Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Weeks 18 & 19 - I'm making a comeback!

Been busy! Work, training, family... you know life! I

This Week's Accomplishments (7/9)
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Bike (75 min) & Run (40 min)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Peter's Canyon Trail run (70 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Run (12 miles)
Sun: Bike (75 miles) & Run (45 mins) & Multisport Party!

I felt pretty good that week. Had a blast at the Peter's Canyon Trail Run, and enjoyed the week by going to the Multisport party. I was gearing up for Vineman the next weekend...

This week's Accomplishments (7/16):
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: off
Wed: Ran long with Patrick (masters had hard time getting pool) 7.5 miles
Thur: Core Class and packed for Vineman
Fri: off-traveled to Vineman
Sat: Easy swim to see start (20 mins) & drove course
Sun: Race Day! Swim 1.2, Bike 56, Run 13.1 = 5:41:27! (new PR!)

I had a blast in Vineman! What a way to bring back my morale! The swim was great! We swam in the Russian River and I just "drafted" off people. Then onto the bike which was totally my type of course: rolling hills and hot! I was excited because technically it was a "short" ride (remember I've been training much further). Then onto the run... it was a death march! I felt pretty good and finished that in under 2 hours. I had a blast joking with volunteers and playing with the crowd - anything to keep my mind off the hard work and have fun! It was awesome to have a friend, Adrian, come up and act as coach. Although he disapproved of my wine tasting the day before, he was great on keeping me on track.

Nutrition for the race:
2 packets of organic, plain oatmeal w/ organic raisins
coffee with cream
water, water, water
1 salt tablet
Out of Swim: Hammer Gel Gu-rasberry flavor & water
every 10 mins water
every 30-40 perpetuem (endurance strength!)
every hour, 1 salt tablet
Onto the run: hammer gel gu: apple cinnamon
water, water, water, and a gu (plain)
After race: Recoverite, Reliv, and LOTS of wine!

This week's Accomplishments (7/23)
Mon: Travel day from race
Tues: Travel day for work - chicago
Wed: Ran lake side- 6 miles super easy for recovery
Thur: Core Class
Fri: off
Sat: Easy run (6.5) with group
Sun: Stil tired from race... but, Biked 5 1/2 hours (68 miles) & Ran (2.5 miles) & Core Class

I struggled with this week... I think I was recovering and trying to baby myself to make sure I didn't blow my training on Vineman. Although it was a great day, I started to doubt if I was smart going all out like I did. Net, net, though I felt confident for Ironman and laughed at how in shape I felt.

Friday, July 13, 2007

Week 17 - Do as I say, not as I do!

In much better spirits! Althought I did hurt my hamstring! YIKES! So the goals from not this week, but last were to see a nutritionist, be better about my workouts and work on my attitude. I did see a nutritionist on the Thursday. She has me doing the basics, and I'm still concerned I'm going to put on weight because we didn't discuss amount of calories I should consume but what types of foods I should eat and how often in the day. Some things that surprised me were no diet coke and if I were to have regular coke or diet, pick regular. HM! Who knew!? I do feel like I have more energy and it has curbed the afternoon "overhaul" of eating but, am I eating too many calories in the day?

I got most of my workouts in but couldn't do all because of straining my hamstring at the 4th of July 5ks. Yup, do as I say and not as I do... had track work on Tues night, then turned around and sprinted the 5k in the morning... it resulted in a limping girl finishing the first race and unable to participate in the second race... or run her long run on Saturday! Anyway, an emergency massage with Marisol, compression, icing and rest have made me feel a lot better.

My attitude has been better. I think because I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. We only have about 2 more BIG, BIG rides left and then we taper. Now, I'm more scared than anything... did I train enough, how is my hamstring going to hold up, is that a tug I'm feeling on my Achilles, should I be doing the 1/2 Vineman, will I finish, will it be a worst time than last time... you know the drill. Now all I can do is have faith that the program will set me up for success and the weather/nutrition/all aspects I can't necessarily control come together just right on 9/9.

This Week's Accomplishments:
Mon: Swim (70 mins)... plus a massage
Tues: Run (40-60 mins)
Wed: 4th of July 5k in Huntington Beach!
Thur: off
Fri: off
Sat: off
Sun: Bike (120-180 mins) & Run (15-20 mins)

Next Week's Goals:
Mon: Swim (70 mins)
Tues: Bike (75 min) & Run (40 min)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: Peter's Canyon Trail run (70-90 min)
Fri: Optional 30 run
Sat: Run (105-120 min)
Sun: Bike (270-330 mins) & Run (40-50 mins) & Multisport Party!

Keep it up on the nutrition! (can't believe I gave up some of my wine!) And try to remain positive!

