It Works

Oh my Gosh! 

It was such a simple run. I didn't even have to write it down. Love it. Run for a ways in aerobic HR, then speedwork, then chill out in the run. 

I picked "my trail" of course. It was muddy from our storm. Somehow my special "thingy's" that handle mud on your shoes got thrown away. Oh well. Makes for a better workout. 

I worked on keeping my heart rate at bay, meaning keeping it aerobic. If you were running with me, we could chat. A ways into my run, my simple speed work began on that trail. It was easy to remember. I put my muddy shoes to the slippery trail and WENT! 

Afterwards, it was back to my HR monitor. Was my heart staying in aerobic gear or was it going too high? The hard part was trying to stay in aerobic gear on the hills. The tendency is to get to the top fast. Mark the hill as mine! But, nope, HR tells ya how to take it. 

The weirdest thing... it works. When I got to the speed part my heart rate naturally increased but didn't sky-rocket. And I was huffin' and puffin' w/ mud all over my shoes. I wasn't on a pretty-perfect-expensive track. That's not my style. Never trained on one and I figure races will never be perfect anyway. Might as well keep it real! 

I have a key workout coming up and I am excited and nervous. It will be a first for me, ever, since I've never been on a track team before. But, me and my friend have lots of support. I am getting used to my Garmin and am now seeing how useful it is. Today I didn't care about my pace. My attention had to be focused on heart rate. I am developing base! That is my focus for a few weeks. A little lifting but, more aerobic. I am a triathlete. That's more important than aesthetic muscles :)

Happy Training to you! 

Christy

Spring Breaks' Over

NO!

Emma finally lost a front tooth during the week, we went sledding, slept in, watched fun movies, had a girls' day, and did whatever we wanted. Had to have one serious cleaning day. We ended it tonight by playing a great board game featured in this month's issue of "Wired" magazine. Game is called, "Settlers of Catan". Fun game and story behind the creator. Abby, Emma and me were playing interior design w/ our extra roads and homes while we waited for our turn. Fortunately, Jim is patient and used to a house full of girls. He loves us. His girls love him back. I never give him grief when he goes away w/ "the boys." But, home is still home to him. Thank God. 

Training for me this a.m. was a ride. I added a yoga class in there b/c I am keeping up my flexibility. It helps me w/ back issues and I feel like I work out physical and mental kinks of running and biking thru 1 yoga class a week. 

Today was a heck of a windy day... I figure that's meant to be and I am learning how to ride in wind. I faced terrain that I crashed in a while back when I got my concussion. I did well. I did well. Long ride which was good because I relaxed more and more as time went by as the conditions never changed.

I've almost finished this book. It's made a lot of sense to me as newcomer to the sport even though the author is an Iron Distance Triathlete. I like his "keep it simple" approach. It helps especially as a full-time MOM w/ ever changing pop-up schedules. I am really getting the idea of developing a base to my running, biking and swimming. Name of the book, "Full Time & Sub-Nine" by: David Glover.

Happy Training,

Christy

Found my Running Arms

16 Degrees it said on the computer by the time I left to carpool w/ a friend today. We were off for a run. Still lots of snow on the ground but, lots of runners out in Denver. We are all getting ready for a fun racing season. Mind you, my first ever racing season in the 27 years of solo running. My friend is still in shock over that fact.  

Today I focused on arms... When you run, you are supposed to keep your upper body forward w/out swaying. Some people say, "Arms up a bit, sorta like boxers, but, hands relaxed." I've always kept my hands down by my hips, open handed so that I can keep my shoulders down and relaxed. The by-product is that my shoulders can sway which waist energy! Don't want that. Today I focused on arms. Finally, I found my rhythm which is different for every runner. 

I am reading an awesome triathlon book... I am probably going to finish it tonight. Great story... Wanna know what it is???? Okay, I'll tell ya. "Full Time & Sub-Nine"  by: David Glover. I love it!!! I am reading it backwards, middle and forwards-the way I read all books. It drives Jim crazy. I can't help but read that way. 

The author is a 4 time Iron Distance champion, Full-time job!, 5 time All-American USA Triathlon All-American, Cancer Survivor, Naval Academy Graduate. I am loving this book! Helpful! Easy read, straight-forward, honest. One technical thing I am getting is that in each aspect of the sport, you develop a base. Although, there is much more he discusses. This author and my friend are the first people to describe the tri races.  My friend took a couple years off of racing due to injury and tri-racing addiction :) Glad she's back. Fun to carpool with her. 

