Rain Rain Go Away!

Its been raining for about 5 days now and the outlook for the rest of the week is about the same. I can't wait to get off the treadmill and run outside. I know its only rain and normally I wouldn’t mind, but I can see the headlines now. "Runner hit by car. Poor visibility to blame for accident".

I've been running on the treadmill during my lunch hour. By the time I drive to the "Y" get dressed into my running gear, stretch, run, cool down, shower, dress and drive back to work I only get about 4 miles in. As soon as the weather clears up I would like to start running in the morning before work. I'm not much of a morning person, my wife will attest to that, so this will be a challenge. The fact that I'm usually up very late may have something to do with it. I need more sleep!

Training: Base Building

I found a good article on Triathletemag.com website in the Tips & Training section titled "Building Blocks (from March 2004)" by. Mark Allen.

Based on this article I calculated my maximum aerobic heart rate to be 144. This is the heart rate I should be at or below during my base training period. I determined this number by subtracting my age from 180. There were also some other factures to take into consideration when determining my aerobic heart rates so read the article before determining yours. (That ends my public service announcement for today!)

I guess I'm going to need a HR Monitor now!

I have also decided to cut back on my strength training. I've been going to the gym 2 to 3 days a week for the past two years primarily weight training. So now I'm going to cut back to 1 to 2 days a week and work lighter weights and increase repetitions to 12 to 15. I know its still real early in my training, but I find that "I feel much better" after running and biking than I did after weight training.

Triathlon -vs- Road Bike

I'm still trying to decide whether to buy a road bike for daily training or a Triathlon bike. I found some information on the web, “What is the difference between a road bike and a triathlon bike?", but I wanted some advice from people that are in the sport.

Thank you in advance! John

Sensory Overload!

I went to my local bike shop this past weekend to start educating myself on which bike to get. I started out looking for a Triathlon specific bike, not many shops carry them. The shop "guy" suggested I look into a road bike for everyday training and for my first few triathlons. If I plan on sticking with it, then invest in a Triathlon bike. Sounds like good advice I guess!

After a couple of hours comparing bikes, I was starting to suffer from sensory overload. I think I have it narrowed down to the following manufactures, Trek, Cannondale, Felt and Cervelo. At first glance (and in my price range) they all had about the same components, Shimano 105 and Ultegra was the norm and various carbon fiber bits. I guess the next step before I place down the cash will be a test ride.

More to come tonight........... I started running today!

When I was younger I ran 4 to 5 miles almost every day for fitness (not by choice, Army National Guard 8 yrs.) and averaged just under 7 minute miles. Today I ran 3.2 miles on the treadmill and it took me 30 minutes, I guess I'm a little out of shape! I must say, It felt great to run again.

You have to start somewhere.

So, I decided to be a Triathlete........Now what?

It's not like I just came up with this idea yesterday!(see May 1st entry) I've been thinking about this for some time now. I have always been fascinated by multisport athletes and their ability to push to the edge of human endurance. I know that I will never achieve the level of "Professional Triathlete" at my age, but it will be fun trying. I've watched many IRONMAN competitions and marvel at the look of accomplishment and pride on the athletes face from the first athlete to cross the line to the last. I want to experience that....... Even if only once!

I guess the first thing I should do is find some information on training and nutrition. I'm banking on the fact that the internet, with its vast amount of information will be able to help. Wish me luck!

Today is my Birth Day!

Today I turned 36, not a big deal, but birthdays always make me stop and think of the past year. What have I done with my short time here on earth? What if anything have I done for myself, my family and others? I know most people will take "New Years Eve" to reflect on their past accomplishments and failures, but I prefer my birthday. Its the true measure of "My" year.

So, today on my 36th birthday I have decided to become a Triathlete!!!

I plan to use this Blog to document my progress and hopefully people will feel free to comment and give advice.