Well my back is tweaked. It's been a long while since I've last said something like that. I'm very pleased to be writing it a week before a race. Grrrr.
It isn't even a training related injury. It's typically caused by too much sitting in a bad chair. Long Road trips in the car, bad seats on the train... I actually carry a back "pillow" for the train. That often gets me an odd look but I guess I've been doing that for 6-7 years now, I don't even think about it.
I didn't workout last night because I didn't want to inflame the nerve and make this worse. I'm not going to take any ibuprofen or anything unless the Dr. tells me that I should. I'd hate to mask the problem, only to make it worse.
I think I'm misaligned so that my hips are tilted, left/right. So some nerve is somewhat pinched causing the glutes on the left side to be tight. Which then causes a chain reaction of range of motion issues. For example, sitting in a chair, if I extend my left leg straight out, I get complaints from my hamstrings, through the glutes and into my lower back.
This would probably get better on it's own if I take it easy in about 4 days. I don't have 4 days!
I'm hoping when I call the Chiropractor today Dr Mark will be available. He is the best, worth the drive to get to his office. I wonder how many times I've mentioned him on the blog so far?
Even with the adjustment, I'm guessing I shouldn't run any sooner than Sunday. As for swimming and biking, I'll just have to see how it feels and decide. Maybe I'll be doing a ton of no kick swimming in the wetsuit this weekend. (my kick is pathetic anyhow, it won't be missed).
Well, I'll let you know how it goes. I haven't been there in awhile. Maybe if I explain to him I've got 2 races in 2 weeks he will hit my lower back with the electrostim after the adjustment to get rid of that cramp. It's sad that I'm so familiar with these therapies.
The time I wasn't training last night was well spent. I have scheduled a fundraiser at Red Sky, a bar in Manhattan on Wednesday May 21st. (Yeah, I'll miss swim class. That is if the Y is open by then). I worked on putting together an evite for that as well. I have no idea how well attended this party will be. I am hopeful, it could be a very good time. It's also great motivation to physically see how many people are supporting this effort.
Genine sent $900 in checks to the fundraiser today. We will see that added to the total on the website sometime next week. Our $10,000 goal looks more within reach every day.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Shrink Wrapped in DeSoto
I should have taken the wetsuit to the pool tonight. We practically had the place to ourselves.
I did try it on after the swim. Just to make sure it was close to the right size. It seems to fit well. I'll have to work on getting it on without the creases. Of course the real test is in the pool. I need to make sure water doesn't pool within the suit. Doesn't seem like there is room to do that, but I'll reserve judgement. More later.
I did try it on after the swim. Just to make sure it was close to the right size. It seems to fit well. I'll have to work on getting it on without the creases. Of course the real test is in the pool. I need to make sure water doesn't pool within the suit. Doesn't seem like there is room to do that, but I'll reserve judgement. More later.
Water Temps
A few links for Water Temps.
http://wmw.lrp.usace.army.mil/current/wa.html
Shows Mon River as well as the Allegheny. Just about 10 degrees C, both places.
Pemmigewasset River @ Plymouth, Nh just a little north of Bristol. No Water Temp at Bristol. 4.4 degrees C.
https://rsgis.crrel.usace.army.mil/nae/pls/nae/nae_web.nae_webmenu.displaymenu?menu=hydro
Couldn't find the temp for the Bassman. Hope it warms up quick because it probably still has a 5 in front of it.
I give you this because I am slated to start swimming in the Mon River May 7, then every Wednesday there after. Hoping to gain about 4 degrees C to make bearable even with wetsuit.
I got a connection to the WVU Rec Center. I have to pay for guest pass, but this should be nice.
http://wmw.lrp.usace.army.mil/current/wa.html
Shows Mon River as well as the Allegheny. Just about 10 degrees C, both places.
