast. Today was just beautiful as I sat at my computer, inside, finishing up some articles. Later today, it was about an hour before I had to leave to go sub another spin class and the idea came to me that I should just bike to the Y, teach spin and then bike home. I wasn't worried about running out of energy (I don't know how, but I always have a lot of it!), but I was more worried that the inconsistent Florida weather would leave me with a wet ride home. The weather gods were on my side tonight! I don't know if it was the new road bike or a feeling that I needed to get outside, but regardless I was loving the idea of biking somewhere. I have always wanted to bike everywhere I go and if you know me, I don't like to drive! However, I thought I would look silly riding my tri-bike everywhere and there was no way I could leave seduza all alone somewhere! Oh-She's getting sad that she isn't being riden this week.
I'm a huge fan of road trips, but driving around town is so boring to me. Besides looking at my gas gage, as it gets lower and lower as I drive around town (coaching athletes and doing nutrition consultations) I love looking at my odometer and seeing how far i drive. Why? Not because I want to know how far I have to drive, but I want to know how many miles it is from A to B so I know exactly the distance when I bike or run that distance! Please don't tell me that I am the only one that thinks this way???
Sometimes I wonder the way an endurance athlete thinks....a 20-mile ride to my favorite Tri Shop (Tri3Racing) is forever long, but a 20-mile bike ride is just a warm-up. Sitting in a car for 3 hours is entirely boring and I would much rather run for 3 hours. Ok-call me silly, but my body and mind likes to be in motion.
Try biking somewhere this week. Tell yourself it isn't a workout and you are simply biking from A to B. Or, if you'd rather, include your training ride/run before, during or after work and try to make it part of your day. But most of all, be safe and look for safe and clean roads. It isn't only you out there on the roads, but anticipate the other drivers and cyclists.
Try out the biking thing. For a lot of people reading this blog, I understand that the weather may not be ideal for riding/running. But maybe you can plan it once the weather gets warmer.
All in all, it was the easiest 30 miles of just being outside on my road bike... + 30 miles in my two spinning classes! Finally..I think my cycling is coming along! Am I ready to call myself a cyclist yet????
Registered Dietitian.....M.S. in Exercise Physiology...Vegetarian...Writer...Speaker...5x Ironman finisher.....2011-2012 Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year...Doggy-mommy...Wife to an amazing Czech cyclist turned triathlete...2x Ironman World Championship finisher...USAT level-1 coach...Oakley women, Brooks Running ID, 110% Play Harder and Hammer Nutrition Brand Ambassador.
2/27/07
An Apology to my Fellow Triathletes....
I de-virginized him. Yes, I rode him and I rode him for a while. And, I was smiling the whole time!
OK-was that crossing the line? Hopefully I at least made you chuckle....
To keep this post G-rated, I rode a road bike for the very first time!!! So as I sit at the computer, with a sore neck, sore triceps and sore leg muscles (that I never knew I could work), I'm re-thinking the decision to lose the aerobars and try those funny handlebars that drop down. So let's talk about my day of training.
Morning swim practice was great. Just a couple more weeks until I start swimming with a HS swim team, but for now I have no problem pushing myself in a lane by myself with 10-15 other triathletes around me. I'm use to the solo training, so just being around others at 5:30am is just great. I was in the mood for some IM, so I did a great set which took me back to my college days of swimming (8 X 125 IM, doubling up each stroke for a 50). And if that wasn't enough, finished the practice with 10 X 100 on 1:25. 4000 total yardage and headed over to the treadmill for a run.
Next milestone for me was another 4 miles on the treadmill. Picked up a the pace a little bit and did some higher pace intervals. HR was lower than yesterday so at least i feel a lot more comfortable with my running. Probably didn't need to run 2 days in a row, even though I am not feeling any foot pain, but I wanted to see if I was able to do another 30 minutes. Anyways, for the next couple weeks, no bricks and I'll keep the running to short runs (yes-30 min for me is Extremely short and hardly a workout) and I'll only run about 3 times a week. Just want to be on the cautious side and this will allow me to continue to work with my cycling.
So all afternoon I was writing articles to meet deadlines this week but my head wasn't with me. I was like a little kid who couldn't wait to leave school, just to ride that brand new huffy bike! All morning and afternoon I kept thinking about Blue and I was so psyched to ride it. Of course I feared not knowing how to ride it, but that was the whole point of my ride today. So my ride lasted about 2 1/2 hours and i couldn't stop riding. My tummy got the best of me and I knew I needed dinner eventually, but I ended up covering around 42 miles. I played with the gears (that clicking thing is weird on those handlebars!) and I put my hands in all different positions on the bars. But honestly, the WHOLE time I wanted to get aero. What a habit! I knew i would look ridiculous trying to get aero with no aerobars so I passed on that thought and primarily kept my hands on the drop bars. I like my position there.
Tomorrow morning is my 5:45am spin class that I teach at the Y. I love my crew that has joined me for the past 8 months! I can't believe they put up with me every wed, even though they know I'm not an easy instructor..but, I'm hopefully a good motivator for them and even at 5:45am I am full of energy! No surprise, right!
And by the way (for my Floridians), don't you LOVE this weather!
*A special thanks to Karel for putting together my Blue. He always does an amazing job with bikes and is the best bike tech I know! I know he had to do a lot of cutting for this bike....gosh darnit, I'm so freakin' short!
OK-was that crossing the line? Hopefully I at least made you chuckle....
To keep this post G-rated, I rode a road bike for the very first time!!! So as I sit at the computer, with a sore neck, sore triceps and sore leg muscles (that I never knew I could work), I'm re-thinking the decision to lose the aerobars and try those funny handlebars that drop down. So let's talk about my day of training.
Morning swim practice was great. Just a couple more weeks until I start swimming with a HS swim team, but for now I have no problem pushing myself in a lane by myself with 10-15 other triathletes around me. I'm use to the solo training, so just being around others at 5:30am is just great. I was in the mood for some IM, so I did a great set which took me back to my college days of swimming (8 X 125 IM, doubling up each stroke for a 50). And if that wasn't enough, finished the practice with 10 X 100 on 1:25. 4000 total yardage and headed over to the treadmill for a run.