Monday, July 02, 2007

Week 16 - a little better

Last week was a melt down for me. After another week of missed workouts, I started to turn my attitude around. I mean, everyone goes through a period in their training that tests you mentally. Friends have convinced me to find some "fun" in training again whether that means skipping a whole week and doing nothing over 30 mins of training, to skipping a weekend session to focus on a short, fun race or activity that doesn't involve swim, bike, run. If I meant to, or not, I apted for no workouts during the week. Other than swimming, I didn't get much in and I must admit, my attitude feels a little better.

I've researched about 4 nutritionist, and picked the brains of all my friends. With Adrian's help (and a lot of wine) I learned a little more on how much I might be calorie deprived. So, this week's goal is setting up an appointment with a nutritionist and getting these last 8 weeks on track.

Thanks to Mo's encouraging note, and a few inspirational words from my runners, I'm feeling better!

This week's accomplishments:
Mon: Swim (70 min)
Tues: nothing
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thur: nothing was in San Diego for a work offsite
Fri: nothing again due to offsite, but did get a fabulous massage!
Sat: Run 150 mins (I accidentally overdid this workout because I was only supposed to do 80-100 mins)
Sun: Bike (270 mins) and run (40 mins)
Feeling better as of Sunday and contacted a few nutritionists.

Next Week's Goals:
Mon: Swim (70 mins) & Yoga... plus a massage
Tues: Run (40-60 mins) & strength (30 mins)
Wed: 4th of July 5ks in Huntington Beach! Maybe ocean swim with Patrick
Thur: Bike (75 mins) & Run (15-20 mins)
Fri: Run (30 mins) & Ocean Swim with Adrian
Sat: Run (60-80 mins) & Bike (60 mins easy) & Yoga
Sun: Bike (120-180 mins) & Run (15-20 mins)
Nutrition: Schedule and see a nutritionist
Attitude: Think positive and be positive, this is a huge accomplishment!

Thanks again Mo! I sure wish you were doing the race with me!! Hope your training is going well too!

Sunday, June 24, 2007

Saddleback 1/2 Marathon Pics/Time




Finished 1:51:08!

Weeks 13, 14 & 15 - Hello, my name is Bitter Betty!

I remember this last time. I remember being exhausted, frustrated with my weight, frustrated that I can't go out and have fun with everyone else, too tired to have fun if I even find the time, literally NO time!!! My temper is short, my irritation is easy to spark, I'm feeling overwhelmed with commitments but too tired to do anything but complain or fly off the handle.

Today, on my long bike ride, I snapped at my training partner. I feel bad because it's not his fault that I'm tired and angry with the training. I got a flat, I almost took a dive in San Clemente because I'm too tired to get out of my clips for a stop sign, I was Bitter Betty complaining about everything... why would he want to ride with me for four hours and then run 45 mins. I feel really bad, I took the fun out of today, but I'm totally tapped out on enthusiasm for Ironman training.

We still have 9 weeks left. Those 9 weeks seem very far away and I'm not even looking at it as "In 9 weeks I get to do my Ironman", I'm seeing it as "In 9 weeks I can have my life back and do what I want to do!"

I've been struggling more than ever with my nutrition. Remember my note about being short tempered??? Try talking sense into me about nutrition! I get that my legs will get bigger with muscle, fine! But my waistline is also getting large. I've noticed in pictures I'm heavy and there is fat in places I'd prefer not to point out. What am I doing???

I've contacted two nutritionists after talking (ok, complaining) to everyone I know. We will see what they have to come back with. I know it will be expensive and (nutrition) will be yet ANOTHER thing to stress me out!

Work has been challenging. I've had a lot of responsibilities and been thrown in fast. All good and fine if I didn't have to figure things out as I went. I know this added stress is affecting my attitude and fatigue. But it's my livelihood so I can't be expected to "scale it back". I have been trying to protect myself and keep a life balance. It just stresses me out because life has to take second priority when a meeting is scheduled on my day OFF!!

Oh yeah, and ENOUGH of the traveling for work!!! If it's not hard enough to get all the workouts in when you have your scheduled Masters class, spin class and track sessions, how am I to do it when staying in hotel rooms or doing long hours on a set?? What a challenge!

Friends have been supportive but a simple invitation has me fried. I'd like to squeeze things in but at the end of the day, I'm just layering on an obligation that I can't make because I'm either tired, or another priority crept in. I am a lousy friend right now. I'm non responsive, uninvolved, and forgetful. I am having a hard time keeping up with things overall.

Family is awesome. I just wish I could spend more time with them.

Emotionally I'm a mess right now. The fatigue is just magnifying my feelings. Last night I was watching "where the heart is" with (one) glass of wine, and in tears! I just want to push everyone away. By my nature I figure if I strip everything away, I could potentially eliminate stress... but then I'm left with nothing.

So for now I'm plowing through this life experience. After all, I chose this adventure, I can't complain. And I certainly can't take it out on my friends and support crew!