Pemmigewasset River @ Plymouth, Nh just a little north of Bristol. No Water Temp at Bristol. 4.4 degrees C.
https://rsgis.crrel.usace.army.mil/nae/pls/nae/nae_web.nae_webmenu.displaymenu?menu=hydro
Couldn't find the temp for the Bassman. Hope it warms up quick because it probably still has a 5 in front of it.
I give you this because I am slated to start swimming in the Mon River May 7, then every Wednesday there after. Hoping to gain about 4 degrees C to make bearable even with wetsuit.
I got a connection to the WVU Rec Center. I have to pay for guest pass, but this should be nice.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Genine's Tour de France
Genine also did the Mooseman bike this weekend. Only she wasn't as sure of the route. I figured she and Eric would stick together and everything would work out. Well that didn't happen.
Genine added a climb to the route. Check out the elevation map!! Devil's Hill (mile 14-15) is a bump in comparison!!!
So she put in a seriously long ride on Sunday. She was hurtin' at the end of it but has no ill effects the next day. She thinks the cold was probably the biggest cause of the pain.
I'd thank her for finding a hill climb for me to practice on, but I don't think I could attempt it with a double. I'm guessing I'll find out in July while we are on vacation. I'll have to give it a try.
Genine added a climb to the route. Check out the elevation map!! Devil's Hill (mile 14-15) is a bump in comparison!!!
So she put in a seriously long ride on Sunday. She was hurtin' at the end of it but has no ill effects the next day. She thinks the cold was probably the biggest cause of the pain.
I'd thank her for finding a hill climb for me to practice on, but I don't think I could attempt it with a double. I'm guessing I'll find out in July while we are on vacation. I'll have to give it a try.
Speaking of Devil's Hill
Previously posted forum topic on the Devil's Hill in question
http://timbermantri.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2014
Previously Posted bike loop for the Mooseman. Two up hills next to each other mile 5 to 6.
The Mooseman Bike
http://timbermantri.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2014
Previously Posted bike loop for the Mooseman. Two up hills next to each other mile 5 to 6.
The Mooseman Bike
Sunday, April 13, 2008
NH Trip
It was a beautiful Saturday. It was about 70 degrees. I ran 9 miles late morning. Nice to have some different terrain to run on. I probably should have done a few more miles but knowing that we were going to do the Mooseman bike tomorrow I figured it was enough. As it turned out we took a bike ride later that afternoon, definitely took advantage of the nice day.
Sunday, not so nice. 42 degrees and mostly cloudy and it could rain. Well, it didn't rain. It snowed a bit instead.
Well here is the picture you guys were looking for. Devil's Hill
And even better. Newfound Lake. Still looking a bit cold.
Because of all the snow in NH this year. We were concerned that our barn might not have made it through all the snow. I wonder how much was stacked up when it was at it's worst, if this is what it looks like now.
Enough with the slide show. 27 mile bike. 1:43:00. Frozen toes but I still put on my running shoes at the end and ran a mile or two to work through the crazy bike legs. To be honest my lower back was more of an issue. (bike fit issue or just bad back strength?).
That is not an amazing bike time. I am not an amazing biker. Could I be faster for the race? Probably. How? Three things come to mind.
1) Warmer Weather.
2) Stand up to stretch out my legs a bit more often. I went from the north end of the lake all the way to Cass Mill without hopping up out of the saddle. I'll have to look at the map later to figure out the distance.
3) Gu, Gels, Calories. Gotta keep those legs fueled up.
Sadly, I didn't remember to delete the old files off my watch before this bike. So I ran out a memory on the watch when I reached Bristol and started on the RT104 section. Seeing the power numbers for the 2nd half of the bike would have been interesting. Sharp fall off for sure.
I probably pushed too hard on the first half my average was 180 watts and 18mph. As we've seen from my trainer rides 155 watts seems to be more in my zone. No biggie. Gives me something to work on.
Just to get some perspective, I looked up results from last year. It looks like if I can find this 70 year old guy named Fred from last year. He could pace me. And I should be able to watch him cross the finish line about 100 yards ahead of me. Him and 450 others. Ha ha.
