Back to Training

It's been WAY too long. I'm embarrassed to even write how long. But finally I am back to doing some physical exercise. Ok, it was only 15 minutes on a cross-trainer, but it is a start. I have January all worked out and it will just be a matter of ticking off each activity. I'm also hoping to shift at least a stone and a half which I have put on over the last 6 months. Shameful!!!

Hard bike session

Headed out on the bike for an intensive spin on a short but hilly route from Dromore to Moira and back. Very tough and I got soaked. It really is a leg-killer, but hopefully will pay off for the next triathlon which goes up into the Mourne mountains.

Back to the pool

Headed to the pool with a new training programme. Was kicked out of my lane by a member of staff who was bringing in a class or something. Grrr!!!!

Managed the following:
200m warm up
200m breathing drills
600m speed training
150m stroke count

Didn't get to finish the stoke count or do a 200m cool down.

But was happy enough with what I got done. From now on, training is going to be more focused on performance rather than just putting in the laps.

Official Timings

Official times:

Overall time: 1:25:26
Swim: 17:47
Transition 1: 3:07
Cycle: 39:17
Transition 2: 1:49
Run: 23:25


Definitely can improve overall by about 5 minutes in the swim, T1 and the cycle. Roll on the next one!

First one down!

Today was the first of four triathlons I plan to do this summer. It was the shortest of the four, and went really well. Even though it was a very warm day, I survived it all. Thanks to all my family for coming out today and supporting me...and for Sophie who shouted the loudest while waving her 'Go Daddy Go' banner!

Swim
Although I had already been to the lake a couple of times to practise, having 400 other people there at the same time is a bit daunting! The first 200 faster swimmers set off first, then I was in the 2nd wave of 200.

The first couple of 100 metres were a bit frantic as people fought for their bit of water. People basically swim over the top of you if you're in their way. But once that frantic bit was over, the swim went ok. The water was actually very pleasant and I just settled into my steady pace.

My split time for the 750 metre swim was around 19 minutes.

However, once out of the water I had real problems getting my wetsuit Velcro strap undone at the back of my neck. Eventually (after a bit of help!) I manged to get the suit off and into my cycling gear.

Bike
Out of the 3 disciples, this was the one I dreaded the most because I had driven around the route a couple of times and it was hilly! But after the initial few climbs, the bike leg actually was quite enjoyable. I passed more people than passed me and completed the 20km in around 40 minutes.

Run
The run was only 3 miles, but I was a bit nervous because over the last few weeks I have realised how unprepared I was for running straight after a hard bike ride. However, my legs didn't have that 'jelly-factor' today, although it was a tough enough little course with a leg-sapping hill at the start of each of the 2 laps. However I did the run in a time of 24 minutes, which I was happy enough with.

Summary
So that's the first one done! The next one is on the 25th July and is a good bit longer: 1500m swim, 28 mile cycle and a 6 mile run. Lots of work to be done between then and now. But at least a lot of the unknowns have been removed.

Cycle then run - wrecked!!

Last night I  headed out for a hard cycle, similar to what it will be like at next week's triathlon. Very hilly, about 12 miles. I pushed hard and was seeing bright flashing lights at one point! It was tough going.

With about 1 mile left to the finish, I took a real bad cramp in my troublesome right calf muscle. Ouch! Got home ok and then headed out for a run.

This is my first real run straight after a cycle - and boy was it weird. The legs just were like jelly and running was very difficult. I ran about a mile, as my calf was still giving me bother.

With one week to go, this has shown me that even though it is a short triathlon, it is still going to be very tough! Oh boy...

First open water swim

I headed out along with a very, very good triathlete this evening to Camlough Lake for my first ever proper open water swim! Peter has years of experience and is one of the top in the sport here in Ireland and I have to say that his calmness and encouragement were greatly appreciated.

I was quite nervous - not so much of the swimming part but more so of all the unknown. How much will I be able to see? How cold? How will the wetsuit feel? How will I cope with sighting and staying on course.

Peter took me around for my first lap (750m). It wasn't as cold as I expected, but cold enough to affect my breathing. Visibility is basically zero in the water - you can barely see your hand in front of you. It's just green. I really struggled the first lap and had to stop quite a few times. Breathing, currents, sighting, the cold, getting used to the wetsuit etc all took their toll.

I took a breather while Peter went on to do his second of three laps. Then I went in and did a whole lap myself without stopping once - well, I had a brief pause just to get lined up with the buoy marker again. I felt much more comfortable this time around - breathing and sighting improved a lot. I still am quite slow compared to most others but I'm happy to have got around - twice.

