And We're Back
After several months, I decided this weekend to get back at it with my posts. Why? Well some things need a rest. I did both mentally and physically. After finishing a 45 mile ultra marathon in April of 2012, I took a break from running for a few months. Felt strange, but it allowed the body to heal up from 10 years of non-stop races and training. No times to hit. No mile barriers to break each week. My body and mind just said stop. So I did. Didn't run much in May, June, or July. Did quite a bit of outdoor swimming and had great cycling days but that was about it. No races. No training plans. Enjoyed coaching several people and watching them make fantastic progress towards their goals. That, was truly special! A different person has emerged from that rest. A more appreciative person of the little things that make us all go. So I declare that it's time to have fun!!!
It's time for Miles With Mickey to hopefully make you laugh a bit. Ponder something crazy that I have said. Appreciate training suggestions without first consulting a magazine to compare. And maybe even learn something.
Things to Ponder
With that in mind, you must know that during this past summer I went through some informational blood work to determine the food things that I might be allergic to. All to relieve headaches and stomach trouble. After the results came back, I have now been blessed with the information that I need to avoid gluten, dairy, yeasts, and other things that have taste. My nutrition plan that I was on for so many years is history. Those yummy 600 calorie bars, gels, proteins with any kind of dairy products in them, yummy carbs, and a number of other things are gone. I find myself drooling at the pastry counter at stores now. Woefully looking for someone to offer me a sample. That couldn't hurt could it? Today as I was out on a training ride, I spotted a bird feeder with some birds on it. No I don't know what kind of birds they were. Just birds. My first urge was to storm the feeder and take it over and eat all of the grain hat it contained. That was until I saw a dog nearby about the size of a cow. Then O pedaled on and only looked back with eyes that knew it would have had taste.
Solution?
Fruits, Veggies, certain meats. Feeling great now. Hummm hint hint. Nutrition tip #1.
Confusion
Today on my ride, I saw several geese lying down in the driving range of a local golf course. It was a sad sight actually. To think that they were possibly trying to hatch a Titleist golf ball. Shouldn't someone tell them. Yes, your young one will have dimples but there's something else you should know...
Until next time..have fun, keep you path safe and full of the sunshine you know best!
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Man vs. Junk Food Round 5/ Hostess Twinkies
The Conclusion of the Junk Food Adventure
Tonight marked the conclusion of the Man vs Junk Food adventure. Whew! Five rounds of putting stuff into me that I would never do on a normal basis. Perhaps mainstays for some, however, a never again for me. The Big Mac was the worst. I can't imagine ever wanting to put that inside of me again. The Cheetos were really pretty good going down but the orange trail in the pool was embarrassing. The Girl Scout cookies were a harmless snack but didn't pack much taste. The Little Debbie Snack cakes were a great first bite but then quickly gummed up the mouth beyond belief. And finally...
Tonight's taste treat was 6 Hostess Twinkies before my 22 mile spin. You know Twinkies will always be Twinkies. I still wonder what the white stuff is that they put inside because it just doesn't go anywhere in your mouth. Mind you I was eating them as I was driving home today. Think if someone were to be behind me and see me unwrapping 6 Twinkies in a span of 6-7 block. Yep, I snarffed them. Sometimes in two bites. Gross? Yes! The first one went down easily. The other five were like jamming meat into a sausage grinder. I literally used the palm of my hand to shove numbers 5 and 6 in.
The the stomachache hit. Just about as I was to climb on the trainer, the Twinkies decided they didn't want to. The pain started as a small rumble then progressed into a full blown double sided side stitch. So I stopped mid trainer mount and froze. What to do. The Twinkies were rebelling. No trainer ride tonight they were saying. But alas, mind over stomach. The pain went away as quickly as it came. But the taste in my mouth was as if I had eaten the world's cheapest wedding cake. All of it! It was disgusting. So what did I do? Well Mr. Nutrition here washed it down with Gatorade G2. Mistake #2. Let me tell you know. G2 and Twinkies don't mix. At all! The rest I will leave to your imagination. It wasn't a good site.
Luckily, I had a couple of phone calls during m y ride to take my mind off the grossness of what I was doing. One very meaningful one was to pledge to fund raising drive for our nearest NPR station. With pleasure, I talked and talked to the kind lady about pledging and what I was doing. If you are an NPR fan, now is the time to put some cash up to support real news and programming that will knock your socks off on a daily basis!
So the saga ends. I must say that none of the junk food kept me from training. However, had I eaten it 5 days in a row, it would have been a different story. Training would have come to an abrupt stop I imagine.
2012 Brings the next challenge. Bars, gels, chews, and drinks. I look forward to picking and reporting on the different products that will be used. Whoops, my stomach just flip flopped. Twinkies or the 2012 talk??
Two Things to Ponder
1. It is impossible to lick your elbow.
2. The state with the highest percentage of people that walk to work: Alaska
Still Trying to Get Over
Still trying to get over the sausage wrapped in a pancake on a stick served as breakfast this morning to elementary school students at my school. Some things just don't make sense. Oh yeah, with syrup dripping down the stick.
Confusion
How to get the last Wet-Wipe out. Why does it always fall down?
Forward we go! May your adventures on the roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and bring you peace. Take care out there!!!
Tonight marked the conclusion of the Man vs Junk Food adventure. Whew! Five rounds of putting stuff into me that I would never do on a normal basis. Perhaps mainstays for some, however, a never again for me. The Big Mac was the worst. I can't imagine ever wanting to put that inside of me again. The Cheetos were really pretty good going down but the orange trail in the pool was embarrassing. The Girl Scout cookies were a harmless snack but didn't pack much taste. The Little Debbie Snack cakes were a great first bite but then quickly gummed up the mouth beyond belief. And finally...
Tonight's taste treat was 6 Hostess Twinkies before my 22 mile spin. You know Twinkies will always be Twinkies. I still wonder what the white stuff is that they put inside because it just doesn't go anywhere in your mouth. Mind you I was eating them as I was driving home today. Think if someone were to be behind me and see me unwrapping 6 Twinkies in a span of 6-7 block. Yep, I snarffed them. Sometimes in two bites. Gross? Yes! The first one went down easily. The other five were like jamming meat into a sausage grinder. I literally used the palm of my hand to shove numbers 5 and 6 in.
The the stomachache hit. Just about as I was to climb on the trainer, the Twinkies decided they didn't want to. The pain started as a small rumble then progressed into a full blown double sided side stitch. So I stopped mid trainer mount and froze. What to do. The Twinkies were rebelling. No trainer ride tonight they were saying. But alas, mind over stomach. The pain went away as quickly as it came. But the taste in my mouth was as if I had eaten the world's cheapest wedding cake. All of it! It was disgusting. So what did I do? Well Mr. Nutrition here washed it down with Gatorade G2. Mistake #2. Let me tell you know. G2 and Twinkies don't mix. At all! The rest I will leave to your imagination. It wasn't a good site.
Luckily, I had a couple of phone calls during m y ride to take my mind off the grossness of what I was doing. One very meaningful one was to pledge to fund raising drive for our nearest NPR station. With pleasure, I talked and talked to the kind lady about pledging and what I was doing. If you are an NPR fan, now is the time to put some cash up to support real news and programming that will knock your socks off on a daily basis!
So the saga ends. I must say that none of the junk food kept me from training. However, had I eaten it 5 days in a row, it would have been a different story. Training would have come to an abrupt stop I imagine.
2012 Brings the next challenge. Bars, gels, chews, and drinks. I look forward to picking and reporting on the different products that will be used. Whoops, my stomach just flip flopped. Twinkies or the 2012 talk??
Two Things to Ponder
1. It is impossible to lick your elbow.
2. The state with the highest percentage of people that walk to work: Alaska
Still Trying to Get Over
Still trying to get over the sausage wrapped in a pancake on a stick served as breakfast this morning to elementary school students at my school. Some things just don't make sense. Oh yeah, with syrup dripping down the stick.
Confusion
How to get the last Wet-Wipe out. Why does it always fall down?
Forward we go! May your adventures on the roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and bring you peace. Take care out there!!!
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Man vs Junk Food Round 4/ Cheetos Express Explosion
Things They Tell Not to do Before a Swim
Tonight was the Man vs Junk Food Round 4 swim night festivities. I had not tried junk food before a swim. Now I know why. Prior to swimming, I ate a whole bag. Yes a whole bag. Almost 10 oz. of Cheetos. They went down better than the Big Mac by far. But then.......
As I started my speedwork I noticed an orange trail behind me as I swam. I thought, "Wow, I am really swimming fast tonight". The I realized it was the Cheetos Explosion trail of orange. As you all would guess no matter how many times you wash your hands, the orange will never come off. However, in pool water it comes off like crazy. I know I had it all the way up to my ears. I practically had my head in the bag eating they were so good. Felt a litle full but other than that started the swim feeling prety good.
Honestly, other than the pool turning orange, there was absolutely no effect from the junk food Cheetos. No stomach issues, nothing. An ocasional "burp" underwater which was really fun and amazing. In fact they may have carbo'd me into new speeds. It was a good easy speed swim and really nothing else to atribute it to other than the Cheetos.
So like the race car drivers and soccer players, tonight I am sewing the bag onto the back of my skinsuit. It will look so cool. A new sponsorship maybe?
Pool Change
The worse part of the evening was the fact that my warm pool is closing until January 4th and I will now be swimming in a pool that is very much the same as the Arctic. It is a pool that makes me about as cold as I have ever been. I am concerned about swimming my distances in such a pool and also they have shorter hours in the evenings. So tonight was the last swim of 2011 in the warm pool. It will be a huge change. Yeah I know you all are saying "suck it up" and swim. All I will say back to you is that I will be stuffing my skinsuit with used Cheetos bags and trying to stay warm.
Winter Tip
No matter what type of workouts or races you have planned. If it is a long run/ride/ or swim on the weekend, please hydrate and add a higher protein/carbs mix during the week and not the night before. Your body needs fuel. Fill it up and treat it well.
Forward we go! May your adventures on the roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace! Take care out there!
Tonight was the Man vs Junk Food Round 4 swim night festivities. I had not tried junk food before a swim. Now I know why. Prior to swimming, I ate a whole bag. Yes a whole bag. Almost 10 oz. of Cheetos. They went down better than the Big Mac by far. But then.......
As I started my speedwork I noticed an orange trail behind me as I swam. I thought, "Wow, I am really swimming fast tonight". The I realized it was the Cheetos Explosion trail of orange. As you all would guess no matter how many times you wash your hands, the orange will never come off. However, in pool water it comes off like crazy. I know I had it all the way up to my ears. I practically had my head in the bag eating they were so good. Felt a litle full but other than that started the swim feeling prety good.
