So if there are any readers left on this blog, you have probably noticed a theme...running has not been my favorite thing lately. As a matter of fact, I have not really gone for a run since August unless you count the triathlon in early Oct.
However, for the last 2 weeks, the only thing on my mind is running. Now I haven't actually gone for a run, but I'm working up to that.
Last weekend was the Baltimore Running Festival. I raised money for The Frannie Foundation and signed up for the 5K. I beat my fundraising goal and was very proud of that fact. Unfortunately my husband had to go out of town that weekend for work. So I was left with no childcare coverage for the race.
There were several offers to watch my kids, but really I was OK with not running the race. It's always an amazing atmosphere to be around...but it's also very challenging to get down to the city on race day. I didn't want to leave the girls with a sitter for that long of a time and I didn't want my parents to take them to Betterton for the whole weekend.
So I didn't run. But I watched the entire TV coverage of the marathon. I was reminded of how much I have struggled with the half marathon both times that I ran it...but how amazing I felt when I was finished. I remembered last year's fun of being part of a relay team. I wished I was there and I wished I was running.
Yes, I said it...I wished I was running! This is a breakthrough folks! I wished I was running!
So here's the new plan...I am going to slowly build up mileage and then I'm going to sign up for the winter half marathon training group. My running buddy Heather sent me a FB message and said that she's going to do the same thing. We will pick a spring half marathon to do together! This will motivate me to keep focused during my training and it will be great preparation for a half Ironman early in the season.
I need to get over the excuses that are keeping my from running. I woke up this morning and it was raining...so I didn't run. I need to stop thinking about running...I need to stop wishing I was running...I need to START RUNNING!
Read along with my blog as I discuss weight, schedule and life challenges as I try to get my triathlon training back on track. I will also discuss what I've learned along the way and what new goals I'm setting for myself.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Saturday, October 11, 2014
Lane 4? Really?
I started in the swim program about halfway through the summer of 2013. I started in lane 1...the slow lane. I didn't last long there and was moved to lane 2 where I comfortably hung out for several months. Towards the beginning of the summer, I was consistently swimming in lane 3. Summer attendance was so low that we all just swam in whatever lane because there were typically not more than 2 swimmers per lane.
Pam is back now. (She takes the summer off from teaching/coaching us.) Because Pam is back, the attendance has grown signifcantly. So there has been some lane shuffling. On Tuesday, one of the lane 4 swimmers left class when it was only halfway through. So Pam shifted ME to lane 4 in order to even out the number of swimmers. Yes, I said that Pam moved ME into lane 4.
Now there are only 5 lanes in my swim class. Lane 4 and 5 are the FAST lanes. They typically swim more yardage because they can cover the more distance in the same amount of time. They are really nice people but really intimidating swimmers. So here I was moving into lane 4. I was terrified.
I took my place last in the lane. I was just hoping to hold my own. As we continued with the intervals, I noticed that while I wasn't keeping up with the lane 4 swimmers, I was definitely outpacing the lane 3 swimmers. I would start the interval at the same time as their third swimmer but I would finish before their second swimmer!
On Thursday we had 4 swimmers in lane 3. I started as the third place swimmer. For every interval, I had to slow down because I was catching the swimmers in front of me. It was definitely holding me up. I decided to ask them if I could try to lead the lane. When I was going as the first swimmer, I was able to stretch the space between myself and the swimmers behind me.
When class was over, I spoke with Pam to let her know that I wouldn't be at class next Tuesday. She mentioned to me that I needed to either lead lane 3 or move to lane 4. She said that I am "a really good swimmer"! I couldn't believe my ears!
In my mind I am still that slow swimmer from a year and a half ago. I have really come far in my development...and I need to remind myself that I am stronger than I think I am. Lane 4? It's still very scary...but I can do it!
Pam is back now. (She takes the summer off from teaching/coaching us.) Because Pam is back, the attendance has grown signifcantly. So there has been some lane shuffling. On Tuesday, one of the lane 4 swimmers left class when it was only halfway through. So Pam shifted ME to lane 4 in order to even out the number of swimmers. Yes, I said that Pam moved ME into lane 4.
Now there are only 5 lanes in my swim class. Lane 4 and 5 are the FAST lanes. They typically swim more yardage because they can cover the more distance in the same amount of time. They are really nice people but really intimidating swimmers. So here I was moving into lane 4. I was terrified.
I took my place last in the lane. I was just hoping to hold my own. As we continued with the intervals, I noticed that while I wasn't keeping up with the lane 4 swimmers, I was definitely outpacing the lane 3 swimmers. I would start the interval at the same time as their third swimmer but I would finish before their second swimmer!
On Thursday we had 4 swimmers in lane 3. I started as the third place swimmer. For every interval, I had to slow down because I was catching the swimmers in front of me. It was definitely holding me up. I decided to ask them if I could try to lead the lane. When I was going as the first swimmer, I was able to stretch the space between myself and the swimmers behind me.
When class was over, I spoke with Pam to let her know that I wouldn't be at class next Tuesday. She mentioned to me that I needed to either lead lane 3 or move to lane 4. She said that I am "a really good swimmer"! I couldn't believe my ears!
In my mind I am still that slow swimmer from a year and a half ago. I have really come far in my development...and I need to remind myself that I am stronger than I think I am. Lane 4? It's still very scary...but I can do it!
Monday, October 6, 2014
Race Report - Osprey Sprint Triathlon 2014
I went into this race very undertrained. I knew that from swimming 2 times a week I would be fine in that area. I also knew that it was only a 15 mile bike ride, mostly flat, and I would be fine in that area. The big issue was that I have not run at all for a long time. As it turns out, the run was the least of my troubles!
Pre-Race
I spent the night with Colleen at her house. It was so great to catch up with her...we both stayed up later than we had intended. But I woke up on race morning feeling rested. The weather was questionable - with a chance of thunderstorms overnight and into the morning. However it was not raining when I woke up. The pavement was damp so it must have rained at some point overnight. Colleen left before I did in order to meet up with another friend who was doing the race.
Matt was again racing the Osprey. This year he was joined by his wife Sharon and his brother Don...it was the first triathlon for both of them. In addition, my friend Kellen was racing it as her first triathlon. Kellen had gone to check out the course the day before and had posted a picture of a jellyfish on her Facebook page. Of course that sent me into the same panic that I had last year.
When I arrived at the race site, it was really windy. The water had whitecaps and the current was strong...in the wrong direction. We would be swimming directly into a strong current with very large waves. The good news was that there wasn't a jellyfish to be seen. All of the athletes I spoke with seemed to be nervous about the swim. Even Chris, who is a race director and has done numerous IronMan races, was commenting on how the swim was going to be rough on people.
The weather was not cooperating. There were quick showers that pushed through right as I got to the race venue. Then it seemed to clear out, but the sky still looked pretty threatening.
Swim
The rough water freaked me out, so I really wanted to get in the water early. I got in and did some breathing bobs and swam a few strokes back and forth until my wave was ready to go. Colleen and I lined up to the side but in the front of the group. I was nervous but excited. The weather seemed to have cleared just in time for the race. It was still windy but the rain showers seemed to have pushed past us.
The countdown was on and finally we started the race. I wanted to establish a good pace from the start so I really pushed it to the first buoy. After rounding the first buoy, I got slammed in the face by a wave. I drank a lot of the salty water. I tried to calm myself down but it rattled me more than I wanted to admit. The waves were large and the current was coming right at us. I was trying to get into a good groove when it happened...as my hand entered the water, I touched the top of a jellyfish. I immediately yanked back my hand and stopped swimming. Somehow I avoided being stung. I tried not to scream, but I definitely let out a loud yelp. I turned and saw several women in my wave swimming towards me. I knew that I had to keep going or get run over. So I tentatively began swimming again.
The waves kept knocking me around and my stomach began to lurch. I feared that Chris' prediction of people getting sick would happen to me. I kept going and tried not to think about my stomach. The second jellyfish that I hit didn't cause me to scream, but it didn't do anything to help me calm down. I realized that I was swimming slightly wide of the swimmers in front of me. I moved over and got directly behind another swimmer. I followed those feet all the way in to the dock. I couldn't wait to get out of the water.
As I ran down the dock towards the transition area, I knew I was in trouble. My stomach was rolling and I felt like I was going to lose it at any moment. I took a little bit longer than normal in transition, trying to calm my stomach. Finally I knew I had to go...I got my bike and ran to Bike Out.
Bike
Once you get on the bike, there are 3 quick turns to get onto the main road out of town. I made the 3 turns and immediately started looking for somewhere to pull off the road. Several cars were parked on the shoulder and I had to hold it down until I got to an open spot. I barely got my bike stopped before I threw up.
Knowing that I had to get myself together and continue on in this race, I took a swig from my water bottle, swished it around and spit it out. Then I clipped back in and took off. I didn't want to push it too much but I really wanted to make up time from that horrible swim. I kept it in the small ring and focused on my cadence. The wind was pretty tough so I tried to stay as low as I could in my aerobars.
About 5 miles in to the bike it started raining. It was a light rain so it wasn't too bad but it made me worried about the sharp turn that was ahead of me. The wind seemed to be in my face no matter what direction I turned. But finally at one point, I found myself going 24 MPH without any additional effort. The wind was finally working in my favor! I knew it was time to take advantage of this. I cranked down to a harder gear and muscled my bike up to 26 MPH. Unfortunately that only lasted for a mile or so until we turned back into the headwind.
My stomach was finally settled and I could concentrate on getting everything I could out of the bike. I knew the run would be my undoing. As I rode back into town, I was dreading getting off the bike. My transition was pretty uneventful and I headed out on the run.
Run
I was running out of town as the first finishers were headed back in. This was pretty cool because I could see all of my friends that were ahead of me. The first mile was tough. After I cheered for Matt, my head got to me. I walked. Then I jogged. Then I walked. I was having the mental battle of trying to convince myself to run.
Finally I got within eye-sight of the turnaround point. Something in my head just clicked. I knew that I had 1 1/2 miles to go to finish this race. I picked up my pace. I was now running, not jogging. The young man at the turn around point was dancing as I approached. The old Karen came out...I danced with him as I made my way around the turn around. A smile was now on my face.
I picked up my pace even more. I wasn't looking at my watch anymore. I was just running. And I was having fun. It took until the last mile and a half, but I was having fun. I did not stop running again until I crossed the finish line. I had broken through the mental barrier! So in the end, while this may not have been my ideal race by any stretch of the imagination, it was a great day.
Race by the Numbers
Total 1:48:04
Swim (.5 miles) 14:58 - actually 1 minute faster than last year which shocked me
T1 2:43
Bike (15 miles) 52:47 - 17.3 MPH
T2 1:38
Run (3.1 miles) 35:58 - 11:36/mile
Pre-Race
I spent the night with Colleen at her house. It was so great to catch up with her...we both stayed up later than we had intended. But I woke up on race morning feeling rested. The weather was questionable - with a chance of thunderstorms overnight and into the morning. However it was not raining when I woke up. The pavement was damp so it must have rained at some point overnight. Colleen left before I did in order to meet up with another friend who was doing the race.
Matt was again racing the Osprey. This year he was joined by his wife Sharon and his brother Don...it was the first triathlon for both of them. In addition, my friend Kellen was racing it as her first triathlon. Kellen had gone to check out the course the day before and had posted a picture of a jellyfish on her Facebook page. Of course that sent me into the same panic that I had last year.
When I arrived at the race site, it was really windy. The water had whitecaps and the current was strong...in the wrong direction. We would be swimming directly into a strong current with very large waves. The good news was that there wasn't a jellyfish to be seen. All of the athletes I spoke with seemed to be nervous about the swim. Even Chris, who is a race director and has done numerous IronMan races, was commenting on how the swim was going to be rough on people.
The weather was not cooperating. There were quick showers that pushed through right as I got to the race venue. Then it seemed to clear out, but the sky still looked pretty threatening.
Swim
The rough water freaked me out, so I really wanted to get in the water early. I got in and did some breathing bobs and swam a few strokes back and forth until my wave was ready to go. Colleen and I lined up to the side but in the front of the group. I was nervous but excited. The weather seemed to have cleared just in time for the race. It was still windy but the rain showers seemed to have pushed past us.
The countdown was on and finally we started the race. I wanted to establish a good pace from the start so I really pushed it to the first buoy. After rounding the first buoy, I got slammed in the face by a wave. I drank a lot of the salty water. I tried to calm myself down but it rattled me more than I wanted to admit. The waves were large and the current was coming right at us. I was trying to get into a good groove when it happened...as my hand entered the water, I touched the top of a jellyfish. I immediately yanked back my hand and stopped swimming. Somehow I avoided being stung. I tried not to scream, but I definitely let out a loud yelp. I turned and saw several women in my wave swimming towards me. I knew that I had to keep going or get run over. So I tentatively began swimming again.