Oh, the best... I took the kids sledding yesterday. Our youngest informed me, "Mom, I am an extreme athlete." as her cheeks were bright red from climbing up and down the huge hill w/ her sled in hand. She can't wait to go snowboarding again. Jim ran today. He's getting ready for his first snowshoe race ever! Proud of the computer boy!  

Happy Training to you in your everyday life! 

Christy

 

Snow Shoein' in Denver?

Oh Yeah, 

We got one-One of those spring winter storms. I was stubborn yesterday and had to finish my deep cleaning while it came in. I was forewarned by email that we'd be getting some heavy duty winds in the afternoon. 

By the time I finished my cleaning, I knew there'd be a foot of snow on a nearby trail. My snowshoes were calling. And I listened. Nobody, I mean nobody was on that trail, not even the kids w/ their snowboards. And, yep, Mr. Pilot was right. The winds picked up and the chill made it colder than the real temp. The powder was fresh. I know that trail backwards and forwards. I picked backwards. There was nobody to cheer me on. No water stops. Nobody joining me in the race against dark, cold, wind, pure white clouds, and snow. I was watching for those coyotes. They don't scare me. I know their behavior on that trail. Honestly, I couldn't even feel the snot that had apparently run down my nose. 

I did it. I lifted my quads as high as they could go through deep powder up and down the hills. And pulled my calves high up in back. It was harder than the 5K race I'd run in the mountains. Not quite as hard as the 1st 10K snowshoe race I'd ever run but, a bit scarier because there was a wind and cold factor that I'd not faced before. Adventure. I loved it. I made it. 

I took Jim's phone for a pic... the battery died up top. All I got was a pic he took before I left and a pic of the hand warmers I put in my gloves. He warned me that his life was in that phone. So I put it in plastic. When I reached the top of the trail and pulled the phone out, the wind yanked the plastic out of my hand. I ran and ran in my snowshoes after that plastic without thinking about dropping phone ;) I caught that darn plastic which kept escaping my hands. And feared I got the phone wet. Nope, it's working just fine. And Jim's life is A-Okay! Shew! 

Tri-training, aren't we fortunate!!!! 

Bode Miller and Tri-Training?

Yea, sorta like the way the guy handles attitudes about medals. Saw a report on him last night. Sure, he flies his own way. He can laugh at himself, post YouTube's that make fun of all the gossip. Most people don't even get the fact that he's actually poking fun at the media. Gutsy, crazy, breaks rules-yep. Either ya hate him or like him. 

For me, I have to make things fun. Look around. Train in different ways. Research, weight train outside every now and then. Sure, go to the weight room. But, change it up. Ask the kids what they like and let them figure out how to reach those goals. They love to google it and figure things out. Am I a "Bode Miller"? Nope. I have to be secure enough to be me. I have to keep tri-training something great, fun, and free. That's why I can add a yoga class every now and then break the "rules" in there. Play w/ the kids. Plan camping trips w/ biking, running, etc. 

Part of the report... a girl who had an awesome basketball career developed meningitis. Lost her legs and arms. Awesome attitude 6 years later. I have so much for which to be grateful. Her love of her game had to change. And she was able to do it. She found love of life without basketball. Amazing. 

Happy Training,

Christy

Biking and Blogging

Whoa, what a ride! I kissed the kids and Jim goodbye as they went to the bookstore. They each had a book in mind for a sit down read. Of course I asked Jim if he wouldn't mind picking up a tri book for me. A must have, "The Cyclist's Training Bible" by: Joe Friel (4th Editon). 

I biked from the house to a dam and around. We had some cross-winds galore! It was crazy. Those of us out there ended up smiling as we passed each other. Gusts galore that would hit ya in total surprise. Good for me. I needed to learn to ride like that. One time I felt out of control. I stopped. Gathered my composure. Reminded myself, "Relax. You got it." And then hit it again... everything was okay. Patience, girl, patience. On the way home the wind was blowing so hard directly in my face. Hard pedaling but felt awesome. Better than blowing sideways into the bike. I tucked and focused on lifting the ole legs. 

Strange topic-athletic blogging. There are many different ways of communicating, researching, and learning a/b triathlons. A friend talked to me a/b athletic blogging encouraging me to do it having his own high traffic blog in a different field. Everyone has an opinion a/b this topic. Some try to keep up w/ it all not knowing which one be THE one.