Honestly, other than the pool turning orange, there was absolutely no effect from the junk food Cheetos. No stomach issues, nothing. An ocasional "burp" underwater which was really fun and amazing. In fact they may have carbo'd me into new speeds. It was a good easy speed swim and really nothing else to atribute it to other than the Cheetos.
So like the race car drivers and soccer players, tonight I am sewing the bag onto the back of my skinsuit. It will look so cool. A new sponsorship maybe?
Pool Change
The worse part of the evening was the fact that my warm pool is closing until January 4th and I will now be swimming in a pool that is very much the same as the Arctic. It is a pool that makes me about as cold as I have ever been. I am concerned about swimming my distances in such a pool and also they have shorter hours in the evenings. So tonight was the last swim of 2011 in the warm pool. It will be a huge change. Yeah I know you all are saying "suck it up" and swim. All I will say back to you is that I will be stuffing my skinsuit with used Cheetos bags and trying to stay warm.
Winter Tip
No matter what type of workouts or races you have planned. If it is a long run/ride/ or swim on the weekend, please hydrate and add a higher protein/carbs mix during the week and not the night before. Your body needs fuel. Fill it up and treat it well.
Forward we go! May your adventures on the roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace! Take care out there!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Man vs. Junk Food Round 3/ Big Mac Attacked!
Attacked by a Big Mac
I should have known when I picked up my Big Mac and the person handing it to me said it was America's Number 1 sandwich and then laughed.... that I was in trouble. I should have stopped at that point and thought things through. But no, I proceeded on. SUV smelling like the back end of some run down hamburger stand. Still, the anticipation of just what might happen was way too inviting. All the way home as the windows fogged up with that greasy aroma, all that a Big Mac is, I knew before me was a short run with several pre-determined stops if necessary.
Home at last, I opened the box and took that first bite of that hot juicy glob of stuff. It almost didn't go down. Later I would find out that it also won't come up. I sat there and tried as hard as I could to get it down. It reminded me of the show Fear Factor where the contestants eat just about everything imaginable. But wait, wasn't this America's Number 1 sandwich? So down it went.
On with the running clothes. The sodium from my friend the Big Mac already visible on my lips after just getting dressed. I started the run, in the rain as well, with some doubt that I would get through the short 7 mile run. After about a half mile, the gastro concert began. First just the woodwind section. Soft and subtle. But still there. After a mile, the brass started into the mix. Certain flavors of my Big Mac were revisiting my mouth area. Things were getting a bit more nvolved now. Pace slowed and cramping of the stomach let me know that the percussion section wasn't far behind. (No pun intended.)
Then it hit with a fury. Miles 4-7 were cascading into a sodium body freeze. Legs grew heavy. Energy hit rock bottom. (Again no pun intended.) The run was in trouble. The stomach at this point sounded like a very large marching band. Thinks were moving in ways that I didn't know they could. I was focused on getting home. My pace grew faster somehow. Perhaps my body knew it must get to the homefront. Fast!
With one last burst of energy I could see the lights of home! They key in the door. Then "BOOM" the cymbals crashed into a loud crescendo and...........
May your adventures on the roads, trails, pools and lakes be happy and safe and bring you peace!
I should have known when I picked up my Big Mac and the person handing it to me said it was America's Number 1 sandwich and then laughed.... that I was in trouble. I should have stopped at that point and thought things through. But no, I proceeded on. SUV smelling like the back end of some run down hamburger stand. Still, the anticipation of just what might happen was way too inviting. All the way home as the windows fogged up with that greasy aroma, all that a Big Mac is, I knew before me was a short run with several pre-determined stops if necessary.
Home at last, I opened the box and took that first bite of that hot juicy glob of stuff. It almost didn't go down. Later I would find out that it also won't come up. I sat there and tried as hard as I could to get it down. It reminded me of the show Fear Factor where the contestants eat just about everything imaginable. But wait, wasn't this America's Number 1 sandwich? So down it went.
On with the running clothes. The sodium from my friend the Big Mac already visible on my lips after just getting dressed. I started the run, in the rain as well, with some doubt that I would get through the short 7 mile run. After about a half mile, the gastro concert began. First just the woodwind section. Soft and subtle. But still there. After a mile, the brass started into the mix. Certain flavors of my Big Mac were revisiting my mouth area. Things were getting a bit more nvolved now. Pace slowed and cramping of the stomach let me know that the percussion section wasn't far behind. (No pun intended.)
Then it hit with a fury. Miles 4-7 were cascading into a sodium body freeze. Legs grew heavy. Energy hit rock bottom. (Again no pun intended.) The run was in trouble. The stomach at this point sounded like a very large marching band. Thinks were moving in ways that I didn't know they could. I was focused on getting home. My pace grew faster somehow. Perhaps my body knew it must get to the homefront. Fast!
With one last burst of energy I could see the lights of home! They key in the door. Then "BOOM" the cymbals crashed into a loud crescendo and...........
May your adventures on the roads, trails, pools and lakes be happy and safe and bring you peace!
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Man vs. Junk Food Round 2
Effect Zero
With all due respect to the Girl Scouts of the USA and their wonderful cookie sales, I did classify their cookies as junk food. Now, take into consideration that I am sure some individuals could live on Thin Mints for many years but the fact is that there is little if any nutritional value in their products. That said....
Today before my training run that consisted of stadium stairs, field sprints, and an 8 mile run, I ate a few Girl scout cookies. Well to be exact, 20 of them. I thought 20 cookies would surely do something to me. The Shout Outs cookies were mine for a day. By eating 20, I had about 269 calories, 10g of fat, 16g sugar, 4g protein. My normal intake before a workout is nearly 4x's that as far as calories and at least 10x's that for proteins. so needless to say I either should have eaten two boxes or just eaten the box itself and called it good.
They were tasty. But as far as providing any usefulness for my training there was none. Actually I find it a little hard to even call them "junk food" when you look at the ingredients on the panel on the box. They gave me no energy whatsoever. Much of what I used as far as energy stores was what accumulated throughout the day as far as snacks, breakfast, and lunch.
So Round 2 was a disappointment. No effect from the snack. So the next opportunities for the snacks to reach up and get me are next Tuesday and Thursday. Until then, feel free to have about 20 Shout Outs and have a free mind about doing it. Either that or salt the box and have a go at it.
Suggestions are welcome as far as what you would consider "junk food". Just let me know and I'll give it a try. I don't feel that I have really scratched the surface of possibilities yet. Pretty tame snacks so far.
Forward we go! May your adventures on the roads, trail, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and bring you peace of mind! Take care out there!
With all due respect to the Girl Scouts of the USA and their wonderful cookie sales, I did classify their cookies as junk food. Now, take into consideration that I am sure some individuals could live on Thin Mints for many years but the fact is that there is little if any nutritional value in their products. That said....
Today before my training run that consisted of stadium stairs, field sprints, and an 8 mile run, I ate a few Girl scout cookies. Well to be exact, 20 of them. I thought 20 cookies would surely do something to me. The Shout Outs cookies were mine for a day. By eating 20, I had about 269 calories, 10g of fat, 16g sugar, 4g protein. My normal intake before a workout is nearly 4x's that as far as calories and at least 10x's that for proteins. so needless to say I either should have eaten two boxes or just eaten the box itself and called it good.
They were tasty. But as far as providing any usefulness for my training there was none. Actually I find it a little hard to even call them "junk food" when you look at the ingredients on the panel on the box. They gave me no energy whatsoever. Much of what I used as far as energy stores was what accumulated throughout the day as far as snacks, breakfast, and lunch.
So Round 2 was a disappointment. No effect from the snack. So the next opportunities for the snacks to reach up and get me are next Tuesday and Thursday. Until then, feel free to have about 20 Shout Outs and have a free mind about doing it. Either that or salt the box and have a go at it.
Suggestions are welcome as far as what you would consider "junk food". Just let me know and I'll give it a try. I don't feel that I have really scratched the surface of possibilities yet. Pretty tame snacks so far.
Forward we go! May your adventures on the roads, trail, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and bring you peace of mind! Take care out there!
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Man vs Junk Food Report #1
Man vs. Junk Food #1
Well tonight kicks off the first of 5 workouts where I have replaced my regular pre- run, bike, swim snack with junk food. For those of you wondering where this is all going here's the plan:
Phase 1- Junk Food
Phase 2- Back to Bars and gels or chewies
Phase 3- All whole foods
So those of you waiting to see if I would blow snack tonight, you are going to be disappointed. I ate 4 Little Debbie Cakes that totaled 600 calories, 26g fat, 2g protein, and 58g sugar. Plus some things I don't even want to know about.
I have to honestly report that there were no problems. I had a great workout. No stomach trouble. No sugar drop. No problems of any kind. In fact it was one of my better workouts for the week. Oh yeah, it's only Tuesday, HA! Seriously, things settled well and had about the same energy as I have had with other workout prep.
Thursday will will be the next workout with some junk food. Have not decided what's next but I better ramp it up a bit i looks like. Now I understand Dean Karnazes a little better. Mr. Ultra Marathon Man.
Confusion
Do UPS drivers have GPS in their trucks? The letters would confuse me. "Hello, I have a delivery from GPS, I mean UPS."
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and bring you piece of mind.
Well tonight kicks off the first of 5 workouts where I have replaced my regular pre- run, bike, swim snack with junk food. For those of you wondering where this is all going here's the plan:
Phase 1- Junk Food
Phase 2- Back to Bars and gels or chewies
Phase 3- All whole foods
So those of you waiting to see if I would blow snack tonight, you are going to be disappointed. I ate 4 Little Debbie Cakes that totaled 600 calories, 26g fat, 2g protein, and 58g sugar. Plus some things I don't even want to know about.
I have to honestly report that there were no problems. I had a great workout. No stomach trouble. No sugar drop. No problems of any kind. In fact it was one of my better workouts for the week. Oh yeah, it's only Tuesday, HA! Seriously, things settled well and had about the same energy as I have had with other workout prep.
Thursday will will be the next workout with some junk food. Have not decided what's next but I better ramp it up a bit i looks like. Now I understand Dean Karnazes a little better. Mr. Ultra Marathon Man.
Confusion
Do UPS drivers have GPS in their trucks? The letters would confuse me. "Hello, I have a delivery from GPS, I mean UPS."
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and bring you piece of mind.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Running Partners/ Man vs. Junk Food/ Quinoa/ B-12
People
The polls are still split as to whether people would rather run/cycle with a partner or go it alone. I read so many things these days that contradict each other. I know there are days when being alone lends itself to good thought and problem solving. Other days, one needs to have a partner to push them on towards a goal or just listen. Some of these partners can be human form or animal form. My son and I have always been great running partners and when we run together, we accomplish things that are just flat amazing. We have taken each other up hills, mountains, through ankle deep mud, snow, wind and rain. He is my true running/cycling partner. However, enter his incredible dog Ogden, and I am sure there would be times I would play a second to choice of partners. I understand. He lives in Colorado now and we don't get to run as much as we use to and I miss that. But when we do, look out!