The waves kept knocking me around and my stomach began to lurch. I feared that Chris' prediction of people getting sick would happen to me. I kept going and tried not to think about my stomach. The second jellyfish that I hit didn't cause me to scream, but it didn't do anything to help me calm down. I realized that I was swimming slightly wide of the swimmers in front of me. I moved over and got directly behind another swimmer. I followed those feet all the way in to the dock. I couldn't wait to get out of the water.
As I ran down the dock towards the transition area, I knew I was in trouble. My stomach was rolling and I felt like I was going to lose it at any moment. I took a little bit longer than normal in transition, trying to calm my stomach. Finally I knew I had to go...I got my bike and ran to Bike Out.
Bike
Once you get on the bike, there are 3 quick turns to get onto the main road out of town. I made the 3 turns and immediately started looking for somewhere to pull off the road. Several cars were parked on the shoulder and I had to hold it down until I got to an open spot. I barely got my bike stopped before I threw up.
Knowing that I had to get myself together and continue on in this race, I took a swig from my water bottle, swished it around and spit it out. Then I clipped back in and took off. I didn't want to push it too much but I really wanted to make up time from that horrible swim. I kept it in the small ring and focused on my cadence. The wind was pretty tough so I tried to stay as low as I could in my aerobars.
About 5 miles in to the bike it started raining. It was a light rain so it wasn't too bad but it made me worried about the sharp turn that was ahead of me. The wind seemed to be in my face no matter what direction I turned. But finally at one point, I found myself going 24 MPH without any additional effort. The wind was finally working in my favor! I knew it was time to take advantage of this. I cranked down to a harder gear and muscled my bike up to 26 MPH. Unfortunately that only lasted for a mile or so until we turned back into the headwind.
My stomach was finally settled and I could concentrate on getting everything I could out of the bike. I knew the run would be my undoing. As I rode back into town, I was dreading getting off the bike. My transition was pretty uneventful and I headed out on the run.
Run
I was running out of town as the first finishers were headed back in. This was pretty cool because I could see all of my friends that were ahead of me. The first mile was tough. After I cheered for Matt, my head got to me. I walked. Then I jogged. Then I walked. I was having the mental battle of trying to convince myself to run.
Finally I got within eye-sight of the turnaround point. Something in my head just clicked. I knew that I had 1 1/2 miles to go to finish this race. I picked up my pace. I was now running, not jogging. The young man at the turn around point was dancing as I approached. The old Karen came out...I danced with him as I made my way around the turn around. A smile was now on my face.
I picked up my pace even more. I wasn't looking at my watch anymore. I was just running. And I was having fun. It took until the last mile and a half, but I was having fun. I did not stop running again until I crossed the finish line. I had broken through the mental barrier! So in the end, while this may not have been my ideal race by any stretch of the imagination, it was a great day.
Race by the Numbers
Total 1:48:04
Swim (.5 miles) 14:58 - actually 1 minute faster than last year which shocked me
T1 2:43
Bike (15 miles) 52:47 - 17.3 MPH
T2 1:38
Run (3.1 miles) 35:58 - 11:36/mile
Friday, September 26, 2014
Change of Perspective
Monday and Tuesday I attended a work retreat. It was held at the Chesapeake Beach Resort and Spa in Southern MD. I decided to go down on Sunday evening in order to avoid an early rise and questionable traffic.
I got some work done on Sunday night and went to bed. When I woke up on Monday morning, the first thing I did was look out my window. It was a beautiful morning. The sun was just coming up over the water. The water was calm. The colors in the sky and reflected on the water made a stunning view. I just stood there, taking in the whole peaceful scene.
The very first thought I had was "I wish I had brought my running stuff". That is literally the first time that I have wanted to run in a long time. I didn't bring my running stuff because I really didn't expect to have the desire to run. I was trying to save space in the suitcase so I didn't bring anything "extra". There was a time when my running stuff would never have been considered "extra".
The retreat started and I got wrapped up in the meetings. I learned a lot and consider it a very valuable use of my time. At the end of the session on Monday, the instructor told us about a running path. Several of the class members mentioned that they were going to run in the morning. I was disappointed that I couldn't join them.
I don't know what happened to trigger this change of heart about running. For at least a year it has been a struggle to run. Maybe I just needed a break. Maybe I just needed to take the pressure off.
Whatever the reason, I am hopeful that this mindset continues.
Next Saturday is the Osprey Triathlon. It will be the 3rd time I'm doing that race...the first time was my very first triathlon. I am undertrained. I am not "race ready". But I am looking forward to getting out there and participating. It was at this race that I crossed the finish line and fell in love with triathlons. I hope to experience that feeling again.
I got some work done on Sunday night and went to bed. When I woke up on Monday morning, the first thing I did was look out my window. It was a beautiful morning. The sun was just coming up over the water. The water was calm. The colors in the sky and reflected on the water made a stunning view. I just stood there, taking in the whole peaceful scene.
The very first thought I had was "I wish I had brought my running stuff". That is literally the first time that I have wanted to run in a long time. I didn't bring my running stuff because I really didn't expect to have the desire to run. I was trying to save space in the suitcase so I didn't bring anything "extra". There was a time when my running stuff would never have been considered "extra".
The retreat started and I got wrapped up in the meetings. I learned a lot and consider it a very valuable use of my time. At the end of the session on Monday, the instructor told us about a running path. Several of the class members mentioned that they were going to run in the morning. I was disappointed that I couldn't join them.
I don't know what happened to trigger this change of heart about running. For at least a year it has been a struggle to run. Maybe I just needed a break. Maybe I just needed to take the pressure off.
Whatever the reason, I am hopeful that this mindset continues.
Next Saturday is the Osprey Triathlon. It will be the 3rd time I'm doing that race...the first time was my very first triathlon. I am undertrained. I am not "race ready". But I am looking forward to getting out there and participating. It was at this race that I crossed the finish line and fell in love with triathlons. I hope to experience that feeling again.
Monday, September 15, 2014
Down 8 Pounds!
The first week of my "diet", I focused on only my food. I did not swim, bike or run. It was very time consuming to prep all of my food for the week and pack my lunches. I had migraines for 3 days straight. But at the end of the week, I was feeling a lot better.
The second week I started adding athletic endeavors back into my routine. I continued to follow a strict diet, although there were events where I had to "make do" with what I could. We traveled to see Ryann at KSU and we had many meals in restaurants. I realized that it's probably not 100% clean eating, but it is pretty easy to be healthy if you just make the right choices and be sure to ask for what you want from the waitstaff.
I am now 8 pounds lighter but the big difference is how I am feeling. I am completely off my caffeine addiction and I am not consuming sugar of any kind. No dairy either...which surprisingly I don't miss at all.
My clothes are starting to feel normal again. They had become so tight and I refused to buy larger sizes. So now, even though I am pretty far from my ultimate goal, I am moving in the right direction. Losing the weight is the first step towards getting all of my training 100% back on track.
The second week I started adding athletic endeavors back into my routine. I continued to follow a strict diet, although there were events where I had to "make do" with what I could. We traveled to see Ryann at KSU and we had many meals in restaurants. I realized that it's probably not 100% clean eating, but it is pretty easy to be healthy if you just make the right choices and be sure to ask for what you want from the waitstaff.
I am now 8 pounds lighter but the big difference is how I am feeling. I am completely off my caffeine addiction and I am not consuming sugar of any kind. No dairy either...which surprisingly I don't miss at all.
My clothes are starting to feel normal again. They had become so tight and I refused to buy larger sizes. So now, even though I am pretty far from my ultimate goal, I am moving in the right direction. Losing the weight is the first step towards getting all of my training 100% back on track.
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Stepping Back to Move Forward
So this blog has kind of gotten stale. I haven't posted regularly and I'm sure that anyone still out there checking my blog is either related to me or just really bored. So I've decided that I am going to change things up a little.
The reason I haven't posted is that I haven't had much to say. I have been very sporatic with my training since my foot surgery. I have also gained a lot of weight, which mentally weighs me down and physically holds me back in training. SO, now that September is here, I've made a decision...I am going to take a step back in order to move forward.
What does this mean? Well, I will still swim, bike and run but it will be with the goal of getting myself into a good, healthy place instead of with goals of going longer, harder, faster.
I have always done better when I am being held accountable. So, I will make a daily post on this blog that talks about the challenges or the successes I've had that day. This will include both my workouts and my eating, however this will never be a weight loss blog. I'm just not that kind of girl!
Feel free to chime in if you are on a similar path. I am by no means an expert and will take any feedback or support that anyone will give me!
So, day 1...here goes...
Success: I have eaten "clean" all day. Only meat, veggies and fruit today so far. I have given up my treasured hot tea with Splenda in the mornings. I have been drinking water all day. I actually enjoyed my healthy lunch.
Challenges: I probably did not pack enough food to get me through the day since it is almost 3 pm and I feel very hungry. My sleep was not good last night so when I woke up this morning with the intent to run, I chose to reset my alarm and go back to sleep. I did not plan ahead for dinner so I am probably going to be challenged there.
The reason I haven't posted is that I haven't had much to say. I have been very sporatic with my training since my foot surgery. I have also gained a lot of weight, which mentally weighs me down and physically holds me back in training. SO, now that September is here, I've made a decision...I am going to take a step back in order to move forward.
What does this mean? Well, I will still swim, bike and run but it will be with the goal of getting myself into a good, healthy place instead of with goals of going longer, harder, faster.
I have always done better when I am being held accountable. So, I will make a daily post on this blog that talks about the challenges or the successes I've had that day. This will include both my workouts and my eating, however this will never be a weight loss blog. I'm just not that kind of girl!
Feel free to chime in if you are on a similar path. I am by no means an expert and will take any feedback or support that anyone will give me!
So, day 1...here goes...
Success: I have eaten "clean" all day. Only meat, veggies and fruit today so far. I have given up my treasured hot tea with Splenda in the mornings. I have been drinking water all day. I actually enjoyed my healthy lunch.
Challenges: I probably did not pack enough food to get me through the day since it is almost 3 pm and I feel very hungry. My sleep was not good last night so when I woke up this morning with the intent to run, I chose to reset my alarm and go back to sleep. I did not plan ahead for dinner so I am probably going to be challenged there.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
I Don't Know How You Do It
I have heard several people say this to me. "I don't know how you do it." They are typically referring to my training, full time job and family responsibilities. Most of the time I smile and agree that it's not easy but that it's totally manageable.
However, there are times when I can't do it all. This week is one example. Saturday I left early in the morning to drive to Ohio to pick up Ryann from her summer session. Sunday we drove home and didn't get in until after midnight. Stephen left at 3 am this morning for a hiking trip. He won't be home until Friday. Plus work is extremely busy and requires some extra time.
I am having a huge challenge in finding the time in my schedule to do any training, much less do the training that is on my plan. I can't make my Spin90 or swimming classes at all this week.
So what now? Do I just take a week off? Do I fit in whatever I can and not worry about the rest? Whatever I decide, I'm sure that I will feel badly about it. But the reality of life is that sometimes it gets in the way of training.
I suppose the most important thing is to come out of this week without too much guilt. Because in the grand scheme of training, one missed week is not the end of the road. It's just a speed bump. So I'm going to do what I can and just get through the week. Next week is another week...
However, there are times when I can't do it all. This week is one example. Saturday I left early in the morning to drive to Ohio to pick up Ryann from her summer session. Sunday we drove home and didn't get in until after midnight. Stephen left at 3 am this morning for a hiking trip. He won't be home until Friday. Plus work is extremely busy and requires some extra time.
I am having a huge challenge in finding the time in my schedule to do any training, much less do the training that is on my plan. I can't make my Spin90 or swimming classes at all this week.
So what now? Do I just take a week off? Do I fit in whatever I can and not worry about the rest? Whatever I decide, I'm sure that I will feel badly about it. But the reality of life is that sometimes it gets in the way of training.
I suppose the most important thing is to come out of this week without too much guilt. Because in the grand scheme of training, one missed week is not the end of the road. It's just a speed bump. So I'm going to do what I can and just get through the week. Next week is another week...
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Storm Chasers
I went to Spin90 class tonight despite a weather forecast showing a chance of severe thunderstorms. As I pulled into the parking lot, John and Robb were comparing radar reports. I gathered that the storm was far enough away to satisfy them that we could get class in.
As the group surrounded John, he explained the route for the day. Everything was about being close to the cars in case the storm came in quicker than we expected. We started with a warm-up ride up and down Race Rd. Then we did the Hanover Rd loop...which starts with a climb. It's not an unusually hard climb, but right now I'm not in climbing shape...so I was pretty nervous.