Sunday, not so nice. 42 degrees and mostly cloudy and it could rain. Well, it didn't rain. It snowed a bit instead.
Well here is the picture you guys were looking for. Devil's Hill
And even better. Newfound Lake. Still looking a bit cold.
Because of all the snow in NH this year. We were concerned that our barn might not have made it through all the snow. I wonder how much was stacked up when it was at it's worst, if this is what it looks like now.
Enough with the slide show. 27 mile bike. 1:43:00. Frozen toes but I still put on my running shoes at the end and ran a mile or two to work through the crazy bike legs. To be honest my lower back was more of an issue. (bike fit issue or just bad back strength?).
That is not an amazing bike time. I am not an amazing biker. Could I be faster for the race? Probably. How? Three things come to mind.
1) Warmer Weather.
2) Stand up to stretch out my legs a bit more often. I went from the north end of the lake all the way to Cass Mill without hopping up out of the saddle. I'll have to look at the map later to figure out the distance.
3) Gu, Gels, Calories. Gotta keep those legs fueled up.
Sadly, I didn't remember to delete the old files off my watch before this bike. So I ran out a memory on the watch when I reached Bristol and started on the RT104 section. Seeing the power numbers for the 2nd half of the bike would have been interesting. Sharp fall off for sure.
I probably pushed too hard on the first half my average was 180 watts and 18mph. As we've seen from my trainer rides 155 watts seems to be more in my zone. No biggie. Gives me something to work on.
Just to get some perspective, I looked up results from last year. It looks like if I can find this 70 year old guy named Fred from last year. He could pace me. And I should be able to watch him cross the finish line about 100 yards ahead of me. Him and 450 others. Ha ha.
Friday, April 11, 2008
The Watchmen
I'm currently re-reading the "Watchmen", which will soon be a movie.
You might have read this 20 years ago when we were up in NH, I'm fairly certain Bill or Dan brought a copy.
Going back and forth between wetsuits and watchmen made me wonder. What would an open water swim start would look like if wetsuit manufacturers started adding designs.
(This is where if I had time, I could photoshop some Captain America's and Mr Incredible's into a swim start photo). I suppose some would be intimidated by seeing all these "superheros".
There would be a market for them don't you think? I've seen people that go so far as to match bike, jersey, helmet and tires.
Anyhow, if you find yourself nervous before the swim start. Think of this post, look around and visualize some as superheros and try to name them. I'm sure some would be quite comical.
Classic SNL: Superhero Party
Antman: [high-pitched voice] You don't remember me? We met several times. I is Antman. A-N-T-M-A-N.
The Flash: Oh, right, right.
Antman: Yeah.
The Flash: Uh, Antman.
Antman: Yeah.
The Flash: What are your super powers again? You - you - you talk to the ants, is that it?
Antman: Well, partly. But, mainly, I shrink myself down to the size of an ant while retaining my full human strength.
The Flash: Really?
Antman: Yeah.
The Flash: [sarcastic] Oooh, that's really impressive. Size of an ant with human strength. You must be able to clean house on those other ants, huh? [chuckles] Hey! Hey, Hulk! Hey, check this guy out. He's got the strength of a human!
The Hulk: Oh, better stay out of this guy's way.
You might have read this 20 years ago when we were up in NH, I'm fairly certain Bill or Dan brought a copy.
Going back and forth between wetsuits and watchmen made me wonder. What would an open water swim start would look like if wetsuit manufacturers started adding designs.
(This is where if I had time, I could photoshop some Captain America's and Mr Incredible's into a swim start photo). I suppose some would be intimidated by seeing all these "superheros".
There would be a market for them don't you think? I've seen people that go so far as to match bike, jersey, helmet and tires.
Anyhow, if you find yourself nervous before the swim start. Think of this post, look around and visualize some as superheros and try to name them. I'm sure some would be quite comical.