Thanks to Peter and Paul for their advice - it was greatly appreciated! Although, I wish they hadn't taken me around the bike course....I think I was better off not knowing how hilly it is!! :)

A very warm cycle

Headed out for a cycle today. Shona and the wee ones headed to my in-law's house while I cycled there, taking the long way around: Dromore-Lurgan-Waringstown-Banbridge. Wasn't going for speed - especially a day like this. Nearly had another 'junction incident' - but managed to get a foot unclicked just before falling below the point of no return!!

Some stats from cyclemeter:

Ride Time: 1:15:03
Distance: 18.60 miles
Fastest Speed: 25.55 miles/hr
Climb: 705 feet
Calories: 1339

Early long run

Up early this morning and out at 6am for an 80 minute run. Covered
about 9 miles. A beautiful morning.

Feel my calf strain coming again so applied cool patch.


Some stats:
Avg HR = 153
Calories = 1500





Two weeks from today until first race!!

Another timed swim

Headed today for another 800m swim, straight with no breaks. Timed it and came in at 20m 37s - 50 seconds quicker than earlier this week. I did the 750m (the distance of the first triathlon swim) in just over 19 minutes. Happy with how the swims have went this week. Encouraging, especially remembering back to how tough I found it a few months back.

First cycling fall!!

Headed out for a cycle last night - a 16 miler to Waringstown and back. On the way back I stopped at a junction as there was a car passing, and forgot to unclip my foot from the pedal. My brain just froze and I just keeled over to the side, hitting the ground and lying in a sprawled heap!! It was quite funny - definitely will remember to unclip the next time!

Anyway, I did the 16 miles in 55 minutes and did the 12.5 miles in sub-40 minutes, which was a good indication for the race in 2 weeks.

Swim today at lunchtime.

A timed 800m swim

Headed to the pool and did a straight 800m. That's all it's going to be now until the first triathlon on the 5th June. It's actually only 750m, but I have been informed the water is VERY COLD!!

Anyway, I did the 800m in 21m 23s, which I am happy enough with. I reckon I can go maybe a minute faster, so we'll see next week.

My first open water swim is penciled in for Monday evening!!

Three mile tester

The first triathlon (in less than 3 weeks!) is a short distance race, with the run element covering 3 miles. I haven't had a good go at a 3 mile route for a while now, so I was curious to see how it would go tonight, especially after the interval training over the last couple of months. Over the next 3 weeks in the lead up to the first race, I plan on doing three 3 mile testers - the first of which was tonight.

I was aiming for a time sub 23 minutes and came in at 21m 27s which I was happy with. I would love to get into the 20s and think I will be able to shave perhaps a minute off over the next week or so.

The question is: how quick will I be able to do the 3 miles after having completed a swim and a cycle beforehand??!!

Run & swim yesterday, cycle today

Headed out for a long, slow run yesterday morning. Don't know the distance but ran for 70 minutes, so reckon I did around 8 miles.

I then headed to the pool and swam half a mile (800m), all without a break. I did it in around 23 minutes, so was happy enough.

Out for a cycle this morning. I wanted to increase the distance a little so headed out to Waringstown, then Banbridge and back to Dromore, about 22 miles in total. I used the cyclemeter app on my iPhone. So here is its summary:

Route: New Route
Google Maps URL: http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/e5dd/c2f9/4bc4/5152/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20100516-0932.kml
Ride Time: 1:18:53
Distance: 21.23 miles
Average: 15.55 miles/hr
Fastest Speed: 25.49 miles/hr
Climb: 361 feet
Calories: 1485

Swim yesterday & run today

Headed to the pool for the first swim of the week yesterday at tea-time. Did a short 800m session (2x100m, 1x600m). Just trying to keep things ticking over until the first Tri in a few weeks time.

Out for an early morning run this morning - the last interval training session before the first event. It was tough going this morning as I pushed a bit harder, especially up the hills. For the next 2 weeks, instead of interval training I will be running a nice short 3 miles in preparation for the sprint triathlon.

Just as a reminder, the first triathlon is a short distance one, called a sprint triathlon. It is a 750m swim, 12.5 mile cycle and ending with a 3 mile run. I've a target time in mind, but the object of this one is just to get used to the whole setup and environment. Looking forward to it!!

Out on the new bike

Headed out this morning for a sunrise cycle - the second outing on the new road bike. I covered 14 miles and shaved between 3 and 4 minutes off the time that I was doing it on the mountain bike. It feels good and responsive. However, the hills are a bit harder due to the difference in the gearing. Definitely easier gearing on the mountain bike for uphills - which makes sense! But on the new one I can stand up and pedal which definitely powers me up the hills quicker. So all-in-all, I am happy with it. Just need to up the miles a bit more to get some more endurance into the cycling. But as the first triathlon is only a 12 mile cycle, I'm not too worried about increasing it straight away.