On the warm up I focused on spinning my legs and really getting the blood flowing. As we made the turn to start the loop, Robb and one of the students (Beth) were right with me. Robb talked us through the gear shifts and reminded us to breathe. As we hit the steep incline at the top, I pulled away from Beth. My legs were screaming. Robb kept pushing me to keep on my cadence. I crested the hill and shifted into a harder gear. Robb yelled towards me to do an active recovery, then he dropped back to get Beth.
I finally made it to the circle where the fast riders were circling and waiting for the slower riders. I was about in the middle of the group. I had to do a few circles waiting for the riders behind me. Robb and Beth both told me that Robb had made me a target and challenged Beth to go get me. I laughed and said I was just trying to survive at that point!
We rode down Hanover Rd to the end of Race Rd. John thought we could get in 2 time trials before the storm came. So in typical time trial fashion, he sent off the slower riders. He kept forgetting me. He didn't send me until right before the really fast group! As I started, Robb said "Karen's with the strong riders!" I yelled back "that was a mistake!"
But in my mind, I convinced myself that I was going to show John that it wasn't a mistake. I passed the first rider in about 30 seconds. I set my sights on the next one. I couldn't tell you about my speed or cadence. I didn't look at my computer once. I just looked at the back of the rider in front of me. John, Robb and one other guy flew by me in a pace line about halfway down the road. It didn't phase me...I kept focused on the rider in front of me. By the end of the road, I had passed everyone except 2 riders! I was pretty impressed with myself.
The way back down Race Rd was supposed to be a recovery ride. But Robb pulled up next to me and I ended up pushing it a bit to keep up with him while we chatted. I really didn't think I had another time trial in my legs. I was pretty spent. But I knew that as soon as we started, I would get competitive again.
Sure enough, we took off and I was chasing down the rider in front of me again. Even though I had very little left in my legs, I was going on pure determination. I wasn't going to look bad after that first time trial.
As we pulled into to parking lot, we heard a clap of thunder in the distance. Just in time! What a good workout...physically and mentally! And the rain held off for us!
As the group surrounded John, he explained the route for the day. Everything was about being close to the cars in case the storm came in quicker than we expected. We started with a warm-up ride up and down Race Rd. Then we did the Hanover Rd loop...which starts with a climb. It's not an unusually hard climb, but right now I'm not in climbing shape...so I was pretty nervous.
On the warm up I focused on spinning my legs and really getting the blood flowing. As we made the turn to start the loop, Robb and one of the students (Beth) were right with me. Robb talked us through the gear shifts and reminded us to breathe. As we hit the steep incline at the top, I pulled away from Beth. My legs were screaming. Robb kept pushing me to keep on my cadence. I crested the hill and shifted into a harder gear. Robb yelled towards me to do an active recovery, then he dropped back to get Beth.
I finally made it to the circle where the fast riders were circling and waiting for the slower riders. I was about in the middle of the group. I had to do a few circles waiting for the riders behind me. Robb and Beth both told me that Robb had made me a target and challenged Beth to go get me. I laughed and said I was just trying to survive at that point!
We rode down Hanover Rd to the end of Race Rd. John thought we could get in 2 time trials before the storm came. So in typical time trial fashion, he sent off the slower riders. He kept forgetting me. He didn't send me until right before the really fast group! As I started, Robb said "Karen's with the strong riders!" I yelled back "that was a mistake!"
But in my mind, I convinced myself that I was going to show John that it wasn't a mistake. I passed the first rider in about 30 seconds. I set my sights on the next one. I couldn't tell you about my speed or cadence. I didn't look at my computer once. I just looked at the back of the rider in front of me. John, Robb and one other guy flew by me in a pace line about halfway down the road. It didn't phase me...I kept focused on the rider in front of me. By the end of the road, I had passed everyone except 2 riders! I was pretty impressed with myself.
The way back down Race Rd was supposed to be a recovery ride. But Robb pulled up next to me and I ended up pushing it a bit to keep up with him while we chatted. I really didn't think I had another time trial in my legs. I was pretty spent. But I knew that as soon as we started, I would get competitive again.
Sure enough, we took off and I was chasing down the rider in front of me again. Even though I had very little left in my legs, I was going on pure determination. I wasn't going to look bad after that first time trial.
As we pulled into to parking lot, we heard a clap of thunder in the distance. Just in time! What a good workout...physically and mentally! And the rain held off for us!
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Diamond in the Rough Race Report
I have been remiss in not posting for so long. So I have a lot of thoughts and updates that will have to be discussed in some posts. But to keep this post as short as possible, I will only focus on my race report.
This race took place in Perryville, which is over an hour away from my house without traffic. Since I wanted to get there before 6:30 on the morning of the race, we would have had to get the little one up at 4 am. Ugh! So Friday night we decided to spend the night in a hotel not too far from the race site. I didn't sleep well at all but at least we didn't have far to go in the morning.
I was a nervous wreck. I was almost as nervous as I was for my first triathlon. As we drove into the park where it was being held, I felt almost nauseous.
We parked and I grabbed my transition bag and bike and headed off to get my registration packet. The line wasn't too long and the volunteers were super helpful. I had forgotten my race belt and was able to buy one for $10. I actually like it better than my other one!
After picking up my packet and timing chip, I went over to body marking. They were using the body tattoos instead of the normal sharpie marking that I'm used to. The only other time I had the tattoos was the half Ironman and I remember how hard it was to get them off! Oh well, I'll deal with that later. Off to transition to set up my area.
I ran into my friend Steve who was doing his first triathlon. He was most worried about the swim and I tried to assure him that it's over before you know it and he would be great on the bike and run.
One of the things I love the most about doing these races is the camaraderie that is created with the other competitors. In transition, I chatted with the ladies racking their bikes around me. When I realized that I had forgotten my sunscreen, I had 2 bottles of sunscreen offered to me immediately. I love how supportive everyone is of each other.
Before long it was time to walk towards the swim start. I found 2 of the ladies who I had met in transition and talked with them as we waited for our turn to get in the water. In the picture below, I'm in the blue tri-suit...kind of hard to pick me out in the sea of pink caps!
The water temperature was 81 so no wetsuits were allowed. That actually works in my favor since it takes me so long to get out of the wetsuit. As we got into the water, I did a few breathing bobs. I also swam around a little bit to warm up. For the first time ever, I headed towards the front of the group. I've been making really good progress with my swimming and I didn't want to be fighting through traffic.
As we started the swim, I wanted to get into a good rhythm right away. I started strong and noticed that I was keeping pace with the women around me. (Good sign I thought since I started so close to the front) I was sighting well and stayed on course better than normal. Because it was only a 1/4 mile swim, it was over super fast. I got out of the water and had to run down the dock, up the steps and quite a way to get to transition.
I tried to be as fast as possible, but my transitions are always slow...and in a sprint triathlon, every second counts!
I ran out of transition with my bike and noticed one of the other ladies mounting her bike too soon. I pointed to the mount line and said wait until you cross that line! She thanked me twice. We passed the mount line and I got into a good cadence right away. Before we left the grounds of the park (about 2 miles), I passed Steve. He said the swim took a lot out of him. I encouraged him that he was doing great.
The bike course was hillier than I had expected. Hills work in my favor when I'm in good cycling shape...which I'm not right now. I need some more work on that, but overall I was pretty happy with my ride. It was a pretty course, especially inside the park.
Towards the end of the ride, I was passed by someone in my age group. I thought that there was still a chance for me to place in my age group, although that wasn't really the goal for the day.
Transition 2 went well, although I still took longer than most people would take. I tried to remember what Coach Sandra had told me, which was to go into the run with confidence. Run the first part relaxed and race the second part. I knew about 1/4 mile into the run that I was just going to run the whole part relaxed...there wouldn't be much racing.
Steve caught me about 1/2 mile into the run. (His strength is definitely the run.) We took a few steps together and chatted about the hilly bike course. Then he went off on his way. I focused on the back of the woman in front of me. I kept pace with her pretty well. Unfortunately the run course was on a trail for the most part. In several sections it was a rocky path. Because of my klutziness, I was really worried about running on the rocks. I took my time going over the rocks and lost track of the woman I was following.
The turn-around point seemed very far away. I wasn't worried about my pace...but I knew it wasn't fast. I loved that it was an out and back run because I saw several of the ladies I had met before the race. I cheered for all of them as we passed each other. About a mile from the finish, I was passed by another woman in my age group. She was trucking...there was no way I could keep up with her and I knew that I had no shot of placing. Note to self: work on the run!
As I came into the finishing chute, I heard the announcer say my name. I crossed the finish line with a huge smile on my face.
This race reminded me of why I love this sport so much. The people, the atmosphere, the feeling of accomplishment...I love it all. It was so well run and well organized. The volunteers were really great and I made it a point to thank as many of them as possible as I went by. The venue was beautiful and the course was fun. I would recommend this race to anyone.
I checked the results and thought I was 4th in my age group. Later when I pulled it up on the computer, I saw that I was actually 5th. Honestly, for my first race back after surgery with such sporadic training, I'm just happy I was relatively competitive!
This race took place in Perryville, which is over an hour away from my house without traffic. Since I wanted to get there before 6:30 on the morning of the race, we would have had to get the little one up at 4 am. Ugh! So Friday night we decided to spend the night in a hotel not too far from the race site. I didn't sleep well at all but at least we didn't have far to go in the morning.
I was a nervous wreck. I was almost as nervous as I was for my first triathlon. As we drove into the park where it was being held, I felt almost nauseous.
We parked and I grabbed my transition bag and bike and headed off to get my registration packet. The line wasn't too long and the volunteers were super helpful. I had forgotten my race belt and was able to buy one for $10. I actually like it better than my other one!
After picking up my packet and timing chip, I went over to body marking. They were using the body tattoos instead of the normal sharpie marking that I'm used to. The only other time I had the tattoos was the half Ironman and I remember how hard it was to get them off! Oh well, I'll deal with that later. Off to transition to set up my area.
I ran into my friend Steve who was doing his first triathlon. He was most worried about the swim and I tried to assure him that it's over before you know it and he would be great on the bike and run.
One of the things I love the most about doing these races is the camaraderie that is created with the other competitors. In transition, I chatted with the ladies racking their bikes around me. When I realized that I had forgotten my sunscreen, I had 2 bottles of sunscreen offered to me immediately. I love how supportive everyone is of each other.
Before long it was time to walk towards the swim start. I found 2 of the ladies who I had met in transition and talked with them as we waited for our turn to get in the water. In the picture below, I'm in the blue tri-suit...kind of hard to pick me out in the sea of pink caps!
The water temperature was 81 so no wetsuits were allowed. That actually works in my favor since it takes me so long to get out of the wetsuit. As we got into the water, I did a few breathing bobs. I also swam around a little bit to warm up. For the first time ever, I headed towards the front of the group. I've been making really good progress with my swimming and I didn't want to be fighting through traffic.
As we started the swim, I wanted to get into a good rhythm right away. I started strong and noticed that I was keeping pace with the women around me. (Good sign I thought since I started so close to the front) I was sighting well and stayed on course better than normal. Because it was only a 1/4 mile swim, it was over super fast. I got out of the water and had to run down the dock, up the steps and quite a way to get to transition.
I ran out of transition with my bike and noticed one of the other ladies mounting her bike too soon. I pointed to the mount line and said wait until you cross that line! She thanked me twice. We passed the mount line and I got into a good cadence right away. Before we left the grounds of the park (about 2 miles), I passed Steve. He said the swim took a lot out of him. I encouraged him that he was doing great.
The bike course was hillier than I had expected. Hills work in my favor when I'm in good cycling shape...which I'm not right now. I need some more work on that, but overall I was pretty happy with my ride. It was a pretty course, especially inside the park.
Transition 2 went well, although I still took longer than most people would take. I tried to remember what Coach Sandra had told me, which was to go into the run with confidence. Run the first part relaxed and race the second part. I knew about 1/4 mile into the run that I was just going to run the whole part relaxed...there wouldn't be much racing.
Steve caught me about 1/2 mile into the run. (His strength is definitely the run.) We took a few steps together and chatted about the hilly bike course. Then he went off on his way. I focused on the back of the woman in front of me. I kept pace with her pretty well. Unfortunately the run course was on a trail for the most part. In several sections it was a rocky path. Because of my klutziness, I was really worried about running on the rocks. I took my time going over the rocks and lost track of the woman I was following.
The turn-around point seemed very far away. I wasn't worried about my pace...but I knew it wasn't fast. I loved that it was an out and back run because I saw several of the ladies I had met before the race. I cheered for all of them as we passed each other. About a mile from the finish, I was passed by another woman in my age group. She was trucking...there was no way I could keep up with her and I knew that I had no shot of placing. Note to self: work on the run!