But what do you expect/ want in a running partner? Here are some things to look for: Dedication, honesty (no I don't want to run 5 more miles. Or the opposite.), drive, a good listener, someone that will talk when you have nothing to say, someone to get you up that hill, consistency (not a hit and miss thing....someone that you can count on), goals, no excuses, comparable training plans, someone willing to challenge you, serious/ fun abilities, spontaneous, ENERGY, and compassion. There are times where you both will need all of the above or just parts. Partners can obviously be male/male, female/female, male/female, opinions show that it really doesn't matter.
So get out there and find you a training partner. Or not.
Nutrition
A few years ago, I did a week's worth of blogs on Man vs. Fast Food. Although some television shows captured my idea and didn't let go, I have decided that it is time to have part 2! This new version will be Man vs. Junk Food hosted by yours truly. Over the course of a few weeks I will attempt to eat pure junk and then see what the implications are for a run, bike, or swim. Yes, I know that some of you are shaking right now that I would even attempt this but I will take one for the team on this subject. I mean, what if it really doesn't matter? Ruled out right away will be chocolate and dairy due to the fact that I have allergies to those two monsters. So starting next Monday, December 5th the games will begin. I will report each time I try something to let you know what happened. So check back here for it soon!
Training Ideas
The cold and yuk has arrived. Training is forcing many inside. Layers are heavier outside than in the warm weather. You feel bogged down, like pulling a semi-truck. Do what you can with what you have. Just do something! I am not a fan at all of indoor equipment and will go to many lengths to stay outside. But even I have temperature limits. You have got to maintain your current level of fitness or improve on it over the cold months. That is your goal. Don't slack off!!! In fact, if your health permits, work harder and harder. When the spring/summer races come around you won't need a 6 week training program to cough and wheeze through. (Note: Health concerns or problems that come up totally shred everything I just said. Be smart and listen to your doctor if something comes up. It's not worth it people. Sucking it up means NOTHING if you fight a doctor's orders!!!!!)
Magazines
Outside Magazine. Nothing more needs to be said!
Award Winning Recipes from Chef Mickey
Quinoa Salad: Cook up a bunch of quinoa. Add some black beans, avacodo, a few halves of cherry tomatoes, cranberries, cumin seasoning and mix with a dressing of the juice of two limes and some olive oil.
Real Good!!!
Advice
Investigate B-12 drops. I really feel they make a difference along with my other supplements!
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, and pools be happy and safe! May they bring you peace of mind! Take care out there!
The polls are still split as to whether people would rather run/cycle with a partner or go it alone. I read so many things these days that contradict each other. I know there are days when being alone lends itself to good thought and problem solving. Other days, one needs to have a partner to push them on towards a goal or just listen. Some of these partners can be human form or animal form. My son and I have always been great running partners and when we run together, we accomplish things that are just flat amazing. We have taken each other up hills, mountains, through ankle deep mud, snow, wind and rain. He is my true running/cycling partner. However, enter his incredible dog Ogden, and I am sure there would be times I would play a second to choice of partners. I understand. He lives in Colorado now and we don't get to run as much as we use to and I miss that. But when we do, look out!
But what do you expect/ want in a running partner? Here are some things to look for: Dedication, honesty (no I don't want to run 5 more miles. Or the opposite.), drive, a good listener, someone that will talk when you have nothing to say, someone to get you up that hill, consistency (not a hit and miss thing....someone that you can count on), goals, no excuses, comparable training plans, someone willing to challenge you, serious/ fun abilities, spontaneous, ENERGY, and compassion. There are times where you both will need all of the above or just parts. Partners can obviously be male/male, female/female, male/female, opinions show that it really doesn't matter.
So get out there and find you a training partner. Or not.
Nutrition
A few years ago, I did a week's worth of blogs on Man vs. Fast Food. Although some television shows captured my idea and didn't let go, I have decided that it is time to have part 2! This new version will be Man vs. Junk Food hosted by yours truly. Over the course of a few weeks I will attempt to eat pure junk and then see what the implications are for a run, bike, or swim. Yes, I know that some of you are shaking right now that I would even attempt this but I will take one for the team on this subject. I mean, what if it really doesn't matter? Ruled out right away will be chocolate and dairy due to the fact that I have allergies to those two monsters. So starting next Monday, December 5th the games will begin. I will report each time I try something to let you know what happened. So check back here for it soon!
Training Ideas
The cold and yuk has arrived. Training is forcing many inside. Layers are heavier outside than in the warm weather. You feel bogged down, like pulling a semi-truck. Do what you can with what you have. Just do something! I am not a fan at all of indoor equipment and will go to many lengths to stay outside. But even I have temperature limits. You have got to maintain your current level of fitness or improve on it over the cold months. That is your goal. Don't slack off!!! In fact, if your health permits, work harder and harder. When the spring/summer races come around you won't need a 6 week training program to cough and wheeze through. (Note: Health concerns or problems that come up totally shred everything I just said. Be smart and listen to your doctor if something comes up. It's not worth it people. Sucking it up means NOTHING if you fight a doctor's orders!!!!!)
Magazines
Outside Magazine. Nothing more needs to be said!
Award Winning Recipes from Chef Mickey
Quinoa Salad: Cook up a bunch of quinoa. Add some black beans, avacodo, a few halves of cherry tomatoes, cranberries, cumin seasoning and mix with a dressing of the juice of two limes and some olive oil.
Real Good!!!
Advice
Investigate B-12 drops. I really feel they make a difference along with my other supplements!
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, and pools be happy and safe! May they bring you peace of mind! Take care out there!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Run, Bike, Swim, Walk, Then Smile Because You Can!
People
October was Breast cancer awareness month and November is a month where the guys get the emphasis for cancer detection. During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in the US and around the world. With their Mo’s, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and other cancers that affect men. I am continually amazed by the battles being waged by individual under cancer treatment and other that are members of families where cancer has effected their lives. There are many days that you may run, bike, swim, and walk by people fighting battles that you have no idea hey are fighting. Their miles may be measure in blocks walked or neighborhood strools. But, there are also some that are fighting the battle and competing in 5 and 10K's, half-marathons, marathons, ultras, cycling competitions, swimming meets, and walking events. Know that they do nt need your sympathy but your love and support. No matter how big or small your contribution, make one! Please!
Training Ideas
2 Things:
I am getting more and more interested in trying to start runing in my Vibram's. I keep reading rave reviews and hearing great testimony from people that are wearing them. When I run with people that have them, their foot strike is amazingly soft and their stride is excellent. I also know that they seem to run more efficiently. It makes sense. It seems like the more junk we add to our lives the more troble we have. I am not sure we were meant to run in the mega adjusted, foam heel, super stride shoes that are being produced and stuffed down our throats. This barefoot running is not a new thing people. It's been around a while.
However. I am also very impressed with the work the Newton folks are doing. Running with individual in Newtons can also be a learning experience for most of us. You will note that although the runners went through an adjustment period, they too have a better stride and foot strike than with the majority of shoes on the market.
Confusion
So I turned my clocks back for the end of daylight savings time and now I can't see the numbers or the dial. What, did I do something wrong?
Award Winning Recipe from Chef Mickey
This week's entry is kind of a food/ decorating recipe: The Halloween Candy Candle.
First you take all of that Halloween candy the the neighborhood kids did not come by to eat because they know you are a runner/cyclist/swimmer and will have healthy stuff that they would rather pass up..... but you went ahead this year and bought the junk. So that's great. Now you will eat it, feel bloated and have to recover from numerous sugar highs and lows.
so take the candy and put it in a microwavable bowl. Yes, all of it. Then heat it up until it is a massive gooey mess. Keep fingers out of it. At that point, pour into an aluminum pan ( Or again for you high income readers, a pottery bowl.) and as it is setting up stick small cuttings of candle wicks in it at various places. The aroma is amazing. Hazard....Some guests, including you, may find parts of the candle missing at some point. Not my problem!
Clothing Review
I am so glad that clothing makers for runners think that black clothing especially for men is so colorful. I would like some choice, please. Cyclists kits and swimwear has the idea, but runners. Come on now. One of these days I may journey over into the women's section just to get something other than black. Just saying.....the warning is out there.
App Alert for Smartphones
Might be a good one and might not but I am really enjoying messing around with a FREE app called Fooducate. The app has a scanner that you can scan items at the store or any place you are shopping or cooking. There are also great other parts to it but the scanner is as fun as playing Angry Birds!
Onward!
Remember, it will be darker now for you afternoon/evening runners/cyclists/walkers. Please make special note of the equipment you need. Reflective gear and headlamps should be a standard! Cars cannot see you if you don't take action. Especially the first week where accidents happn at an alarming rate. It's a fact!
Be careful out there! Take the extra time to dress for the weather, wear reflerctive gear, and eat lots of oatmeal!
October was Breast cancer awareness month and November is a month where the guys get the emphasis for cancer detection. During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in the US and around the world. With their Mo’s, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and other cancers that affect men. I am continually amazed by the battles being waged by individual under cancer treatment and other that are members of families where cancer has effected their lives. There are many days that you may run, bike, swim, and walk by people fighting battles that you have no idea hey are fighting. Their miles may be measure in blocks walked or neighborhood strools. But, there are also some that are fighting the battle and competing in 5 and 10K's, half-marathons, marathons, ultras, cycling competitions, swimming meets, and walking events. Know that they do nt need your sympathy but your love and support. No matter how big or small your contribution, make one! Please!
Training Ideas
2 Things:
I am getting more and more interested in trying to start runing in my Vibram's. I keep reading rave reviews and hearing great testimony from people that are wearing them. When I run with people that have them, their foot strike is amazingly soft and their stride is excellent. I also know that they seem to run more efficiently. It makes sense. It seems like the more junk we add to our lives the more troble we have. I am not sure we were meant to run in the mega adjusted, foam heel, super stride shoes that are being produced and stuffed down our throats. This barefoot running is not a new thing people. It's been around a while.
However. I am also very impressed with the work the Newton folks are doing. Running with individual in Newtons can also be a learning experience for most of us. You will note that although the runners went through an adjustment period, they too have a better stride and foot strike than with the majority of shoes on the market.
Confusion
So I turned my clocks back for the end of daylight savings time and now I can't see the numbers or the dial. What, did I do something wrong?
Award Winning Recipe from Chef Mickey
This week's entry is kind of a food/ decorating recipe: The Halloween Candy Candle.