Been a bit lazy with the blogging over the last week. With only three more weeks of full training before the first triathlon, I'll try and keep the updates coming thick and fast!

Back to the pool

It's been a couple of weeks since I last had a proper swim, so was a bit nervous about it today. I went for a short 800m session (4x100m, 2x200m) and it went ok. It took a few lengths just to get back into the breathing patterns again, but after that it was fine. I experimented with some bilateral breathing as well.

I'll hopefully be picking up the new bike this evening and will try to get out on it for a spin later! Excited!

I have a road bike!

A couple of evenings ago we had a visit from a couple from church and they have kindly let me have the loan of a very good road bike that I can use for training and for the three triathlons! It is a carbon fibre bike which means that it very lightweight, which means potentially faster.

So to Ray and Vivienne - THANK YOU!!!

Back to routine - Interval training

Out for an early morning run today. 4.8 miles - various speeds to keep the heart rate moving up and down. Time is not important here as the speed is different, but just for the records I completed it in around 42 minutes.

It's been over a week since I had been out for a run and my legs felt fresh at the beginning. But the big hill in this 2 lap run really zapped me on the second lap! But it's good to be out again.

Enjoying a week of rest!

I am taking this week off to rest and take a break from training, before starting into the last month before the first 'warm-up' triathlon, plus a half marathon in the middle of June. In a funny sort of way, I really miss the training. A week is long time not to do any. Looking forward to getting back to it on Monday!

Thanks to My Family

It's been 5 months now since I started training. It seems like forever and it has become a big part of who I am. A large chunk of my day is spent either thinking about training, reading relevant material or actually doing the physical hard work.

And as it has consumed me, so it has also become a central part in the lives of those with whom I spend the majority of my time: my family. They probably didn't know what they were letting themselves in for, but my triathlon challenge has impacted their lives in a big way too.

I am sure at times they are fed up with it all. But their constant support and encouragement has been amazing. Shona and Sophie have kept an interest in what I am doing that is hard to comprehend. They always are keen to know how my run was, how did the swim go, or how far did I go on the bike. Thank you both - and you too Sam, even though you don't know what's going on!

Apart from the much appreciated emotional support, there's also the practical side of things too. Shona has been great at keeping me supplied with washed kit. No matter what, I can pretty much be certain that there will be clean running/bike/swim gear whenever I need it. Thank you Shona.

One thing that is special about us is that we can pretty much laugh about anything. Again, a big thank you to my family for their sense of humour. From laughing at my first attempt to get into the very tight wetsuit, to finding the funny side of some of my running accessories, to driving alongside me in the car with the windows down while I struggled up a hill on my bike, they have kept smiling and kept me smiling too. Thank you!

I know that I couldn't have gotten this far without my little family. They have put up with me when I've been grumpy and sore, when I've got up early and woken them up, when I've gone out training instead of sitting chatting. For the sacrifices you have all made: thank you!

You deserve as much credit, if not more, for coming through your first triathlon too. You are very special people! And I love you!! :)

Run yesterday, cycle today

Completed this week's long run yesterday, covering nearly 7 miles in just under an hour. I had felt the signs of my calf strain coming again, but thankfully it didn't flare up. I felt fresh at the end which is encouraging.

Headed out on the bike this morning and did around 14.5 miles in around an hour. My legs are tired! I went the back roads to Magheralin, New Forge Road and then home via the Lurgan Road. I am going to look into getting a new bike very soon.

Interval training run - in the sun

My legs were tired after the bike yesterday so the run today was going to be tiring anyway. But this is the first I've had a hard session in the sun. The interval run consists of 2 laps of a 2.4 mile loop, each lap ending just at my house. The route consists of varying inclines, with one very steep and long hill in the middle where I go as hard as I can. I was very nearly stopping after the first lap! My legs were totally gone, but I forced myself to turn and go again and managed to complete it all. The sun was a definite factor today - but something that I need to get used to.

Meant to get out for a swim this afternoon, but not looking likely now as I am wrapped up in a bit of work.

Another proper bike session

Went out on the road again for another cycle. I did the same route as last week, using the cyclemeter software on my iPhone to record the stats. It felt ok - but I'm still not that happy with the bike and it's suitability with cycling the roads for long periods. Might have to look into buying/borrowing one.