Classic SNL: Superhero Party
Antman: [high-pitched voice] You don't remember me? We met several times. I is Antman. A-N-T-M-A-N.
The Flash: Oh, right, right.
Antman: Yeah.
The Flash: Uh, Antman.
Antman: Yeah.
The Flash: What are your super powers again? You - you - you talk to the ants, is that it?
Antman: Well, partly. But, mainly, I shrink myself down to the size of an ant while retaining my full human strength.
The Flash: Really?
Antman: Yeah.
The Flash: [sarcastic] Oooh, that's really impressive. Size of an ant with human strength. You must be able to clean house on those other ants, huh? [chuckles] Hey! Hey, Hulk! Hey, check this guy out. He's got the strength of a human!
The Hulk: Oh, better stay out of this guy's way.
Thursday, April 10, 2008
They Did IT . .. . GRRR
The local high school pool was closed last night when I got there. Sign said "Closed Until Further Notice". They could have told me this last week. It messed me up on working out at all. I have been swimming while the two older ones are at art class. I only had swim stuff, so I was hanging out waiting for Art Class to end.
My best option is the river. Of course the best water temp I could find was the Ohio river, it is 53 degrees F. I assume the Mon River is cooler, lets say 49 degrees. A couple more degrees needed to jump in, with or without a wetsuit.
I need to find something by next week. I will update you.
My best option is the river. Of course the best water temp I could find was the Ohio river, it is 53 degrees F. I assume the Mon River is cooler, lets say 49 degrees. A couple more degrees needed to jump in, with or without a wetsuit.
I need to find something by next week. I will update you.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Tango Sponsor
Well this might make us act a bit earlier than we were thinking. Genine's Dad called me up to tell me that he's got someone that will pay one entry fee for the Tango.
So where is everyone regarding the Tango? Who is going planning on going?
Shawn, Craig, Jim, Casey, Todd, Genine and anyone else I'm aware of I guess it's time to get some ideas together.
Here are my ideas. I'm going to go with the premise of there being 4 of us.
1) Two, two man relay teams. Jim/Shawn, Matt/Craig. I'm guessing you can pick the events each person would take. Not sure we'd be competitive but would be a challenge. To be competitive we might need to add a couple people but we might be able to be the core of 2 teams?
2) Relay like last year. Each of us with 2 events. If we did this we should definitely choose by our strengths and see if we could actually be competitive. I'm also willing to add people to improve the team if we think we are close to placing.
Just some thoughts. Shawn's been talking about full tango. I'd be willing to give it a shot as long as I have pain killers ready for the next day :-)
What do you think?
So where is everyone regarding the Tango? Who is going planning on going?
Shawn, Craig, Jim, Casey, Todd, Genine and anyone else I'm aware of I guess it's time to get some ideas together.
Here are my ideas. I'm going to go with the premise of there being 4 of us.
1) Two, two man relay teams. Jim/Shawn, Matt/Craig. I'm guessing you can pick the events each person would take. Not sure we'd be competitive but would be a challenge. To be competitive we might need to add a couple people but we might be able to be the core of 2 teams?
2) Relay like last year. Each of us with 2 events. If we did this we should definitely choose by our strengths and see if we could actually be competitive. I'm also willing to add people to improve the team if we think we are close to placing.
Just some thoughts. Shawn's been talking about full tango. I'd be willing to give it a shot as long as I have pain killers ready for the next day :-)
What do you think?
Monday, April 7, 2008
Weigh in
Today's the day right?
Sadly my long run yesterday got cut short. That will teach me to drink/eat too much before a run. So instead of 12 miles I got 2.5 run/2.5 walk. Ha ha.
Then it was taxes the rest of the day. They are done. I can afford my wetsuit now.
Anyhow, yesterday AM I weighed in at 176. Today 177. The long run would have helped with that extra pound I think. Not that it matters. I'm just glad I'm off of 180 and dropping.
Sadly my long run yesterday got cut short. That will teach me to drink/eat too much before a run. So instead of 12 miles I got 2.5 run/2.5 walk. Ha ha.