First you take all of that Halloween candy the the neighborhood kids did not come by to eat because they know you are a runner/cyclist/swimmer and will have healthy stuff that they would rather pass up..... but you went ahead this year and bought the junk. So that's great. Now you will eat it, feel bloated and have to recover from numerous sugar highs and lows.
so take the candy and put it in a microwavable bowl. Yes, all of it. Then heat it up until it is a massive gooey mess. Keep fingers out of it. At that point, pour into an aluminum pan ( Or again for you high income readers, a pottery bowl.) and as it is setting up stick small cuttings of candle wicks in it at various places. The aroma is amazing. Hazard....Some guests, including you, may find parts of the candle missing at some point. Not my problem!
Clothing Review
I am so glad that clothing makers for runners think that black clothing especially for men is so colorful. I would like some choice, please. Cyclists kits and swimwear has the idea, but runners. Come on now. One of these days I may journey over into the women's section just to get something other than black. Just saying.....the warning is out there.
App Alert for Smartphones
Might be a good one and might not but I am really enjoying messing around with a FREE app called Fooducate. The app has a scanner that you can scan items at the store or any place you are shopping or cooking. There are also great other parts to it but the scanner is as fun as playing Angry Birds!
Onward!
Remember, it will be darker now for you afternoon/evening runners/cyclists/walkers. Please make special note of the equipment you need. Reflective gear and headlamps should be a standard! Cars cannot see you if you don't take action. Especially the first week where accidents happn at an alarming rate. It's a fact!
Be careful out there! Take the extra time to dress for the weather, wear reflerctive gear, and eat lots of oatmeal!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
More than You Want to Know
Hope this post finds you all well and getting out there and doing something active. Go for it!
People
To the pick-up driver that just passed me a few minutes ago on my ride out on the county road, all I can say is "really". The fact that you nearly forced me off the road and that you left me in a cloud of black smoke, I really hope it made you feel better. I can never understand when people do that. I have mentioned it several times in this blog before, but it just keeps happening. Wait I have an idea. I'll just ride down the middle of the lane as slow as I can and drop smoke bombs every once in a while to make you feel at home. Oh and I forgot to mention that the squeal of your tires at the same time as the smoke was well coordinated. Drive on my friend!
Training Tips/ New Ideas
I have decided to devote more of my coaching time to possums and raccoons. After seeing how they end up on most roads, I feel a need to help the rest of them out a little. So I am opening up slots for the new branch of Miles With Mickey Coaching Camp. I figure the number one priority will be working on speed. That will be accomplished through a series of training plans that include sprints, fartleks, intervals, and the new run for you life workout. Also, we need to work on getting shoes for these creatures. They will have to be racng flats since they only need to go 20-30 feet at a time. Wind-aided I think we could really make some progress. I will also offer the idea of finally wearing headlamps specially fitted for the little guysand gals. Tail lights at this time seem a bit unnecessary. Racing/workout clothes will be optional. I kind of like the fur look and it could catch on with the east coast friends. At this time the camp will not be open to the skunk population due to that oder thing. Sign-up sheets will be available soon!
Confusion
Cash register persons.
Award Winning Recipie from Chef Mickey
Peanut Butter Toast
Take some kind of whole grain bread that has not molded and put it in a toaster or fancy toaster over for you advanced cooks. Press down on the lever on the side making sure the heat setting is not set on burn like you sometimes do. When the toast pops up after a bit, get the natural peanut butter out (Or if you don't care, the junky kind) and spread it on the toast. Eat immediately. I is really no good if left sitting while you go off and do something else. For higher income bracket individuals the peanut butter may be substituted for almond butter, cashew butter, or another kind of high dollar spread. Enjoy!
Advice
Now that colder weather is upon us please know that all gear is not created equal. There are some companies that make clothing that just won't stand up to cold and wet weather. Research what you buy and your running and cycling, walking world will be much much better. Yes, the more you spend the better gear you get. You're worth it!
Take Care of Yourselves and be Safe!
People
To the pick-up driver that just passed me a few minutes ago on my ride out on the county road, all I can say is "really". The fact that you nearly forced me off the road and that you left me in a cloud of black smoke, I really hope it made you feel better. I can never understand when people do that. I have mentioned it several times in this blog before, but it just keeps happening. Wait I have an idea. I'll just ride down the middle of the lane as slow as I can and drop smoke bombs every once in a while to make you feel at home. Oh and I forgot to mention that the squeal of your tires at the same time as the smoke was well coordinated. Drive on my friend!
Training Tips/ New Ideas
I have decided to devote more of my coaching time to possums and raccoons. After seeing how they end up on most roads, I feel a need to help the rest of them out a little. So I am opening up slots for the new branch of Miles With Mickey Coaching Camp. I figure the number one priority will be working on speed. That will be accomplished through a series of training plans that include sprints, fartleks, intervals, and the new run for you life workout. Also, we need to work on getting shoes for these creatures. They will have to be racng flats since they only need to go 20-30 feet at a time. Wind-aided I think we could really make some progress. I will also offer the idea of finally wearing headlamps specially fitted for the little guysand gals. Tail lights at this time seem a bit unnecessary. Racing/workout clothes will be optional. I kind of like the fur look and it could catch on with the east coast friends. At this time the camp will not be open to the skunk population due to that oder thing. Sign-up sheets will be available soon!
Confusion
Cash register persons.
Award Winning Recipie from Chef Mickey
Peanut Butter Toast
Take some kind of whole grain bread that has not molded and put it in a toaster or fancy toaster over for you advanced cooks. Press down on the lever on the side making sure the heat setting is not set on burn like you sometimes do. When the toast pops up after a bit, get the natural peanut butter out (Or if you don't care, the junky kind) and spread it on the toast. Eat immediately. I is really no good if left sitting while you go off and do something else. For higher income bracket individuals the peanut butter may be substituted for almond butter, cashew butter, or another kind of high dollar spread. Enjoy!
Advice
Now that colder weather is upon us please know that all gear is not created equal. There are some companies that make clothing that just won't stand up to cold and wet weather. Research what you buy and your running and cycling, walking world will be much much better. Yes, the more you spend the better gear you get. You're worth it!
Take Care of Yourselves and be Safe!
Monday, October 10, 2011
You Heard it Here First
People
Strong rumor out of France that there is a small town developing a new cycling kit made out of cowboy/cowgirl grade denim. Bull riding tested, this new kit features the comfort of high grade and long lasting chafing. Color scheme is light blue and/or dark blue. Features one large pocket in the back mysteriously shaped like a disk. Sequins can be added upon special request. Release date expected in time for Spring fashion splash. There will be a limited supply so jump on this when you get the chance. Everyone will want the chance to show off this new idea in kit fashion and durability.
Training Tip
Ever wonder why after most races there is a beer waiting for you after the finish line? One of the most dehydrating beverages you can possibly drink. Then within the next few feet are several sports drinks that you can have followed by boatloads of bottles of water. Interesting order of serving. My son and I did the Austin Marathon once and towards the finish line...still don't know why you have an out and back in a beautiful town like Austin....and there was a little stand that offered small glasses of beer. Recovery we thought? Energy we thought? Why not, we thought? Drank some down and spit right back out. Yep, beer is the breakfast of some champions but not this one.
Seriously...Pay attention to your water intake at least one week before a race and actually keep water in your training routine at all times enhanced with electrolytes everyday. This especially goes for those of you that let your car get to "E" before you fill up. I bet you do that to your body too!
Confusion
License plates with a message on them. Why?
Award Winning Recipes from Chef Mickey
Flank Steak Delight
Put some flank steak in a crockpot. Throw the whole thing in there. Add some vegetables. Squash works great of may cause some GI trouble if you train to quick after. Like up to 48 hours after. (Just joking) Close the lid. Put on medium heat for a bunch of hours or until mooing stops. Try on running, swimming, cycling partner first then proceed with your portion. When done, stand back. There will be hot steam coming out of the lid. Don't look in to see what is going on. Come on...it's steak in a pot.
Advice
Have some fun this week. Laugh. Smile. Then remember how lucky your are to be doing what you are doing!
Take care and have a great week!
Strong rumor out of France that there is a small town developing a new cycling kit made out of cowboy/cowgirl grade denim. Bull riding tested, this new kit features the comfort of high grade and long lasting chafing. Color scheme is light blue and/or dark blue. Features one large pocket in the back mysteriously shaped like a disk. Sequins can be added upon special request. Release date expected in time for Spring fashion splash. There will be a limited supply so jump on this when you get the chance. Everyone will want the chance to show off this new idea in kit fashion and durability.
Training Tip
Ever wonder why after most races there is a beer waiting for you after the finish line? One of the most dehydrating beverages you can possibly drink. Then within the next few feet are several sports drinks that you can have followed by boatloads of bottles of water. Interesting order of serving. My son and I did the Austin Marathon once and towards the finish line...still don't know why you have an out and back in a beautiful town like Austin....and there was a little stand that offered small glasses of beer. Recovery we thought? Energy we thought? Why not, we thought? Drank some down and spit right back out. Yep, beer is the breakfast of some champions but not this one.
Seriously...Pay attention to your water intake at least one week before a race and actually keep water in your training routine at all times enhanced with electrolytes everyday. This especially goes for those of you that let your car get to "E" before you fill up. I bet you do that to your body too!
Confusion
License plates with a message on them. Why?
Award Winning Recipes from Chef Mickey
Flank Steak Delight
Put some flank steak in a crockpot. Throw the whole thing in there. Add some vegetables. Squash works great of may cause some GI trouble if you train to quick after. Like up to 48 hours after. (Just joking) Close the lid. Put on medium heat for a bunch of hours or until mooing stops. Try on running, swimming, cycling partner first then proceed with your portion. When done, stand back. There will be hot steam coming out of the lid. Don't look in to see what is going on. Come on...it's steak in a pot.
Advice
Have some fun this week. Laugh. Smile. Then remember how lucky your are to be doing what you are doing!
Take care and have a great week!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Blog Wake-Up.. Again
Back in January I stated that it was time for this blog and blogger to wake up. Well that did not happen. I don't know why but things just did not make it to the blogosphere. I guess I just wasn't charged up about what I was writing and grew weary of the same type of comments that I was making.
So the format will change and the content definitely will change. I want to get into some areas that are not so predictable. You know, I want you to look at this blog and see just what I have come up with next. Each post will contain specific short pieces on a variety of content areas. I hope you will add comments and enjoy a few laughs or mad moments where you want to fire off a reply that burns my computer up. Whatever the reason, read and react. I am not going to put live links in the blog because it takes too long and you all are big boys and girls and can find the stuff on your own. I mean really, come on.
So here goes....