Anyway, here are all the stats via cyclemeter:
Finished Ride: 21 Apr 2010 13:00:29
Route: Drumlin 14
Google Maps URL: http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/e5dd/c2f9/4bc4/5152/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20100421-1203.kml
Ride Time: 55:48
Distance: 13.71 miles
Average: 14.75 miles/hr
Fastest Speed: 30.70 miles/hr
Climb: 174 feet
Calories: 904

Light swim

Headed for a swim today but Lisburn pool was in use for a club session. So headed to Banbridge instead. Unfortunately only half the pool was on use for the public so I just used the short lengths to practice bilateral breathing (breathing to both sides). I got the hang of it ok so it was a good session.

Run to end the week

Headed out this morning for an hours run, a slow easy paced recovery run. Covered 6.5 miles and it went well. This run is not about pushing hard or anything. It's just out to keep things ticking over and to keep the endurance up. Over the next few weeks I'm looking to increase this up to around 12 or 13 miles as I have a half marathon lined up for 16th June.

Average hr = 156
Calories = 1163

Long swim

Headed to the pool today for a 1500m swim. I wasn't looking forward to it for some reason, and I think that slightly negative frame of mind affected my session. It took me a few hundred metres to feel comfortable in my stroke. All in all, another session under my belt.

Things I learned from this session: try to keep the stroke long, push right through on both sides, exhale continuously under water.

Here's a good video.

Out on the road

It's been a while since I was out on a real bike and cycling on real roads. It was a good workout, tougher than on the static bike. I used an iPhone app that I just downloaded called cyclemeter and it recorded everything for me:

Finished Ride: 15 Apr 2010 15:18:07
Route: New Route
Google Maps URL: http://maps.google.com/?q=http://share.abvio.com/e5dd/c2f9/4bc4/5152/Cyclemeter-Cycle-20100415-1418.kml
Ride Time: 57:13
Stopped Time: 0:00
Distance: 13.98 miles
Average: 14.16 miles/hr
Fastest Speed: 47.94 miles/hr
Climb: 305 feet
Calories: 1029


Not much else for me to say!!

Triathlon nightmare

I had a very surreal dream last night. It was my first triathlon event & somehow I'd got volunteered into looking after some kids who were doing a kids' race. I was so busy looking after them that I forgot to set up my stuff at the transitions and I also hadn't had a chance to try on my wetsuit yet.

Next thing I know, the hooter goes telling competitors to make their way to the start! Panic! I rush to get my wetsuit on & it is totally wrong. There are big gaping holes in the sides, nevermind the fact that it was far too big.

All I remember is some lady telling me that there's no way I can compete with a wetsuit like it. So I wander back dejected...

And then I woke up!

Short swim

After the run this morning, had breakfast with a friend and then Shona & I both headed to the pool. I completed 800m, in sets of 300, 100 & 400m.

Not sure how beneficial it was, but did swim 400m without a stop so that was good.

I also focused on a little detail which seemed to help my right arm pull. When starting the pull I rotated my elbow ever so slightly. This made my forearm into a better 'paddle' and felt like it gave me more propulsion. Such little details!

Dawn run

Headed out at 6am this beautiful morning for an interval run session. 4.8 miles - slow, fast, medium paced ... and repeat. With the hills it really is a great workout.

Av hr = 156
Max hr = 183
Calories = 863

TV Cycle

Still struggling a bit with a back strain, hence the break for a few days. But back to it tonight with a static bike session...in front of the TV! A 60 min interval session, adjusting the resistance really gave me a good workout. And the TV helped take my mind of things slightly.

Average hr = 146
Max hr = 156
Calories = 956


Looking forward to getting out on the bike, after discovering a tool for the iPhone that a friend has been using. Cyclemeter uses GPS to keep track of routes and times etc. Looks very good!!

Static cycle

So this session was supposed to be on the road, but I hurt my back on Monday night putting Sam into his cot and it is still niggling. Cycling isn't the best thing for sore backs so I decided to just do a static session instead. I did 50 minutes and the back held out ok. My legs felt so tired though!! It's been an intense few days as regards to training.

One run to go - in the morning!

Swim speed check

Went to the pool today to do a shorter session (800m) and to check my times and see if I could do anything to quicken up.

It worked out at around 2 minutes per 100m for short stints. Slower for longer ones. Not that fast. So I'll have to look into that and see if I can swim quicker but still endure long distances.

Although I'd rather swim slow and finish, than swim fast and drown!

Heading for a cycle now.

Quick update: cycle, swim, run

After a bit of a late start this week to training, I managed to get a cycle fitted in on Wednesday night on the static bike. - 55 mins. It's hard enough going as there is no free wheeling!!

Yesterday I managed to fit a swim in and a run. I swam 1500m - which is the longest I'm going to do until June. From now on, I'll keep that as a session and then work on the speed in the 2nd swim weekly session. I came home from the pool and headed out for a 4.8 mile interval training run. Tough going but hopefully it will pay dividends. It was a quite a warm day so I was a little bit drippy by the end of it all!