As I came into the finishing chute, I heard the announcer say my name. I crossed the finish line with a huge smile on my face.
I checked the results and thought I was 4th in my age group. Later when I pulled it up on the computer, I saw that I was actually 5th. Honestly, for my first race back after surgery with such sporadic training, I'm just happy I was relatively competitive!
Saturday, June 7, 2014
I NEED TO RACE!
I've found myself very frustrated lately. I've had a lack of motivation with my training in general. I just can't seem to do anything on a regular basis except my swim class on Tues/Thurs mornings...and even that I've skipped a few times recently. I need to get back on track. I've been struggling to figure out what was going to jump start me back into a good routine.
On Thursday and Friday of this past week, I was invited to a getaway trip as a reward for doing a deal with St. John Properties. They took us to the Hyatt in Cambridge for relaxation at the spa, nice meals, a boat trip and general fun. It is always a great excursion and I try to do a deal with them every year so that I get invited often.
This year the trip fell on the Thursday and Friday right before Eagleman. So Friday when I was checking out, the lobby was filled with athletes and their families checking in. I saw some really cool bikes. On my drive home, I passed several cars with bikes on their roof racks or on the backs of their cars. I thought a lot about my training, my lack of motivation and my overall excitement for the athletes doing Eagleman.
That was it! I don't have a race on my schedule. I sat down this morning and did some research on the internet. I was thinking that I would sign up for a sprint distance some time in mid to late July. I found the Diamond in the Rough triathlon in Perryville. They offered a sprint distance and an olympic distance. I looked at the Olympic and realized that the run was only 5 miles instead of the standard 6.2 miles. So I immediately thought "I could run 5 miles!" Before I knew it, I had registered for the Olympic distance.
So now I have a race on my schedule. I have 35 days until race day. I have a lot of work to do in a short amount of time! I will have to plan on doing a run/walk because I can't imagine that I'll be running 5 miles by then considering I'm only at 2 now. But if I really put a focus on my run and do some hill repeats on the bike, I should be OK to finish the race.
I am never one to take the easy route on anything but I am a little worried that I've bitten off more than I can chew with this one. But this is exactly what I needed to get my training back in line. Now if you will excuse me, I've got to go for a run!
On Thursday and Friday of this past week, I was invited to a getaway trip as a reward for doing a deal with St. John Properties. They took us to the Hyatt in Cambridge for relaxation at the spa, nice meals, a boat trip and general fun. It is always a great excursion and I try to do a deal with them every year so that I get invited often.
This year the trip fell on the Thursday and Friday right before Eagleman. So Friday when I was checking out, the lobby was filled with athletes and their families checking in. I saw some really cool bikes. On my drive home, I passed several cars with bikes on their roof racks or on the backs of their cars. I thought a lot about my training, my lack of motivation and my overall excitement for the athletes doing Eagleman.
That was it! I don't have a race on my schedule. I sat down this morning and did some research on the internet. I was thinking that I would sign up for a sprint distance some time in mid to late July. I found the Diamond in the Rough triathlon in Perryville. They offered a sprint distance and an olympic distance. I looked at the Olympic and realized that the run was only 5 miles instead of the standard 6.2 miles. So I immediately thought "I could run 5 miles!" Before I knew it, I had registered for the Olympic distance.
So now I have a race on my schedule. I have 35 days until race day. I have a lot of work to do in a short amount of time! I will have to plan on doing a run/walk because I can't imagine that I'll be running 5 miles by then considering I'm only at 2 now. But if I really put a focus on my run and do some hill repeats on the bike, I should be OK to finish the race.
I am never one to take the easy route on anything but I am a little worried that I've bitten off more than I can chew with this one. But this is exactly what I needed to get my training back in line. Now if you will excuse me, I've got to go for a run!
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
OWS Training
Sunday I attended Anne Johnson's open water swim (OWS) clinic. I love her OWS clinics! I attended 2 last year and was excited about the first one this year.
After last weekend's swim in Betterton, I was really looking forward to some focused instruction on OWS techniques. My head continues to be the biggest challenge when swimming in open water. I knew that Anne's clinic helped last year and I was hopeful that it would help again this year.
The water temps were approx. 67 degrees, so there was no question that we would be wearing our wetsuits! As I drove over to Hammerman where the clinic was held, I felt relaxed and looking forward to getting in the water. I pulled into the park and Elliott greeted me at the gate. She was checking names off the attendance sheet. We chatted for a few minutes about my challenging swim the week before and then I drove off to the parking area. I looked out across the water and had to take a picture...what a beautiful morning!
I walked down to the pavilion where Anne was checking people in and immediately saw Ron. Ron is my lane-mate during swim class. It was really good to see another familiar face. We agreed to stick together, althougth I knew that I would slow him down.
Anne gave a brief speech about the objectives of the day and then we split up into groups. They divided us into beginner and intermediate. I joined the intermediate group and had several people that I recognized in the group. Ron and I started our warm up swim together. I immediately had issues with breathing and was panicking a bit. Ron kindly stopped to check on me and make sure I was OK. I told him I was fine even though my breathing was a disaster.
Once we started the actual drills and workout, I calmed down and actually got into a really good groove. I encouraged Ron to swim ahead so that I wasn't holding him back, which he did. I found a comfortable group to join and focused on my breathing, keeping my strokes consistent and sighting like an alligator. There is such a HUGE difference between swimming in the pool and swimming in open water!
At the end of the clinic, I checked my fancy new watch to see how far we had gone during the clinic. 1.72 miles!!! Holy cow! That's the farthest I've ever gone in one swimming session. So much for thinking I was out of shape. There was not one moment where I questioned whether I would be able to finish. I'm very proud of myself.
This photo is from the end of the clinic as people are finishing up their workouts and chatting with the instructors. It really was a great morning.
After last weekend's swim in Betterton, I was really looking forward to some focused instruction on OWS techniques. My head continues to be the biggest challenge when swimming in open water. I knew that Anne's clinic helped last year and I was hopeful that it would help again this year.
The water temps were approx. 67 degrees, so there was no question that we would be wearing our wetsuits! As I drove over to Hammerman where the clinic was held, I felt relaxed and looking forward to getting in the water. I pulled into the park and Elliott greeted me at the gate. She was checking names off the attendance sheet. We chatted for a few minutes about my challenging swim the week before and then I drove off to the parking area. I looked out across the water and had to take a picture...what a beautiful morning!
I walked down to the pavilion where Anne was checking people in and immediately saw Ron. Ron is my lane-mate during swim class. It was really good to see another familiar face. We agreed to stick together, althougth I knew that I would slow him down.
Anne gave a brief speech about the objectives of the day and then we split up into groups. They divided us into beginner and intermediate. I joined the intermediate group and had several people that I recognized in the group. Ron and I started our warm up swim together. I immediately had issues with breathing and was panicking a bit. Ron kindly stopped to check on me and make sure I was OK. I told him I was fine even though my breathing was a disaster.
Once we started the actual drills and workout, I calmed down and actually got into a really good groove. I encouraged Ron to swim ahead so that I wasn't holding him back, which he did. I found a comfortable group to join and focused on my breathing, keeping my strokes consistent and sighting like an alligator. There is such a HUGE difference between swimming in the pool and swimming in open water!
At the end of the clinic, I checked my fancy new watch to see how far we had gone during the clinic. 1.72 miles!!! Holy cow! That's the farthest I've ever gone in one swimming session. So much for thinking I was out of shape. There was not one moment where I questioned whether I would be able to finish. I'm very proud of myself.
This photo is from the end of the clinic as people are finishing up their workouts and chatting with the instructors. It really was a great morning.
Friday, May 30, 2014
Slowly Getting Back
I've been doing what I can for the last few weeks. I haven't been running...I probably should be pushing myself more in that area. But it's hard...mentally and physically.
Right now swimming is good. I have gotten back my confidence in the water. I have also gotten back some speed. I think that if I lose some of the weight that I gained during my recovery that I would really see a difference in the swim.
So last night I attended my second Spin90 class. We were inside due to the rain...which means isolation drills. Ugh. But I was able to keep up with the class. We did high cadence drills, which were actually fine for me. I could totally keep up. I was a disaster with the one legged drills...but they've always been a challenge to me.
I was struggling throughout the entire class, but I was determined to keep up. At one point we were doing ladder drills. This is something where we start at the top of the gear box and every 30 seconds drop to a harder gear. After the first ladder, John asked me if I was using a heart rate monitor. I don't but I could tell that my heart rate was through the roof. He told me to let him know when it calmed down. We just spinned in recovery gear for another few minutes before starting the next ladder.
I knew that I was the reason that the class was getting "extra rest". But honestly I needed the extra rest. I commented to John that I felt like a rookie all over again. He responded "fitness level maybe but operationally you're still above the curve".
If you are a faithful reader of my blog, you know that John does not dole out compliments very easily. So the fact that he called me operationally above the curve was a huge thing for me. I was literally giddy...on the inside of course...I played it cool on the outside! But really, I needed to hear that simple statement to remind myself that I am not starting over again. I've learned how to properly pedal and hold my cadence. I am still a good cyclist. I may be slower than before the surgery, but I will get that back. I've lost some power but that will come back with time.
Right now swimming is good. I have gotten back my confidence in the water. I have also gotten back some speed. I think that if I lose some of the weight that I gained during my recovery that I would really see a difference in the swim.
So last night I attended my second Spin90 class. We were inside due to the rain...which means isolation drills. Ugh. But I was able to keep up with the class. We did high cadence drills, which were actually fine for me. I could totally keep up. I was a disaster with the one legged drills...but they've always been a challenge to me.
I was struggling throughout the entire class, but I was determined to keep up. At one point we were doing ladder drills. This is something where we start at the top of the gear box and every 30 seconds drop to a harder gear. After the first ladder, John asked me if I was using a heart rate monitor. I don't but I could tell that my heart rate was through the roof. He told me to let him know when it calmed down. We just spinned in recovery gear for another few minutes before starting the next ladder.
I knew that I was the reason that the class was getting "extra rest". But honestly I needed the extra rest. I commented to John that I felt like a rookie all over again. He responded "fitness level maybe but operationally you're still above the curve".
If you are a faithful reader of my blog, you know that John does not dole out compliments very easily. So the fact that he called me operationally above the curve was a huge thing for me. I was literally giddy...on the inside of course...I played it cool on the outside! But really, I needed to hear that simple statement to remind myself that I am not starting over again. I've learned how to properly pedal and hold my cadence. I am still a good cyclist. I may be slower than before the surgery, but I will get that back. I've lost some power but that will come back with time.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Back in the Saddle
Tonight was my first time going back to Spin90 since before the surgery. I wasn't doing much prior to the surgery because of the pain I was in.
I drove to tonight's class very anxious. Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely HATE being late. And I was running late for class. I really like to get to class at least 15 mins early. That gives me time to pump up my tires and get all of my gear together before we roll. Tonight I pulled into the parking lot at 6:12 for a 6:15 class. Ugh.
It was so great to see my riding friends again! I was all smiles as I jumped out of the car. I quickly got the bike off the bike rack and got out the pump. Madi came over and helped me by pumping my tires while I put on my shoes and got my other stuff together. I was rushing so that I didn't hold up the class. I realized that I had forgotten my goggles. Ugh...major problem because of the wind. Oh well...I would have to deal with it.
As we rolled off, I was nervous but excited. I clipped in easily...which for me is a pretty big deal. John had decided that since the group was small (and most of the riders have races coming up this weekend and 2 of us were either injured or coming off an injury) that we would ride intervals on Race Rd. This made me VERY happy. I know that road like the back of my hand! No intimidating hills.
I hung in the back for the ride out Race Road. The wind was whipping around and dust was constantly getting in my eyes. I was wishing for my goggles!! We went out to the very end of Race Rd - the extended Race Rd. Our turn-around point is the parking lot for an office building. I stopped and tried to get the dust out of my eyes. Tears were streaming down my face. John rode by and said "either you're having a really tough first day back or you've got dust in your eyes!"
We started back down Race Rd and I was flying. I was having a ball on the rollers. I was following Chuck and Hawaii Five-0. (You know me and my nicknames) When we got to the stop sign, John commented "wow Karen, good job". With as stingy as he is with his compliments, that made me SO happy!
So we went back to the regular Race Rd and re-grouped. The real workout started at this point. Hard effort going back towards the parking lot and recover on the way back. I made it 2 intervals and was really feeling it on the 2nd. My legs are currently feeling very sore. I can't imagine what they will feel like tomorrow! My speed was all over the place, but I just focused on maintaining 90 RPM.