Award Winning Recipes From Chef Mickey-
Tupperware of Stuff Made in a Pot
Warning: This blog's incredible recipe includes some difficult maneuvering around the kitchen so only attempt this if you have the old running shoes on and a old running clothes on.
Get out some cans of tomatoes, cook up some ground turkey, throw in some different kinds of beans (2-3 cans of each should be fine), some banana peppers (Only on non-swimming days) and open the cans and pour robustly into the pot. If you want to pay triple the price, buy fresh. They were fresh before they put them into the cans. It won't hurt you. Heat up in the microwave for a little bit or until it almost burns your tongue and serve. Preferably only to yourself.
You know, you read all of those fancy recipes in the magazines? Who really makes that stuff. Come on.... A. It's to expensive. B. You don't have the time. C. You really don't care.
People
I am constantly reading about all of these super athletes that do all sorts of amazing things. We very seldom hear about those people that run/walk a bit everyday. To them I say, "Fantastic Job", keep up the good work. Because at the end of the day no one has ever asked to see the medals won at a race or wanted to talk about "my" race results. Keep it simple and your ego out of it!
Confusion Dept.
Participants in the TV show Amazing Race.
Drivers trying to get around cyclists.
Stoplights that are blinking and confound drivers at what to do.
When the walk sign turns to don't walk and the numbers start counting down. Do you go back?
Menus
Selecting Wine. Aren't there only so many grapes?
Blank DVD's and CD's
Nutrition Tip
If you can't read the ingredients, don't eat it!
Training Tip
If your socks look worn, they probably are. Stay out of Walmart!
Last but not least....
You can hear more of this crazy stuff on my DailyMile, Twitter, and Facebook pages. You can follow, friend or whatever you do to get this stuff.
Take care of yourselves!
So the format will change and the content definitely will change. I want to get into some areas that are not so predictable. You know, I want you to look at this blog and see just what I have come up with next. Each post will contain specific short pieces on a variety of content areas. I hope you will add comments and enjoy a few laughs or mad moments where you want to fire off a reply that burns my computer up. Whatever the reason, read and react. I am not going to put live links in the blog because it takes too long and you all are big boys and girls and can find the stuff on your own. I mean really, come on.
So here goes....
Award Winning Recipes From Chef Mickey-
Tupperware of Stuff Made in a Pot
Warning: This blog's incredible recipe includes some difficult maneuvering around the kitchen so only attempt this if you have the old running shoes on and a old running clothes on.
Get out some cans of tomatoes, cook up some ground turkey, throw in some different kinds of beans (2-3 cans of each should be fine), some banana peppers (Only on non-swimming days) and open the cans and pour robustly into the pot. If you want to pay triple the price, buy fresh. They were fresh before they put them into the cans. It won't hurt you. Heat up in the microwave for a little bit or until it almost burns your tongue and serve. Preferably only to yourself.
You know, you read all of those fancy recipes in the magazines? Who really makes that stuff. Come on.... A. It's to expensive. B. You don't have the time. C. You really don't care.
People
I am constantly reading about all of these super athletes that do all sorts of amazing things. We very seldom hear about those people that run/walk a bit everyday. To them I say, "Fantastic Job", keep up the good work. Because at the end of the day no one has ever asked to see the medals won at a race or wanted to talk about "my" race results. Keep it simple and your ego out of it!
Confusion Dept.
Participants in the TV show Amazing Race.
Drivers trying to get around cyclists.
Stoplights that are blinking and confound drivers at what to do.
When the walk sign turns to don't walk and the numbers start counting down. Do you go back?
Menus
Selecting Wine. Aren't there only so many grapes?
Blank DVD's and CD's
Nutrition Tip
If you can't read the ingredients, don't eat it!
Training Tip
If your socks look worn, they probably are. Stay out of Walmart!
Last but not least....
You can hear more of this crazy stuff on my DailyMile, Twitter, and Facebook pages. You can follow, friend or whatever you do to get this stuff.
Take care of yourselves!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Wake-Up Blog, It's 2011
It's time for my blog and me to get back into action. It's been far too long since I have entered a post. Not that there's not been anything to write about. Quite the opposite. There have been many blogworthy subjects enter into the the mind as I have run, biked and swam.
It seems that way to many publications have spent most of their time on "The Best of 2010" and "What are your Resolutions for 2011?". Articles on how to get to a goal quick. Don't train as long. Eat this. Eat that. Wear this and you will be faster. Buy this and you will run, ride, swim longer and faster. There are so many experts. There are so many publications that are lead by advertisers and not by actual investigations and unbiased studies. Come on. If you look at one, another one contradicts the other. What should you do?
Have fun. Pick something that will make you happy. Pick races that you will enjoy the challenge, the location and the people that you are there with. Schedule and develop training that you look forward too. Mix it up. Don't get stuck in a rut. Do a distance that you can feel good about after you have finished. I have been down that road, believe me. My training right now makes me want to jump at it each and everyday. I can't wait to get to it each day. I am also working with some new nutrition products that are making me feel like I have rockets on me. They are listed on the left side of the blog. If you want some help, let me know.
I am excited about my race schedule for this year. It's a great mix of running, cycling, and swimming. Challenges are around every corner. Focus will be on the 100 mile run that I will do in January of 2012. Also, the full ironman distance that I will be doing in September. As well as other triathlons and bike tours that have really caught my interest. A new chapter in my book. The land beyond marathons.
Just like the pitcher that flexes the fingers of his/her glove before he/she throws and breaking ball because they have to get a grip on it a batter can see that sign. What kind of sign are you giving about your grip on what you are doing?
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, and pools be happy and safe and bring you peace.
It seems that way to many publications have spent most of their time on "The Best of 2010" and "What are your Resolutions for 2011?". Articles on how to get to a goal quick. Don't train as long. Eat this. Eat that. Wear this and you will be faster. Buy this and you will run, ride, swim longer and faster. There are so many experts. There are so many publications that are lead by advertisers and not by actual investigations and unbiased studies. Come on. If you look at one, another one contradicts the other. What should you do?
Have fun. Pick something that will make you happy. Pick races that you will enjoy the challenge, the location and the people that you are there with. Schedule and develop training that you look forward too. Mix it up. Don't get stuck in a rut. Do a distance that you can feel good about after you have finished. I have been down that road, believe me. My training right now makes me want to jump at it each and everyday. I can't wait to get to it each day. I am also working with some new nutrition products that are making me feel like I have rockets on me. They are listed on the left side of the blog. If you want some help, let me know.
I am excited about my race schedule for this year. It's a great mix of running, cycling, and swimming. Challenges are around every corner. Focus will be on the 100 mile run that I will do in January of 2012. Also, the full ironman distance that I will be doing in September. As well as other triathlons and bike tours that have really caught my interest. A new chapter in my book. The land beyond marathons.
Just like the pitcher that flexes the fingers of his/her glove before he/she throws and breaking ball because they have to get a grip on it a batter can see that sign. What kind of sign are you giving about your grip on what you are doing?
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, and pools be happy and safe and bring you peace.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Comments from Here and There
Why?
The other day as I was out on a training ride, a person pulled up behind me on a 4 lane residential street and began honking at me. I was about as far over to the right as one could be, but no way was this "gentleman" going to not let me know his feelings about cyclists. Then he switched lanes and didn't even use the one he was in. What purpose does it serve to be honking, yelling, and throwing things? The same thing happens to runners. Have not had it happen in the pool yet, but who knows?
Turkey Vultures
Yeah, that's right. Turkey Vultures. They have been thick around these parts this spring and summer. Had about 15 of them circling and keeping up with me this morning on my ride. Beautiful looking creatures. Ha! When you can hear the wings flapping you know you're in trouble. Hummm....
Lettuce Wraps
These are great! Use Romaine lettuce for the wrap. Fill with shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, and grated carrots. Sauce can be the cocktail sauce or a peanut sauce, or nothing at all. Have had them twice this week. Really great!
How?
How does the wind change on a ride when you are so looking forward to having it at your back after battling it as a headwind for many miles. How does it know to switch and become a headwind for the trip home too?
Socks
If you are doing a "brick" workout that calls for a bike/ run or a run/bike, change socks in between in this very hot and humid weather to guard against blisters. I know it takes time and also not easily done in a race but .....just sayin'
Help Someone Out this Summer
It helps so many people to "run for a cause" and support the efforts of a local or area group. Many local cross country, track, swim, and other athletic teams will really need all of our support this year with all of the budget cuts. It was there for us, now let's make sure it is there for them!
That's all for now, have a great rest of the week!
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may you have peace of mind!
The other day as I was out on a training ride, a person pulled up behind me on a 4 lane residential street and began honking at me. I was about as far over to the right as one could be, but no way was this "gentleman" going to not let me know his feelings about cyclists. Then he switched lanes and didn't even use the one he was in. What purpose does it serve to be honking, yelling, and throwing things? The same thing happens to runners. Have not had it happen in the pool yet, but who knows?
Turkey Vultures
Yeah, that's right. Turkey Vultures. They have been thick around these parts this spring and summer. Had about 15 of them circling and keeping up with me this morning on my ride. Beautiful looking creatures. Ha! When you can hear the wings flapping you know you're in trouble. Hummm....
Lettuce Wraps
These are great! Use Romaine lettuce for the wrap. Fill with shrimp, avocado, tomatoes, and grated carrots. Sauce can be the cocktail sauce or a peanut sauce, or nothing at all. Have had them twice this week. Really great!
How?
How does the wind change on a ride when you are so looking forward to having it at your back after battling it as a headwind for many miles. How does it know to switch and become a headwind for the trip home too?
Socks
If you are doing a "brick" workout that calls for a bike/ run or a run/bike, change socks in between in this very hot and humid weather to guard against blisters. I know it takes time and also not easily done in a race but .....just sayin'
Help Someone Out this Summer
It helps so many people to "run for a cause" and support the efforts of a local or area group. Many local cross country, track, swim, and other athletic teams will really need all of our support this year with all of the budget cuts. It was there for us, now let's make sure it is there for them!
That's all for now, have a great rest of the week!
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may you have peace of mind!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Disappointment/Reality/An Honest Reflection
The past few days have been kind of tough for me. I have had some kind of "bug" or stomach illness. Normally, that would mean a scale back of training and a blip on the radar. However, this happened two days before a triathlon that I was scheduled to be in. I had been training hard for this tri since completing the Ironman Kansas 70.3 in June. Training was going great and injury free. I was just sailing along.