Just about to head to the pool now with Shona. I plan on doing around 800m and try to get some speed into my stroke.

Long slow run

Finished off March's 5 week schedule with a (deliberately) slow 60 minute run today. It was fine and brings to an end a long, tiring 5 weeks of training. My legs definitely feel tired!

But no rest for a week or so yet, but still have to an April's training!

Bike session - tired legs.

Did 45 minutes on the static bike, keeping HR up around 155. It's been a long month (March - even though we're now in April!) but the end is in sight.

April will see the bike sessions up the time/distance, now that a good base has been built.

60 minute run in the morning and that will see March's schedule come to an end.

Last swim of the month!

Headed for an early swim this morning. It was tough going! I don't know whether it was because I had a late night and early start, or whether I hadn't had any breakfast but it took a while before I felt comfortable and in a groove.

However, I swam 54 lengths, which is 1350 metres. Only a few more to the mile!

I hope to go right after this and do a cycle - so I'll be back soon.

More interval training

Headed out in the cold tonight for a run, mixing up the speeds with a variety of slow, medium & fast sessions. Completed nearly 5 miles over a hilly route which I go around twice.

One of the hills is a steep one and I use it as a fast session. Challenging but rewarding.

Hopefully a cycle tomorrow.

Comfortable swim today

Went to the pool today and swam 1200m, 48 lengths. I did it all mostly without any breaks, apart from waiting on my lane to clear as I was sharing it with 2 other swimmers. With the schools being off for Easter, the pool was packed!


I felt remarkably fresh after the swim, so much so that I doubted myself and how I counted the lengths. But, I didn't miscount and it is a real encouragement to me to be able to swim that distance and still feel like I could keep swimming indefinitely.

Trying to get out for a run later this evening.

Interval training

Headed out for a longish run this evening, and incorporated some interval training, mixing up the pace a bit. I was out for 60 minutes and it was a good workout. I also added some hill work to strengthen the legs a bit.

Bike session

Opted to do another stationery bike session rather than out on the roads. At the moment, it is more efficient because I get more of a work out in a shorter space of time. Today I did 45 minutes, keeping my heart rate between 150-160.

Will attempt to get out next week on the bike - although the weather forecast isn't the most promising.

Pool again

Just back from the pool. Another encouraging session. Swam 42 lengths, which is 1050 metres and swam it mostly in sets of 300m. It felt good and I wasn't too exhausted at the end. Hopefully this will have me in good shape for the first triathlon in a couple of months where the swim is only 750m.

I am looking forward to getting my first open water practice swim out of the way. Still not sure when that will be, but having never done one before I am a little excited/anxious about just how much different it will be from the pool. Obviously it will be cold, murky, more unsettled, etc. But to be honest, any time I've been in the pool there have been about 30 school kids in too and they make some pretty big waves with all their fooling about!

Will hopefully get on the bike later this afternoon.

Back in the pool

Met my sister today for a swim. Planned on doing 900 metres, but ended up doing 1km after a bit of goading from Beccy. Did it all in under 30 minutes which is steady but not too fast.

The good thing today was that I did 6x150m sets, followed by 1x100m. I did the last 2x150s together without a break and without feeling too fatigued, which gave me a real boost.

Hopefully bike tomorrow.

Cycle and run

Ok - so where am I with this training lark! Went out for a cycle at the weekend and did about 12 miles, split with lunch in the middle. It was just a wee introduction back after the stomach bug last week.

Work has been busy over the last week so I had to use the exercise bike last night and did 40 minutes, then headed out for a 20 minute run.

Swim today.

Stomach bug hits

I could run - but couldn't hide! After Sophie and Sam both got knocked down by the tummy bug doing the rounds, it was my turn over the weekend and beginning of the week. The doctor said it was a 5-7 day bug, and boy did it give me some empathy towards how the wee ones must have felt.

So today is the first day that I can say my stomach feels totally back to normal. Needless to say, the training took a hit, even though I was determined to make this month sickness free! I've never been hit with so many little set backs.

On the positive side, I have shed 8lbs! And I'm determined to try to keep it off.

Will try to have a light cycle/run later today.

Swimming target

Headed to the pool today and swam half a mile, 8x100m sets. Felt good, although tiring. But it is a mini milestone and I now look forward to increasing the distance.

Sophie then came in for a swim afterwards and was very good! Blowing bubbles underwater and waving at me on her own. It was fun!