I blog for personal reasons which will enhance a personal goal. I read blogs from athletes who who speak of their first time successful experiences. I have actually copied some of their workouts which they found helpful and successful. I have a workout plan in place. I probably read a couple of blogs twice a week... they are bookmarked, appear honest, and helpful. I keep up with Master's swimming and USAT. I bring up the subject b/c it is as crazy as the gusty winds. Some people say, blog often. Some say, don't. Some say, if you only blog every once in a while people will forget about your blog totally. Who knows? 

Whatever the choice is personal and may help someone even if it is self. Then it's worth it as long as it is not meant to hurt. I am an athlete. I don't believe athletes should intentionally hurt others. I talk a/b my family... they are important to me and part of my training. I say what works or doesn't work. What works for me may not work for you. It's your choice. Have fun training. I am enjoying getting to know what I never dreamed I'd get the opportunity to do. I am learning something good every step of the way.

Happy Training,

Christy

Tri-Questions For 1st-timer

A woman I know has been inviting me to run w/ her group for quite some time. I joined her yesterday. For those of you w/ I.T. band issues, she is having great success w/ MAT (Muscle Activation Therapy). After yesterdays run, she reported no pain whatsoever. 

She and I chat about triathlons, kids, running, etc. She knows this will be my first tri-season. She tells me how much I am going to love it after hearing how long I've been running. We talk equipment, transitions, etc. Sometimes it's good to bounce off questions. 

I have biking buddies who understand my biking questions. They tell me to be patient with myself. Take time to see how I learn... even take time to figure out how my body learns speed. I practice in different situations, sometimes even the old flat places. One day I did all my errands on the bike just so I could get the feel of turns, quick stops, paying attention to cars around me while riding straight, clicking in and out often, looking for weird things on the road, etc. 

The snowshoe races are great b/c I get to practice racing. I love it. Some people have the knack for understanding what it is like to race for the first time. Those are the ones I listen to. As helpful as others try to be they just don't realize that what they are saying isn't working for the "first-timer." It's okay. 

I remember trying something new. 

A very successful athlete was attempting to help. Everything was so new and I was trying to understand my equipment. This athlete was attempting to get me to feel the same thing they felt emotionally about the race. They were telling me opposite things than my instructor and I became confused. Finally, someone came up and started helping me w/ my equipment which was on wrong. 

Sometimes, you have to slow down and do one thing at a time when starting off, even if it means tying your shoes very slowly while breathing calmly. It's okay. Everybody is different. None of us are the same. My biking buddies tell me that all the time. They tell me that I will learn differently from them. And that is okay. 

I'd never expect Jim to physically train like me. He and I don't even work the same. His days are so much different than mine. He and I are both "on" all day, but, in different ways. The days he works at home, I get to see how he can multitask talking to 6 people at one time. He has to make sure everything is working at work before he goes to bed and when he wakes up. I do too but, in a different way.

I do believe this from all I heard and researched... being on a Master's swim team is very important for tri-athletes especially those of us doing our first triathlon. Athletes like me.

Happy Training,

Christy

Running Starts

Running - "Check"

I've been going to yoga about 1 time a week when I can fit it into the workout schedule. Last night I went to one of the harder classes I used to attend. I use weights in downdog so my wrists never get overused. I cannot walk in the room and lie down on my mat, though. I don't care if I am the only one standing and stretching while waiting. I rarely close my eyes at the end, too. I only close them during a flow sometimes. Feels cool. 

A girl I knew was there and spotted while the instructor picked the one inversion I can do. Yeah! Takes some shoulder strength. So they don't always pick it. 

I bring the whole yoga deal up for a reason... there was a move where the only way to get into it was completely relax your shoulders and let your chest concave. Of course, the yogi says, "Soften your heart." Then you can get your head under your leg which is by your ankle. But, you have to smile and be soft. Hee Hee. 

As I was driving home I saw a man leave his complex as he started his run. He had his lucky hat on backwards-check. He'd already lifted-check (you could tell by the biceps). No iPod (he was trying this one hard core)-check. I say "check" because I could see it all over his face. It was Friday evening, this was the only time he could do it before going out. And he was going to get it done no matter what. Was he going to like it? Who knows... but, his body was so stiff and robotic that it was probably going to be a ruff start.

I've been there, done that, still do it so many times. Truth is... sometimes you have to wake yourself up and "Just do it". 

But, somehow, that yoga thing is sorta right. To really benefit from it... we gotta soften into it. Even running.  Especially running. Jim's been running every morning and he hates mornings. He's not fond of running either. He starts off walking. Then he runs. That's what works for him. I've been told that we should always warm-up into runs. That's why people warm-up before a race. 

Daily runs just the same. They are just as important. I better get ready for my run. 