Next milestone for me was another 4 miles on the treadmill. Picked up a the pace a little bit and did some higher pace intervals. HR was lower than yesterday so at least i feel a lot more comfortable with my running. Probably didn't need to run 2 days in a row, even though I am not feeling any foot pain, but I wanted to see if I was able to do another 30 minutes. Anyways, for the next couple weeks, no bricks and I'll keep the running to short runs (yes-30 min for me is Extremely short and hardly a workout) and I'll only run about 3 times a week. Just want to be on the cautious side and this will allow me to continue to work with my cycling.
So all afternoon I was writing articles to meet deadlines this week but my head wasn't with me. I was like a little kid who couldn't wait to leave school, just to ride that brand new huffy bike! All morning and afternoon I kept thinking about Blue and I was so psyched to ride it. Of course I feared not knowing how to ride it, but that was the whole point of my ride today. So my ride lasted about 2 1/2 hours and i couldn't stop riding. My tummy got the best of me and I knew I needed dinner eventually, but I ended up covering around 42 miles. I played with the gears (that clicking thing is weird on those handlebars!) and I put my hands in all different positions on the bars. But honestly, the WHOLE time I wanted to get aero. What a habit! I knew i would look ridiculous trying to get aero with no aerobars so I passed on that thought and primarily kept my hands on the drop bars. I like my position there.
Tomorrow morning is my 5:45am spin class that I teach at the Y. I love my crew that has joined me for the past 8 months! I can't believe they put up with me every wed, even though they know I'm not an easy instructor..but, I'm hopefully a good motivator for them and even at 5:45am I am full of energy! No surprise, right!
And by the way (for my Floridians), don't you LOVE this weather!
*A special thanks to Karel for putting together my Blue. He always does an amazing job with bikes and is the best bike tech I know! I know he had to do a lot of cutting for this bike....gosh darnit, I'm so freakin' short!
2/26/07
I Ran!!!!
Enough said!
I couldn't be more happy right now. My first time running in almost a month. I headed to the Y this morning for a well-anticipated run on the treadmill. "No more than 30 minutes and I'll stop if I feel any kind of pain". So, of course I'm driving to the gym and my head decided to play lots of games with me. Was my foot still hurt, could I really do this, what will I feel when I start to run?I think this is similar to the normal/fake jittery pains you feel during a taper and before a big race. I'm sure everyone has felt their ITBand flair up or a slight plantar fascitis pain right before the start of a race. But of course...there is nothing wrong! As in my case, I was totally ready for this run and my foot was fine. I started off with a walk and after 5 mintues, I put on my music and started to go. Started off a slow pace of 7.5 mph (1% incline as always) and I don't think I could have smiled any bigger. My normal gym buddies (who think I am crazy for running so fast) probably thought nothing of me running today, but to me this was a milestone! After 10 minutes at a slow 8 minute pace, I did a quick set of intervals - 2 minutes at 8 mph (my normal warm-up pace) and 1 minutes at 7.8 mph. Still felt great, not too tired in the legs but the heart rate was just a bit higher than normal. The heart rate wasn't a surprise and after my 30 minute run, my expectation for this morning's workout were met. I was so happy to be running and I can begin to see the light again. If you know me, even the least bit, I absolutely love to run. I love everything about it-from how I feel when I'm running to how I feel when the run is over.
So, although I ran 4 miles today (ok-so I had to complete the 4 miles and I just couldn't stop at 30 minutes) I know I have a long way to go until St.Anthony's. But, as a lesson to us all, when you are training think of where you want to go and not where you have been. The journey is the best part!!! :)
I feel bad for the participants in my spin class tonight. Although I am a sub tonight and wed night, this was a great morning and I know i'll have lots of energy to share!!!
I couldn't be more happy right now. My first time running in almost a month. I headed to the Y this morning for a well-anticipated run on the treadmill. "No more than 30 minutes and I'll stop if I feel any kind of pain". So, of course I'm driving to the gym and my head decided to play lots of games with me. Was my foot still hurt, could I really do this, what will I feel when I start to run?I think this is similar to the normal/fake jittery pains you feel during a taper and before a big race. I'm sure everyone has felt their ITBand flair up or a slight plantar fascitis pain right before the start of a race. But of course...there is nothing wrong! As in my case, I was totally ready for this run and my foot was fine. I started off with a walk and after 5 mintues, I put on my music and started to go. Started off a slow pace of 7.5 mph (1% incline as always) and I don't think I could have smiled any bigger. My normal gym buddies (who think I am crazy for running so fast) probably thought nothing of me running today, but to me this was a milestone! After 10 minutes at a slow 8 minute pace, I did a quick set of intervals - 2 minutes at 8 mph (my normal warm-up pace) and 1 minutes at 7.8 mph. Still felt great, not too tired in the legs but the heart rate was just a bit higher than normal. The heart rate wasn't a surprise and after my 30 minute run, my expectation for this morning's workout were met. I was so happy to be running and I can begin to see the light again. If you know me, even the least bit, I absolutely love to run. I love everything about it-from how I feel when I'm running to how I feel when the run is over.
So, although I ran 4 miles today (ok-so I had to complete the 4 miles and I just couldn't stop at 30 minutes) I know I have a long way to go until St.Anthony's. But, as a lesson to us all, when you are training think of where you want to go and not where you have been. The journey is the best part!!! :)
I feel bad for the participants in my spin class tonight. Although I am a sub tonight and wed night, this was a great morning and I know i'll have lots of energy to share!!!
2/25/07
Helping out Others
Ok, so I will briefly fill you in with my amazing weekend of cycling and then I will talk about something besides myself.
I was so excited for my ride on saturday. Finally, riding with the Gearlink group. Well, once again, I was dropped, couldn't keep up and I saw many butts cycling away in the distance. However, staying positive and keeping optimistic, I finished my ride with a smile on my face. "wow" I said, "I feel really strong!". I know I wasn't riding like this last year. That makes me feel good.
This morning I headed out early (by car) and went to the suncoast trail. If you ever want a great place to ride in Florida, come to the Tampa bay area. Not only are there amazing group rides and triathletes/cyclists everywhere, but we have several trails specifically for active people. No cars, no motorvehicles, nothing. Just a bunch of legs pedaling, rollerblading, running or walking. And because safety is always a must when riding, I love the trails cause I can listen to my music and totally zone out during my long rides.