Comfortable swim today

Went to the pool today and did 30 lengths, 750m. Apart from the screaming school kids who were also in for their 'learn how to thrash around in the water' lessons, it was a comfortable session. I really notice things improving and look forward to stepping up the distance over the next few weeks. The one thing I concentrated on today was pushing right through to the end of the stroke with each hand, brushing my hip on the way. It made a difference to the rhythm, which in turn helped the breathing.

First outing on the bike

Headed out this morning on the bike, which has been serviced and fixed. Just went for a short 30 minute ride so as to break my seating muscles!! I headed out the narrow (and hilly) country roads and covered about 7 miles. Not far I know, but it is my first time on a bicycle in around 15 years so I was glad just to survive.

One thing about the bike that I have borrowed is that has a full suspension frame. The guy who serviced the bike, when he heard that I intended doing a triathlon on it, sorted of laughed and wished me all the best. He said that the suspension will absorb a lot of my pushing energy and will bounce a lot. In fact, he said that in the bicycle business these bikes are called 'bouncers'.

I kind of thought 'How bad could it be?', but today I found out! When going up a hill, if you stand up to pedal hard, the bike nearly flips you off because it bounces so much. It really is impossible to stand up and pedal. So I may have to look at getting my hands on a proper road bike. If anyone has a decent one lying around unused and wouldn't mind lending it for a few months, give me a shout.

Short run

Headed out this beautiful, frosty morning for a short 3 mile run. The sky was blue and there wasn't a cloud. I was regretting putting a hat on after a while, because even though it was not much more than freezing, I was very warm with the sun beating down.

But I did it in 22:47 which I was pleased about. My calf muscles held up fine although I was a bit tentative on some of the hilly sections. It was a good workout and I look forward to another good week of training.

On another note, today is the day that I can say that I have lost 1 Stone (14lbs) in weight since starting the training. Yeah! Still another half stone or so to go, but I really made an effort last week to eat sensibly and it paid off. I have bulked up a bit with muscle from the swimming so that inevitably adds more weight than losing the same amount of fat. But this month I'll try to get the other 7lbs off and then I'll be happy.

For the stat geeks:
Average hr = 152
Max hr = 187
Total calories = 408
1 minute recovery = 168 to 134

Update from last week

I hadn't got a chance to update the blog towards the end of last week, so here is a quick update:

I went to go for a cycle on the bike, but realised that it was broken because when I went to pedal the gears went around ok, but there was no drive to the back wheel. So unless I found a hill to freewheel down, it wasn't going to do me much good! I left it in to get looked at so I will hopefully get it today or tomorrow. So on Thursday I used the exercise bike again and did 20 minutes.

On Thursday night and Friday, I had a bit of a dodgy stomach and feared I was coming down with the tummy bug that Sophie and Sam had. But I went to the pool anyway and did 700 metres (4x100m, 4x75m). It was a good swim.

On Saturday I went for a 45 minute run to round off a busy training week.

Yesterday (Sunday) was an enjoyable rest day!

Swim - back to Lurgan pool

I stopped going to Lurgan pool a few months back because it was so dirty. I was that direction today so decided to go to the pool to save some time. I was pleasantly surprised to see that it had been cleaned and the floor of the pool is now back to its original white colour. It is a bit more expensive though so I think I will still go to Lisburn, but at least it's an option again.

I swam 650m today, consisting of 2x100m sets and 6x75m. It went ok. Tiring but could have kept going.

Cycle tomorrow - on the exercise bike again as I haven't had the chance to get my bike looked at yet.

Survived the calf test

First run today in nearly 3 weeks and my calf muscles came through fine. No niggles or pains at all. I did 30 minutes and it was a good one for blowing away the cobwebs.

For the stat geeks:
Average hr = 156
Max hr = 182
Total calories = 573
1 minute recovery: 157 to 131

A swim tomorrow.

First cycle - sort of...

Well, I got the bike on Friday and think it might need a service. I also am going to look into getting road tyres on it. Plus I have to get myself a helmet. So some stuff to sort out.

So I did 20 minutes today on a stationary/exercise bike out on my garage. If I am totally honest, I haven't been on a bicycle for about 20 years!! So even though my heart rate wasn't overly high, my legs were like jelly after just 20 minutes...lots of progress to be made.

The training schedule is crammed full this month, so lots of blogging to be expected.

Triathlon dates confirmed!

Crooked Lake Triathlon : 5th June 2010

Mourne Triathlon: 7th August 2010

Half Ireman: 22nd August 2010

(There's a gap in July for one so I'll see how things are going and maybe enter nearer the time.)

Easing back into it with a light swim

It's been a while! For the last 2 weeks I have had calf strains and a bad head cold, which was threatening to hit my chest. Because I have asthma, I didn't want to risk it with my chest so I took the time off training. It's still early days and I didn't want to make things worse.

