Week 2
My Triathlon Journey
Hi all! So I completed my first official week on the road with my bike but week 3 into my tri-training. I've been receiving tons of advice regarding what to expect during the race. Now, I love direction and tips from professionals in the field but some of the "caution" and "look out for" comments has me a bit worried. So a lot of the women have stated "in the water don't freak out about it's murkiness (the sprint swim is in a lake here in Florida) yes, there might be some leaked sewage from the nearest garbage plant but you'll be ok, just keep your mouth closed"...wait...what? oh and my fave " you might get kicked, scratched and/or punched but it's the norm just keep it moving and you'll be fine". LOL ooook! Yeah, sure! needless to say yes, I am still going to go through with it! Look, I've committed to doing this crazy, nearly impossible race and i'm going to see it through.
It was a beautiful afternoon on Tuesday, I got home fixed my son and daughter dinner (because I didn't prep on Sunday) then started to get ready for a ride. I thought to myself I need to get on the road with this bike. So, at that moment I thought lets make this a brick work out. If i'm going to do it why not get some training in. So I left my home to start the cycling portion of my training. It was windy and I was excited NO HUMIDITY!! getting on the bike was comical to say the least. I decided to stay on the side walk, I didn't feel secure getting on the road yet. So I knew the route i was going to take, I planned on doing about 15 miles to start, I've done some distance already at the Dog House Training Center on my bike so I was confident in doing that much on the road...sidewalk. As i'm riding my first experience was this clicking sound I've never heard so I stopped, got off the bike and started to investigate what could be the issue. I couldn't really figure it out but I did see that the front wheel needed to be tightened. I got back on the bike (and I have to say me getting on is hilarious) once I start of course there is a bit of wiggling around. In the midst of the wiggle i'm telling myself "don't fall fab, don't fall". So, some kids biked passed me as I'm riding and I must admit I got a bit freaked out because it was un-expected. Now note to anyone starting off...don't freak out! Being on a road bike is totally different than your typical bicycle. It's super light and you can easily loose your grip if your not seated properly and balancing your self. Not to mention you have these shoes that are clipped in to the pedals. So un-clipping is another story, but you just can't "hop off" (remember this vital part of the clips because it will make sense later in my blog)
So I'm at mile 2 1/2 and let's just say the ride thus-far was interesting. Remember I said YAY to the wind...well that's the worst a cyclist can experience while riding. The bike wiggled a bit and there are moments I had to really take this time to practice techniques. Not to mention trying not to fall during the curves. Now I see that I can cross the street the light is red, fairly no traffic, i'm good. UH NO! the light on the other side all of a sudden turns green so I un-clip one side and hop of to my right. Now when one side turns green what do you think happens to the other side? Yeah, it turns green as well. I forgot my left foot was clipped in so I start to reverse. Yeah I reversed on my tail because I sure as heck fell down on the ground!! I was so embarrassed! Yet I found myself laughing and laughing hard. I remembered a comment from a fellow triathlete from the Dog House. He said "you're not a true triathlete until you've fallen off of your bike" so, as I was laughing I said out loud "I'm official" LOL. I picked myself back up and started to ride again. Yes for the moment I was a bit afraid. I feared falling off again. I feared hurting myself. Yet I said "God, carry me through this" and I kept moving. We can be the source of discouragement at times, allowing the negative thoughts to seep in and tell us "you can't go on" When were placed in a situation that creates fear, sometimes we allow that fear to take over, limiting further success or completion of a task.
Yes, I know this challenge can be difficult but I set my sights to reach a goal and I am determined to reach them. I ended up turning back, and headed home. I placed my bike back in the house, laced up my brooks and set out to run. This was my first official "Brick" run so I wondered after riding would I have enough endurance for the run. I did! The beginning felt totally weird, my legs were shaking and I started off slow. However, I was able to pick up the pace and ran the miles I set before me. Now granted I only did 3.1 at a 10:15 pace (which sucks for me) but I finished it. I felt great!! I was tired but not out of breath. My legs were sore but nothing painful. The next day I went to my usually tri-training session at the Dog House and felt great, I even completed what was a light 1/2 mile run and increased my pace through it. I was surprised at my bodies reaction to all of the training I've had so far. Thursday morning I decided to finally run with the Northwest Broward Running Group at 5 am. I thought "ok, could I do this"? hummm I think I can! I ended up running at a 10:45 pace but I completed 4.5 miles and did not feel tired after. I knew I had the capability of running faster and longer. All of these improvements I give total credit to all of the training I've been receiving.