Happy Training,

Christy

"I love you"

"I love you"

It's not valentine's Day. Nobody's birthday. Nope, not an anniversary. 

Sometimes life gets hectic. It's easy to get caught up in it all. It's time to stop and say, "Thank you, Jim, for loving me so much and so good. I love you. I am glad I get to wake up next to you in the mornings." 

Happy Training to you, too, Baby,

Christy

Keep on Keepin' On

Keep on Keepin' on...

This week has been a tuff one. I've had mild migraines at night that carry over into the morning. I had a meeting in the morning yesterday which I followed with a ride at the dam. (I keep wanting to say, "Reservoir" every time.) Reason for dam/Res :) time-Abby pick up. 

Goals during ride: high cadence (fast rotation of pedals-keep up w/ it, though), focus on the lift in my legs during pedal stroke, pedal as much as possible downhill. 

It's always nice to ride the dam, see a tiny touch of H2O, look at the mountains from that distance, and watch people fly their RF planes in the field. This time I focused on actually DOING a warm-up and cool-down. My cycling friends make me do it when we ride. 

I went to get Abby. As soon as she started walking to the car I knew something was wrong. Sure enough she was itching all over and had hives. She'd already taken Benadryl 20 min ago and it wasn't working. She begged me not to go but, off to the allergist we went. At 14 y.o. and several epi episodes this year, she's so sick of it. We were there for a while. They are so good to her. And she is so tired of it all. They think it's everything blooming outside as she was outside that day during school. Plus she's been biking a bit too. She wants strong legs for snowboarding. As she laid on the short table sound asleep on paper that rattled when she moved I truly felt her frustration. 14 y.o. just wanting to be outside and not worry if you will react or not. Have to get an epi. I can't type about it anymore. Allergies are no fun. They take a lot more strength than riding up a da*n hill. I love you, Abby, and think you are a very strong and very cool kid. You are so calm which is why so many people want you to watch their kid. I love ya, girl! 

Change of subject....

What should we be doing in our training this weekend???

Making our training schedules for April. 

Plan big training events first... just a suggestion. 

USAT says-never forget the 4th and equally important element of our sport-TRANSITIONS. (train for it as much as you train for swim, bike, and running)

Schedule everything around your heavy training events. 

Please already sign up for your races. If money is an issue, pick the cheaper ones. 

If money isn't an issue, please consider helping other triathletes who are in need this year! 

(Their are many books to guide you. Joe Friel is good. Tons of stuff online for triathletes. Can join a triathlete club at a local rec center or the YMCA. If you go this route, Find one that pushes ya and is enjoyable simultaneously. After all, you love this, remember? Join Master's swim team, highly recommend. Run w/ friends. I ride with friends, learn tons b/c they are experienced and want me to succeed. They push me, definitely.) 

Happy Training,

Christy

Fun Swimming

Yep, It was fun... Swimming! 

Yesterday I had a long workout in the pool. It was cold in there, too. Lots of tri people hitting the pool these days and wearing their Ironman caps. I like it-inspiring. And, they are nice people. My ankle is doing great, swelling down, starting to turn blue-which is good. I will stop running downhill next time I return a call :) 

Before my swim, I'd read an article by a Master's tri-swimmer a/b preserving the shoulder and swimming effectively. I always go to a training day w/ a couple of goals. Yesterday, my arms outside of the water were to be like sharks. They could even pause in that shark position. My bent elbow was to be reaching towards the sky when it was out of the water. The catch position in the water was so much easier to maintain w/ this in mind. And I didn't pause once my hand went into the water at the top of the stroke. That was becoming a bad habit. 

My "lats" got a great workout. I noticed my stroke was much more powerful. In other words, I was speedy! Yippee!!! I was able to maintain my "sharkness" thru my sprints too. I also focused on the timing of my inhaling breath-something that I learned way back when. It was taught to me for neck preservation to prevent migraines. I am still trying to learn that one.

I am pretty excited b/c Jim is planning on doing the last snowshoe race with me. He's going for the 5K being his first one. He's on a cleanse right now and doing great! Super proud of him! Working hard. Doing his own workout deal. Lovin' his fixie! We are having a lot of fun.

Hey, I found a new weight lifting book... You wanna hear about it? The name of it is, "Weight Training for Cyclist" by:  Ken Doyle and Eric Schmitz (velopress) Some good stuff in there about posture, type of weights to lift and why, how to breathe when lifting, how to stay injury-free when lifting, etc. Gives endurance athletes all sorts of wt lifting ideas. Changing things up in the weight room is always good for the body. The body is a smart engine that can get used to doing the same ole same. Gotta trick it every now and then. As always, you know your body and what you can and can't do. But, there are lots of good ideas in this one. Some yoga in it, too. 

