I've been a little crazy the last couple days. Didn't really take any time to celebrate my birthday--so much to do and think about.
Friday was a day off from training--and I actually did NO training/working out that day! I must say, I felt horrible! Physically and mentally, it was really hard. I have rheumatoid arthritis, and if I don't do some sort of exercise, my body rebels. It's what keeps me able to move. So, I've decided that even on "off" days I need to do some sort of moving.
I took my son to register for high school Friday--YIKES! It's going to be a big adjustment for him but probably more for his Dad and me. If you believe in prayer, please keep us in yours. We will need them.
Saturday it was back to "normal". A very early (start in the dark) 50 mile bike ride, followed by a 2 mile run. The weather was very cool at the start, but by run time just perfect. Not what it will be on race day, probably, but weather is something we have no control over! Since I hadn't been in the pool since Wednesday, had a nice 1000 meter outdoor swim after. Aaaaahhhhh! Nice!
Today and tomorrow were slated as OFF! days. But....I decided to do some core/strength training, and I'm trying to decide on a new pair of running shoes--not for race day, but for the future. You see, New Balance stopped making the shoe I've been wearing for the last 5 or so years. I'm trying out two different sizes of the most current model of that particular shoe. I walked/jogged a very easy 3.5 miles on the treadmill. Did my last long strength training session until after ironman. I also enjoyed an 1100 meter outside swim. It was so nice. Relatively quiet, water was relatively cool, and the weather perfect!
Now, I must say that when I think that two weeks from now I should be finishing up the bike course in Louisville, it makes my stomach queasy. I know I've done the training, but I'm still not sure if I'm going to be able to put it all together on race day. When I do long rides and short runs, or short rides and long runs, I think, "How am I going to do 3 times this (or so) on race day?" I'm just praying that the program I followed works for me that day.
I've decided that IF I ever do another iron distance race, I'm going to get a coach of some sort: on-line, in person, whatever, but someone who knows ME and my body and my strengths and weaknesses. I definitely understand why a generic program is difficult for this distance, especially at my age and with my health issues. I thought I would be OK, and I might still be, but I think having a coach would have been a big advantage!
Haven't the Olympics been amazing! I've enjoyed every event I've been able to watch, and unfortunately I've been staying up too late to watch a lot! Go USA! So many of the athletes are amazing. Can't wait to see the triathlon. I hope they show a lot of the races.
Last night I went to church service. I was very tired, crabby, depressed, and upset when I walked in the door. Not a good attitude to have to worship God. But thank God I was able to get my head on straight, realize how blessed I am, and how thankful I am that God cares about all of my life. When I think about ironman, I realize how blessed I am to be able to attempt such a thing. I have the support of my family, my health is good (relatively), and I have the discipline, drive and resources needed to train. No matter how bad things may seem, there is ALWAYS a silver lining.
The next two weeks I'm going to really try to relax so I can enjoy race day. No matter what happens, I want to have "FUN"!?
My week goals for training reads: "Two weeks to go! Enjoy the further reduction in hours and resist the urge to go longer or harder. Also resist the urge for pizza, beers and 5AM clubbing with all your newly found extra free time."
I rarely eat pizza and don't drink alcohol. I have never been to a club, and 5AM is when I wake up, not come home! The going longer/harder area, however, will be a challenge!
Hope everyone had a great weekend! Congratulations to everyone who raced or trained hard!
Begin Taper Week Totals:
Swim: 5 times for 7,800 meters
Bike: 4 times for 138 miles
Run: 4 times for 24 miles
Strength/Core: 6 sessions for 254 minutes
Total time: 21 hours
Calories burned: 8,700
Until next time--God bless!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
4 comments:
Ah, good luck with high school! My thoughts are with you. :)
You know - keep this in mind. You've done the physical training for the Ironman, but on race day -- it comes down to what you've got mentally. And Karen, YOU of everyone that I know has WHAT IT TAKES mentally to tough out an Ironman.
To quote a Don Henley song, you would "walk across glass on your tongue" to finish this race. You're that strong mentally and it's backed up by a flawless physical regimen.
Don't focus on the race, focus on what it's going to feel like crossing that finish line!
You are sounding so ready! You've got it, I have no doubt you'll finish.
Great Post!
Will send up prayers for your family and the transition to HS. I personally believe that the IM is a cakewalk compared to the constant exertion of parenting...
However, I'm sure that God has it covered. ;-)
Have a wonderful day! Louisville will be lots of fun--a daylong celebration of life and how much you've accomplished.
Good luck with the taper. I know how nervous and anxious you must be about pulling off such a big event. I felt the same way before Steelhead and surprised myself over all. I think you will surprise yourself as well! I'll be watching you on race day!
Post a Comment