Today I went to the pool and swam 700m. I did 2 sets of 100m, followed by 6x75m and then finished off with a 50m. Two weeks actually makes a difference to endurance and the rhythm of swimming. Hopefully I won't have to have a break of so long again over the next four months.

Ia m going to try and get out for a light run tomorrow to see how the calf muscles are. Fingers crossed that they are ok!

Also hoping to pick up a bike tomorrow from a relative and start cycling next week - Ouch!!

No runs next week

This calf strain that I've had for a week or so is still giving me trouble. Every now and then I get cramp-like pains from it. It's tender and there's also a bit of bruising. So I'm giving the running a break for the next week and will do some cross-trainer instead to keep the lungs active. And of course the swimming will still be there too!

Hopefully a bit of rest will put things right.

A little swimming milestone

Today I swam 750 metres in 10 sets of 75m. Nearly half a mile. Next week I start to work to the half mile in sets of 100m. By the end of the month I will be there. Today was the last session made up entirely of 75m sets. It might not sound like much of a milestone but those are the little things that keep me going.

My calf muscles are still tender and every now and then seem to cramp up. I have looked it up on the web and with my medical knowledge(!) I reckon I have a grade 2 calf strain. So I don't think I will run tomorrow but instead give it a another few days rest. Hopefully by Tuesday things will have settled a bit.

Over a minute improvement

Just back from a 3 mile run and I shaved 1 minute 11 seconds off last week's time. Today I did it in 23:53. Not mind blowingly fast, but a step in the right direction. I think my best time ever was around 21 minutes, a couple of years ago. So still room for more improvement.

This is going to sound a bit too run-geeky, but I read up on running technique and put a few pointers into practice today - and they obviously have worked. Some of the tips included: leaning forward more while running, shorter and quicker stride, not landing on my heel but rather on the mid foot.

Ah it's only Tuesday and I've already a swim and a run complete. Feels good to have them out of the way!!

And so the week begins...

...with a swim. Managed to squeeze out 700m today and felt nicely tired afterwards, if that makes sense. I did 9x75m sets and then an extra length to get down to the right end again!!

Nothing much else to say except it bugs the life out of me when people get in the pool right where you are swimming and just start swimming across your lane! Three women clambered in today and started having a swimming lesson right in the lane I had been swimming up and down for the previous 15 minutes. Even though there were two free lanes beside us...grrrr!

(Rant over)

End of week run

I was a bit tentative this morning heading out as my calf still wasn't 100%, but it was a long, slow 50 minute run and I didn't have to push too much. I covered just under 5 miles and my calves both were quite strained for the first 10 minutes or so. But thankfully they have come through fine.

I'm going to try to get for a swim tomorrow and get the week started off early as I don't like bunching things up at the end of the week i.e. like today running on a Sunday.

Thanks for reading!

For the stat geeks:
Average hr = 153
Max hr = 171
Calories = 897
1 minute recovery = from 149 to 124

Another good swim

Just back from the pool and without tempting fate, it was another good session. I did 600m and felt really good after it. Shoulders were tired but not too bad. So it looks like the endurance is starting to build and it's now becoming enjoyable. I'm looking forward to getting up to the half mile mark (800m), as that will be the first big milestone.

My calf is still very sore from yesterday's run. So not sure if I'll get out for a run tomorrow, perhaps Sunday.

Running in the Rain

Went for a 3 mile run today - in the rain. Although it is better than in the snow, and actually better than in the sun. And better than in the wind. Better than in the dry??? Mmmm - not sure. In a strange way I don't feel so thirsty when it's raining so perhaps rainy runs really are my favourite.

I felt my right calf strain a little not far into the run, and it has tightened up a bit since I've got back. Will have to apply a cold patch.

I tried something out today with my stride length - shortened and quicker strides. Just to see if my legs felt fresher. And they did, but my time was 10 seconds slower than last week. So perhaps not much point in it. But I remember trying it out when I did a couple of half marathons in 2008 and it definitely made a difference. I might give it another go.

Swim tomorrow and then a run on Saturday or Sunday.
Well, thanks for reading.
Look after yourself.

Thirsty swim!

Back from the pool. Must have swallowed half the pool today! Funny thing is how chlorinated water gives me serious wind, up the way. Anyone else find that??? :)

Anyway, today I swam 550m and I managed to finish it ok although it was tough enough near the end. There was another man swimming next to me and he was much faster than me, but I think subconsciously I was doing my best to keep up with him. Needless to say, I didn't. But some day...

My back is still niggling me. I have tingles down my left leg and if I've been sitting for a while it takes me a few steps before I can walk properly. But it is improving so that is the main thing. I am not taking any more anti-inflammatories either.