Happy Training,

Christy

Running Goals?

Uh, plans do change...

Yesterday, Sunday, I had a distance run planned. Weather... awesome. Wanted to run in some heat for prep. So, I waited til the middle of the day. I was going for at least a 10 miler.

In the back of my head I had 3 goals for this one: legs up in back, minimal feet contact w/ the ground, and negative split 1/2-way back. What's a negative split? I didn't know either. A negative split is when you increase your speed each successive mile. In other words, if I were running 5 miles, my 1st mile would be the slowest, 2nd faster, 3rd even faster, 4th faster than the 3rd, and last mile the fastest. I'd maintain those speeds throughout the mile. Make sense? 

I was cold when I left and put on too much clothing. So I had to stop and wrap clothes around my waist. Getting used to wearing too much gear. Good! Change of plans always good for tri-prep. Getting comfortable w/ things not being perfect even better prep. Weight training during a distance run makes ya stronger. Soon enough, I forgot about all the extra crap on me. 

Then I realized music was slowing me down. I turned it off. Sure enough my time increased almost 40 seconds. 

I was feeling so good that I added some to the run, running up the back side of a dam which added 3 miles. On the way down, phone rings. My husband doesn't call during a run. But, it was his cell. I was concerned b/c one of the kids has had an epi lately. I multi-tasked down-hill. I know better. I was calling him back and refusing to stop running simultaneously. Yep, I rolled the ankle on the side of the road-all because I wouldn't stop running. AHHHHH! It swelled right away. I was so mad. More mad a/b the ankle than my bleeding knee. Immediately, I was yelling at my sweet husband, "Why did you call?"I had to apologize. 

A woman stopped. She was looking for her 1st aid kit. I was thinking about how this might interrupt my training. She said, "I know." She was a tri-girl too. Done many triathlons. Come to find out she used to train w/ a very popular female coach. I quit complaining b/c she said, "No racing for me this year." I asked her why? "Reality hit. My husband was laid off." 

I didn't feel so bad anymore knowing I'd heal quickly. She was still smiling and riding her bike on the weekend. 

Jim picked me up as Emma wanted to meet me and run for a while. She loves to run w/ me. We had a blast and my little girl knows how to kick those legs in the back. 

For the next few days, it will be swimming and riding. I won't complain. I am lucky to have supportive people in my corner of training for my first tri-season. If that change of plans happens for me, I can roll with it. Continue to train and smile on my bike as I ride just like that woman. My time is now though.  

Happy Training,

Christy

1st Triathlon 40-something

Part 2 (How do I tri-train at 40 something plus?)

The nitty gritty from a serious 42 y.o. athlete training for her 1st triathlon and more to come... I train everyday. I train year round. How do I do that? A rest day is a training day! A nap is considered training. I have made many mistakes. Will always make mistakes. I consider them a chance to learn and grow. 

For now here are some simple things I've researched from successful triathletes in this sport for a long time: (I am all ears. And I do incorporate these ideas into my training.)

Lifting Weights: Don't pick the bulky guy for guidance. His goals aren't wrong; they are different from ours. Find one of the many books on wt lifting for triathletes or cyclists or swimmers. Proper form and breathing are imperative for protection from injury. Get someone knowledgeable to show you first. Make sure they take your training seriously. 

Work on Flexibility: Many books out there on this one. Can always try a mild yoga class. Check out training of instructors. I always stretch post workout, never to pain, ever. Always consult expert... that would NOT be me. 

Nutrition: Importance is beyond words. This is my greatest challenge and always my biggest question which gets varied answers. Please research, ask your M.D., listen to your body, ask people... I still need help with this and am concerned that I will struggle w/ it. I am getting the best help from racing athletes my own age. They aren't triathletes but, they are endurance athletes and have been in the field a long time. It helps to talk to others who've done this a while. 

REST: So important it is all in RED 

Building Endurance and Lung Capacity:  strength training runs, rides, and swims done over time. Also, distance running, riding, and swimming at a slower pace. Time ourselves and keep our heart rates during time trials. Heart rate becomes more and more important to training in some expert's opinion. Others rely on other forms of measurement. Some people don't even rely on consistent pedal stroke (cadence) believe it or not. Shocking, I know. 