This morning I started around 6:30am and kept the HR low and very aerobic. I really enjoyed my time and since I am all about my upcoming Ironman training, I am not minding the solo training. Actually, I know it is a necessary component of my training. However, talk to me again in September and I'll be begging you to do a 3 hour run or a 120 mile bike ride with me. Yep-it does get old and tiresome every now and then.
At the end of my 60 mile ride today, I met with a lady Sarah who i am going to coach on a weekly basis. She is a fun chick, but she is scared of the bike (hope you don't mind me talking about you Sarah).
She laughed when she told me how scared she was of her aerobars, how uneasy she felt clipped in her pedals and how scary it is riding close to other people. She said she sounds so silly talking like that, but I told her not to worry. Although I am her coach and I hope to teach her how to love riding her bike, I TOTALLY RELATE!!!
I'll let you in on a little about my history...
How funny! A girl (me) who is now training for the Ironman World Championships in 7 months (oh my!) and I have only been riding a tri-bike for almost 2 years. My first 3 triathlons were on a hybrid and I can't even tell you how cool I looked with my pedals that I could slide my shoe into and my straight handlebars. I was always so excited to go to the races but my bike never really looked like the others. It was very frustrating to race cause my back would always hurt after the two Olympic Distance tri's I did on the hybrid. Finally I got a Tri-bike (trek) and it was the scariest thing. I had only riden the Hybrid for about a year but I probably put in more miles in spin classes. Ok-truth be known. The only miles on the hybrid were during the 3 races I finished on it! haha-that is sad.
My experience with aerobars and clip-in pedals was just the same. I can still admit that i continue working on my skills and technique on the bike. Even riding my Seduza QR (Which I got 2 months before IMFL), I still feel like I am improving with my skills all the time. For example, I would practice rotating my water bottles in the cages as I was in the aero position and whenever there was a parking lot during a training session, I would do turn-arounds over and over. You don't realize how the little things can really add up time in a race!
The coaching session with Sarah was just great and I really noticed a big improvement. Early this week I helped another woman with her swimming, in hopes of her doing her first triathlon this year. I can't tell you how much I love helping people, especially if it is within the area of triathlons. So, if you are reading this and need any help...please don't hesitate to ask!
Finished up lots of computer work for the USAT Florida Region and finishing up an article for a newsletter. I must say that I am loving my positition as USAT Florida Region Director and I can't wait to get more involved in the triathlon Community.
Ok everyone, time for me to stop babbling and start being productive...
oh-congrats to my brother and the University of Michigan Gymnastics team who placed 4th at the Pacific Coast Classic Gymnastics meet. Have fun during your training camp in California this week!
And...I want to thank Ray Lake, once again, for an amazing job on the website!
I was so excited for my ride on saturday. Finally, riding with the Gearlink group. Well, once again, I was dropped, couldn't keep up and I saw many butts cycling away in the distance. However, staying positive and keeping optimistic, I finished my ride with a smile on my face. "wow" I said, "I feel really strong!". I know I wasn't riding like this last year. That makes me feel good.
This morning I headed out early (by car) and went to the suncoast trail. If you ever want a great place to ride in Florida, come to the Tampa bay area. Not only are there amazing group rides and triathletes/cyclists everywhere, but we have several trails specifically for active people. No cars, no motorvehicles, nothing. Just a bunch of legs pedaling, rollerblading, running or walking. And because safety is always a must when riding, I love the trails cause I can listen to my music and totally zone out during my long rides.
This morning I started around 6:30am and kept the HR low and very aerobic. I really enjoyed my time and since I am all about my upcoming Ironman training, I am not minding the solo training. Actually, I know it is a necessary component of my training. However, talk to me again in September and I'll be begging you to do a 3 hour run or a 120 mile bike ride with me. Yep-it does get old and tiresome every now and then.
At the end of my 60 mile ride today, I met with a lady Sarah who i am going to coach on a weekly basis. She is a fun chick, but she is scared of the bike (hope you don't mind me talking about you Sarah).
She laughed when she told me how scared she was of her aerobars, how uneasy she felt clipped in her pedals and how scary it is riding close to other people. She said she sounds so silly talking like that, but I told her not to worry. Although I am her coach and I hope to teach her how to love riding her bike, I TOTALLY RELATE!!!
I'll let you in on a little about my history...
How funny! A girl (me) who is now training for the Ironman World Championships in 7 months (oh my!) and I have only been riding a tri-bike for almost 2 years. My first 3 triathlons were on a hybrid and I can't even tell you how cool I looked with my pedals that I could slide my shoe into and my straight handlebars. I was always so excited to go to the races but my bike never really looked like the others. It was very frustrating to race cause my back would always hurt after the two Olympic Distance tri's I did on the hybrid. Finally I got a Tri-bike (trek) and it was the scariest thing. I had only riden the Hybrid for about a year but I probably put in more miles in spin classes. Ok-truth be known. The only miles on the hybrid were during the 3 races I finished on it! haha-that is sad.
My experience with aerobars and clip-in pedals was just the same. I can still admit that i continue working on my skills and technique on the bike. Even riding my Seduza QR (Which I got 2 months before IMFL), I still feel like I am improving with my skills all the time. For example, I would practice rotating my water bottles in the cages as I was in the aero position and whenever there was a parking lot during a training session, I would do turn-arounds over and over. You don't realize how the little things can really add up time in a race!
The coaching session with Sarah was just great and I really noticed a big improvement. Early this week I helped another woman with her swimming, in hopes of her doing her first triathlon this year. I can't tell you how much I love helping people, especially if it is within the area of triathlons. So, if you are reading this and need any help...please don't hesitate to ask!
Finished up lots of computer work for the USAT Florida Region and finishing up an article for a newsletter. I must say that I am loving my positition as USAT Florida Region Director and I can't wait to get more involved in the triathlon Community.
Ok everyone, time for me to stop babbling and start being productive...
oh-congrats to my brother and the University of Michigan Gymnastics team who placed 4th at the Pacific Coast Classic Gymnastics meet. Have fun during your training camp in California this week!
And...I want to thank Ray Lake, once again, for an amazing job on the website!
2/24/07
Lovin' it!
