Kinks in the chain

September is shaping up to be crazy! The boys had soccer tryouts last week.  This weekend is my son’s birthday and a 2-day training for the YMCA. Next weekend is the Redman race which requires travel. The last weekend is the beginning of soccer games and a big birthday party out of town. With all of this on the schedule, my grandmother has passed away this month. Blessed are those that mourn, for they shall be comforted, Mathew 5.

Racing: 
I decided to pull the trigger and sign up for the aquabike at Redman. I did a confidence ride last weekend, 56 miles at 18.6avg. It definitely built the confidence knowing that I can still push the pace. Two weeks ago, I did the same with the swim. It was a bit slow and not as comfortable but still doable. I recently checked the participant list to see what the competition looks like on Athlinks. Amazingly, I think I may have a chance at the podium! In addition, I have signed up for the Fairfield Triathlon in October. I may not have my speed back but it’ll be fun getting there.

Triathlon Coaching/Cycling: 
I auditioned at Lifetime Fitness yesterday. I think they are more interested in my work with triathletes. For me, I haven’t decided if it’s a road I want to go down. Not sure how much time in my schedule I want to dedicate to another set of athletes.

Today was the first day of the Fall season. We started in the pool after a short chat to catch up. I had four returning athletes and one that is “trying us out” for a week. Most of the crew has not been keeping up with swim workouts so I spent some time working on kick technique.

The end of lazy!

Summer has come to an end, time to get back into a routine with workouts and food! I am still recovering from a severe ankle sprain in June. Just two weeks ago, I started a walk/jog  program in an effort to continue the rehabilitation process. Tired of paying for physical therapy, I have decided to get it done solo. My endurance has increased to over 2 miles of jogging while walking to warm up and cool down. Nothing burns calories like running and it’s nice to have it back. My weight is still a concern. I have inched back into the 150s but can’t seem to hold it there. More focus and determination is needed!!!

On the work front, I have added a new certification for indoor cycling, RPM. To say I love it would be an understatement. I recommend it to anyone looking to torch the calories and/or who normally get bored in cycling classes. Triathlon coaching is still my greatest source of joy, but RPM is a close second.

My racing schedule came to a quick halt after the injury. I have been debating an aquabike in Oklahoma in a few weeks. It seems doable, but my fitness may not be enough to put me in award contention. Regardless, it is fun to have the option of a race in the future. Until the decision is made, I’ll train like I’m going to race.

Triathlon training kicks into gear next week. The fall is always a transitional time for triathletes with fewer races on the schedule. Many look for the camaraderie that will carry them through the off-season. We work to develop strength though cross training while focusing on running for those that have chosen off-season marathons/half marathons.