Then it was taxes the rest of the day. They are done. I can afford my wetsuit now.
Anyhow, yesterday AM I weighed in at 176. Today 177. The long run would have helped with that extra pound I think. Not that it matters. I'm just glad I'm off of 180 and dropping.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Bike Trainer Graphs
This is Suffer O Rama, after my 5.5 mile 5K pace run yesterday. If you would follow along with the DVD looking at my graph. You would find there are two places where I just dropped out, I was considering not finishing the workout. Obviously I got through it.
Because I'm still clueless on my biking skill, what do I get out of this graph?
1) HR Max for the workout was 168. If I use that for my zone 5A, my Bike zone are as follows:
Zone 1: 137 or less
Zone 2: 137-150
Zone 3: 151-156
Zone 4: 157-167
Zone 5A: 168-171
From my Aero builder trainer rides and my perceived exertion, I would think this is a very good measure.
The Bassman is a 29 mile bike. I'm going to be out there 1:40:00 or longer. To be on the safe side, I think I should try to keep my HR Zone 3 or lower. I know I'm going to have to focus to make this happen. I'm going to want to push harder right out of the gate, which will just lead to a burn out and a weak finish.
2) I'm more than a little surprised by the speeds I'm hitting on intervals. It is just a trainer ride, not sure how that translates to real life. Probably very much like my swim sprints, I've got a long way to go before my distance speed is closer to these sprint numbers.
3) I didn't put power on the graph. Max power was 419. Average was 157. This 150ish power is what I been seeing on the long steady rides as well. (not awesome I'm sure).
Now that it's warming up, I need to get into some group rides and start to get into the Bike focus. I think I've been saying that for about 12 months now. Ah well, that's why triathlon is so fun. Only 3 events but it seems like there is a ton of stuff to learn and work on. Training with power is on the list.
Trying on wetsuits
Okay, the goofy stuff first. Our NJ Tri Club Name.
F.A.S.T (Fanatical Aquaholic Super Triathletes). It's a work in progress, what do you think?
6 of us went to SBR in the city to try on wetsuits and try them out in the endless pool. Here is what I learned. The staff at the store were good at looking at your body shape and matching which brand was going to "work". Orca and 2XU are not going to work for me. They said those suits are built for the "European athlete" body type. Shawn assures me this is a thin build.
So they suggested Zoot as the most likely and potentially the Blue Seventy.
So I tried on the Zoot first and got into the pool. First time in a wetsuit, very buoyant, very cool. Unfortunately swimming in the endless pool was kind of lame. Not sure if it was because he didn't turn it up high enough or what. So I kept hitting the front of the pool, which didn't make it easy for me to think about the feel of the suit enough. (edit: endless pools commented on this post, check it out) So I guess my overall opinion was based upon this one thing. I didn't really notice being in the suit. Torso length did not seem to be an issue. (So I wasn't speaking in a higher voice when I was done). Shoulders seemed to move quite easily. With some body glide on, it probably would have been even better. Here is the one potential downside. One of the guys that has had a few wetsuits mentioned all the sewing. Take a look at the Zoot. All those shapes which appear on the outside are individually sewn panels on the inside of the suit. He was warning me that he has had stitching go bad, once it starts a little bit, it doesn't take long for the whole panel to be out. Something to consider.
So I dried off for a bit before trying to wedge myself into another suit. I figured I had to at least try on two otherwise I have no basis for comparison. The Blue Seventy Helix I believe. I didn't even bother getting into the pool with this one. I could really feel some pinch in the armpit/shoulder area. (proving to me that the sales guys knew what they were talking about).
So where am I with a wetsuit purchase? That Zoot is dang expensive but was a good fit. I'm guessing their cheaper line would fit the same with fewer bells and whistles. Zoot is on the list.
I'm going to find a place to try on Quintana Roo and possible other brands, now that I've had a couple on I have a better idea as to what's going on.