Achievements Week 6/4 (traveled to LA for the week):
Mon: Swim (70 min)
Tues: Bike (70 min) & run (30 min)
Wed: nothing
Thurs: 5 miles
Fri: Off
Sat: Run 13.5 miles (110 min)
Sun: Bike ride 80 miles (315 mins) & run (45 min)

Achievements Week 6/11 (in LA Mon, Wed, Thurs):
Mon: Swim (70 min)
Tues: nothing
Wed: nothing
Thurs: nothing
Fri: Run (45 mins)
Sat: Run (60 mins)
Sun: Bike (110 min)
NOTABLY my worst week yet! Not week day workouts, and a poor performance on the weekend! I was lacking motivation and drive. Not to mention I'm tired from all this travel and being out of the office which just piles the work up for when I'm in the office... and in turn doesn't allow me to get out on time for key workouts!

Achievements week 6/18:
Mon: Swim (70 mins) & massage
Tues: Run (90 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins)
Thurs: nothing
Fri: nothing
Sat: Run (10 miles) & yoga (90 mins)
Sun: Bike (240 mins) & run (30 mins)
I took Monday off (much needed!) and tried to recharge. Then by Thursday I completely lost my drive. Then you read my breakdown on the bike with Patrick! YIKES! I miss Yoga, so I need to get that going again. It was nice this past Saturday relaxing and breathing!

So for next week, I need to pull it together. I mean I signed up for this, it's not anyone's fault but mine! And I knew Ironman training wasn't going to be a walk in the park! Deal with it and fix your attitude!

Week 6/25 goals:
Mon: Swim (70 min) & run (30 min) & Yoga (90 mins)
Tues: Spin (75 mins) & run (35 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 mins) & bike (60-90 mins)
Thur: Run (70-90 mins)
Fri: Run or swim (30 mins)
Sat: Run (80-100 mins) & yoga (90 mins)
Sun: Bike (210-270 mins) and run (35-40 mins)
Attitude adjustment and nutrition analysis!

Pull it together, Shannon!

Tuesday, June 05, 2007

Weeks 11 & 12 - Even more tired

The last few weeks have been a challenge. My role at work is changing so there was some transition going on, my family had (yet some) more events to attend, and I was climbing in hours/miles for training.

On a good note, I got most of it in, but listened to my body and took a few breaks to keep my sanity. I'm tired more because I'm balancing so many things, but I'm still having fun. Here is a recap of what I was able to accomplish the last two weeks:

Week 5/21
Mon: Swim (70 min)
Tues: Track (40-60 mins)
Wed: Swim (70 min)
Thur: no spin- no time
Fri: off
Sat: 8 miles
Sun: 2:30 hours about 33 miles on the bike, and 20 min run

Week 5/28
Mon: Saddleback 1/2 marathon
Tues: Off-work got to be too much and I was tired
Wed: Swim
Thur: Spin class (70 min) & Run (30 min)
Fri: off
Sat: 4 miles with trainees, then 8 miles on my own (about 2 hours)
Sun: 69.14 miles on the bike (4 1/2 hours) & 4 mile run (40 min) we decided to break this up with 2:15 Santiago Canyon loop, then 20 min run & repeat. We were tired but the beers and mexican food made it worth it!

This Coming Week's Goals (in LA for work all week):
First, getting it all in!
Mon: Swim (70 min)
Tues: Bike (70 min) & Run (30 min)
Wed: Swim (70 min) & Bike (70 min)
Thur: Run (60-80 min) & Strength training (30 min)
Fri: Swim, Bike or Run 30 mins
Sat: Run (100-120 min) & Bike (60-90 min)
Sun: Bike (5 hours) & Run (40 mins) & core class? yeah right!

No Ride Around The Bear for me this year. Decided jumping to 100 miles and intense hills would be too much and didn't want to risk burnout.

I'm going to check out nutritionalists now and see if we can control the weight gain. I'm sad abou that, and would love to lose 10 lbs before the race in three months. I just need help because I'm burning 4100 calories on a Sunday workout... how do I eat to give my body nutrients but not over indulge??

Still having fun though!

Sunday, May 20, 2007

Week 10-tired!

Wow! What a tough past few weeks! I have had some personal things blow up, some professional things and then of course training is picking up. No more faking it with training (as if I had a choice before).

This week was good. I did track with Multisport again on Tuesday night. I'm having tummie issues and keep having to go to the bathroom (NOW). It might be what I've eaten or my body is going through some changes with the amount of workouts. Then, Thursday I went to the best spin class with Patrick! It was awesome! The woman really understood bike riding versus just bike dancing. We did drills and worked hard.