Proper Scheduling: Plan a day of each month that you sit down and make your training schedule for the next month. Make it realistic along w/ work, family needs, etc. Did I say schedule rest days? Just checking...

Noticing Stress: Everyone has it. Important to notice how it effects your body. Can lead to illness. A training book I read spoke of typical 40-something stresses being caring for 2 generations at once. A lot of us there. Financial stresses are huge in today's economy. For me, training has only served to help me w/ stress. I see athletes older than myself at races. They have their own stresses, too. I learn a lot by watching them. Most of them are very happy. 

Plan Races and Training Well in advance

Set Time Goals AND Know my Current Times

Know, getting sick is part of Every Athlete's Training:  Plan for it. Be okay w/ rest. 

DO NOT OVER-TRAIN!!! Why? Leads to injury and illness. Research and learn the signs of an over-trained body. Please do not do it. We can ruin our whole season thru injury by over-training. Dangerous on the bike! 

Body work or yoga: Works out the kinks

By the way, just because we aren't over-training doesn't mean we can't be like "gov". It just means we are being smart and listening to our bodies. Hard to learn. 

A concern: The last snowshoe race I attended had approximately 220 people. I am concerned a/b the lack of women who were in the 60-somethings and above. Why? I see a lot of men in that age category do very well. But, the women... I haven't seen that many in the 2 races I've run. It's a strength endurance run, especially the 10K. The endurance athletes I see in the gym are men. Is that why? What's the deal? I know next race brings in the thousands, supposedly. We'll see what happens. 

Our training (whether we are 42 or 72, male or female) is as significant as any 20-something yr old out there. We plan for it as seriously and have a blast. 

As always, 

Happy Training to ALL,

Christy

Training at 40-something

My First Tri at 42 years old? 

Oh yeah! I have been more than honest a/b this being my first tri-season. Matter of fact, this year was the first time I ran an officially timed running race w/ some sort of attachment on my shoe. Someone else actually put in on me and my daughter. Had no idea why it was necessary. I thought ya just ran across the finish line and they looked at your number to see your placement. I am not kidding! I signed us up for the wrong race. We had a blast. I stuck w/ her and she ran her lil 8 yr old heart out in that 5K race-they had us down for the 1 miler.  

I am learning more than I ever could. I am a serious athlete. I came to the sport raring to go. I didn't need to lose much weight. I want to do my very best. I love to run. Never had I been on a track team. I hadn't had the opportunity of being on a competitive team growing up. I had no idea what a swim team was like. Research was the name of the game for me. Weight training was part of my regime. Done yoga. And I was a runner on my own. I was an over-achiever.

Just like every single athlete that enters into any sport, my body was not perfect. Still isn't, just like every human being I've ever met. 

I am researching athletes in their 40's. I love it. It has inspired me beyond belief. Today I biked. One woman, I will call "gov" completed her first tri at 40-something with an incredible time which received accolades from olympic athletes. I actually used my legs the way she suggested during today's ride. It helped immensely w/ speed. 

I've received a lot of support from people in my age group, some of whom are racers. They talk about nutrition and the importance of listening to your body. One cyclist in particular warns of over-training. 

I was reading a tri book. When my body physically crashed "bonked", It was all very clear... I was over-training. My body needed rest. All the signs were in black and white in my journal and in a very popular tri-training book. I almost laughed out loud in the bookstore. I wasn't crazy. My body needed rest, very clearly. It had nothing to do w/ being 42, being imperfect, being female, etc. I was exhausted from not allowing my body a rest day every now and then. 

To refrain from a length blog, I am going to leave ya "hanging" until tomorrow for the "How do I train?" at 40-something, 50-something, or 70-something for my first tri whether you are a man or woman! Really it is all easily researched and available to you. 

Please know that it is very important to plan and train ahead of time.

Happy Training,

Christy

Changed It Up

Put on Some Old Tennis Shoes Today

Actually it was bare feet. It was a sleepless night because Jim was out of town and my injured Gr Dane decided to accidentally step on her bandaged tale at 1 a.m. Fortunately, her bandage just slid off. But, unfortunately for me, I had to sleep on the floor beside a dog that weighs as much as me. Had to make sure she wasn't licking her wounded tale, making it bleed. We survived til making it to the vet this morning. 

I was too tired for my scheduled bike ride. Fixing my aches and pains w/ a mild yoga class has been rolling around in my head. So, today was the day to try it out. 

What a great class! I haven't been in forever. Saw some old friends. I picked a class that wasn't "all out"... saving my wrists. In the class I realized that doing the real intense yoga is no longer in the cards due to my wrists. But, I was okay with it. 