It felt SOO good to be back on the bike. I was a bit humbled because I was so slow. I am used to riding that road at 22 MPH. Today I was averaging around 17 MPH. Wow...big difference. And on the recovery, I was really slow. I kept commenting on how slow I was and Madi was very reassuring. She kept saying "you are NOT slow". She is the instructor who typically rides with the slow group so she knows slow. Of course I am slow compared to my "normal" riding pace. I will get back there.
For now, I have to say that I am thrilled to be riding again. It felt GREAT to be back out there with my Spin90 friends and just to be on the bike again. Even though I am physically not where I would like to be, I will get back there!
I drove to tonight's class very anxious. Anyone who knows me knows that I absolutely HATE being late. And I was running late for class. I really like to get to class at least 15 mins early. That gives me time to pump up my tires and get all of my gear together before we roll. Tonight I pulled into the parking lot at 6:12 for a 6:15 class. Ugh.
It was so great to see my riding friends again! I was all smiles as I jumped out of the car. I quickly got the bike off the bike rack and got out the pump. Madi came over and helped me by pumping my tires while I put on my shoes and got my other stuff together. I was rushing so that I didn't hold up the class. I realized that I had forgotten my goggles. Ugh...major problem because of the wind. Oh well...I would have to deal with it.
As we rolled off, I was nervous but excited. I clipped in easily...which for me is a pretty big deal. John had decided that since the group was small (and most of the riders have races coming up this weekend and 2 of us were either injured or coming off an injury) that we would ride intervals on Race Rd. This made me VERY happy. I know that road like the back of my hand! No intimidating hills.
I hung in the back for the ride out Race Road. The wind was whipping around and dust was constantly getting in my eyes. I was wishing for my goggles!! We went out to the very end of Race Rd - the extended Race Rd. Our turn-around point is the parking lot for an office building. I stopped and tried to get the dust out of my eyes. Tears were streaming down my face. John rode by and said "either you're having a really tough first day back or you've got dust in your eyes!"
We started back down Race Rd and I was flying. I was having a ball on the rollers. I was following Chuck and Hawaii Five-0. (You know me and my nicknames) When we got to the stop sign, John commented "wow Karen, good job". With as stingy as he is with his compliments, that made me SO happy!
So we went back to the regular Race Rd and re-grouped. The real workout started at this point. Hard effort going back towards the parking lot and recover on the way back. I made it 2 intervals and was really feeling it on the 2nd. My legs are currently feeling very sore. I can't imagine what they will feel like tomorrow! My speed was all over the place, but I just focused on maintaining 90 RPM.
It felt SOO good to be back on the bike. I was a bit humbled because I was so slow. I am used to riding that road at 22 MPH. Today I was averaging around 17 MPH. Wow...big difference. And on the recovery, I was really slow. I kept commenting on how slow I was and Madi was very reassuring. She kept saying "you are NOT slow". She is the instructor who typically rides with the slow group so she knows slow. Of course I am slow compared to my "normal" riding pace. I will get back there.
For now, I have to say that I am thrilled to be riding again. It felt GREAT to be back out there with my Spin90 friends and just to be on the bike again. Even though I am physically not where I would like to be, I will get back there!
Monday, May 5, 2014
The Run
"The run" has always been a challenge to me. This is kind of an odd statement if taken at face value.
I was a runner in high school and actually did pretty well. I wasn't a star but I held my own. When I got back into working out, I started running again and started long distance running. I finished several half marathons and then started doing triathlons.
I actually enjoyed running for awhile...more for the social aspect of it than the actual running. However, I can remember a period of time where I even enjoyed running when I was running by myself. But more often, it's been a love/hate relationship with the run. For the past year or so, I've really struggled to find that love of running.
So now that I am trying to get back into my workout routine, I am again finding myself having trouble with the run. I can physically run about a mile before my foot tells me that I need to stop. But almost from the first step, my head is telling me what a bad runner I am. My feet start to feel like they are stuck in cement. Every step gets so heavy.
I love watching good runners do their thing. They make running seem so effortless. They look so natural. I feel like I either look like Olive Oyl or an elephant.
As I get back into running, I really want to focus on my form. I think that if I really work on running "lighter", my running will become fun again. At least that's what I'm hoping!
I was a runner in high school and actually did pretty well. I wasn't a star but I held my own. When I got back into working out, I started running again and started long distance running. I finished several half marathons and then started doing triathlons.
I actually enjoyed running for awhile...more for the social aspect of it than the actual running. However, I can remember a period of time where I even enjoyed running when I was running by myself. But more often, it's been a love/hate relationship with the run. For the past year or so, I've really struggled to find that love of running.
So now that I am trying to get back into my workout routine, I am again finding myself having trouble with the run. I can physically run about a mile before my foot tells me that I need to stop. But almost from the first step, my head is telling me what a bad runner I am. My feet start to feel like they are stuck in cement. Every step gets so heavy.
I love watching good runners do their thing. They make running seem so effortless. They look so natural. I feel like I either look like Olive Oyl or an elephant.
As I get back into running, I really want to focus on my form. I think that if I really work on running "lighter", my running will become fun again. At least that's what I'm hoping!
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Say Goodbye to the Extra Lbs
Anyone who knows me well knows that I'm not a good dieter. I can do short term diets...and some that are extremely strict too! But eventually I'm going to wander back to the dark side. I love my Coca-Cola and my donuts. I don't eat donuts all the time, but as a treat every now and then. However I affectionately refer to myself as a "Coke addict".
I am by no means fat. I am by no means thin. But my pants are getting too tight and I'm just generally not happy with the way that I look. So I've been slowly changing my eating habits. I have made some really good choices...and some choices that are not "in my best interest" for losing weight.
I really try not to get too caught up in weight issues. I have had way too many times in my past where weight became a big deal. Now I just want to be healthy.
I know that once I can get back to a regular training routine, I will be able to drop the weight pretty quickly. My life has been crazy lately, but there's nothing that I would have changed. My oldest daughter is a senior and I've really enjoyed the time away from training because it gave me more quality time with her. But it also gave me more quality time with the ice cream scoop...that's time that I probably should have avoided.
Also, carbs are a problem. They always have been, and always will be. I love bread, pasta, pizza, bagels...you name the carb and I'll probably eat it gleefully. Carbs are bad, but they are SOOO good.
Lisa Long has a poster that says "nothing tastes as good as skinny feels". I could use some skinny right about now!
I am by no means fat. I am by no means thin. But my pants are getting too tight and I'm just generally not happy with the way that I look. So I've been slowly changing my eating habits. I have made some really good choices...and some choices that are not "in my best interest" for losing weight.
I really try not to get too caught up in weight issues. I have had way too many times in my past where weight became a big deal. Now I just want to be healthy.
I know that once I can get back to a regular training routine, I will be able to drop the weight pretty quickly. My life has been crazy lately, but there's nothing that I would have changed. My oldest daughter is a senior and I've really enjoyed the time away from training because it gave me more quality time with her. But it also gave me more quality time with the ice cream scoop...that's time that I probably should have avoided.
Also, carbs are a problem. They always have been, and always will be. I love bread, pasta, pizza, bagels...you name the carb and I'll probably eat it gleefully. Carbs are bad, but they are SOOO good.
Lisa Long has a poster that says "nothing tastes as good as skinny feels". I could use some skinny right about now!
Tuesday, April 22, 2014
Track Practice with Little Ones
This post is slightly delayed, but last Wednesday the family and I went to the track. I wanted to see how well I could run..and how well the little ones could run. I started by going to Charm City Run and having Meghan fit me for some new shoes. They are pretty!
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I started off very tentatively. Ella and Grace took off in a dead sprint.
It took half a lap for them to stop, lean over and start panting. Ten seconds later, they were off again in a sprint. I tried to explain the idea of sustaining the same pace for the duration of the run...but they didn't listen. They just wanted to sprint...then stop...then sprint. Grace did 1 lap and Ella did 2 laps...just like they need to do for the triathlon!
After they were finished running, they started playing. In actuality, the playing was sort of running. They went to the bleachers and chased each other up and down the steps. I just kept running.
I was able to run for 3 laps without walking. I walked 100 meters to start the 4th lap, then ran the remainder of the lap. I finished a mile! I can't remember the last time that I was that excited about running a mile.
The next day I was very sore. My foot had swollen up a little bit more and I was limping again. It wasn't until Sunday that I really recovered. I think it was good to test it, but I realized that I probably pushed it a little bit too much. I need to be patient with this recovery.
I started off very tentatively. Ella and Grace took off in a dead sprint.
It took half a lap for them to stop, lean over and start panting. Ten seconds later, they were off again in a sprint. I tried to explain the idea of sustaining the same pace for the duration of the run...but they didn't listen. They just wanted to sprint...then stop...then sprint. Grace did 1 lap and Ella did 2 laps...just like they need to do for the triathlon!
After they were finished running, they started playing. In actuality, the playing was sort of running. They went to the bleachers and chased each other up and down the steps. I just kept running.
I was able to run for 3 laps without walking. I walked 100 meters to start the 4th lap, then ran the remainder of the lap. I finished a mile! I can't remember the last time that I was that excited about running a mile.
The next day I was very sore. My foot had swollen up a little bit more and I was limping again. It wasn't until Sunday that I really recovered. I think it was good to test it, but I realized that I probably pushed it a little bit too much. I need to be patient with this recovery.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
Progress Measured in Shoes
I have measured my recovery from foot surgery in terms of shoes. The first shoes I could fit into were my running shoes. They are New Balance and made wider than other brands. I have a wide toe box even before surgery, which New Balance tends to be able to comfortably accommodate. But after surgery, it was even more important to have that wide width shoe. My New Balance shoes were the only thing that I could wear for weeks.
The next step was actually fitting into a pair of my work shoes. They are not attractive shoes. They are a closed toe clog-type shoe with a heel. I wore them an entire day and felt like I had conquered the world. The next day my foot swelled up again...note to self: heels are probably a bad idea even if I can fit my swollen foot into the shoe!
I have tried on my cycling shoes several times. The first time I couldn't get my foot into the shoe. Two weeks later I could get my foot in the shoe, but couldn't even get close to securing the straps. Today...foot in shoe with straps secured! Granted, they are barely closed, but they are closed enough that I am confident that I can ride in them.
The first thing I did was post on Facebook...yes, I'm a Facebook junkie. The second thing I did was text Daryl and tell him of my success. I invited myself along to ride with the group that he rides with on Wednesday nights. I have very little expectation for my ability to keep up. Daryl is currently crushing every ride that he does. Luckily, they ride a route that is very familiar to me so I can drop off or turn around at any point.
I am so excited to get back on the bike!
The next step was actually fitting into a pair of my work shoes. They are not attractive shoes. They are a closed toe clog-type shoe with a heel. I wore them an entire day and felt like I had conquered the world. The next day my foot swelled up again...note to self: heels are probably a bad idea even if I can fit my swollen foot into the shoe!
I have tried on my cycling shoes several times. The first time I couldn't get my foot into the shoe. Two weeks later I could get my foot in the shoe, but couldn't even get close to securing the straps. Today...foot in shoe with straps secured! Granted, they are barely closed, but they are closed enough that I am confident that I can ride in them.
The first thing I did was post on Facebook...yes, I'm a Facebook junkie. The second thing I did was text Daryl and tell him of my success. I invited myself along to ride with the group that he rides with on Wednesday nights. I have very little expectation for my ability to keep up. Daryl is currently crushing every ride that he does. Luckily, they ride a route that is very familiar to me so I can drop off or turn around at any point.
I am so excited to get back on the bike!
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
I RAN!!!
A week ago my doctor cleared me for running. It was the same day that he had cleared me to get out of the boot. It was a big day. I was really happy about being out of the boot. I didn't even think about the running at the time.
It took me about a day to feel comfortable in a shoe. My foot felt very vulnerable in a shoe. So just wearing a sneaker was a major accomplishment. I couldn't think about running...I was just happy to be walking.
It was another day before I could walk without a limp. I had a slight limp, but was walking pretty well. Over the weekend I tried on all my shoes. I could only get into one pair. It was a tight fit, but I could squeeze my foot into the shoe.
Today I wore my shoes...not my sneakers...my work shoes. I felt great! I had to walk slowly so as not to limp too badly but I wore regular shoes all day long.
Tonight was the end of season celebration for the Charm City Run group. I was planning to attend the celebration. Because of how good I felt today, I decided to go to the track and test out the foot. I dressed in running gear for the first time in MONTHS.
I stepped on the track. There were members of the running group already there. They were about half a lap around the track already. It didn't matter...I wouldn't have kept up with them anyway. I took the first few tentative steps. I was running! It was slow and I was very careful when stepping with my bad foot...but I was running!