This week's accomplishments:
Mon: Swim (75 min)
Tues: Ran (70 min)
Wed: Swom (50 min-cut short for work)
Thur: Bike (70 min) & Run (20 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Ran (2:13) 13 miles
Sun: Bike (4:32) 68 miles (two flat tires so we called it a technically difficult day and as a group said no run)

This week, Recovery!
Mon: Swim (75)
Tues: Run (40-60 min)
Wed: Swim (75 min) & bike (60-90 min)
Thurs: Bike (70 min) & Run (20 min) & Core workout
Fri: off
Sat: Run (60-80 min) & Bike (60-90 min)
Sun: Bike (120-180 min) & Run (20-30 min) & Core class

My brother and his wife are in town so I have a lot more family things going on. Good thing it's recovery week and I get to spend time with them!

I hope to watch my health this week and try not to get sick. I need to watch what I'm eating! Photoshoot this week and adview testing (WHY???).

Alright hang in there and try to keep it positive!

Friday, May 18, 2007

Week 9- momentary lapse of reason

It's telling that the log was late. I'm just a little frazzled because there is so much going on. Training is still a blast, it's just the other aspects of life (the responsible part) that gets in the way. Work took a left turn, so I'm trying to deal with that. I'm also trying to get more social workouts in... I've started going to Multisport Track workouts, and haven't made it yet, but also trying to make their Cycling workouts.

Overall I feel spacey and emotional... hence the title. It might be that I'm tired. With Ironman training, every minute counts - and I'm not talking about my workout minutes, it's everything outside of training. The past few months I've had a lot of obligations that have left me running from place to place. I've got to plan for my day and have everything laid out the night before because I'll be slammed trying to get my coaching in, my workout in, shower, change, drive to a family event, come home, pack for my bike ride the next day, eat and pour onto the couch for a glass of wine! That has been my life for the last few months.

I have been pretty good about getting in the minimum workouts. That's kind of bumming me out because I'd love to get in more, but hey, I'm lucky I got the stuff in that I have. Here's what last week looked like.

Week's accomplishments:
Mon: Swim (75 min)
Tues: Track with Multisport. Ran 1:10 or about 6-7 miles. Tough because it's speed, but that's good because I was concerned I'd was losing that edge.
Wed: Swim (75 min) & group cycle on the bike trail (1:17)
Thur: Run (50 min) BAD day with work and lucky I got this in.
Fri: off
Sat: Run 9 miles (1 mile with new group and 8 miles on my own)
Sun: Bike 4:28 (63.3 miles) & Run 30 min (3 miles)
Nutrition: Bad, I feel like I've been horrible. I think I've gained all my weight back!
Heartrate: seems high

Next week's goal:
Mon: Swim (75 min)
Tues: Run (60-80 min)
Wed: Swim (75 min) & bike (60-90 min)
Thur: Bike (70 min) & Run (20-30 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Run (80-100 min) & bike (60-90 min)
Sun: Bike (270 min) & Run (30 min)

Really pay attention to my nutrition and eat right!!

Monday, May 07, 2007

Week 8-On the hunt for a pool in Omaha

This week I traveled for work (again)! After babysiting for my sister, I came back to Orange County and got on a plane to Omaha. I landed there about 11:30pm and checked in. At the check in counter, I asked the front desk person what the hotel pool was like... let's just say it was more of a jacuzzi. Onto Plan B... find a 24 hour fitness in the area and take a cab. Well, that would have worked out fine, except when I called to check that a water aerobics class wasn't planned when I was there, I was informed the pool was "down" for an hour or so. Needless to say, I tried! But I feel guilt because I didn't work out on Monday, and when I went to the "$5" gym that was down the street (should have asked more questions at the front desk) for my cycle/run workout Tuesday, I walked past their beautiful 25 meter pool. Darn!

Regardless, I managed to get all but one workout in this week. I am proud of this because we traveled 4 days during the trip.

This week's accomplishments:
Mon: Nothing but a boring story
Tues: Bike (70 min) & Run (15 min)
Wed: Swam (45 min)
Thur: Ran (50 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Ran (69 min)
Sun: Bike (2:16 min) & Ran (15 min) & Core class (50 min)
Nutrition: SUCKED! I have some issues that are limited to the female gender so it threw my cravings off. Plus, traveling for work (at a fast food company, mind you), doesn't help your eating habits. I'd like to concentrate on why it is I overeat. Focus on my feelings and if I'm tired. See if there is a pattern.
Heartrate: Been kind of high this week and I wonder if I'm tired or getting sick or fighting an injury.

This week's goals:
Mon: Swim (60 min)
Tues: Bike (70 min) & Run (20-30 min)
Wed: Swim (60 min) & Bike (60-90 min)
Thur: Run (60-80 run) & Core Class (50 min)
Fri: Optional off or run (30), bike (60) or swim (60)
Sat: Run (80-100 min) & Bike (60-90 min) & yoga
Sun: Mother's day! Bike (180-240 min) & Run (20-30 min)
Nutrition: Portions and no sugar!
Massage Monday (today) tight in the right abductor, hip and calve. Plus, back (right side) tight from the Core workout on Sunday... need to watch all these things!

I think this week might give me a small break before things gear up again next week... plus, I've got to find someone to right 3 1/2-4 1/2 with me on Sunday!

