There are some days when the training is tough - others, when the motivation to train is actually the limiting factor.
Today was one of the latter - we had the day off from work [WHOO HOO] and I spent a couple of hours curled on the sofa in the sun room, basking in the beautiful day (although it was cold outside). The kitty cats, Bimmer & Rupert, were sunning on the window ledge and the back of the sofa. It was just so luxurious!
But I kicked my butt up and drove to the pool. Even as I got into the water, I wasn't sure I was going to be able to swim - the last couple of workouts have been a bit of a slog and not b/c they are difficult, but b/c I've been feeling lazy.
Right away I could feel the benefits of the hard weight/Total Conditioning workouts! My form felt great and even though I was slower & didn't complete the full set of 200's, I DID IT!
Wonder what the new music 'anthem' should be? U2's 'Beautiful Day' is a bit too obvious... INXS 'Beautiful Girl' a bit too OTT for me although the tune itself is great.
Stay tuned ... as you know I will think of something! : )
Happy Training & Ciao!
MJ
24 March 2008
12 March 2008
Highs & Lows of Training
At the IMLP Training Camp last June, we were warned about the highs & lows you could expect in an Ironman event. The same volatility obviously applies to training for an Ironman as well.
Yesterday, had a great transition run after a solid 90-minute Turbo bike session - wow! I felt like I could just hammer it, but remembered it was supposed to be HR#1 and settled into an easier pace.
Today, however, it was a slog to get thru a drill session in the pool - the first 600 metre portion of the warm-up (1000m total before the main set) was a struggle. It was a good mentally tough workout and I'm so glad I did it! The spectre of a 2.4 mile open water swim without sufficient training is too daunting! : )
10 March 2008
Amazing Results
About to start Week 6 - the final phase of the Adaptation Period in my training plan.
Until yesterday, training results had been hard to quantify. I hadn't lost any weight to speak of - most likely because any fat was being replaced by muscle, which is heavier. I had seen marginal improvements on my run times and run/bike endurance. Swimming generally felt better.
The real indicator came when I was in a 'Strictly Strength' class at Lifetime Fitness (LTF). I had just done a 2 hour treadmill (dreadmill - don't you love that term?) and an hour of weights (where I had decided to do heavier weights). I debated whether or not to call it a day, but ultimately braved the class as being 'good for me'. We started with the usual figure-eight band on our feet for kicks and side movements, then did a series of deep squats. The usual aches, soreness and specific muscle fatigue did not materialize!
Amazingly, I was strong throughout. Even the thought of 2 hours of running indoors didn't dampen my resolve and I just blissfully ticked off the miles: 14 in all!
Today my legs, arms - whole body - is tired, but it does feel great!
The whole psychology of training is incredible: break down muscle to build it up - psyche included. Just when it's at a point of no return, rest then repeat the cycle.
Happy Training!
Ciao,
MJ
Until yesterday, training results had been hard to quantify. I hadn't lost any weight to speak of - most likely because any fat was being replaced by muscle, which is heavier. I had seen marginal improvements on my run times and run/bike endurance. Swimming generally felt better.
The real indicator came when I was in a 'Strictly Strength' class at Lifetime Fitness (LTF). I had just done a 2 hour treadmill (dreadmill - don't you love that term?) and an hour of weights (where I had decided to do heavier weights). I debated whether or not to call it a day, but ultimately braved the class as being 'good for me'. We started with the usual figure-eight band on our feet for kicks and side movements, then did a series of deep squats. The usual aches, soreness and specific muscle fatigue did not materialize!
Amazingly, I was strong throughout. Even the thought of 2 hours of running indoors didn't dampen my resolve and I just blissfully ticked off the miles: 14 in all!
Today my legs, arms - whole body - is tired, but it does feel great!
The whole psychology of training is incredible: break down muscle to build it up - psyche included. Just when it's at a point of no return, rest then repeat the cycle.
Happy Training!
Ciao,
MJ
05 March 2008
A Christmas Gift in March?
While I was doing a longish set in the pool yesterday, I learned some amazing news - the pool is actually 25 metres long, not yards as I had assumed.
A rather nice information present that adds significant 'yardage' to what I thought I was doing.
And very helpful in setting expectations for my AT Test today!
Happy training!
MJ
A rather nice information present that adds significant 'yardage' to what I thought I was doing.
And very helpful in setting expectations for my AT Test today!
Happy training!
MJ
02 March 2008
Treadmill Warning!
Stop using this equipment if you feel faint, dizzy, nauseated or short of breath.
I'd seen this incredible warning on the treadmill when I first used it - WTF? Short of breath? You are kidding? That is just about every time I step on the treadmill - at least if I'm really intending a workout.
No wonder it's so hard for Americans to get fit! There is a warning on their health equipment! [Although, given the number of hefty people I've seen at the Fitness Centre, I guess the attorneys are protecting the equipment manufacturers, sellers and the gyms - sigh!]
I'd seen this incredible warning on the treadmill when I first used it - WTF? Short of breath? You are kidding? That is just about every time I step on the treadmill - at least if I'm really intending a workout.
No wonder it's so hard for Americans to get fit! There is a warning on their health equipment! [Although, given the number of hefty people I've seen at the Fitness Centre, I guess the attorneys are protecting the equipment manufacturers, sellers and the gyms - sigh!]
01 March 2008
Happy March!
Great 3 hour ride on the trainer, followed by a nice t-run in the brilliant crisp sunshine.
Awesome day - 34F and sunny! The roads were pretty clear or at least packed and easy to run on. The new Nike trail shoes I picked up for a mere $41 are amazing.
Awesome day - 34F and sunny! The roads were pretty clear or at least packed and easy to run on. The new Nike trail shoes I picked up for a mere $41 are amazing.
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