I had a blast and got to dance as I love to do in yoga. I looked in the mirror and I liked who I saw. I don't mean just how I looked. I mean, WHO! Anyway! To my surprise, my year old yoga clothes fit okay. Although, nothing gets your stomach like yoga.  

There will always be a bit of yogini in me. I took care of myself and my wrists in class. I stretched everything I needed to. That's the great thing about yoga. Ya can do your own thing when you need to. If something hurts... just stretch it out. Everybody is focused on their own-selves. Nobody is judging. 

I was more settled than I've been in a long time. Doing all the aerobic activity has really settled me down. As much as I loved yoga, I really need aerobic killer workouts. It's just me. It works out my kinks. But, I think that I will go to yoga every once in a blue moon when my body gets a bit sore. 

My wrists can no longer handle the inversions :(  There are 2 I can do... fisting it. But, truly, my body feels so good and limber and stretched out. It doesn't hurt after class. Sleep should be easy tonight especially since my Dane has pain pills that will help her sleep too :)

Happy Training.

Christy

Whoa-spongy tracks

Yikes 

First, Anoop, ya hurt me last night. "Beat it" belongs only to Michael. My kids were too young to remember the significance of the poor choice. Sorry, buddy, choices like that scare me.

I didn't get to hit the track til 6 something last night. 

This 42 yr old has never been on an official track team. Don't even know certain track workouts except what I've read in books. That was probably the 4th time I've felt what it is like to run on the nice spongy tracks outside. I almost thought it wasn't meant for me. A tri-friend called during my warm up. We'd been playing phone tag far too long. She texted the rest of the conversation.

I did the workout til the full moon was totally up in the sky and sun almost set. Beautiful. I sped it up. Cold out there, even with a sweater under my jacket. 

Although I've run distances in much colder weather... my legs were almost frost bit and still freezing cold. Still, I'd do it again. 

About my calves-I just think they have to get used to different style workouts. Sometimes I just run/bike thru it. Walking hurts more than running. I noticed during the snowshoe race I didn't even feel it except at the start. And I ran a lot of the time. Maybe it was adrenaline or competitiveness. Who knows. But, they are starting to feel a little better. I think yoga would help since I've already tried PT/bodywork w/ little help. 

Racing For...

What?

Exercise has been my lifestyle for a long time. I love it. This weekend we celebrated our anniversary together as a family w/ exercise. I raced FOR a cause-Afghanistan Veterans. The other series of snowshoe races is for cancer care at a specific place. 

As a family it was an expensive weekend. 

During the snowshoe race I ended up chatting w/ a man who'd run many races, all sorts. He was fit and knew how to snowshoe. He knew the names of several people we passed... even knew one man's running form shouting out, "You're gimpy today." His friend told him what was wrong with his calf as we passed. 

He told me that he now picks his races very carefully. He picks them based on their cause. 

I am sure most of us would agree w/ the man I met this weekend. A lot of people are hurting thru job loss or loss of business due to the economy. We sure can't afford  a weekend like our anniversary/snowshoeing/snowboarding race weekend for all my races. But, I can pick races that support the homeless. I wear that same yellow jacket all the time and don't really care. I can be smart w/ money knowing how we are also affected. 

I believe as athletes, we help others and don't give up. I can support athletic groups that give back to its own community. Volunteer-A commitment which gives back much more. 

It is scary. We don't just look the other way. Exercise and healthy eating is still vital to the human body especially now. 

Hey, despite the serious Christy Ride :)

Happy Training...

I was asked to do a race this wkend. I have to check out the cause :) 

Snowshoeing-Love It

Winter Fun

I am sitting here in a condo w/ my family after a day packed full of fun in the snow. Our 8 yr old just streaked thru the condo naked doing something-no idea what. Our 14 yr old already in her pj.s is figuring out some application on the iPhone w/ her Daddy. Both girls are exhausted after a full day of snowboarding. Way it's supposed to be.

I got to run a 5K snowshoe race. I totally enjoyed it much more than my first one. I ran much of the time, pacing myself w/ some heavy duty runners. Fortunately, I had brand new snowshoes, Nothern Lites. They were awesome. Steve bolted them to some old running shoes. I bought some bike shoe-covers to put over my running shoes to keep my feet nice and cozy. It worked like a charm.

I even tried bunny hopping down a few hills. Guess what... I never fell. Not one time. I had so much fun. My finishing time wasn't so bad either for a girl running her 2nd snowshoe race ever. Best of all I had, Jim, w/ me as support crew. Since we are celebrating our anniversary we are sticking together this weekend.