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Week 7-Flirting with Disaster

After a tough couple of weeks, I got to stay in town which helped with training. Even given that, I still struggled this week because I was physically tired (probably from training and traveling). Then I was battling a cold carrying over from Mexico. Sucks! Needless to say, I got most of my workouts in...

Mon: No swim (was TOO tired to make it out of bed), but ran 40 mins
Tues: Spin Class (70 min), no run (Patrick forgot his shoes)
Wed: Missed the morning swim class, but made it up by going to the 6:30pm swim class
Thur: Intended to run 8 miles... the GPS showed 9.6 when we came in.
Fri: In an effort to be proactive about this weekend's travel, I opted to "skip" the "day off" and moved my long run up to Friday... you know you went far when you started in Irvine and ended in Costa Mesa at the Backbay... 12 miles (2 hours) & a nasty blister!
Sat: unfortunately the San Clemente Challenge was canceled, but our group managed to clock in 4 hours with a long Santiago Canyon ride. It was tough and all of us wanted it DONE. No time for a run due to our personal obligations... I had to babysit in Redlands. Got it in though!
Sun: Day off... drove back from Redlands, on the plane for Omaha.
Nutrition: HORRIBLE! I feel on the brink of a nervous breakdown. Too much going on with work, travel, family obligations and of course, training. I'm tired and eating horribly.
Heartrate: I'm happy with. I went a bit too fast Thursday and suffered Friday

Why "flirting with disaster"?
I am struggling with the schedule due to my work obligations. This week I was a bit burnt out because I had spent so much energy trying to get my workouts in when I was in Mexico... that I was "finished" and wanted to take things easy when I got back. So, I missed Monday's Swim, then didn't stay as disciplined with my runs... I need to say "no" to things and really put my training in the forefront. I'm slipping and I'm scared it will get out of control.

Mentally, I need to stay in the game! Slow down and get sleep, try to relax and do the best I can when traveling... particularily this week when I travel again for work.

Goals this week (Recovery!!!!!):
Mon: Swim (60 min)
Tues: Bike (70 min) and run (20 min)
Wed: Swim (60 min)& Bike (60 min)
Thurs: Run (40-60 min) & Core Performace (30 min)
Fri: Day Off
Sat: Run (60-80 min) & Bike (60 min)
Sun: Bike (120-180 min) & Run (15-20 min) & Core class (60 min)
Events to consider: travel for work, left Sunday night and am in Omaha for Sun-Tues (BTW, no pool at the hotel), and then onto Fresno Tues-Thur. Come back Thursday night. Then Saturday, Mom's B-day party...
Nutrition: Really try to cut back on sweets... and junk food!

FOCUS and get back into the game! Don't let this lead you down the path to slacking! Just because you are recovering, doesn't mean you can skip workouts!!!! And eat right! Damn it!

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Weeks 5 & 6-Challenges of Training & Traveling

Sorry, very far behind. Life kicked up a notch and I'm trying to play catch up. Here's what I had for the past two weeks:

Week 5: RECOVERY! Woo Hoo!
Mon: I took the day off from work to relax. Swam (60 min) & Deep tissue massage. Mary killed me especially the quads, abductors and inside left foot by the achilles. Plus, she worked my forearms and hands due to some numbness I feel in my fingers while riding.
Tues: Last day of Speed Clinic (70 min) & run (12 min)
Wed: Swam (60 min)
Thurs: Took off due to hung over! Out with Mita last night
Fri: Day off
Sat: Ran 10 miles with group, then rushed to nephew's b-day party (running around crazy... multitasking at it's best!)
Sun: Rode 46 miles (3 hours) no time for run due to Casey's baptism
Heartrate: Looks good
Nutrition: Ok, after going out Wednesday night, it went down hill
Overall, I'm running ragged. I had a slammed week trying to prepare for Mexico and having family obligations both Saturday and Sunday. I managed to get all but two runs in so I feel ok about my week.

Week 6
Mon: In Dallas, and got up to swim (60 min) Very Proud!
Tues: Bike (70 min) & Run (20 min)
Wed: Swam (60 min)
Thurs: No time to run, and starting to get sick
Fri: Day off. Coming back from Cozumel and still sick
Sat: Ran 10 miles, then took it easy by running errands
Sun: Rode 48 miles (3 1/2 hours, short of what should have been), then ran (30 min). Off to Gourmet Group...
Heartrate: Seems good
Nutrition: Horrible while in Mexico... no more guacamole!
Life is crazy and I'm really running myself down! I need to take advantage of my "down" time.

Goals Next week:
Mon: Swim (60 min)
Tues: Ride (70 min) & Run (20 min)
Wed: Swim (60 min)
Thur: Run (60-80 min) & Core class
Fri: Run (100-120 min) since out of town Sat night to sunday I need to move my long run
Sat: Long Ride (4 1/2 hours) & 30 run, then off to Redlands to babysit!
Sun: Leave for Omaha for work-off day or get in core workout
Try to maintain some sanity this week and eat right!