Being apart of the Boca Triathlete Initiative women's group defiantly has it's perks. We were set out to have a "Mock" tri bright and early Saturday Morning in Palm Beach. Now I live about 45 mins away from the exact location of where we were training. It's literally 11 miles away from Miro Largo ( our President's home away from home) It's so beautiful. So when we got there, the plan was to now do a mock Dualthlon. So we gathered together after receiving instructions by the amazing Richard from Go Athletics of Florida. He is a retired multi-athlete (iron man, triathlon you name it he's done it multiple times) We planned on running a mile, cycling for 10 miles and running for 2. My first mock was nothing short of what I really needed to get my mind prepared for what's to come. I can honestly say that I did really well. The ride was perfect! Along the route it was non-stop oceanic views,it was the type of scenery any rider would hope for. You just never want to stop! After the session, I was ready to leave and head back home but some of the ladies opted to have breakfast. I figured this was the perfect time to really get to know everyone and connect as women all looking to achieve one goal...to complete a triathlon.
I have to say each member I sat with that morning had their own inspiring story of what pulled them to trying this for the first time. It wasn't about competition, it was about a personal goal. Getting out of their comfort zone and pushing through odds that of course we're all faced with. It was encouraging to be among them. My spirit received what it needed and this group showed me how much more I was capable of achieving. These women (some in their 40- 50's) decided to challenge themselves and to do it for fun lol. One other named Heidi, it wasn't all about fun for her but pure determination. I cant tell you how much I needed a Heidi in my life. This women has done what men would dare to say would be difficult for a woman to do.I immediately was inspired by her. This sport has so far won my heart but I won't lie getting on and off that bike is without a doubt what I fear the most. Cycling is not like riding a "typical" bike ok! It is totally different and you literally have to trust your self, take risks and fall. I, through this process have to get through those fears and im ready for it. You will find as a newbie triathlete so much area's to fear but around from that are feelings of pure bliss every time you accomplish overcoming your fears.
I have to say i'm a lucky girl! I've been apart of so many different groups all of which continue to help me become a better athlete. Everyone needs a Luc in their lives!! He has set out to coach others to reach whatever goal they have. His own personal time dedicated to others...who does that? I thank god for luc along with all the men and women who run and train along side him! God has surrounded me with people who consistently encourages me to be better than what I was before! Training with the Boca-Tri Initiative crew has added so much purpose in my life. I cannot say how extremely helpful the Dog House Coach/trainer Rick has done for my cycling technique amazing man...amazing place! I can't say enough how thankful I am for the Rockstar Beachbody Coaches that i'm apart of, talk about tough, athletic, fit, inspiring women!
You see I had a goal and 2 weeks in i'm realizing that no matter what my fears are, God will always place the right people in my path to help me along the way. Understand you will find the same group of people when you decided to get up and go for what you desire. You will never know how hard it is until you try! Here's to week 3...and 6 more until race day!
My Triathlon Journey
Hi all! So I completed my first official week on the road with my bike but week 3 into my tri-training. I've been receiving tons of advice regarding what to expect during the race. Now, I love direction and tips from professionals in the field but some of the "caution" and "look out for" comments has me a bit worried. So a lot of the women have stated "in the water don't freak out about it's murkiness (the sprint swim is in a lake here in Florida) yes, there might be some leaked sewage from the nearest garbage plant but you'll be ok, just keep your mouth closed"...wait...what? oh and my fave " you might get kicked, scratched and/or punched but it's the norm just keep it moving and you'll be fine". LOL ooook! Yeah, sure! needless to say yes, I am still going to go through with it! Look, I've committed to doing this crazy, nearly impossible race and i'm going to see it through.
It was a beautiful afternoon on Tuesday, I got home fixed my son and daughter dinner (because I didn't prep on Sunday) then started to get ready for a ride. I thought to myself I need to get on the road with this bike. So, at that moment I thought lets make this a brick work out. If i'm going to do it why not get some training in. So I left my home to start the cycling portion of my training. It was windy and I was excited NO HUMIDITY!! getting on the bike was comical to say the least. I decided to stay on the side walk, I didn't feel secure getting on the road yet. So I knew the route i was going to take, I planned on doing about 15 miles to start, I've done some distance already at the Dog House Training Center on my bike so I was confident in doing that much on the road...sidewalk. As i'm riding my first experience was this clicking sound I've never heard so I stopped, got off the bike and started to investigate what could be the issue. I couldn't really figure it out but I did see that the front wheel needed to be tightened. I got back on the bike (and I have to say me getting on is hilarious) once I start of course there is a bit of wiggling around. In the midst of the wiggle i'm telling myself "don't fall fab, don't fall". So, some kids biked passed me as I'm riding and I must admit I got a bit freaked out because it was un-expected. Now note to anyone starting off...don't freak out! Being on a road bike is totally different than your typical bicycle. It's super light and you can easily loose your grip if your not seated properly and balancing your self. Not to mention you have these shoes that are clipped in to the pedals. So un-clipping is another story, but you just can't "hop off" (remember this vital part of the clips because it will make sense later in my blog)
So I'm at mile 2 1/2 and let's just say the ride thus-far was interesting. Remember I said YAY to the wind...well that's the worst a cyclist can experience while riding. The bike wiggled a bit and there are moments I had to really take this time to practice techniques. Not to mention trying not to fall during the curves. Now I see that I can cross the street the light is red, fairly no traffic, i'm good. UH NO! the light on the other side all of a sudden turns green so I un-clip one side and hop of to my right. Now when one side turns green what do you think happens to the other side? Yeah, it turns green as well. I forgot my left foot was clipped in so I start to reverse. Yeah I reversed on my tail because I sure as heck fell down on the ground!! I was so embarrassed! Yet I found myself laughing and laughing hard. I remembered a comment from a fellow triathlete from the Dog House. He said "you're not a true triathlete until you've fallen off of your bike" so, as I was laughing I said out loud "I'm official" LOL. I picked myself back up and started to ride again. Yes for the moment I was a bit afraid. I feared falling off again. I feared hurting myself. Yet I said "God, carry me through this" and I kept moving. We can be the source of discouragement at times, allowing the negative thoughts to seep in and tell us "you can't go on" When were placed in a situation that creates fear, sometimes we allow that fear to take over, limiting further success or completion of a task.