This has been a big week for me. I've already put in 210 miles of cycling since Tues, 10 miles of fast incline walking on the treadmill and around 7000 yards of swimming. And I plan on running tomorrow morning for the first time in 4 weeks! So it isn't quite "Ironman" training but I'm feeling strong, healthy and excited to race. This morning I layered up enough to keep myself warm at 6:30am. Instead of driving myself to the group ride, I pedaled my way over 20 miles to meet the Gearlink group at CVS. I never really realized how weak of a cyclist I was until I started riding with Gearlink. Of course barely hanging on this summer was a little insight to my poor cycling ability, but I love seeing my improvements. Towards the end of my training this year, I was at my prime and feeling great when I rode with the group. Now, however, the Gearlink guys are racing hard and riding strong! They are an amazing group of people, especially the leader of the team, Karel. What power these guys have! Anyways, after riding for over an hour to meet the group, I was feeling great and excited to ride. The ride started off slow (as usual) and we rotated at an easy pace of 18-20 mph. All of a sudden however, I was dropped and the group accelerated ahead of me. I tried not to get frustrated, but when I'm cycling my hardest at speeds over 26 mph to try to keep up, there was no luck in catching the group. After a while of cycling solo I decided to get on my aerobars and ride solo (nothing new for me!). I love pushing myself and challenging myself-especially when it comes to cycling. I was happy to be out there with everyone (kinda) and surprisingly, I was feeling really strong! My heart rate was reasonable, my speeds were great and even with strong winds today I was feeling really good. My mentality of the ride really changed once I stopped comparing myself to others and started to focus on myself. Sometimes I worry about racing Elite at St.Anthony's and get my butt kicked...but then again, getting my butt kicked by the best. Secondly, this vision I have of turning pro could easily be shot down by a bad workout, the crazy splits and times of some of my age group competitors and the results of some of the top current pros. So what am I trying to say? In the sport of triathlons you must challenge yourself. I think that is the beauty of Ironman training. Although you spend a lot of time training alone, you are forced to push yourself by your own strength and discipline.
I'm glad I had a great ride and my average for the 60 miles I completed this morning was pretty stellar compared to rides last summer. Really looking forward to the next month. I can't believe it's almost March!
I also want to wish my brother good luck this weekend (today) in California at the Pacific Classic Gymnastics meet. My bro graduates in just 2 months and he is finishing off his senior year as a 4-year Varsity Letter Gymnast and All-American! Keep having fun Aaron. :)
I'm glad I had a great ride and my average for the 60 miles I completed this morning was pretty stellar compared to rides last summer. Really looking forward to the next month. I can't believe it's almost March!
I also want to wish my brother good luck this weekend (today) in California at the Pacific Classic Gymnastics meet. My bro graduates in just 2 months and he is finishing off his senior year as a 4-year Varsity Letter Gymnast and All-American! Keep having fun Aaron. :)
2/22/07
No Surprise....We live in Florida!
No Surprise....We live in Florida! Within one week of cycling over 180 miles, I've experienced minimal rain, crazy winds, extreme cold and now I'm finding myself unzipping my jersey and de-layering during my rides. I tell ya, you start to get use to the freezing temperatures and then the Florida weather gods increase the temps from mid 30's to mid 70's! At first the weather is welcoming, but if I'm pulling out the sleeveless jerseys in Feb., what's to come in June, July and August!!!! Oh my. This week has been a good one for me, from starting to get more involved with nutrition consultations, adding some mileage to my cycling, swimming regularly with the SwimFit Triathlon Swim Team at the Y (ok-so I'm doing the sets by myself, but it's nice to be around others) and I finally started "walking" again!!! Even though I'd much rather be running, I've walked over 9 miles this week on the treadmill (around 4 mph with 8-10% incline). Even with my magazines, I am bored out of my mind and doing intervals while you walk doesn't make it any better. I am playing it safe and being a good athlete and not a stubborn one and finishing off the week walking and then starting to run next week. I'll keep you updated. I want to give a big thanks to Ray Lake who is doing an AMAZING job with my website. Check it out as it is still in the process of being built - http://www.trimarni.com/ Let me know if you have any suggestions or any comments. I won't give away my Web master, but if you need any help with your website, feel free to contact me for his information. He is Awesome!!!
2/19/07
Florida you say?
Unless you are a lifeguard or year-round swimmer (which I have been both) you probably don't worry about the weather on a daily basis. Aside from the Floridians who bundled up for our fridged sub 40 degree weather this morning, living in Florida is just wonderful for year round sports. I have had many moments this year where I have caught myself complaining about the "cold" temperatures (like today when I brushed frost off my car windshield), but I am very lucky to be able to train all year for my sport. Even though it takes me 30 minutes to bundle up with layers for a morning ride on my bike, I laugh as an hour into my ride, the temperature will rise over 10 degrees and the layers will have to come off. Yep, that's Florida.
A couple weeks ago when I was in Bradenton for the USAT educational weekend (which was a big success), Lee Zohlman and I set out for a 6am ride, both saturday and sunday. And I must add that riding with Lee was awesome and I recommend him as not only a great mentor but an awesome coach, speaker and friend. Thanks Lee for an awesome weekend of riding! Anyways..the fog was thick and I had clean socks on my hand cause I didn't realize how cold it would be that weekend (yes-you can laugh). We joked about how cold the weather was, but in reality we were so lucky to be able to ride outdoors in Feb. and then go for an outdoor swim.
The best advice I can offer for those living in a cold state, is to move! Haha-only kidding. Do what you can to keep your fitness. If it is swimming with a swim/masters team, joining an indoor track club, starting that off-season weight training program that you vowed you would do come the off-season, or staying regular with your computrainer or gym spinning class, just keep active even in the winter. I was looking at some forums the other day, regarding training for IMAZ and I give everyone credit for sticking with their IM training program even in frigid temps and snowy conditions! I guess I don't feel so bad when I am swimming outdoors in beautiful Florida, hoping that it doesn't rain in the evening so I can go for a nice 2 hour ride :)
Just a couple more weeks until Triathlon season and I couldn't be more excited! And I'm even considering tasting a couple cycling races as well. Hey, if I've got the road bike now, I better put it to good use! And I'm always up for something new....
A couple weeks ago when I was in Bradenton for the USAT educational weekend (which was a big success), Lee Zohlman and I set out for a 6am ride, both saturday and sunday. And I must add that riding with Lee was awesome and I recommend him as not only a great mentor but an awesome coach, speaker and friend. Thanks Lee for an awesome weekend of riding! Anyways..the fog was thick and I had clean socks on my hand cause I didn't realize how cold it would be that weekend (yes-you can laugh). We joked about how cold the weather was, but in reality we were so lucky to be able to ride outdoors in Feb. and then go for an outdoor swim.