Friday, April 06, 2007

Week 4-Racing with Purpose!

Felt good overall this week. Had some challenges getting my workouts in due to other obligations (birthdays and Easter), but it just took some "super" multitasking and I could participate in it all.

Last weekend I decided to raise money for a cause and am working towards raising $2000 towards the challenged athlete's foundation. I'm nervous because I don't want to fail a foundation that I find so inspiring. Plus the simple act of asking people for money is hard. But if I raise even $100 for them, I'll be happy!

This week's accomplishments:
Mon: Swim (70 min)
Tues: Speed Clinic (70 min) & Brick (12 min)
Wed: Swim (70 min)
Thur: Run (50 min)
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (96 min)
Sun (Easter!): Bike (225 min) & Brick (15 min)
Nutrition: I did bad! I've lost 5 lbs and am still treking towards losing 5 more. The lighter I am, the easier it will be on the bike/run. However, Thur-Sun, I was not good about my sugar intake nor my portions. I just can't seem to be satisfied eating what I'm eating. This leads me to visit "Rosa's Candy Bowl" at work... not once, not twice but three times a day (and we are talking a handful of candy each time!). I'll play around with this some more. But Thursday, I had Sprinkles and felt sick from the sugar overload! And Saturday and Sunday were family holidays... ate too much!
Heartrate: I'm doing very well with this!
Injuries: I healed nicely from my hammie strain. Now, it's time to keep healthy.

Next Week's Goals:
Mon: Swim (70 min) & maybe a run (I added this)
Tues: Ride (70 min) & Brick (20 min)
Wed: Swim (70 min)
Thurs: Run (40-60 min) & Core Class (50 min)
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (50-70 min) & ride (I added this)
Sun: Ride (120-180 min) & Core Class (50 min)
Nutrition: Lose 1-2 lbs, watch the sugar intake, continue with no carbs at night, and watch portions! I need to get some control.

Looking forward to the recovery week. I'm tired lately, but trying to keep my spirits up! 4 weeks down and only 20 more weeks to go!

Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Week 3-Tired!

This week was a tiring week. I feel the wear of the long hours. I'm still having a blast though. My hamstring seems to be on the mend and I'm more careful with it. My nutrition is HORRIBLE! I crave food starting at 3pm. I just can't seem to get enough to satisfy me. I'm no fool. I know I need calories, but I'm eating handfuls of candy... bad choices and this is what I'm beating myself up over.

Like for instance, after the ride on Sunday, I ate my entree and a ton of chips. Did I really need that? No! And Friday night I craved Easter Candy... why did I need to eat half the bag?? Only to have my stomach supremely upset because of the chocolate and red wine combo.

Anyway, there is a huge opportunity to improve. Even a small change would make progress.

This week's accomplishments:
Mon: Swim (60 min)
Tues: Speed Clinic (70 Min) & Run (12 min)
Wed: Swim (60 min), Bike (50 Min)
Thur: Core (50 min) & Run (77 min)
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (80 min)
Sun: Bike (4 hours or 59 miles!) & Run (20 Min)

Nutrition Update: Like I said abobe, I've been eating a lot of sugar.... craving it like I did as a kid. Tues, I couldn't get enough of it and pretty much substituted candy for dinner. Bad!

Heartrate: I stayed in heartrate for the most part. I'm just tired from the number of hours and waking up early. I'm trying to make sure I get enough sleep and rest.

Unfortunately, I had a migraine this week. It wasn't a full fledge migraine, but it did affect my workout Thursday night. It came on around 5pm and then I went home and ran my "speed" workout of 8 miles. It was horrible, but I was so proud of myself for still being devoted. Only thing is I need to figure out why??

Goals Next Week:
Mon: Swim (60 min)
Tues: Bike (70 min), Run (15-20 min)
Wed: Swim (60 min), Bike (60-90 min)
Thur: Core Class (50 min), Run (40-60 min)
Fri: Off
Sat (Lisa's B-day): Run (80-100 min), Bike (60-90 min)
Sun (Easter): Ride (180-240 min), Run (15-20 min)
Nutrition: cut back on sweets. Be more conscious of the sugar intake and STOP!
Heartrate: Continue to keep within heartrate zone

Treat: Mon, 4/9 I get a massage!

Sunday, March 25, 2007

Solvang 1/2 Century Race-Pictures





Finished in about 3 1/2 hours!

Week 2-Stupid girl

Do as I say and not as I do... First injury of training-the pulled hamstring. So, running the LA Marathon, then doing the 1/2 Century the next weekend, then jumping into Ironman training... and adding a Fartlek wasn't smart! I should have listened to myself when I tell my runners to take it easy and don't over do it.

Injury--- My fault!