I ran half a lap, then walked half a lap. I ran another 3/4 lap and walked the final 1/4. It felt great. At the end it felt bad. But now, with a bag of ice on my foot, I am happy because I ran.
It took me about a day to feel comfortable in a shoe. My foot felt very vulnerable in a shoe. So just wearing a sneaker was a major accomplishment. I couldn't think about running...I was just happy to be walking.
It was another day before I could walk without a limp. I had a slight limp, but was walking pretty well. Over the weekend I tried on all my shoes. I could only get into one pair. It was a tight fit, but I could squeeze my foot into the shoe.
Today I wore my shoes...not my sneakers...my work shoes. I felt great! I had to walk slowly so as not to limp too badly but I wore regular shoes all day long.
Tonight was the end of season celebration for the Charm City Run group. I was planning to attend the celebration. Because of how good I felt today, I decided to go to the track and test out the foot. I dressed in running gear for the first time in MONTHS.
I stepped on the track. There were members of the running group already there. They were about half a lap around the track already. It didn't matter...I wouldn't have kept up with them anyway. I took the first few tentative steps. I was running! It was slow and I was very careful when stepping with my bad foot...but I was running!
I ran half a lap, then walked half a lap. I ran another 3/4 lap and walked the final 1/4. It felt great. At the end it felt bad. But now, with a bag of ice on my foot, I am happy because I ran.
Sunday, March 9, 2014
Back in the Water
I got my stitches out on Wednesday of last week. Dr. Doogie Howser cleared me to swim effective Friday. It took me until Sunday to get in the water.
I was nervous. My foot has had some good days but mostly I have felt pain when I have pushed it too far. Doogie wants me to push on my toe to help alleviate the stiffness...that hurts...and it swells quite a bit after I do my exercises. So I was really worried about getting in the water and trying to swim.
On an unrelated note, I signed the little ones up for their first triathlon. Grace didn't think she would be able to do a triathlon until she was 7 (the minimum age for the TriColumbia Kids Tri). However, MMTC hosts a kids tri where the minimum age is 5. So I asked Grace if she wanted to do the tri and she said YES. She asked if she would be able to swim with a life vest and bike with training wheels. I wasn't sure so I emailed the race director. Turns out, the answer is yes to both questions. I told Grace and she got very excited.
The 5 year olds have to swim 25 yds, bike 1/2 mile and run 1/4 mile. The only thing I'm worried about with Grace is the swim. So when we got to the Y today, she got in the lap lane with me. She wanted to try to swim her 25 yds with her life vest on. I asked her if she wanted to use a kickboard. She said "no way...it holds me back". (Love this kid's attitude.)
Grace started down the lane. She was kicking and paddling with determination. We got to the end of the lane and she had finished her 25 yds with ease! She grinned and said she wanted to go back. So she swam another 25 yds. And then another and then another. That girl swam 100 yds without stopping! So I no longer have any concerns about her finishing the swim portion of the tri!
After Grace was done swimming her laps, she went over to where Stephen and Ella were swimming in the rec swim area. It was time for me to do some laps on my own.
I pushed off the wall with my good foot. With one kick of my legs, I realized that the pain in my foot was going to keep me from kicking effectively. I decided to just swim laps with arms only. My legs basically just dangled behind me uselessly.
The great news for me was that I never got winded. The only thing that made me stop was that my arms got really tired. I swam 500 yds. That should be seen as a success considering that I'm 2 1/2 weeks out from major surgery on my foot.
The best way to describe my emotions were mixed feelings. I was so excited to be back in the water and swimming again. But I wanted to really swim and I couldn't. I was doing a decent job just pulling with my arms, but I wanted to kick. I wanted to swim. I have to accept that this recovery will be slow and steady. At least I am back in the water.
I was nervous. My foot has had some good days but mostly I have felt pain when I have pushed it too far. Doogie wants me to push on my toe to help alleviate the stiffness...that hurts...and it swells quite a bit after I do my exercises. So I was really worried about getting in the water and trying to swim.
On an unrelated note, I signed the little ones up for their first triathlon. Grace didn't think she would be able to do a triathlon until she was 7 (the minimum age for the TriColumbia Kids Tri). However, MMTC hosts a kids tri where the minimum age is 5. So I asked Grace if she wanted to do the tri and she said YES. She asked if she would be able to swim with a life vest and bike with training wheels. I wasn't sure so I emailed the race director. Turns out, the answer is yes to both questions. I told Grace and she got very excited.
The 5 year olds have to swim 25 yds, bike 1/2 mile and run 1/4 mile. The only thing I'm worried about with Grace is the swim. So when we got to the Y today, she got in the lap lane with me. She wanted to try to swim her 25 yds with her life vest on. I asked her if she wanted to use a kickboard. She said "no way...it holds me back". (Love this kid's attitude.)
Grace started down the lane. She was kicking and paddling with determination. We got to the end of the lane and she had finished her 25 yds with ease! She grinned and said she wanted to go back. So she swam another 25 yds. And then another and then another. That girl swam 100 yds without stopping! So I no longer have any concerns about her finishing the swim portion of the tri!
After Grace was done swimming her laps, she went over to where Stephen and Ella were swimming in the rec swim area. It was time for me to do some laps on my own.
I pushed off the wall with my good foot. With one kick of my legs, I realized that the pain in my foot was going to keep me from kicking effectively. I decided to just swim laps with arms only. My legs basically just dangled behind me uselessly.
The great news for me was that I never got winded. The only thing that made me stop was that my arms got really tired. I swam 500 yds. That should be seen as a success considering that I'm 2 1/2 weeks out from major surgery on my foot.
The best way to describe my emotions were mixed feelings. I was so excited to be back in the water and swimming again. But I wanted to really swim and I couldn't. I was doing a decent job just pulling with my arms, but I wanted to kick. I wanted to swim. I have to accept that this recovery will be slow and steady. At least I am back in the water.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Bad Patient
I am a bad patient. I've always been a bad patient. When I was in college, I had knee surgery over the Winter Break. I think my mom started calling my friends to come pick me up and get me out of her hair. It's not that I was demanding...it's that I am just so miserable not being able to do things for myself. I hate asking for help.
I got my stitches out on Wednesday so now I'm able to drive. I am an extremely defensive driver now because it hurts so much to slam on the brakes. But I am loving the fact that I no longer have to depend on other people to drive me where I need to go.
The biggest problem I have right now is that it's such an effort to get up. When I'm sitting down, I typically take off my aircast. It's very heavy so I am much more comfortable without it on. But whenever I get up, I have to wear it...even if I'm just walking to the bathroom. I am such a klutz that I will not waver on this point. I have to wear my boot. So it takes me a few minutes just to put the boot on, get it properly adjusted and fastened. What a hassle.
I think Stephen is tired of me asking him to get things for me. He has been good about it but I'm sure it's getting old. And I really wish I could just hop up and get myself a glass of water...or whatever.
Before my surgery people had said to me "enjoy being waited on". I don't know how to do that. Maybe someday I will figure that out, but for now I just really wish I could do things for myself.
I have not been to the gym. I'm hoping that I can get there tomorrow. I think that a big part of me is more than a little nervous. It is painful to stand for any period of time. I just took my first shower today. I really want to swim but I'm nervous about it. I really want to do a workout but I'm nervous about that too.
I just keep reminding myself that healing is the most important thing to do right now. I can jump in the pool any time. But unless I'm smart about this recovery, I won't be returning to top shape any time soon. So I don't want to rush into doing too much. Slow and steady wins the race, right?
I got my stitches out on Wednesday so now I'm able to drive. I am an extremely defensive driver now because it hurts so much to slam on the brakes. But I am loving the fact that I no longer have to depend on other people to drive me where I need to go.
The biggest problem I have right now is that it's such an effort to get up. When I'm sitting down, I typically take off my aircast. It's very heavy so I am much more comfortable without it on. But whenever I get up, I have to wear it...even if I'm just walking to the bathroom. I am such a klutz that I will not waver on this point. I have to wear my boot. So it takes me a few minutes just to put the boot on, get it properly adjusted and fastened. What a hassle.
I think Stephen is tired of me asking him to get things for me. He has been good about it but I'm sure it's getting old. And I really wish I could just hop up and get myself a glass of water...or whatever.
Before my surgery people had said to me "enjoy being waited on". I don't know how to do that. Maybe someday I will figure that out, but for now I just really wish I could do things for myself.
I have not been to the gym. I'm hoping that I can get there tomorrow. I think that a big part of me is more than a little nervous. It is painful to stand for any period of time. I just took my first shower today. I really want to swim but I'm nervous about it. I really want to do a workout but I'm nervous about that too.
I just keep reminding myself that healing is the most important thing to do right now. I can jump in the pool any time. But unless I'm smart about this recovery, I won't be returning to top shape any time soon. So I don't want to rush into doing too much. Slow and steady wins the race, right?
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Progress
I really cannot believe how quickly things are healing. I am still very tired at the end of the day and typically my foot is swollen and throbbing if I've been up and around a lot that day. However, I went through the entire day today with no painkillers! I did take Advil (a lot of Advil) but my pain level did not require more than just Advil.
I would really like to try to go to the gym tomorrow for a light workout. It would be nothing more than a little bit of core and a little bit of strength training with the bands, but it would be something active. I have missed being athletically active. I am not a sit-on-the-couch type of girl. However I am a little concerned that I will quickly get frustrated by all the things I can't do.
I am really looking forward to getting back in the pool. Only 1 more week!
I would really like to try to go to the gym tomorrow for a light workout. It would be nothing more than a little bit of core and a little bit of strength training with the bands, but it would be something active. I have missed being athletically active. I am not a sit-on-the-couch type of girl. However I am a little concerned that I will quickly get frustrated by all the things I can't do.
I am really looking forward to getting back in the pool. Only 1 more week!
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Yet Another Difference Between Men and Women
I had my post-surgery follow up appointment yesterday. I was excited to see Dr. Doogie Howser and see how my recovery is going.
Stephen drove me to the appointment and came back into the exam room with me. They x-rayed my foot to make sure the "stuff" they put in there is still in place and working properly (it was). Then the nurse undid the bandages that were around my foot.
When I saw my foot for the first time, I had several feelings:
-First, my toe was very straight...straighter than I've ever seen a toe. It made the rest of my toes look extremely curved to the right. When Doogie came in later, he explained that as the toe relaxes into its final position, it will curve slightly to the right also. So if a slight curve is ideal, we want to start the toe in a straight position. That makes sense...I guess this guy DOES know what he's talking about!
-Second, my foot did not seem very swollen at all. That made me happy because I knew swollen was bad.
-Finally, the incision was gross. It wasn't bleeding or anything but the stitches made it look nasty and it was brownish yellowish from the disinfectant stuff they swab on it. Looking at the incision immediately made my foot ache more intensely. (I know, it was all in my head...but still it hurt when I looked at it!)
What happened next is why this post is named "Yet Another Difference Between Men and Women". As soon as the bandages were off, Stephen stared intently at my foot. I wasn't sure what he was thinking...his facial expression gave nothing away at first. Then he got up out of the chair with his gaze never leaving my foot. Like the trained photographer that he is, in one fluid movement, he pulled out his cell phone and started shooting pictures of my foot. He got several angles of the incision before Doogie came into the room. He announced that he would send them to me "for Facebook or your blog!!" I scrunched up my face and said "no one wants to see that. It's gross!"
So Doogie comes in and checks out my foot. He immediately praises me for being a good patient. He said that he could tell that I was diligent about keeping my foot elevated and keeping ice on it based on the fact that the swelling was so minimal. YAY ME! (You all know how much I love being told that I've done a good job!)
I have been counting on the fact that I will be at the short end of the recovery timeframe ranges that he gave me. Based on the minimal amount of swelling he saw at the appointment, I am definitely able to continue that expectation of the shorter recovery time. So that means:
March 5th stitches out - can swim a day or 2 after that
first week of April - out of boot
mid April - can begin cycling again
first week of May - can begin running again
That also means that I will be able to sign up for a couple of triathlons this year! I think I will be race ready (for a sprint) by late July or early August. I am not going to sign up for anything until I see how the recovery goes once I'm able to start back into the actual training mode. But I am very encouraged after the doctor visit that this recovery is off to the right start!!!
Stephen drove me to the appointment and came back into the exam room with me. They x-rayed my foot to make sure the "stuff" they put in there is still in place and working properly (it was). Then the nurse undid the bandages that were around my foot.
When I saw my foot for the first time, I had several feelings:
-First, my toe was very straight...straighter than I've ever seen a toe. It made the rest of my toes look extremely curved to the right. When Doogie came in later, he explained that as the toe relaxes into its final position, it will curve slightly to the right also. So if a slight curve is ideal, we want to start the toe in a straight position. That makes sense...I guess this guy DOES know what he's talking about!