Then it hit Friday after my early morning swim and 20 mile ride. There was no doubt that the stomach and lower intestinal problems were severe enough that I have to recover fast or not do the Sunday triathlon. I had been on the course several times to ride it and develop strategies for the swim, ride , and run. I knew every bump in the road and how I was going to ride the hills and run the ups and downs of the run course. Drove out there Thursday night and was greeted by perfectly calm waters in the lake and was very excited that it would be a good calm day. My confidence was high and preparation was as good as I had ever done for a race. The 4:00AM wake-ups for swim training and rides and runs had gone well. Nutrition was well planned and hydration was on target. Ready to go. Then......
BAM. Knocked flat, literally by the "Bug". Spent all of Friday either in bed asleep or in the bathroom. What the heck? How could this happen? I was so prepared. How could I be sick? It wasn't fair. What about all of the training? Surely by Friday evening I would be ok and go to the packet pick-up on Saturday. I took some Anti-diarehea medicine Friday but it didn't help and knew that if I took more I would risk the factor that it would dehydrate me for Sunday. So I stopped the medicine. And I wasn't any better Friday evening or Saturday morning. A decision needed to be made. One that I had never had to make before. Yes, this would be my first "sick" no show. After close to 40 marathons/ultras/tri races/other distances, I knew I would not be able to go. So what do you do?
I got mad! I felt like I had let everyone down that had been supporting me all along. Felt sorry for myself. What would I say to them? Got several supporting messages from family and friends and it really helped. But..emptiness/disappointment was still winning.
Then reality hit. And hard. Who did I think I was? Was I above getting sick? I could take the easy way out and hang my head and blame and complain. I had read on Twitter and DailyMile accounts of others having tough days and races. I had watched Lance and many others have terrible crashes in the TDF and make an effort to get up and go on. Some could not due to injury. Others brushed themselves off and with a pedal stroke or two resumed their dreams. I did not have an injury. I had a stumble. A blip. I started gaining strength and and a dose of common sense from others.
My job was to look forward. All I had was a case of the flu or some kind of "bug". The sun would come up on Sunday. The race would go on without me and what I needed to do was look to start a strong recovery that would get me ready for my next race. It was out of my control and the worry and stress was not making any difference. Time for a positive attitude! Time to get a plan developed. Time to get strong! Get next week's training plan ready and go for it. Monday, here we come!
So that's where I am right now on Sunday evening. Also wanted to send along some recovery nutrition ideas:
I have been doing the BRAT nutrition which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast when it would go down. Also drank Kefir Probiotics and ginger ale. One of the best recovery foods has been one that I saw Dr. Allen Lim share on Versus as food he prepares for Team Radio Shack:
1 doz Eggs Scrambled
1 lb bacon or prosciutto
6 cups Sushi Rice
1/2 cup Soy Sauce
1/4 cup Balsimic Vinegar
2 tbs Brown Sugar
Press hard into a cake pan and let form for a bit then slice and individually wrap. I liked to put it in the fridge to get a little harder. This really hit the spot as far as making me feel better. I am looking forward to Monday and a new day.
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lake be happy and safe and bring you peace of mind!
Then it hit Friday after my early morning swim and 20 mile ride. There was no doubt that the stomach and lower intestinal problems were severe enough that I have to recover fast or not do the Sunday triathlon. I had been on the course several times to ride it and develop strategies for the swim, ride , and run. I knew every bump in the road and how I was going to ride the hills and run the ups and downs of the run course. Drove out there Thursday night and was greeted by perfectly calm waters in the lake and was very excited that it would be a good calm day. My confidence was high and preparation was as good as I had ever done for a race. The 4:00AM wake-ups for swim training and rides and runs had gone well. Nutrition was well planned and hydration was on target. Ready to go. Then......
BAM. Knocked flat, literally by the "Bug". Spent all of Friday either in bed asleep or in the bathroom. What the heck? How could this happen? I was so prepared. How could I be sick? It wasn't fair. What about all of the training? Surely by Friday evening I would be ok and go to the packet pick-up on Saturday. I took some Anti-diarehea medicine Friday but it didn't help and knew that if I took more I would risk the factor that it would dehydrate me for Sunday. So I stopped the medicine. And I wasn't any better Friday evening or Saturday morning. A decision needed to be made. One that I had never had to make before. Yes, this would be my first "sick" no show. After close to 40 marathons/ultras/tri races/other distances, I knew I would not be able to go. So what do you do?
I got mad! I felt like I had let everyone down that had been supporting me all along. Felt sorry for myself. What would I say to them? Got several supporting messages from family and friends and it really helped. But..emptiness/disappointment was still winning.
Then reality hit. And hard. Who did I think I was? Was I above getting sick? I could take the easy way out and hang my head and blame and complain. I had read on Twitter and DailyMile accounts of others having tough days and races. I had watched Lance and many others have terrible crashes in the TDF and make an effort to get up and go on. Some could not due to injury. Others brushed themselves off and with a pedal stroke or two resumed their dreams. I did not have an injury. I had a stumble. A blip. I started gaining strength and and a dose of common sense from others.
My job was to look forward. All I had was a case of the flu or some kind of "bug". The sun would come up on Sunday. The race would go on without me and what I needed to do was look to start a strong recovery that would get me ready for my next race. It was out of my control and the worry and stress was not making any difference. Time for a positive attitude! Time to get a plan developed. Time to get strong! Get next week's training plan ready and go for it. Monday, here we come!
So that's where I am right now on Sunday evening. Also wanted to send along some recovery nutrition ideas:
I have been doing the BRAT nutrition which consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast when it would go down. Also drank Kefir Probiotics and ginger ale. One of the best recovery foods has been one that I saw Dr. Allen Lim share on Versus as food he prepares for Team Radio Shack:
1 doz Eggs Scrambled
1 lb bacon or prosciutto
6 cups Sushi Rice
1/2 cup Soy Sauce
1/4 cup Balsimic Vinegar
2 tbs Brown Sugar
Press hard into a cake pan and let form for a bit then slice and individually wrap. I liked to put it in the fridge to get a little harder. This really hit the spot as far as making me feel better. I am looking forward to Monday and a new day.
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lake be happy and safe and bring you peace of mind!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Kansas Ironman 70.3 Race Report
The Kansas Ironman 70.3 is in the books. What an experience! It was a great weather day. Temperatures were about ten degrees cooler than the day before and the water temperature dropped as well overnight. The lake was calm as there were no real winds to contend with. Following is a look at just how the pre-race day and race day went for me.
On Saturday it was Packet Pick-up, Expo time, and bike check-in time. Packet pick-up was well run but the lines were a little long but moved quickly. Something I didn't know that was a "rookie" thing was that I needed to have my USAT Member card with me. None of the literature that I saw suggested that. You could not check in without it. You had to buy a temp one ($10) if you didn't have it. After filling out and checking forms, it ws goodie bag time. Nothing special there but the important things like bike, swim, and run numbers were in the packet as well as timing chip and cap. My swim cap was pink because they ran out of the ones that I should have had. Also, mine says Ironman Florida. Not excited I didn't get a Kansas one. it was a hot day and I never ran into one negative person in the packet tent. Great volunteers! The Expo featured several vendors but not a large number. I found that if you needed something it was there though and that was important. Also, there were several places top get your bike worked on if you needed that service. There were several course meeting times that you could go to and find out particulars and also ask questions. That was nice that there were multiple times so you could pick and chose when you wanted to be there. Bike check-in went well and there were plenty of volunteers there to help you and get you through fast. I found my spot and marked it with a landmark so I could find it fast. A very helpful hint that I picked up. My spot was not hard to find since it was on the first row.
It was then on to The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Iron Prayer meeting that I helped host. We had a great turnout and had a great pre-race worship and fellowship time. After the meeting we went out for the before race meal with some great friends from Colorade Springs.
Then it was home to set up the swim bag and transition 1 and 2 items. My transition 1 items included: Bike helmet, bike gloves, bike shoes, socks with baby powder in them for fast foot entry, Body Glide, two towels, 2 24oz. bike bottles and a 48oz CamelBak filled with my special mix of energy drink, sunscreen, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements for my Bike Bento. Transition 2 items included my running shoes, another pair of socks just in case, cap, Body Glide, Amphipod 20oz bottle pack, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements. Everything was now ready. With all of that done it was time for bed.
Race day started with a wak-up alarm of 4:00AM. Had Peanut Butter and Cracjers and my energy drink mix and then headed out to the race site which was a little more than 2 miles from my house. By the way, that was nice! We got to the site and they had the athletes parking very far from the main race site. It was not good. They provided shuttle buses and all and they were very quick but it was really a long way away. We got to the race site around 5:30 (my wife and me) and went to set up the transition areas. I had a very bright blue striped towel so it was easy to see. I set up Transition 2 first and then we walked down to the swim start and I set up Transition 2. When we got to the start they said that we could wear wetsuits because the water temperture had dropped enough. The day before they had said no wetsuits unless you wanted to go in the last wave. That would have meant that I would have had to go from wave 4 to 19. Glad that didn't happen and I was real glad to wear the wetsuit. All transition areas were well marked and very well organized with plenty of volunteer help. Again, they were all first class!
The race started late because they were waiting for medical staff to get into place. Then after the first waves were called, wave 4 was called and off I went. We swam out to the start and then we were off. I placed myself towards the side and at the back to avoid the major rush of the start. That was a great piece of advice. I had a clear start and soon started making time up on those who went out too fast. Stayed wide of the buoy line at first to have some open water to swim the 1.2 miles. Did a good job of keeping my direction fairly straight and also avoided most body contact until I rounded the halfway mark and then got greedy and started swimming closer to the buoy line. Got kicked in the head, swam over, elbowed, you name it. Finished the swim much better than I expected though. My swim training had me very well prepared and I had paced myself well to not be completely out of gas after the first leg of the race.
On to the bike portion of the race (56 miles). My swim to bike transition was not fast. But I was pleased how I had everything set out. Getting the wetsuit off was the most time consuming. There were no people to help like I had heard there are at some races. Got everything on and in the right order to avoid penalty and went up to the bike mount area. I had placed my gears in an easy gear the day before because it was an uphill start. That was really effective. Got a good start and was off. Started hydrating at mile 5 (letting my body get adjusted) and then continued to hydrate often during the ride. We had a light headwind at times and also a good tailwind at times. The course was hilly but since I had been on it before I knew what was coming. At first it seemed like everyone was passing me but I kept my pacing strategy and didn't get into that gane. I had a good even pace the entire route and felt great the entire time. Continued to hydrate along the way. There was a huge oil spill from something on the course close to mile 30 and we had to dismount and walk around it carrying our bikes. Aid startions along the course were great but I didn't need to stop. Plenty of volunteers on the course and everything was marked very well.