Week 2 accomplishments:
Mon: Swim (75 min)
Tues: Speed Clinic (about 120 min), run (12 min)
Wed: Swim (75 min), Run (60 min-The Imfamous Fartleks)
Thurs: Off-life busy & rest
Fri: off (rest)
Sat: Long Run (55 min)
Sun: Long Ride (216 min), run (20 min), Massage to help the leg

Nutrition Update: Did well with the no carbs after 4pm, except Friday. Went to El Matador and had tacos, beans, chips... then a brainstorming and had more mexican food. Saturday night had too many calories while babysitting. Had wine on Thursday and Friday . However, I did eat right on the long bike (200-250 calories/hour).

Bike Calories:
To start-Oatmeal, Cottage Cheese & raisins; Coffee with milk
During: (2) Motortabs, (2) scoops of Carbopro, (4) Fig Newtons, (1) bottle of water, (1) package of Sports Beans
After: 1/2 Bagel and light cream cheese with tomatoe, large coffee with milk (was full from ride/run still)

Heartrate: Still was too high for my training. On the bike I was better but we went flat so it was easy to maintain.

Week 3 goals:
Mon: Swim (75 min)
Tues: Speed Clinic (about 120 min), Run (15-20 min)
Wed: Swim (75 min), Bike (60-90 min)
Thur: Run (60-80 min), Core Class (50 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Run (70-90 min), Bike (60-90)
Sun: Bike (180-210), Run (15-20), Core (50 min)

Nutrition: Continue to watch proportions, and avoid "empty calories". Eat meals that are pre cooked. No wine on weekdays.

Heartrate: Really concentrate on lowering the heartrate.

Stretching/Icing: Need to take care of my hammie!! Ice and massage and gingerly stretching. Goal of healing fast!

Friday, March 16, 2007

Week 1-Getting up to 'speed'

Overall I'd rate my success this week with workouts as a 8 (1-10, 10 being great). I got most of the workouts in except Monday, because we were traveling. Then I was able to some of the optional workouts in as well.

Mon: Official Day of Training! Traveling back from Solvang-no workout
Tues: Speed Clinic (120 min) & Brick run (15 min)
Wed: Swim (60 min)-cramping in the legs, had to get out of the pool
Thur: Core Class (about 50 min) & Run (67 mins)
Fri: Off
Sat: Run (82 min), easy trainer ride (40 min)
Sun: Rode (184 min) south through Laguna Beach, Dana Point, San Clemente and back to hit Newport Coast once. Then off the bike and out for a Run (about 20 min). I might do Core class tonight. I bonked on the run because I didn't have enough calories on the bike... remember the lessons you learned first round and try to not make the same mistakes. that means 200 calories per hour... need to bulk up since I only had about 250 total on the 3 hour ride... bad!

Feel good. Legs are tight from the Speed Clinic which is hard. I hate going anaerobic... which is why I love distance training... so this class is tough. I actually love the short run after the ride and recruited a few people to join me (I was a little scared doing it in the dark by myself).

Back in the pool. Yikes! That was tough, but I stuck to it for most of the practice. We completed 2100 meters. My toes and abductor started tightening up (most likely because I was dehydrated and from Speed Clinic). My goal this coming week is to really pay attention to stretching so I can prevent this (hopefully).

Nutrition Update: Back down 2.0 Lbs and started eating better for me. This week no starches after 4pm (per my bike coach), and more healthy choices.

Heartrate: Kinda high probably because I'm still in recovery. Goal to keep within my zone.

Week 2's goals:
Mon: Swim (75 min)
Tues: Speed Clinic (about 120 min), run (15-20 min)
Wed: Swim (75 min), Ride (60-90 min)
Thurs: Run (60-80 min), core class (50 min)
Fri: off
Sat: Long Run (70-90 min), Easy trainer ride (60-90 min)
Sun: Long Ride (150-210 min), run (15-20 min), core class (50 min)
Nutrition: Continue with no carbs after 4pm and no wine on weekdays & eat right on the long bike (200-250 calories/hour)
Heartrate: Focus on zone I need to be in (scared to overtrain!)

Monday, March 12, 2007

Kicking off 6 months of training-Week 1

Starting today, I begin Ironman Training, officially! I'm excited and nervous. At the begining of any training program there is hope and anxiety for the race. It's very fresh and new, which helps to build that excitment. However, I am nervous for the amount of time and energy devoted to this. Ironman is no small goal. So, I need to keep my spirits up and my drive has to be strong. I don't want to poop out 3 months in and have to force myself through each workout.

I'm thankful to have a bunch of support. Not only do I have my family and friends behind me. But I also have my friend, Patrick, that will be going through the training with me. Not to mention, Elaine, Adrian, my runners and other triathletes to help on those long days.

So, here's to a safe and successful 6 months. Wish me luck!