-Second, my foot did not seem very swollen at all. That made me happy because I knew swollen was bad.
-Finally, the incision was gross. It wasn't bleeding or anything but the stitches made it look nasty and it was brownish yellowish from the disinfectant stuff they swab on it. Looking at the incision immediately made my foot ache more intensely. (I know, it was all in my head...but still it hurt when I looked at it!)
What happened next is why this post is named "Yet Another Difference Between Men and Women". As soon as the bandages were off, Stephen stared intently at my foot. I wasn't sure what he was thinking...his facial expression gave nothing away at first. Then he got up out of the chair with his gaze never leaving my foot. Like the trained photographer that he is, in one fluid movement, he pulled out his cell phone and started shooting pictures of my foot. He got several angles of the incision before Doogie came into the room. He announced that he would send them to me "for Facebook or your blog!!" I scrunched up my face and said "no one wants to see that. It's gross!"
So Doogie comes in and checks out my foot. He immediately praises me for being a good patient. He said that he could tell that I was diligent about keeping my foot elevated and keeping ice on it based on the fact that the swelling was so minimal. YAY ME! (You all know how much I love being told that I've done a good job!)
I have been counting on the fact that I will be at the short end of the recovery timeframe ranges that he gave me. Based on the minimal amount of swelling he saw at the appointment, I am definitely able to continue that expectation of the shorter recovery time. So that means:
March 5th stitches out - can swim a day or 2 after that
first week of April - out of boot
mid April - can begin cycling again
first week of May - can begin running again
That also means that I will be able to sign up for a couple of triathlons this year! I think I will be race ready (for a sprint) by late July or early August. I am not going to sign up for anything until I see how the recovery goes once I'm able to start back into the actual training mode. But I am very encouraged after the doctor visit that this recovery is off to the right start!!!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Foot Surgery DONE!
Yesterday was the surgery. I had to be at the surgery center at noon and I wasn't allowed to eat anything after 5 am. So since I wasn't willing to lose sleep to get up that early to eat, I decided to start my fasting when I went to bed. In preparation for that, I basically ate everything in the house. It was ridiculous.
I didn't sleep well...I tossed and turned all night. In the morning we took the little ones for their annual doctor check ups. By the time we got home, I only had about half an hour to get some work done before we had to head to the surgery center. I was really getting nervous at this point. I read the pre- and post-op instructions 4 times.
Stephen drove me to the surgery center and I think we were both pretty nervous. I just didn't know what to expect. Once we got there, everyone was so nice. They really took time to make sure that we both felt comfortable. Before long, I was my jovial self.
The procedure didn't take long and we were back on our way home by mid-afternoon. My foot basically felt like it was asleep. I was starving so when we got home, I ate some light food so that I didn't upset my stomach.
I kept my foot elevated and tried to keep ice on it. When I got up to go to the bathroom for the first time, I got a reality check. It was shockingly painful. I had Stephen help me get in and out of the bathroom. Putting weight on the foot was really not a good feeling.
Sleeping was awful. I couldn't get comfortable and I probably didn't sleep more than 30 minutes at a time. I kept the boot on all night so that the foot didn't get bumped. Keeping it elevated and in the boot would have been fine if I could sleep on my back...but being a side sleeper made this very challenging.
I think I was a bit too optimistic about how much I would be able to do during these first few days. It does feel the best to just lay on my back with it propped up on pillows. Walking on the boot is going to take some practice. It's a very weird feeling.
So the recovery has begun...
I didn't sleep well...I tossed and turned all night. In the morning we took the little ones for their annual doctor check ups. By the time we got home, I only had about half an hour to get some work done before we had to head to the surgery center. I was really getting nervous at this point. I read the pre- and post-op instructions 4 times.
Stephen drove me to the surgery center and I think we were both pretty nervous. I just didn't know what to expect. Once we got there, everyone was so nice. They really took time to make sure that we both felt comfortable. Before long, I was my jovial self.
The procedure didn't take long and we were back on our way home by mid-afternoon. My foot basically felt like it was asleep. I was starving so when we got home, I ate some light food so that I didn't upset my stomach.
I kept my foot elevated and tried to keep ice on it. When I got up to go to the bathroom for the first time, I got a reality check. It was shockingly painful. I had Stephen help me get in and out of the bathroom. Putting weight on the foot was really not a good feeling.
Sleeping was awful. I couldn't get comfortable and I probably didn't sleep more than 30 minutes at a time. I kept the boot on all night so that the foot didn't get bumped. Keeping it elevated and in the boot would have been fine if I could sleep on my back...but being a side sleeper made this very challenging.
I think I was a bit too optimistic about how much I would be able to do during these first few days. It does feel the best to just lay on my back with it propped up on pillows. Walking on the boot is going to take some practice. It's a very weird feeling.
So the recovery has begun...
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
The Time Has Come
Tomorrow is the day...surgery day. I am nervous. I have no idea what to expect.
I have never broken a bone. So the only bone that I will have ever broken will have been done on purpose by a doctor. That seems a bit odd when you say it like that!
My training has been a disaster these last few months. I have not been able to do anything on a regular basis except swim. And even that has suffered. So I'm excited about getting to a point in my recover where I can actively train again. However, I know that there is a long, painful road between now and then.
I can't eat anything after 5 am tomorrow morning. So to make up for it, I'm eating everything in sight. I've had pasta bake, a hard boiled egg, a bowl of chocolate ice cream, popcorn and a glass of red wine. I'm now contemplating having a slice of cheesecake. This really is getting ridiculous.
I will post tomorrow after surgery. Disclaimer: I will be on painkillers so I have no idea what will be said!
I have never broken a bone. So the only bone that I will have ever broken will have been done on purpose by a doctor. That seems a bit odd when you say it like that!
My training has been a disaster these last few months. I have not been able to do anything on a regular basis except swim. And even that has suffered. So I'm excited about getting to a point in my recover where I can actively train again. However, I know that there is a long, painful road between now and then.
I can't eat anything after 5 am tomorrow morning. So to make up for it, I'm eating everything in sight. I've had pasta bake, a hard boiled egg, a bowl of chocolate ice cream, popcorn and a glass of red wine. I'm now contemplating having a slice of cheesecake. This really is getting ridiculous.
I will post tomorrow after surgery. Disclaimer: I will be on painkillers so I have no idea what will be said!
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Doctor Update
I haven't had many entries lately because honestly I haven't had much to say. I'm swimming regularly, doing some core work, but not really doing much else. I have a training plan from Coach Sandra and I'm following it to the best of my ability...although there have been some days that I just didn't feel like going to the gym.
I had my pre-op appointment with my doctor earlier this week. I got some good news - the recovery process is not going to be as bad as I had expected! I will not have to use crutches or a scooter or anything - I will be able to walk on it right away! Of course I have to wear the boot, but I can walk on it. Also, I will be able to swim as soon as I get the stitches out.
I was expecting a much more difficult recovery process. Of course it's going to be painful...and I can't drive for 2 weeks...and the first 5 days are the most crucial to make sure I stay off it as much as possible.
After my doctor appointment, my foot has been hurting more than ever. I think it's probably all just in my head, but I am so glad that the surgery is next week. I really want to have the surgery and get started on the road to recovery.
I had my pre-op appointment with my doctor earlier this week. I got some good news - the recovery process is not going to be as bad as I had expected! I will not have to use crutches or a scooter or anything - I will be able to walk on it right away! Of course I have to wear the boot, but I can walk on it. Also, I will be able to swim as soon as I get the stitches out.
I was expecting a much more difficult recovery process. Of course it's going to be painful...and I can't drive for 2 weeks...and the first 5 days are the most crucial to make sure I stay off it as much as possible.
After my doctor appointment, my foot has been hurting more than ever. I think it's probably all just in my head, but I am so glad that the surgery is next week. I really want to have the surgery and get started on the road to recovery.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
The Biggest Loser Triathlon
I have been a fan of The Biggest Loser since the first season. I'm a sucker for the storylines. I love Jillian screaming at the contestants. I really, really love the finale and seeing the transformations. I hate hearing about contestants who go back to their old habits after leaving the show.
When I lived in Ocean City, The Biggest Loser was what motivated me to run a half marathon. I watched a former contestant finish a half marathon after leaving the show. (This was before they did marathons and such on the actual show.) Anyway, I figured that if she could finish a half marathon, so could I...and I did...I finished several half marathons.
In October of 2012, I completed my first triathlon. As Mike Stone from Princeton Sports so eloquently stated, "a sprint triathlon is a gateway drug". Yep, I crossed that finish line after my first triathlon and immediately thought that I couldn't wait to do that again.
So this season of The Biggest Loser, the final 5 contestants were to compete in a triathlon. When I first heard this, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I wasn't sure that they would give the sport of triathlon it's fair honor. However, the more I thought about it, the more excited I got. If The Biggest Loser could motivate me to run a half marathon, maybe it would motivate someone out there to try to complete a triathlon.
Last night was the triathlon episode. I got my glass of wine and snuggled in to watch. I was pretty sure that I knew who would win...and I was right. Rachel killed it. But what really got me was how they showed Bobby's panic in the swim. I have felt that panic. I watched him struggle and I knew exactly what he was feeling. And just like me, Bobby pushed through the panic and finished the swim. Bobby came in 5th place...out of 5 contestants. But he danced across the finish line! I loved that.
Bobby proved why it was so cool that The Biggest Loser did a triathlon episode. Triathlon is a physical challenge...but it's an even bigger mental challenge. If you can push through the pain, the panic, the doubts, you can finish. And that in and of itself is a victory. Congratulations to the contestants for finishing their first triathlon. I can't wait to see if any of them take up the sport after the show is over!
When I lived in Ocean City, The Biggest Loser was what motivated me to run a half marathon. I watched a former contestant finish a half marathon after leaving the show. (This was before they did marathons and such on the actual show.) Anyway, I figured that if she could finish a half marathon, so could I...and I did...I finished several half marathons.
In October of 2012, I completed my first triathlon. As Mike Stone from Princeton Sports so eloquently stated, "a sprint triathlon is a gateway drug". Yep, I crossed that finish line after my first triathlon and immediately thought that I couldn't wait to do that again.
So this season of The Biggest Loser, the final 5 contestants were to compete in a triathlon. When I first heard this, I wasn't sure how I felt about it. I wasn't sure that they would give the sport of triathlon it's fair honor. However, the more I thought about it, the more excited I got. If The Biggest Loser could motivate me to run a half marathon, maybe it would motivate someone out there to try to complete a triathlon.
Last night was the triathlon episode. I got my glass of wine and snuggled in to watch. I was pretty sure that I knew who would win...and I was right. Rachel killed it. But what really got me was how they showed Bobby's panic in the swim. I have felt that panic. I watched him struggle and I knew exactly what he was feeling. And just like me, Bobby pushed through the panic and finished the swim. Bobby came in 5th place...out of 5 contestants. But he danced across the finish line! I loved that.
Bobby proved why it was so cool that The Biggest Loser did a triathlon episode. Triathlon is a physical challenge...but it's an even bigger mental challenge. If you can push through the pain, the panic, the doubts, you can finish. And that in and of itself is a victory. Congratulations to the contestants for finishing their first triathlon. I can't wait to see if any of them take up the sport after the show is over!
Monday, January 27, 2014
How Strong I'm NOT
So a few posts ago I commented on how I was going to get a plan together to stay fit while recovering from foot surgery. Last week I took the next step in making that plan a reality...I met with Coach Sandra. The goal of this meeting was for her to see my current fitness level and for her to show me how to use the machines that she was going to include in my plan. Since I'm an idiot when it comes to working out on machines, I was excited for her to show me exactly what I should be doing.
First, I have to say that she probably thinks I'm a wacko. I was in a particularly chatty mood and I talked more than I listened. Not a good way to start when she is supposed to be showing me how to do things! Oops. We got along well though and she didn't seem to be too annoyed by my constant talking.
Everything was going so well...until she started to assess my core strength and my upper body strength. I think she was genuinely shocked at how weak I am! At one point she handed me a weight and said that it would be easy for me. HAHA...I struggled to do the exercise with the "easy" weight. How embarrasing. But she just smiled and said that we had a lot of room to improve!
So at the end of our time together, we talked briefly about nutrition. I have not been eating well at all lately. She asked what I had eaten that day...it had been a pretty good day so it didn't sound too awful. If she had asked what I had eaten the day before...totally different story. But I know that I need to get rid of the Cokes, stop eating so much popcorn at 9 pm and incorporate more fruits and veggies into my meals. I also need to do a better job of eating breakfast. That has always been a struggle for me.