I am even getting my calves massaged soon... they hurt from a run I did earlier in the week. I will be feeling good in no time.

Better yet, Jim promises to do the next race in April. We are going to invite some friends to join along if they dare. You can do it. Make it fun the first couple of times before going all out. Get the feel of it. Join us... you'll feel so good afterwards.

17 years

For REAL 

To our friend, Montana boy... sorry no blog yesterday. I was facing a head wind on my bike during a tempo ride up and down the same ole hill. No crashin' this time. It was fun. I was smiling, pedaling and learning my downhill gears the whole way. To keep you posted, Anoop is IN. Oh yeah!

Today Jim and I celebrate our 17th anniversary. Most people look back at all they've accomplished since meeting. The only "looking back" I will say is this, I remember the only dates affordable is coffee at the bookstore. The hours we'd spend reading and talking-absolute best. I still remember when I tricked you into running a bit more miles than expected on a dark, cold, and humid night :)

17 years later, this very day, I have the most supportive husband any woman could day dream. I'd marry him all over again. He wants nothing but the very best for me emotionally, mentally, and physically. He wants me to be happy and live my dreams. I couldn't ask for a better father to our children. When I am down, it's okay, he's patient. He loves to cook. He's so smart. He has integrity, confidence, and a sense of pride in doing good work at home and in his career. Home comes first. I am proud to say he's my husband. We fight like any normal couple, but he doesn't call me names or make fun of me. We apologize afterwards. We aren't perfect and we know it. 

Lately, the biggest thing we, namely-me, are learning to let go of resentments. Understanding is a happier lifestyle and much more productive. 

Together we love to ride bikes. I love his "fixie" and the fact that he enjoys riding it. It's a hard-a** workout. When the kids go to bed, I watch poker when he's out of town. Why? Just because it feels like he's right beside me instead of far away. I know the NFL football players and coaches because he loves it. 

He makes me laugh. He knows what he believes and it's okay with him if no one else in the room believes the same. People like him and respect him because he is a respecter of others. He helps people without expecting anything in return or bragging to anyone else about it. I respect my husband and I love him with all my heart. 

You make my life fun. 

Who knows what today brings, but, I am glad I get to share it with you, Jim! 

All my love,

Christy

 

Go Anoop

Knew It...

Yes! They called Anoop back... Even said he was the easiest to bring back. Sing your heart out, Anoop. I am votin' for ya. 

Happy Training, 

Christy

Happy Training

Many Thanks and Congrats! 

First, I have to say, many thanks to my brother who knows me all too well. Sometimes you just need to chat w/ someone who knows you love to train, to race, and to experience new physical adventures along the way. Thanks for caring so much for me and my family. We love you guys! 

I have to send a big congrats to Robin. I am pulling for you on your very first running race soon to come. Sounds like you are involved in a well-organized group w/ professionals who will get you well-prepared for your very 1st half-marathon... especially in that heat :) I checked their website. Sounds like a lot of fun especially w/ that sized group. I am impressed and very excited to follow your adventures. I have no doubt you will be ready for the big event. You are going to do great and have a blast. Your kids and hubby will be so proud of you! Mostly, You will be so proud of yourself! 

Hey, I bet you'll be training for triathlons after this :) It would be a blast to do them with you! I'd travel down there for that. 

Congrats to my ever-persistent friends who got me started in racing. Persistent in so many things. Glad you are still racing and consistently improving. Thinking about you 2. 

Happy Training to All,

Christy

Swimming 4000 meters

Wow

I came home after our 5:15 a.m. swim to a house full of kids already awake (sleep over). I missed the hockey game last night so I could wake up before the sun came up and swim w/ the PC team. Steve told me to go for 20 or 25 laps in the 50 meter pool. He left it up to me, though, based on how I felt. After 15 laps I felt okay. Matter of fact, I'd been doing my "not so hot" flip turns the whole time. I kept saying to myself, 10 more laps.

I did that "10 more" all the way to 4000 meters (40 laps) w/ flips turns the whole way. The only reason I stopped was because my head hurt a little at the very end. I didn't even think about the fact that I just swam 4000 meters until tonight. My husband said something to me about it. When I think back to where I started... pretty amazing. I just swam over 2 miles this morning. I used to think 1 mile was crazy!

I will say that since I've had this silly concussion I've slept more than ever before. I came home and slept 4 hours straight. But, I am doing much better. Just sleepy. 

I am pretty stoked! 

Happy Early Birthday, Abby!