This past week's accomplishments:
Monday: recovery from LA Marathon, walked 2 miles
Tues: I feel pretty good! Didn't exercise
Wed: Ran 2.5 miles, slow. Starting to come back
Thurs: Nothing
Fri: Left for Solvang
Sat: Solvang 1/2 Century (completed in about 3 1/2 hours). I'm not happy with my bike set up. My back started to hurt about 15 miles in. It was a tough ride, and my spirits deflated when I got dropped 10 miles in. I thought the Torture Clinic would have put me in better placement, but I guess LA Marathon took more out of me than expected.
Sun: Ran 5 miles easy. Felt good, but slow (I'm slow, not fragile).

Goals this week:
Mon: Swim (I've already missed this, but am getting a massage)
Tues: Speed Clinic (70 min intervals/ 3 min), Run (brick-15-20 min)
Wed: Swim (1:15), easy trainer ride (60-90 min)
Thur: Core class, 60-80 run (fartleks)
Fri: Run (? Swim ?), Yoga
Sat: Long Run 50-70, ride easy 60-90, yoga
Sun: Long ride 120-180 min, brick 15-20, swim

Cooked meals for the week. Aiming to lose some of the poundage I gained this weekend. No alcohol til weekend: 1 per hour of workout- no more.

Thursday, March 01, 2007

Count Down to LA Marathon

I've got one more week til I get to check off another goal. The LA Marathon coming up on Sunday, 3/4 is meant to toughen me up mentally. I must admit, I'm definitely ready to wind things down (only for a little while because I have Solvang 1/2 Century and, ultimately, Ironman). I don't plan to "race" Sunday but actually run with my 9:30-10 minute group. It's all about training for me!

Here is what I had this week leading up to LA:
Mon: 4 miles easy & Yoga class
Tues: 3 miles on the treadmill, a short core workout and then Torture Clinic**
**We did our BIGGEST ride-a 30 minute climb! Man, was that tough!! All that work should pay off at Solvang.
Wed: Off
Thurs: Core Class (Carl killed us again: 200 yard run, 5 push ups, 10 situps, and 15 lunges... as many as we circuits we could do in 20min. I had 11 circuits). Torture testing-this went bad. Not only did I gain weight, but my heartrate didn't change much due to the caffine I'd had that day. The coach was literally disappointed in me... and mentioned it several times. Sucked!
Fri: I took this off... resting up and carbo loaded with runners.
Sat: off
Sun: LA MARATHON!! This race was ok. I was disappointed in the narrow streets at the beginning, especially with 25,000+ runners. That made it hard to hold our pace (10/mile). I wanted simply to stick with the 10/mile runners since this was just a training run for me. We stuck together until mile 10-11, then lost 3 people to the bathrooms. Jim and I trekked along and then lost each other at mile 19. At mile 22 a nasty hill... it's the downhill that KILLED me. From there out, I need to dig deep mentally... this is EXACTLY what I set out to achieve this race. I pulled through despite the heat (80 degrees) and pain. I finished with the slowest time EVER: 4:38:21.

Now onto Solvang 1/2 century this weekend....

Past few weeks

Here we go again...

Past few weeks workout log:
Mon, 2/12-easy 4 mile run. But I think I wanted to walk in after mile 3!
Tues 2/13-4 mile run & Torture Clinic for 1:20:00. Including getting my certificate on the rollers! (40 minutes all by myself on the rollers!)
Wed 2/14: Off!
Thurs 2/15: 4 miles, Off Season Core Training (Carl killed us with a circuit of kettlebells, burpies, sit ups, push ups, lunges and pull ups), Torture Clinic 1:20:00.
Fri 2/16: Off (Man! I'm tired!)
Sat 2/17: New Training group started so I only got 4 miles in. Darn! I should have gotten in 10.
Sun 2/18: Went to San Luis Opispo to visit friends...

Mon 2/19: Back from SLO, massage with Mary (not as bad as last visit, but she still had me off the table), and got in contact with an old friend, Adrian, who is doing Ironman New Zealand in a few weeks!
Tues 2/20: 4 miles easy, but I skipped Torture (first time!). Met up with Rick and Julie for dinner... they think I look burnt out. I gotta say, I'm ready for LA to be over with and Torture clinic to switch up.
Wed 2/21: 4 miles easy
Thurs 2/22: 4 miles & Torture clinic 1:20:00 (with a 24 minute climb!). My abductors were screaming!!!!
Fri 2/23: Off
Sat 2/24: 8 miles but was tired. Supposed to do 10 but didn't have it in me
Sun: Slept in until 10am! Man I needed it.

I just feel wiped out. Between LA Marathon, and Torture clinic I just feel like toast! My legs are strong, and I feel ok, but I'm just exhausted. I'm still trying to listen to my body and take care of myself (mostly through sleep and eating right).

Why the hell can't I get nutrition right??!! Too many empty calories, too little calories overall, no desire to eat the healthy food... etc!

Friday, February 09, 2007