But one of the things that I have to commit myself completely to is a better diet. I have put on 5 pounds from where I was when I did the half ironman. I'm lucky that it's only been 5. If I keep going this way when my exercising is reduced after surgery, I will pack on the pounds for sure! I really need to focus on eating right and losing those 5 pounds PLUS the 10 pounds that I should have lost before the half. (Yes, even with that much training, I was still overweight.)
So hopefully with Coach Sandra's fitness plan and a better effort in the way of nutrition, I will be able to survive the recovery period. And my ultimate goal is to come out of the recovery period and not miss a beat getting back into triathlon training.
First, I have to say that she probably thinks I'm a wacko. I was in a particularly chatty mood and I talked more than I listened. Not a good way to start when she is supposed to be showing me how to do things! Oops. We got along well though and she didn't seem to be too annoyed by my constant talking.
Everything was going so well...until she started to assess my core strength and my upper body strength. I think she was genuinely shocked at how weak I am! At one point she handed me a weight and said that it would be easy for me. HAHA...I struggled to do the exercise with the "easy" weight. How embarrasing. But she just smiled and said that we had a lot of room to improve!
So at the end of our time together, we talked briefly about nutrition. I have not been eating well at all lately. She asked what I had eaten that day...it had been a pretty good day so it didn't sound too awful. If she had asked what I had eaten the day before...totally different story. But I know that I need to get rid of the Cokes, stop eating so much popcorn at 9 pm and incorporate more fruits and veggies into my meals. I also need to do a better job of eating breakfast. That has always been a struggle for me.
But one of the things that I have to commit myself completely to is a better diet. I have put on 5 pounds from where I was when I did the half ironman. I'm lucky that it's only been 5. If I keep going this way when my exercising is reduced after surgery, I will pack on the pounds for sure! I really need to focus on eating right and losing those 5 pounds PLUS the 10 pounds that I should have lost before the half. (Yes, even with that much training, I was still overweight.)
So hopefully with Coach Sandra's fitness plan and a better effort in the way of nutrition, I will be able to survive the recovery period. And my ultimate goal is to come out of the recovery period and not miss a beat getting back into triathlon training.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Coach Karen?
I received a call yesterday from a good friend and fellow commercial real estate broker. She volunteers for an organization that provides assistance to breast cancer patients. Their largest annual fundraiser is a 5K walk.
Last year they added a run component to the 5K. They had 5 training locations around the city for people who were working to complete their first 5K run. This year they are adding more training groups, including one in Columbia. So my friend was calling to see if I would consider being a coach for the Columbia training group.
I would LOVE to do this. Helping people learn how to complete their first 5K sounds like a dream. I'm already picturing myself at the finish line cheering on my team of runners! Plus they would pay me! It's not much, but definitely makes it worth my time...which would only require one hour a week on Saturday mornings. I could totally do that.
EXCEPT...
I'm having foot surgery.
UGH
There really isn't a way that I can train people to run unless I can run with them. Of course we could meet at a track and I could holler at them as they ran in circles for an hour...but I don't think that would instill a love of running. It wouldn't be fun for them or for me. NOPE...if I can't run, I can't train.
I'm so disappointed! I told her that if they found someone to do it this year, I would take it over next year. But I really wanted to do it this year. I know in my heart it's the right decision not to take on this training responsibility when I can't do it fully...but it's still so disappointing. I really hope that I am able to do it next year.
Last year they added a run component to the 5K. They had 5 training locations around the city for people who were working to complete their first 5K run. This year they are adding more training groups, including one in Columbia. So my friend was calling to see if I would consider being a coach for the Columbia training group.
I would LOVE to do this. Helping people learn how to complete their first 5K sounds like a dream. I'm already picturing myself at the finish line cheering on my team of runners! Plus they would pay me! It's not much, but definitely makes it worth my time...which would only require one hour a week on Saturday mornings. I could totally do that.
EXCEPT...
I'm having foot surgery.
UGH
There really isn't a way that I can train people to run unless I can run with them. Of course we could meet at a track and I could holler at them as they ran in circles for an hour...but I don't think that would instill a love of running. It wouldn't be fun for them or for me. NOPE...if I can't run, I can't train.
I'm so disappointed! I told her that if they found someone to do it this year, I would take it over next year. But I really wanted to do it this year. I know in my heart it's the right decision not to take on this training responsibility when I can't do it fully...but it's still so disappointing. I really hope that I am able to do it next year.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Not a Slow Swimmer Anymore!
Last week was the first week of the new swimming session. On the Thursday class, there are a lot of new people. So lane 1 is so crowded that some of the lane 1 regulars had to be moved to lane 2. I've been a lane 2 regular for the last session. Pam needed to move someone from lane 2 up to lane 3 to make room for the lane 1 people.
I could see her assessing the swimmers in lane 2. I thought for sure she would move Ron or Todd...maybe even Jill. But no...she said "Karen, I want you to move over to lane 3." What? I was shocked. She must have seen that on my face and she said "you can handle it."
So I moved over to lane 3 and meekly smiled at the other swimmers in the lane... Elliott, Trish and Sue. I volunteered myself to go last. During the workout, I found myself catching up to Sue. I couldn't believe it...these are really fast swimmers!
Today was another day where lane 1 was overcrowded. I had started my workout in lane 2. Then
Pam came over and asked me to move to lane 3 again. I was actually excited about moving this time, although I still volunteered to go last.
We did some drills with our fins on. I found that I was catching Trish and was having to slow down so that I didn't run her over. What a great feeling! I think next Thursday I'm going to ask if I can move up in the order that we go, especially when we have fins on. Also, during our negative split 200, I had to slow down because I had almost overtaken Elliott. I am in lane 3 and not just keeping up...I'm definitely holding my own with these strong swimmers.
During my drive into work, I started thinking about my swimming. For the first few months that I was going to swimming class, I was always telling everyone how slow I was. Now I'm getting to the point where I can really see major progress. I am in a class with some really good swimmers...and I'm steadily moving up to faster lanes and continuing to do well.
As with everything else, my swimming capabilities are going to take a hit during my recovery from surgery. However, my confidence will not be shaken. I know that I will never get back into the pool and state "I'm a really slow swimmer". While I'm not the fastest swimmer, I am also NOT a slow swimmer. This understanding alone shows major gains from where I was a year ago. YAY!!
I could see her assessing the swimmers in lane 2. I thought for sure she would move Ron or Todd...maybe even Jill. But no...she said "Karen, I want you to move over to lane 3." What? I was shocked. She must have seen that on my face and she said "you can handle it."
So I moved over to lane 3 and meekly smiled at the other swimmers in the lane... Elliott, Trish and Sue. I volunteered myself to go last. During the workout, I found myself catching up to Sue. I couldn't believe it...these are really fast swimmers!
Today was another day where lane 1 was overcrowded. I had started my workout in lane 2. Then
Pam came over and asked me to move to lane 3 again. I was actually excited about moving this time, although I still volunteered to go last.
We did some drills with our fins on. I found that I was catching Trish and was having to slow down so that I didn't run her over. What a great feeling! I think next Thursday I'm going to ask if I can move up in the order that we go, especially when we have fins on. Also, during our negative split 200, I had to slow down because I had almost overtaken Elliott. I am in lane 3 and not just keeping up...I'm definitely holding my own with these strong swimmers.
During my drive into work, I started thinking about my swimming. For the first few months that I was going to swimming class, I was always telling everyone how slow I was. Now I'm getting to the point where I can really see major progress. I am in a class with some really good swimmers...and I'm steadily moving up to faster lanes and continuing to do well.
As with everything else, my swimming capabilities are going to take a hit during my recovery from surgery. However, my confidence will not be shaken. I know that I will never get back into the pool and state "I'm a really slow swimmer". While I'm not the fastest swimmer, I am also NOT a slow swimmer. This understanding alone shows major gains from where I was a year ago. YAY!!
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
The Start of a Plan
I've been very excited to get back into a training routine. Yes, I have pain in my foot. Yes it is going to keep me from running...BUT it does not have to keep me from doing anything!
Swimming has been fine. When I went to the pool on Christmas Eve (yes, I did that), it hurt to push off the wall with my foot. But at today's class I was painfree! I do think that the 3 weeks that I took off were very beneficial.
The bunion was putting pressure on my seisemoid bones (I still don't know how to spell that word and I'm too lazy to look it up right now...so please forgive me if I'm misspelling it.) Anyway, since I took some time off, the irritation has gone down and now I'm just experiencing the bunion pain. That is a much more manageable pain.
Back to my story...today's swim class was great. I situated myself in Lane 2. There were 4 of us in the lane and as usual, I chose to be last thinking that I didn't want to slow anyone down. On several of the intervals I was catching up to the person in front of me. Huge confidence builder!! Plus even though I ate my way through the holidays, I was not feeling sluggish in the water. I was very happy with the swim class today.
Tonight was my first Spin90 class since early December. I was anxious about my foot, but I made it through the entire class. It didn't hurt too badly during the class, but now that I'm sitting and relaxing, it hurts a lot. I think I need to be cognizant of not doing too much but yet doing enough to keep my fitness level.
So my mind started working on a plan today. Yes, that's always dangerous. But I was thinking about the time when I'm in the boot after surgery. I will be significantly limited in the types of activities that I will be able to do. However, up until today, I was thinking that I wouldn't be able to do much at all and that I would have to pretty much write off those 6 weeks. Not so! The more I thought about it today, the more I was convinced that there will be a lot that I can do to stay in shape during that time.
I spoke briefly about this with John today. He agreed with me and said that he would discuss it with Sandra. I have not met her, but John said that she is a Level 1 Certified Coach. I don't honestly know what that means, but it sounds impressive. Hopefully between Sandra and John, I can put together a workout plan that keeps me fit and in shape so that I don't lose much during my time in the boot.
Call me crazy, but I think I have the start of a plan!
Swimming has been fine. When I went to the pool on Christmas Eve (yes, I did that), it hurt to push off the wall with my foot. But at today's class I was painfree! I do think that the 3 weeks that I took off were very beneficial.
The bunion was putting pressure on my seisemoid bones (I still don't know how to spell that word and I'm too lazy to look it up right now...so please forgive me if I'm misspelling it.) Anyway, since I took some time off, the irritation has gone down and now I'm just experiencing the bunion pain. That is a much more manageable pain.
Back to my story...today's swim class was great. I situated myself in Lane 2. There were 4 of us in the lane and as usual, I chose to be last thinking that I didn't want to slow anyone down. On several of the intervals I was catching up to the person in front of me. Huge confidence builder!! Plus even though I ate my way through the holidays, I was not feeling sluggish in the water. I was very happy with the swim class today.
Tonight was my first Spin90 class since early December. I was anxious about my foot, but I made it through the entire class. It didn't hurt too badly during the class, but now that I'm sitting and relaxing, it hurts a lot. I think I need to be cognizant of not doing too much but yet doing enough to keep my fitness level.
So my mind started working on a plan today. Yes, that's always dangerous. But I was thinking about the time when I'm in the boot after surgery. I will be significantly limited in the types of activities that I will be able to do. However, up until today, I was thinking that I wouldn't be able to do much at all and that I would have to pretty much write off those 6 weeks. Not so! The more I thought about it today, the more I was convinced that there will be a lot that I can do to stay in shape during that time.
I spoke briefly about this with John today. He agreed with me and said that he would discuss it with Sandra. I have not met her, but John said that she is a Level 1 Certified Coach. I don't honestly know what that means, but it sounds impressive. Hopefully between Sandra and John, I can put together a workout plan that keeps me fit and in shape so that I don't lose much during my time in the boot.
Call me crazy, but I think I have the start of a plan!
Friday, January 3, 2014
Changing My Mind...Again
My foot is feeling better. I think that since I've stopped doing anything that puts pressure on my foot, that the irritation in my seisamoid bones has been alleviated. So of course, what's the first thing I want to do? Start putting pressure on it again! (I'm such a genius)
Seriously though, I have decided that I am going to start back at Spin90 until the surgery. It's not running so I won't be pounding on the foot, but it's something athletic. I can feel my fitness slipping away every day that my lazy butt sits on the sofa. I will be losing a lot while I'm in the boot...I don't want to lose more prior to the surgery.
So look out John...I'm coming back! I have to admit that I am seriously excited about getting back on the bike. Yes, I realize there must be something wrong with me...
Seriously though, I have decided that I am going to start back at Spin90 until the surgery. It's not running so I won't be pounding on the foot, but it's something athletic. I can feel my fitness slipping away every day that my lazy butt sits on the sofa. I will be losing a lot while I'm in the boot...I don't want to lose more prior to the surgery.
So look out John...I'm coming back! I have to admit that I am seriously excited about getting back on the bike. Yes, I realize there must be something wrong with me...
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