The best advice I can offer for those living in a cold state, is to move! Haha-only kidding. Do what you can to keep your fitness. If it is swimming with a swim/masters team, joining an indoor track club, starting that off-season weight training program that you vowed you would do come the off-season, or staying regular with your computrainer or gym spinning class, just keep active even in the winter. I was looking at some forums the other day, regarding training for IMAZ and I give everyone credit for sticking with their IM training program even in frigid temps and snowy conditions! I guess I don't feel so bad when I am swimming outdoors in beautiful Florida, hoping that it doesn't rain in the evening so I can go for a nice 2 hour ride :)
Just a couple more weeks until Triathlon season and I couldn't be more excited! And I'm even considering tasting a couple cycling races as well. Hey, if I've got the road bike now, I better put it to good use! And I'm always up for something new....
2/18/07
Freezing Temps & Wind...There's no stopping a serious cyclist!
As I pulled out the layers on Friday evening, I had no idea that Florida was capable of reaching freezing temperatures! Sometimes we (Floridians) take for granted how lucky we are to have no ice or snow storms during the "winter" months. It was a rude awakening come Saturday morning as I headed out the door for a ride a little before 7am. The 8am CVS Gearlink group ride turned out to be me and 3 other guys, which then turned out to be a 2 1/2 solo ride. No worries-I was glad to be out on my bike with a foot that is almost healed and ready to run. As I am a committed music listener when I am riding or running alone, I was bummed that I left my music at home and rode over 45 miles with freezing toes and a wind-burned face. Yes-it was that cold and I was riding in 30 degree weather in Florida! The music would have made me feel better about the chilly conditions, so I added some intervals to warm me up. After a quick protein smoothie and breafast, the rest of the day was spent in San Antonio cheering on Karel (who raced his first Pro 1,2 race) and the rest of the Gearlink guys. The course was ridiculously hard and the competition was fierce. Great job to everyone who tested the conditions on the chilly hills of Florida. I also tested my skills as I was 3 for 4 for passing water bottles at the Feed zone for the Pro race. And I thought triathlons were fun. Try passing water bottles to a specific rider as 20 cyclists come racing passed you in speeds over 30 mph!
The sunday routine was similar to Saturday, but I had to wait until the rain stopped and the wind somewhat died down. So the 2 hour ride this morning might as well been journaled as a 10% grade hill ride. As I started out in head wind, in about 40 degree weather, I was feeling fresh and excited to get in as many miles as I could until 9:30am. But as I made my first turn, the wind picked up....and boy did it! My normal flat stretch of road, which I can average 20-22mph in no-wind was forcing me to go 12 mph in the awful head wind. But, actually, I kind of liked it. I am sure anyone who has raced in Kona before would agree with me, that nothing is like the kona winds! Although I have never raced in Kona and have only completed one IM race, training in the wind, for the Ironman World Championships in Oct. is only necessary for my training. The winds got so bad that I was leaning so far to one side that I might as well have been doing crunches in the wind. I couldn't get aero, I was on my smallest gear and pedaling like I was climbing a mountain. But.....it was fun and challenging...just like i love!
The Dade City crit was today and I also watched that as well. Karel and Tony were racing Pro 1,2 and Karel had an amazing finish for his first Pro 1,2 weekend.
The rest of today will be spent catching up on writing assignments and emails.
So what was my big surprise? I GOT ME A ROAD BIKE! Yeah..I can be a roadie! Thank you to the wonderful people of Blue who hooked me up with a wonderful RC5 Blue road bike. Although my seduza will be missed, I can't wait to test out my skills for a couple cycling races in the upcoming months!
have a wonderful rest of the weekend everyone....and for those living in Florida...Stay warm!!!
*Also-a special congrats to Leslie Stallings who recently qualified for Boston this past sat at the Rock n' roll Marathon! Not only did this mother of 2, twice IM finisher train her butt of for this race, but she ran a 3:38 to blow her Boston qualifying time out of the water!! Great job Leslie!
The sunday routine was similar to Saturday, but I had to wait until the rain stopped and the wind somewhat died down. So the 2 hour ride this morning might as well been journaled as a 10% grade hill ride. As I started out in head wind, in about 40 degree weather, I was feeling fresh and excited to get in as many miles as I could until 9:30am. But as I made my first turn, the wind picked up....and boy did it! My normal flat stretch of road, which I can average 20-22mph in no-wind was forcing me to go 12 mph in the awful head wind. But, actually, I kind of liked it. I am sure anyone who has raced in Kona before would agree with me, that nothing is like the kona winds! Although I have never raced in Kona and have only completed one IM race, training in the wind, for the Ironman World Championships in Oct. is only necessary for my training. The winds got so bad that I was leaning so far to one side that I might as well have been doing crunches in the wind. I couldn't get aero, I was on my smallest gear and pedaling like I was climbing a mountain. But.....it was fun and challenging...just like i love!
The Dade City crit was today and I also watched that as well. Karel and Tony were racing Pro 1,2 and Karel had an amazing finish for his first Pro 1,2 weekend.
The rest of today will be spent catching up on writing assignments and emails.
So what was my big surprise? I GOT ME A ROAD BIKE! Yeah..I can be a roadie! Thank you to the wonderful people of Blue who hooked me up with a wonderful RC5 Blue road bike. Although my seduza will be missed, I can't wait to test out my skills for a couple cycling races in the upcoming months!
have a wonderful rest of the weekend everyone....and for those living in Florida...Stay warm!!!
*Also-a special congrats to Leslie Stallings who recently qualified for Boston this past sat at the Rock n' roll Marathon! Not only did this mother of 2, twice IM finisher train her butt of for this race, but she ran a 3:38 to blow her Boston qualifying time out of the water!! Great job Leslie!
2/15/07
Speaking of Triathlons.....
My favorite time of the year...
The weather is changing to cooler temps, here in Florida, while most of the country is struggling finding the warmth to drive to the gym. As for me, my foot is feeling healthy and I am so pleased with my quick (3 week) recovery. My cycling is strong, the swimming is going great and I am anxious to get back on my feet for a long run. The goal for next week is to get in a couple days of running, but nothing long and nothing too quick. Just to run will make my day! Wish me luck for hopefully my last weekend of no running.