Run tomorrow at some stage if I can fit it in, as tomorrow is a busy day.

Thanks for reading!

Long run completes the week

Snow again!!! But it's not too bad - just a wee light covering and nothing to really interfere with my run this morning. Went for a nice slow 45 minute run which was about 4.5 miles. My back held up ok and I really noticed today that my heart and lungs have improved a lot over the last couple of months. It's always good to see and feel progress!

So that's the end of January. I have to sit down and plan out February over the weekend. And then in March I might venture out on the bike and get to grips with it. But first, I have to get a bike!

Thanks for reading. I'll be back next week.

ps - nearly forgot - for the stat geeks:
Average hr = 154
Peak hr = 174
Total calories = 816
1 minute recovery = 147 to 123

Another good swim

Just back from the pool. Increased the distance today and things held together pretty well again. Just concentrated on breathing and rolling and it all seemed to go well. I am doing it in sets of 75m, with a bit of a breather in between. So today I did 450m, which for those not as skilled as Carol Vorderman equates to 6 x 75m.

I still have to do a 45 minute run tomorrow to finish off this week. I strained my back yesterday...sneezing! Yep - that's right. For those who don't know me, I have had back problems in the past and have 3 discs in my back which are damaged. So I have been walking a wee bit funny the last two days but with plenty of anti-inflammatories and a bit of rest, it seems to have settled a bit.

Thanks for reading!

Definite improvement!

Just out of the pool and things went much better today. Swam 400m (not a massive distance!) and felt pretty fresh after it. I just concentrated on technique and breathing.

I really wasn't looking forward to it today but I am so glad it went ok. I'm just going to gradually keep increasing the distance each session.

A 45 minute run tomorrow and then another swim on Friday.

Thanks for reading!

Back to it...for real!

After a couple of slack weeks, training is back up to full swing again...




For the stat geeks:
Total time = 25m40s
Average hr = 153
Max hr = 183
Calories = 463
1 minute recovery = 167 down to 134

Back to it again

After a week off, it was back to the roads today for a bit of a run. Much different from the last time I was out: there wasn't a bit of snow in sight!! I did three miles today, averaging at about eight and a half minutes per mile. A nice pace just to get back into things again although I did find it tough enough. But it's good to be out again and I look forward to the pool tomorrow.

For the stat geeks:
Average hr = 167
Max hr = 187
Calories = 569
1 minute recovery = 157 to 134

No training this week

We've been hit by a tummy bug that has been doing the rounds and although I'm not as bad as Shona or little Sam, I think I might just use this to take a break training for this week only.

Looking forward to getting stuck in again next week!

Swimming re-assessment

Went to the pool today. Was supposed to be 500m timed session. But really couldn't face the whole timing lark when I know that I need to nail my technique. I know I always seem to be harping on about technique, but I feel there's no point building up the distance and speed if I am not executing properly.

So I did 550 metres today in sets of 50m, just trying to focus a different component of the stroke on each set. I did come away feeling that I was swimming better, but knowing that I have a lot of work to do! I really need to build up my endurance and I think this is more important than speed. It's better to finish slowly, than start quickly and then drown!

So, away with the stop watch for now and I will be building up the overall distance and the length of each set.

Catch-up blog post: swim and run

On Monday, I was at the pool and swam 500 metres, the last 300 metres being timed 100m sets. The times for each of the last 100 metres were: 2:05, 2:13, 2:20. This met the target of being sub 2:20. I am still not too happy with my technique. I just feel something is missing but hopefully that will come soon enough. It's still early days.


Just been out for a run in the snowy-snowy conditions. It's snowing heavily right now as I look out my office window. I did the 3 mile loop again, the same one that I strained my calf last week. The calf held up fine today - plenty of deep heat rubbed in prior to leaving. However, the time was a full minute slower! This was all down to the conditions underfoot. The majority of the run had at least an inch of snow, which made it feel like running on sand. Very tiring and my lungs and heart were working very hard! But it always feels good once it's finished.

If these conditions persist over the next couple of weeks, I may have to forget about timed 3 mile runs but we will see how things turn out.

Ouch! Calf strain.

Another snowy run this morning around a 3 mile loop consisting of narrow country roads. The aim was to complete it in less than 25 minutes, but taking into consideration the snow conditions I was happy enough with 25:35. The roads and fields were white with snow - it was very nice to look at.

The last few hundred yards brought on a sharp pain in my left calf, which has now seized up. Have had a good rub with plenty of Deep Heat. Never had any calf problems before so hopefully it will wear off over the next couple of days. Next run is planned for Tuesday.

Hope you had a good start to 2010! See you next week...