The bike to run transition went well and I got out of there about two minutes faster. The run was a two loop course around the campgrounds with one significant hill on each loop. By the time the run part started it had warmed up a bit. Hydration was important (Again, waited a couple of miles to start hydration to let body adjust) and my Amphipod worked well though I had to adjust it tighter from the day before when I tried it on. It didn't flop around and was much easier than a hand help I thought. Ususally I have done the hand held bottle but this has changed my mind. Had a great pace during the run and kept it even and steady. Had very good energy and felt fine. Put ice down the front of my tri suit and back to keep the core cool and it worked fantastic. There were multiple aid stations along the run course with so many volunteers at each station. It was great. They had everything ready and knew what they were doing just like on the bike route. Many thanks to them.
As I ran through the finish area, it was a great moment. I had finished my first Ironman (tri) and was so happy that I felt so good and had accomplished a major goal of mine. My training plan was fantastic and my coaching team really kept me on target over the past few months. The success of this race for me was not a one day thing. It was months of training, proper nutrition, hydration and mental focus. I felt well prepared and can't wait until the next one.
After the race I met up with my wife, went through the food tent, then went to the transition areas to pick up my gear, and then met our friends from Colorado and carried things back to the cars. The hardest part was the long trek back to the cars with all of the gear and the bikes. Wow, something needs to be done here. Athletes should not have been the ones parking the farthest away from the Race Complex. But that quickly faded from my mind as I enjoyed the success of a good experience and great support from family and friends! I will be back for more next year!
Race statistics:
Swim (1.2 miles): 46:35 Bike (56 miles): 3:22:13 Run (13.1 miles): 1:59:35 Overall: 6:21:41
18th in a division of 47
Total Swim: 2:27/100m Total Bike: 16.62mph Total Run 9:07/mile
T1: Swim-to-Bike 7:47 T2: Bike-to-Run 5:31
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
On Saturday it was Packet Pick-up, Expo time, and bike check-in time. Packet pick-up was well run but the lines were a little long but moved quickly. Something I didn't know that was a "rookie" thing was that I needed to have my USAT Member card with me. None of the literature that I saw suggested that. You could not check in without it. You had to buy a temp one ($10) if you didn't have it. After filling out and checking forms, it ws goodie bag time. Nothing special there but the important things like bike, swim, and run numbers were in the packet as well as timing chip and cap. My swim cap was pink because they ran out of the ones that I should have had. Also, mine says Ironman Florida. Not excited I didn't get a Kansas one. it was a hot day and I never ran into one negative person in the packet tent. Great volunteers! The Expo featured several vendors but not a large number. I found that if you needed something it was there though and that was important. Also, there were several places top get your bike worked on if you needed that service. There were several course meeting times that you could go to and find out particulars and also ask questions. That was nice that there were multiple times so you could pick and chose when you wanted to be there. Bike check-in went well and there were plenty of volunteers there to help you and get you through fast. I found my spot and marked it with a landmark so I could find it fast. A very helpful hint that I picked up. My spot was not hard to find since it was on the first row.
It was then on to The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Iron Prayer meeting that I helped host. We had a great turnout and had a great pre-race worship and fellowship time. After the meeting we went out for the before race meal with some great friends from Colorade Springs.
Then it was home to set up the swim bag and transition 1 and 2 items. My transition 1 items included: Bike helmet, bike gloves, bike shoes, socks with baby powder in them for fast foot entry, Body Glide, two towels, 2 24oz. bike bottles and a 48oz CamelBak filled with my special mix of energy drink, sunscreen, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements for my Bike Bento. Transition 2 items included my running shoes, another pair of socks just in case, cap, Body Glide, Amphipod 20oz bottle pack, GU Chomps and Hammer Supplements. Everything was now ready. With all of that done it was time for bed.
Race day started with a wak-up alarm of 4:00AM. Had Peanut Butter and Cracjers and my energy drink mix and then headed out to the race site which was a little more than 2 miles from my house. By the way, that was nice! We got to the site and they had the athletes parking very far from the main race site. It was not good. They provided shuttle buses and all and they were very quick but it was really a long way away. We got to the race site around 5:30 (my wife and me) and went to set up the transition areas. I had a very bright blue striped towel so it was easy to see. I set up Transition 2 first and then we walked down to the swim start and I set up Transition 2. When we got to the start they said that we could wear wetsuits because the water temperture had dropped enough. The day before they had said no wetsuits unless you wanted to go in the last wave. That would have meant that I would have had to go from wave 4 to 19. Glad that didn't happen and I was real glad to wear the wetsuit. All transition areas were well marked and very well organized with plenty of volunteer help. Again, they were all first class!
The race started late because they were waiting for medical staff to get into place. Then after the first waves were called, wave 4 was called and off I went. We swam out to the start and then we were off. I placed myself towards the side and at the back to avoid the major rush of the start. That was a great piece of advice. I had a clear start and soon started making time up on those who went out too fast. Stayed wide of the buoy line at first to have some open water to swim the 1.2 miles. Did a good job of keeping my direction fairly straight and also avoided most body contact until I rounded the halfway mark and then got greedy and started swimming closer to the buoy line. Got kicked in the head, swam over, elbowed, you name it. Finished the swim much better than I expected though. My swim training had me very well prepared and I had paced myself well to not be completely out of gas after the first leg of the race.
On to the bike portion of the race (56 miles). My swim to bike transition was not fast. But I was pleased how I had everything set out. Getting the wetsuit off was the most time consuming. There were no people to help like I had heard there are at some races. Got everything on and in the right order to avoid penalty and went up to the bike mount area. I had placed my gears in an easy gear the day before because it was an uphill start. That was really effective. Got a good start and was off. Started hydrating at mile 5 (letting my body get adjusted) and then continued to hydrate often during the ride. We had a light headwind at times and also a good tailwind at times. The course was hilly but since I had been on it before I knew what was coming. At first it seemed like everyone was passing me but I kept my pacing strategy and didn't get into that gane. I had a good even pace the entire route and felt great the entire time. Continued to hydrate along the way. There was a huge oil spill from something on the course close to mile 30 and we had to dismount and walk around it carrying our bikes. Aid startions along the course were great but I didn't need to stop. Plenty of volunteers on the course and everything was marked very well.
The bike to run transition went well and I got out of there about two minutes faster. The run was a two loop course around the campgrounds with one significant hill on each loop. By the time the run part started it had warmed up a bit. Hydration was important (Again, waited a couple of miles to start hydration to let body adjust) and my Amphipod worked well though I had to adjust it tighter from the day before when I tried it on. It didn't flop around and was much easier than a hand help I thought. Ususally I have done the hand held bottle but this has changed my mind. Had a great pace during the run and kept it even and steady. Had very good energy and felt fine. Put ice down the front of my tri suit and back to keep the core cool and it worked fantastic. There were multiple aid stations along the run course with so many volunteers at each station. It was great. They had everything ready and knew what they were doing just like on the bike route. Many thanks to them.
As I ran through the finish area, it was a great moment. I had finished my first Ironman (tri) and was so happy that I felt so good and had accomplished a major goal of mine. My training plan was fantastic and my coaching team really kept me on target over the past few months. The success of this race for me was not a one day thing. It was months of training, proper nutrition, hydration and mental focus. I felt well prepared and can't wait until the next one.
After the race I met up with my wife, went through the food tent, then went to the transition areas to pick up my gear, and then met our friends from Colorado and carried things back to the cars. The hardest part was the long trek back to the cars with all of the gear and the bikes. Wow, something needs to be done here. Athletes should not have been the ones parking the farthest away from the Race Complex. But that quickly faded from my mind as I enjoyed the success of a good experience and great support from family and friends! I will be back for more next year!
Race statistics:
Swim (1.2 miles): 46:35 Bike (56 miles): 3:22:13 Run (13.1 miles): 1:59:35 Overall: 6:21:41
18th in a division of 47
Total Swim: 2:27/100m Total Bike: 16.62mph Total Run 9:07/mile
T1: Swim-to-Bike 7:47 T2: Bike-to-Run 5:31
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Kansas Ironman 70.3 Update 10
What an exciting day today for this Ironman rookie. Went out to packet pick-up and also the race expo and got everything done I needed to do as far as race heck-in and paperwork. Much more detailed than any marathon or ultra that I have done. Very well organized and lots of wonderful volunteers to help and answer questions. Also went to a pre-race meeting. Lots of details to learn and pay attention to. The what's and how's are a little overwhelming. I have to start somewhere and start with confidence and energy!
Tonight we went out to dinner with friends that are helping me put together the FCA Iron Prayer meeting tomorrow afternoon. We got some great planning done and I think it will be a great pre-race get together.
Bike check-in is tomorrow afternoon and so I will get my bike all set up and in the racks. Race number is 160. Also, tomorrow will get my numbers on everything and be ready to put transition things together tomorrow night and take them to the transition areas on Sunday morning. I am in group 4 which means I will start the swim around 6:38AM.
Going to get a good night's sleep tonight and then take a short spin in the morning and a short run. Hydrating and fueling and doing prety well with it. Very hot here today so need to make more progress on the hydrating part tonight and tomorrow. Temps are going to be a factor on Sunday. Glad that I have been running and riding in the heat of the days the past few weeks. Hope it helps.
As the start draws closer my energy level is increasing as well as the pre-race butterflies. Gotta have em' but wow, they are really something!
Until tomorrow...
Forward we go! May your roads, trail, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
Tonight we went out to dinner with friends that are helping me put together the FCA Iron Prayer meeting tomorrow afternoon. We got some great planning done and I think it will be a great pre-race get together.
Bike check-in is tomorrow afternoon and so I will get my bike all set up and in the racks. Race number is 160. Also, tomorrow will get my numbers on everything and be ready to put transition things together tomorrow night and take them to the transition areas on Sunday morning. I am in group 4 which means I will start the swim around 6:38AM.
Going to get a good night's sleep tonight and then take a short spin in the morning and a short run. Hydrating and fueling and doing prety well with it. Very hot here today so need to make more progress on the hydrating part tonight and tomorrow. Temps are going to be a factor on Sunday. Glad that I have been running and riding in the heat of the days the past few weeks. Hope it helps.
As the start draws closer my energy level is increasing as well as the pre-race butterflies. Gotta have em' but wow, they are really something!
Until tomorrow...
Forward we go! May your roads, trail, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Ironman Kansas 70.3 Update 9
Today was the really last day of training that had any distance to it. Tapering has been a little hard as I went some extra distance today and realized that I should stick to the schedule. I ran 4 mile, swam 2000 meters and biked 20 miles. Saturday wil be a short workout of just getting loose. Through all of that I realized that I have done about all I can to get ready for my first Ironman 70.3. That's very hard for me to say because I am a worrier. I over think everything. Over plan every thing. And also tried to seek information from about everyone I can think of.