It is no surprise that I have been spending a lot of time on my bike. I have been approached by many friends in the area that they have spotted me on my bike around Clearwater and New Port Richey and I love it when people see me riding. Hey, that's cool if you see me riding. Just don't honk...I might fall! :)
I have been swimming with a masters team to pass the solo time in the pool and come the summer, I will be swimming with a HS swim team to step up the training. I know how I was swimming in HS and if I could even keep up with some of the ridiculously fast swimmers, I will be more than happy.
The cycling season is on its way and I will be spending Saturday and Sunday watching road races and crits in San Antonio. I tell ya, you can't get me away from something swim-bike-run related!
Onto the good news, I have signed with two major sponsors, which include several sponsorship agreements. My sponsorship with Amino Vital will end in the next month and I am sad to end a great season with a wonderful sponsor. It is very important to me to not only represent my sponsor, but to actually believe in them. As far as Amino Vital, I don't know how I could train without their products!
With many opportunities to represent my sponsors I am looking forward to the upcoming racing season. With my eyes set on a great race in Kona, my season includes St.Anthony's, Ford Ironman 70.3 Florida, Morton Plant Mease Triathlon and several sprint triathlons. As far as the sponsors, I'll announce those sponsorships soon. Oh the suspense.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine's day. Although there are many people in my life that I regularly give love to, I am thankful that I know so many people who have helped me in so many ways.
Oh, by the way. A big package is on its way to my place today. Inside the box it will include two wheels, a light frame and handlebars that drop down and not straight out. Hummmm...what could it be???? Oh am I excited!!! How can I keep affording this sport????!!!!! :)
The weather is changing to cooler temps, here in Florida, while most of the country is struggling finding the warmth to drive to the gym. As for me, my foot is feeling healthy and I am so pleased with my quick (3 week) recovery. My cycling is strong, the swimming is going great and I am anxious to get back on my feet for a long run. The goal for next week is to get in a couple days of running, but nothing long and nothing too quick. Just to run will make my day! Wish me luck for hopefully my last weekend of no running.
It is no surprise that I have been spending a lot of time on my bike. I have been approached by many friends in the area that they have spotted me on my bike around Clearwater and New Port Richey and I love it when people see me riding. Hey, that's cool if you see me riding. Just don't honk...I might fall! :)
I have been swimming with a masters team to pass the solo time in the pool and come the summer, I will be swimming with a HS swim team to step up the training. I know how I was swimming in HS and if I could even keep up with some of the ridiculously fast swimmers, I will be more than happy.
The cycling season is on its way and I will be spending Saturday and Sunday watching road races and crits in San Antonio. I tell ya, you can't get me away from something swim-bike-run related!
Onto the good news, I have signed with two major sponsors, which include several sponsorship agreements. My sponsorship with Amino Vital will end in the next month and I am sad to end a great season with a wonderful sponsor. It is very important to me to not only represent my sponsor, but to actually believe in them. As far as Amino Vital, I don't know how I could train without their products!
With many opportunities to represent my sponsors I am looking forward to the upcoming racing season. With my eyes set on a great race in Kona, my season includes St.Anthony's, Ford Ironman 70.3 Florida, Morton Plant Mease Triathlon and several sprint triathlons. As far as the sponsors, I'll announce those sponsorships soon. Oh the suspense.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine's day. Although there are many people in my life that I regularly give love to, I am thankful that I know so many people who have helped me in so many ways.
Oh, by the way. A big package is on its way to my place today. Inside the box it will include two wheels, a light frame and handlebars that drop down and not straight out. Hummmm...what could it be???? Oh am I excited!!! How can I keep affording this sport????!!!!! :)
2/8/07
Appreciate the little things
It's funny how life can give you good days and bad days. As for me, I have seen better days in the past 2 weeks. Ever since the Miami Marathon, where I hurt my foot, I have found myself to not be as energetic, positive and excited for life. For the past 2 weeks, something very important to me has been missing. I have never considered myself a person who has had an addiction to anything (well, maybe besides a wonderful cup of coffee and American Idol on tues and wed. nights!), but training and racing triathlons has been my addiction for the past 2 years. I find joy, happiness and enthusiasm in my sport. I wake up excited to train and finish a training session with the mindset that I can't wait to train again. Yes-I consider myself very lucky to feel so passionate when I beat up my body for over 15 hours a week. Whether I'm getting up at 5am to prepare myself for a 4 hour bike ride, swimming redundant laps in a YMCA swimming pool or running on the treadmill for a grueling hour of almost "throw-up" worthy speed intervals, I absolutely crave training for triathlons. And don't even get me started about racing!So, while it may be an addiction, I could not imagine doing anything more healthy for my body, mind and heart. Triathlons have taught me how to appreciate the finer things in life, such as time-mangement, budgeting/saving money (race fees, expensive equipment, travel, etc.), patience and more so, a great appreciation for my body.
Speaking of which...
I just got back from the doctor and it appears that I have strong calves, a weak achilles, I'm a major pronator (nothing new) and I have tarsal tunnel syndrome. As far as the diagnosis, nothing major that a "perscription" ibuprofen for 7 days/ 2x day won't solve ;) Gotta love the meds. Hopefully with some salt baths, ice after training, continuous stretching and a good dosage of pills, I will be back and running in less than two weeks. As far as cycling and swimming (which I haven't done in 4 days!), I am preparing myself for making up for lost training time. OK-so I won't go crazy with my training, but I'm excited to get back to a normal schedule.
For those who may be injured, train through injuries or have never been injured, let my experience be a lesson to really appreciate what you do, everytime you do it. Maybe you complain at times because training causes many uncomfortable aches and pains, but listen to your body even if you are at mile 19.5 of a marathon. Being an athlete does not ensure a license for stubborness and stupidity and to think that you can just "run" through pain. If anyone knows me well, I want to post-pone a long run when I have a blister on my toe. Even with 12 body piercings, one Ironman Tattoo and a 11-hour Ironman finish, I am a major wuss when it comes to pains and aches. But, to justify my complaining, I actually enjoy training. And, most of that is because I always train and race injury free. Secondly, I never feel overtrained.
Although I try to listen to my body when I am feeling tired, sore or achy, I now know that what I do is a big part of my life and I want to do it forever.