Yes, I know this challenge can be difficult but I set my sights to reach a goal and I am determined to reach them. I ended up turning back, and headed home. I placed my bike back in the house, laced up my brooks and set out to run. This was my first official "Brick" run so I wondered after riding would I have enough endurance for the run. I did! The beginning felt totally weird, my legs were shaking and I started off slow. However, I was able to pick up the pace and ran the miles I set before me. Now granted I only did 3.1 at a 10:15 pace (which sucks for me) but I finished it. I felt great!! I was tired but not out of breath. My legs were sore but nothing painful. The next day I went to my usually tri-training session at the Dog House and felt great, I even completed what was a light 1/2 mile run and increased my pace through it. I was surprised at my bodies reaction to all of the training I've had so far. Thursday morning I decided to finally run with the Northwest Broward Running Group at 5 am. I thought "ok, could I do this"? hummm I think I can! I ended up running at a 10:45 pace but I completed 4.5 miles and did not feel tired after. I knew I had the capability of running faster and longer. All of these improvements I give total credit to all of the training I've been receiving.
Being apart of the Boca Triathlete Initiative women's group defiantly has it's perks. We were set out to have a "Mock" tri bright and early Saturday Morning in Palm Beach. Now I live about 45 mins away from the exact location of where we were training. It's literally 11 miles away from Miro Largo ( our President's home away from home) It's so beautiful. So when we got there, the plan was to now do a mock Dualthlon. So we gathered together after receiving instructions by the amazing Richard from Go Athletics of Florida. He is a retired multi-athlete (iron man, triathlon you name it he's done it multiple times) We planned on running a mile, cycling for 10 miles and running for 2. My first mock was nothing short of what I really needed to get my mind prepared for what's to come. I can honestly say that I did really well. The ride was perfect! Along the route it was non-stop oceanic views,it was the type of scenery any rider would hope for. You just never want to stop! After the session, I was ready to leave and head back home but some of the ladies opted to have breakfast. I figured this was the perfect time to really get to know everyone and connect as women all looking to achieve one goal...to complete a triathlon.
I have to say each member I sat with that morning had their own inspiring story of what pulled them to trying this for the first time. It wasn't about competition, it was about a personal goal. Getting out of their comfort zone and pushing through odds that of course we're all faced with. It was encouraging to be among them. My spirit received what it needed and this group showed me how much more I was capable of achieving. These women (some in their 40- 50's) decided to challenge themselves and to do it for fun lol. One other named Heidi, it wasn't all about fun for her but pure determination. I cant tell you how much I needed a Heidi in my life. This women has done what men would dare to say would be difficult for a woman to do.I immediately was inspired by her. This sport has so far won my heart but I won't lie getting on and off that bike is without a doubt what I fear the most. Cycling is not like riding a "typical" bike ok! It is totally different and you literally have to trust your self, take risks and fall. I, through this process have to get through those fears and im ready for it. You will find as a newbie triathlete so much area's to fear but around from that are feelings of pure bliss every time you accomplish overcoming your fears.
I have to say i'm a lucky girl! I've been apart of so many different groups all of which continue to help me become a better athlete. Everyone needs a Luc in their lives!! He has set out to coach others to reach whatever goal they have. His own personal time dedicated to others...who does that? I thank god for luc along with all the men and women who run and train along side him! God has surrounded me with people who consistently encourages me to be better than what I was before! Training with the Boca-Tri Initiative crew has added so much purpose in my life. I cannot say how extremely helpful the Dog House Coach/trainer Rick has done for my cycling technique amazing man...amazing place! I can't say enough how thankful I am for the Rockstar Beachbody Coaches that i'm apart of, talk about tough, athletic, fit, inspiring women!
You see I had a goal and 2 weeks in i'm realizing that no matter what my fears are, God will always place the right people in my path to help me along the way. Understand you will find the same group of people when you decided to get up and go for what you desire. You will never know how hard it is until you try! Here's to week 3...and 6 more until race day!
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