It really just come down to me and all of you. But... I've got to swim 1.2 miles. Ride 56 miles. Run 13.1 miles. You all will be along with me. We'll get wet, sweat, swim hard, pedal hard and run like the wind. I will try to the best of my ability to do the best I can. Everyone's help has been amazing and the support has been overwhelming. It has given me energy and confidence. Doubt has raised its head several times only to be stifled by your warm encouragement and help.
My family has been a huge support. They are incredible. To Berta, Andy and Katiy, and Kelsey and Ryan I say thank you for all you have done. I love you all for all you do for our family! We're a great team! I thank God for the ability to even think that I can do this and then give me the gifts to swim, ride, and run in His name. Through His power we can do all things.
Tomorrow is a rest day with a rip to the race site and expo tomorrow afternoon and dinner with the FCA Team Endurance Crew tomorrow night. Until then....
Forward we go! May your roads, trail, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
It really just come down to me and all of you. But... I've got to swim 1.2 miles. Ride 56 miles. Run 13.1 miles. You all will be along with me. We'll get wet, sweat, swim hard, pedal hard and run like the wind. I will try to the best of my ability to do the best I can. Everyone's help has been amazing and the support has been overwhelming. It has given me energy and confidence. Doubt has raised its head several times only to be stifled by your warm encouragement and help.
My family has been a huge support. They are incredible. To Berta, Andy and Katiy, and Kelsey and Ryan I say thank you for all you have done. I love you all for all you do for our family! We're a great team! I thank God for the ability to even think that I can do this and then give me the gifts to swim, ride, and run in His name. Through His power we can do all things.
Tomorrow is a rest day with a rip to the race site and expo tomorrow afternoon and dinner with the FCA Team Endurance Crew tomorrow night. Until then....
Forward we go! May your roads, trail, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Kansas Ironman 70.3 Update 8
Today was a pretty good day. Started off with an early wake-up to go swim. I noticed some lightning but thought it was far away but by the time I got to the pool it had spread all around. So no swimming today. Came home and slept a bit and then got on the bike and did 40 miles. It was a good ride. Again rode part of the course and just ran through my mind what I would do during certain parts of it.
Today I also went out to the lake area and tested the wetsuit with a brief but very beneficial mentally swim. Just to get the feel of the lake. The fact that you can se nothing but green slim and things floating around, it is so much different than pool swimming. Wait a minute, the pool looks like that too. No just kidding. Practiced getting the wetsuit off and the transition. Now I am not after any records, just a good finish, but getting that wetsuit off was a task. Body Glided up and all. Wow, not easy.
I also took a tour of the race site this evening. It was beautiful out there. They were stuffing packets and setting things up. It was fantastic to get out there and see where everything is. Found the swim start and the transition area to bike. Then found the transition area for bike to run. Really took a lot off my mind to see everything. There are some major hills after the transitions so I already plotted a low gear start and a slow easy pace at the start of the run to get my legs ready. Plus it was just a beautiful walk on a nice warm evening.
Tomorrow brings somewhat of a hard taper day. A 4 mile run, 2000 meter swim, and a 25 mile ride. Then celebrating my wife's birthday the rest of the day.
Until tomorrow...
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may the bring you peace of mind!
Today I also went out to the lake area and tested the wetsuit with a brief but very beneficial mentally swim. Just to get the feel of the lake. The fact that you can se nothing but green slim and things floating around, it is so much different than pool swimming. Wait a minute, the pool looks like that too. No just kidding. Practiced getting the wetsuit off and the transition. Now I am not after any records, just a good finish, but getting that wetsuit off was a task. Body Glided up and all. Wow, not easy.
I also took a tour of the race site this evening. It was beautiful out there. They were stuffing packets and setting things up. It was fantastic to get out there and see where everything is. Found the swim start and the transition area to bike. Then found the transition area for bike to run. Really took a lot off my mind to see everything. There are some major hills after the transitions so I already plotted a low gear start and a slow easy pace at the start of the run to get my legs ready. Plus it was just a beautiful walk on a nice warm evening.
Tomorrow brings somewhat of a hard taper day. A 4 mile run, 2000 meter swim, and a 25 mile ride. Then celebrating my wife's birthday the rest of the day.
Until tomorrow...
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, lakes, and pools be happy and safe and may the bring you peace of mind!
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Ironman Kansas 70.3 Update 7
With the race less than a week away it's time to start getting things out and ready to go. At least that's what I pan on doing. I always like to lay things out and see what I am missing or what goes where. Since this is a new adventure for me, I will take extra caution to make sure i have everything. I am sure after the Ironman I will learn about things that I wish that I would have had there. That's ok. That's what it's all about. Learning as we go. Right now my mental focus is on the swimming and making it through the course and get on with the cycling and running portions. I have to say, this has really tripled the amount of things that I feel that I need to have ready as opposed to a marathon or ultra. It seems to me much more technical and wow, are there parts that I can really mess up if I do things the wrong way.Entering and exiting the transition areas is a big concern of mine. Not forgetting when to put on and take off the helmet is another area of concern.
Today I ran 4 miles and rode 28 miles. Tomorrow is a swim day and a ride day of around 40 miles I hope. I'd like to get that distance in. Nutrition has been basically the same as decribed in earlier posts. Starting to add good, fuel calories and hydrating more. Getting some goood fats in me and geting the electrolytes up where they should be.
Bike tip for the day...As I was riding today I experienced a new adventure of cycling. Some of the huge holes and gaps in the street are really getting bad. Enough so that a tire could very easily slip down into one. With traffic buzzing all around sometimes it is hard to aviod the "bike sinkholes". Actually they kind of remind me of minature skate parks. You know, you go down one pothole ride around a bit and come up on the otehr side. Twist around to avoid a car or two and the curb. Land with both wheels still attached to the bike and you still clipped in. Yep, score it a 10! I have found a new mouth position for entering one of these hole areas. Make sure your mouth is closed because the holes will jolt your jaw beyond repair. Today I had 4 crowns hit at the same time and it sounded like the Boston Pops Orchestra. My ears are still ringing.
Unitil tomorrow..
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
Today I ran 4 miles and rode 28 miles. Tomorrow is a swim day and a ride day of around 40 miles I hope. I'd like to get that distance in. Nutrition has been basically the same as decribed in earlier posts. Starting to add good, fuel calories and hydrating more. Getting some goood fats in me and geting the electrolytes up where they should be.
Bike tip for the day...As I was riding today I experienced a new adventure of cycling. Some of the huge holes and gaps in the street are really getting bad. Enough so that a tire could very easily slip down into one. With traffic buzzing all around sometimes it is hard to aviod the "bike sinkholes". Actually they kind of remind me of minature skate parks. You know, you go down one pothole ride around a bit and come up on the otehr side. Twist around to avoid a car or two and the curb. Land with both wheels still attached to the bike and you still clipped in. Yep, score it a 10! I have found a new mouth position for entering one of these hole areas. Make sure your mouth is closed because the holes will jolt your jaw beyond repair. Today I had 4 crowns hit at the same time and it sounded like the Boston Pops Orchestra. My ears are still ringing.
Unitil tomorrow..
Forward we go! May your roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Memorial Day/ Kansas Ironman 70.3 Update 7
Interesting day today. Swim workout (1800 meters) was sluggish. One of those days. My late afternoon swim yesterday I think really had an impact on the early hour swim today. I'll have to learn better timing. Quality not quantity. Rested quite a bit today after a short spin of 10 miles. Put in some extra fuel and feel much better this evening.
Tomorrow (Tuesday) I speak at the start of a middle school running camp and I am excited about that. Topic will be "At the Starting Line, We all Line Up Together". Focus will be that through proper training, coaching, and nutrition we can all accomplish great things no matter what our level of ability. This camp is a great opportunity for these kids to learn about so many things about running and be together with their peers and enjoy the fun of running.
During my swim and ride today, I was constantly thinking about what today meant. Memorial Day. Over and over in my head I thought of countless people who have impacted the freedoms we enjoy everyday. As I was pulling myself out of the pool, a little tired and sluggish, I thought of the many servicewomen and servicemen that are defending our country as we speak as well as those that have gone before them. That each day they experience fatigue and long hours of physically and mentally demanding efforts. They muster up the courage to forge ahead and do the best they can every single day and night. As I sat on the edge of the pool at sunrise, my feelings of being tired did not seem justified. They would only be temporary.
I can't imagine the pain the many men and women have faced leaving their families to serve our country for extended amounts of time to both near and far away places. I can also not imagine the pain of those families that have lost loved ones in the line of duty. The ultimate sacrifice. Generation after generation of men and women have served in various capacities to protect our freedom. To them and their families I say thank you and God Bless.
Our family today remembered my Dad as we placed flowers at his grave. We also remembered my wife's Mother, Dad, and Brother and the wonderful moments that we all shared. As I looked across the cemetery, I saw so many brightly arranged flowers and messages and even a few balloons and it made me feel both sad and happy. Loved ones missed. Memories celebrated for what they brought to the lives of their loved ones.
Memorial Day. The hope for peace is never ending. God Bless you all!
Forward we go! May the roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
Tomorrow (Tuesday) I speak at the start of a middle school running camp and I am excited about that. Topic will be "At the Starting Line, We all Line Up Together". Focus will be that through proper training, coaching, and nutrition we can all accomplish great things no matter what our level of ability. This camp is a great opportunity for these kids to learn about so many things about running and be together with their peers and enjoy the fun of running.
During my swim and ride today, I was constantly thinking about what today meant. Memorial Day. Over and over in my head I thought of countless people who have impacted the freedoms we enjoy everyday. As I was pulling myself out of the pool, a little tired and sluggish, I thought of the many servicewomen and servicemen that are defending our country as we speak as well as those that have gone before them. That each day they experience fatigue and long hours of physically and mentally demanding efforts. They muster up the courage to forge ahead and do the best they can every single day and night. As I sat on the edge of the pool at sunrise, my feelings of being tired did not seem justified. They would only be temporary.
I can't imagine the pain the many men and women have faced leaving their families to serve our country for extended amounts of time to both near and far away places. I can also not imagine the pain of those families that have lost loved ones in the line of duty. The ultimate sacrifice. Generation after generation of men and women have served in various capacities to protect our freedom. To them and their families I say thank you and God Bless.
Our family today remembered my Dad as we placed flowers at his grave. We also remembered my wife's Mother, Dad, and Brother and the wonderful moments that we all shared. As I looked across the cemetery, I saw so many brightly arranged flowers and messages and even a few balloons and it made me feel both sad and happy. Loved ones missed. Memories celebrated for what they brought to the lives of their loved ones.
Memorial Day. The hope for peace is never ending. God Bless you all!
Forward we go! May the roads, trails, pools, and lakes be happy and safe and may they bring you peace of mind!
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