I am a triathlete and I appreciate the little things in life.
*Especially all the tendons, nerves and fibers in my right foot that have been causing me pain and unhappiness for the past week!
As I head out to Bradenton this weekend to help with a triathlon clinic, featuring Hunter Kemper and Luc Morrin, I will carry a smile on my face knowing that I am surrounded by many athletes who feel exactly the way I feel about this sport. What a great feeling!
To everyone who has offered concerned for me, for the past week or so, thank you for caring for me. It's nice to have great people in my life. Thanks for the support, to all my loving friends.
Speaking of which...
I just got back from the doctor and it appears that I have strong calves, a weak achilles, I'm a major pronator (nothing new) and I have tarsal tunnel syndrome. As far as the diagnosis, nothing major that a "perscription" ibuprofen for 7 days/ 2x day won't solve ;) Gotta love the meds. Hopefully with some salt baths, ice after training, continuous stretching and a good dosage of pills, I will be back and running in less than two weeks. As far as cycling and swimming (which I haven't done in 4 days!), I am preparing myself for making up for lost training time. OK-so I won't go crazy with my training, but I'm excited to get back to a normal schedule.
For those who may be injured, train through injuries or have never been injured, let my experience be a lesson to really appreciate what you do, everytime you do it. Maybe you complain at times because training causes many uncomfortable aches and pains, but listen to your body even if you are at mile 19.5 of a marathon. Being an athlete does not ensure a license for stubborness and stupidity and to think that you can just "run" through pain. If anyone knows me well, I want to post-pone a long run when I have a blister on my toe. Even with 12 body piercings, one Ironman Tattoo and a 11-hour Ironman finish, I am a major wuss when it comes to pains and aches. But, to justify my complaining, I actually enjoy training. And, most of that is because I always train and race injury free. Secondly, I never feel overtrained.
Although I try to listen to my body when I am feeling tired, sore or achy, I now know that what I do is a big part of my life and I want to do it forever.
I am a triathlete and I appreciate the little things in life.
*Especially all the tendons, nerves and fibers in my right foot that have been causing me pain and unhappiness for the past week!
As I head out to Bradenton this weekend to help with a triathlon clinic, featuring Hunter Kemper and Luc Morrin, I will carry a smile on my face knowing that I am surrounded by many athletes who feel exactly the way I feel about this sport. What a great feeling!
To everyone who has offered concerned for me, for the past week or so, thank you for caring for me. It's nice to have great people in my life. Thanks for the support, to all my loving friends.
2/4/07
Small Chain Ring Won Today
The head cold really got to me yesterday but rested it out and debated about getting up this morning. After several snoozes on the cell phone alarm, I turned on the coffee pot and decided I was good to cycle today. Bundled myself up, for the FREEZING weather this morning (sorry, I do live in florida). My feet and ears were the coldest, but other than that, I was loving the weather and my head didn't hurt anymore. Had a great 45 mile ride and I was happy that I covered the course I was "supposed" to do yesterday. I was cruising along on my bike, just loving it. Although I am a Big chainring kind of girl, the wind was getting to me and I actually used the small chain ring. It was a great workout and I'm happy where I'm at right now with my training. The achilles is still stopping me from running, but I guess this is an appropriate time to have an injury.
Almost time to watch the superbowl. But all that football really gets in the way of the commercials :)
Good luck whichever team you are rooting for!
Almost time to watch the superbowl. But all that football really gets in the way of the commercials :)
Good luck whichever team you are rooting for!
2/3/07
Ride Wet or Go Home
This morning was eventful. Woke up at 5:50am with a little bit of a head cold but i was determined to get on my bike for a long ride. I headed out at 6:30am and felt the rain drops around 6:45am. Kept going in the sprinkles until the down pour came. I was soaking wet and stopped at a Hess station cause I was riding on a major road (54) in the lightening. I was on my way to the suncoast trail to ride (one of our great trails for cyclists/runners) to meet Christian, a guy that I know. He saw me at Hess and picked me and Seduza up and we headed for the trail in his car (about 3 miles down from where I stopped). If you know me at all, I just hate driving my bike somewhere to ride when instead I can just jump on my bike and ride ride ride. However, by the time we got to the trail, the rain had stopped. I was soaking wet, his wife was calling him telling him that he was crazy to ride in the rain, but we still wanted to ride. And, it wasn't raining....at the time. We jumped on our bikes and about 1 1/2 miles in our ride, down comes the rain. Although riding in the rain was fine, the thunder got louder. It was time to turn around and head back to the car. So, as my morning started at 6:30am and finished around 8am, I ended up with 15 miles and a washed set of cycling clothes. I guess if you love your bike and what you do, even a little rain won't stop you from your goals :) This morning was eventful. Woke up at 5:50am with a little bit of a head cold but i was determined to get on my bike for a long ride. I headed out at 6:30am and felt the rain drops around 6:45am. Kept going in the sprinkles until the down pour came. I was soaking wet and stopped at a HEss station cause I was riding on a major road (54) in the lightening. I was on my way to the suncoast trail to ride (one of our great trails for cyclists/runners) to meet Christian, a guy that I know. He saw me at Hess and picked me and Seduza up and we headed for the trail in his car (about 3 miles down from where I stopped). If you know me at all, I just hate driving my bike somewhere to ride when instead I can just jump on my bike and ride ride ride. However, by the time we got to the trail, the rain had stopped. I was soaking wet, his wife was calling him telling him that he was crazy to ride in the rain, but we still wanted to ride. And, it wasn't raining....at the time. We jumped on our bikes and about 1 1/2 miles in our ride, down comes the rain. Although riding in the rain was fine, the thunder got louder. IT was time to turn around and head back to the car. So, as my morning started at 6:30am and finished around 8am, I ended up with 15 miles and a washed set of cycling clothes. I guess if you love your bike and what you do, even a little rain won't stop you from your reaching your goals. :) And if your not ready to train hard, just have fun out there! And if you want to know what keeps me going, it's the days like today that I'll look back on and say "it was all worth it".
Miami Marathon Recap - 1/28/07
Well, that's right-no finish time for the miami marathon. I never thought it would happen to me....
For the first time ever, I got injured during a race. Even worse, first time I have been injured since I started training for triathlons/marathons. What a Bummer! The marathon, all together, wasn't the best for me. Started out really rough, standing for over 30 min before the start in the pouring rain, only to start the race with soaking wet shoes and the rain to finally stop. Next part of the the race, which went bad, was when I ran up the first huge causeway and my shins and calves starting killing me. QUads hurt, everything hurt really...well, except my heart. HEart rate was fine and I wasn't showing any signs of fatigue, besides in my legs. However, I ran through it, stopped in 3 port o potties, then at mile 11, I felt like i Had just started running! I was a brand new women. I guess that is why I love endurance events. Nothing like a 11 mile warm-up!
From miles 11-19 I was just dropping pace (if you saw in my 10K splits) from over an 8:30 pace to almost 5 consecutive miles of sub 7:50 pace. And even better, I was seeing a sub 3:35 finish, when at first I didn't see anything less than 4 hours! However, at mile 19.5 my achilles just throbbed with pain. I was wondering what was going on...I've never been injured during a race before! I Didn't know how i Could run anymore, but still tried. It was like a poor ironman shuffle. However at mile 20 had to walk. I knew the shuffle run wasn't normal marni running style and i felt tired cause I was using muscles that weren't designed for running a marathon. I Tried to run, stretch, whatever just to keep going and it wasn't until mile 22 that I couldn't make it anymore. 4 more miles of walking in pain or just stop. Although it was at mile 22 that I debated about stopping, it was at mile 20 then I started the self talk about my reasons for going or reasons for stopping. The tears were being held back by my pride that I still have many more races. However, when you hear a person in the crowd yelling "you can do it, just 4 more miles" all I could do was tilt my head down to the ground and keep walking. Why why why I asked, but sometimes there isn't always a Because. It just happened and it is overwith.
What a bummer and it just sucks! No other words around it, but I'm thankful there is no tear or sprain, just some tendonitis or inflammation. But to be so passionate about running and see people running right by me, it was sad for me cause I just love that feeling of running. The energy, the endorphins, the feeling of moving forward and being so easy. This was not the way I would have choosen the outcome to be for that race, especially after my horrible first half of the race. I even debated about stopping at the half and just finishing without a medal, but my Marni spirit took over and I just wanted to keep running. It took a lot for me to stop and I am glad that I did. The foot is getting better and I am anxious to move on and look forward to my upcoming race season. And the worst was that I didn't feel in the mood for my celebratory pancakes!!!! Now that is the most shocking part of it all. but i did eat my ice cream in the afternoon....of course!
this just shows me that I even more appreciate what I do, ever morning, of every day. waking up, excited to train, not worrying about anything hurting me or feeling weak and just loving every minute of my life, regardless if I'm swimming, biking or running. I'm read to train hard and work even harder for the upcoming season,
I am very thankful that I have a strong heart and a positive mentality when it comes to racing and training. If it wasn't for many friends, who support me tremendously, I wouldn't be able to be so serious about my triathlon racing career. Thank you for being so understanding!
And most of all, Thanks for your support. There's always another race, and as far as I'm concerned...I'm a triathlete/Ironman now and the marathons will have to wait until mile 114.4 of the Ironman in Kona! ;) haha.
-Marn
For the first time ever, I got injured during a race. Even worse, first time I have been injured since I started training for triathlons/marathons. What a Bummer! The marathon, all together, wasn't the best for me. Started out really rough, standing for over 30 min before the start in the pouring rain, only to start the race with soaking wet shoes and the rain to finally stop. Next part of the the race, which went bad, was when I ran up the first huge causeway and my shins and calves starting killing me. QUads hurt, everything hurt really...well, except my heart. HEart rate was fine and I wasn't showing any signs of fatigue, besides in my legs. However, I ran through it, stopped in 3 port o potties, then at mile 11, I felt like i Had just started running! I was a brand new women. I guess that is why I love endurance events. Nothing like a 11 mile warm-up!
From miles 11-19 I was just dropping pace (if you saw in my 10K splits) from over an 8:30 pace to almost 5 consecutive miles of sub 7:50 pace. And even better, I was seeing a sub 3:35 finish, when at first I didn't see anything less than 4 hours! However, at mile 19.5 my achilles just throbbed with pain. I was wondering what was going on...I've never been injured during a race before! I Didn't know how i Could run anymore, but still tried. It was like a poor ironman shuffle. However at mile 20 had to walk. I knew the shuffle run wasn't normal marni running style and i felt tired cause I was using muscles that weren't designed for running a marathon. I Tried to run, stretch, whatever just to keep going and it wasn't until mile 22 that I couldn't make it anymore. 4 more miles of walking in pain or just stop. Although it was at mile 22 that I debated about stopping, it was at mile 20 then I started the self talk about my reasons for going or reasons for stopping. The tears were being held back by my pride that I still have many more races. However, when you hear a person in the crowd yelling "you can do it, just 4 more miles" all I could do was tilt my head down to the ground and keep walking. Why why why I asked, but sometimes there isn't always a Because. It just happened and it is overwith.
What a bummer and it just sucks! No other words around it, but I'm thankful there is no tear or sprain, just some tendonitis or inflammation. But to be so passionate about running and see people running right by me, it was sad for me cause I just love that feeling of running. The energy, the endorphins, the feeling of moving forward and being so easy. This was not the way I would have choosen the outcome to be for that race, especially after my horrible first half of the race. I even debated about stopping at the half and just finishing without a medal, but my Marni spirit took over and I just wanted to keep running. It took a lot for me to stop and I am glad that I did. The foot is getting better and I am anxious to move on and look forward to my upcoming race season. And the worst was that I didn't feel in the mood for my celebratory pancakes!!!! Now that is the most shocking part of it all. but i did eat my ice cream in the afternoon....of course!
this just shows me that I even more appreciate what I do, ever morning, of every day. waking up, excited to train, not worrying about anything hurting me or feeling weak and just loving every minute of my life, regardless if I'm swimming, biking or running. I'm read to train hard and work even harder for the upcoming season,
I am very thankful that I have a strong heart and a positive mentality when it comes to racing and training. If it wasn't for many friends, who support me tremendously, I wouldn't be able to be so serious about my triathlon racing career. Thank you for being so understanding!
And most of all, Thanks for your support. There's always another race, and as far as I'm concerned...I'm a triathlete/Ironman now and the marathons will have to wait until mile 114.4 of the Ironman in Kona! ;) haha.
-Marn
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