I'm also planning on ordering the DeSoto. It's a 2 week trial and they expect that you will swim in it. It's the only way I'm going to be able to try one out it seems, I've called everywhere. I'll gladly pay the shipping costs if I have to return it.
I need to make sure I spend time learning how to get in and out of these things. Going on you have to be very careful because you are handling the outside of the suit. Getting out the guy kept telling me to be aggressive and grab the interior of the suit. Step on the suit. Stuff like that. I will need to practice. Trouble is once the inside is wet, putting it on again for another trial run is a bear.
3 out of 6 people bought a wetsuit, so the store did well for the 2 hours of time. We definitely took advantage of the facility. As much of a pain NYC is, this was another nice perk.
F.A.S.T (Fanatical Aquaholic Super Triathletes). It's a work in progress, what do you think?
6 of us went to SBR in the city to try on wetsuits and try them out in the endless pool. Here is what I learned. The staff at the store were good at looking at your body shape and matching which brand was going to "work". Orca and 2XU are not going to work for me. They said those suits are built for the "European athlete" body type. Shawn assures me this is a thin build.
So they suggested Zoot as the most likely and potentially the Blue Seventy.
So I tried on the Zoot first and got into the pool. First time in a wetsuit, very buoyant, very cool. Unfortunately swimming in the endless pool was kind of lame. Not sure if it was because he didn't turn it up high enough or what. So I kept hitting the front of the pool, which didn't make it easy for me to think about the feel of the suit enough. (edit: endless pools commented on this post, check it out) So I guess my overall opinion was based upon this one thing. I didn't really notice being in the suit. Torso length did not seem to be an issue. (So I wasn't speaking in a higher voice when I was done). Shoulders seemed to move quite easily. With some body glide on, it probably would have been even better. Here is the one potential downside. One of the guys that has had a few wetsuits mentioned all the sewing. Take a look at the Zoot. All those shapes which appear on the outside are individually sewn panels on the inside of the suit. He was warning me that he has had stitching go bad, once it starts a little bit, it doesn't take long for the whole panel to be out. Something to consider.
So I dried off for a bit before trying to wedge myself into another suit. I figured I had to at least try on two otherwise I have no basis for comparison. The Blue Seventy Helix I believe. I didn't even bother getting into the pool with this one. I could really feel some pinch in the armpit/shoulder area. (proving to me that the sales guys knew what they were talking about).
So where am I with a wetsuit purchase? That Zoot is dang expensive but was a good fit. I'm guessing their cheaper line would fit the same with fewer bells and whistles. Zoot is on the list.
I'm going to find a place to try on Quintana Roo and possible other brands, now that I've had a couple on I have a better idea as to what's going on.
I'm also planning on ordering the DeSoto. It's a 2 week trial and they expect that you will swim in it. It's the only way I'm going to be able to try one out it seems, I've called everywhere. I'll gladly pay the shipping costs if I have to return it.
I need to make sure I spend time learning how to get in and out of these things. Going on you have to be very careful because you are handling the outside of the suit. Getting out the guy kept telling me to be aggressive and grab the interior of the suit. Step on the suit. Stuff like that. I will need to practice. Trouble is once the inside is wet, putting it on again for another trial run is a bear.
3 out of 6 people bought a wetsuit, so the store did well for the 2 hours of time. We definitely took advantage of the facility. As much of a pain NYC is, this was another nice perk.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Functional Strength
Shawn, you would have loved it. I went to the kids school last night and a girl from a place called Body Workz in Morgantown was doing one of the sessions for Family Fun Night - Health and Nutrition. Her brochure states they are the only MAX KETTLEBELL Certified Studio in West Virginia. This woman was only about 1.57 meters tall and weighed about 50 kg. She started talking about Kettlebell and the exercises. She had a full sweatsuit so it was tough to tell how well she was built.
She started to throw around a 9 kg kettlebell. She got my attention when she said she usually works out with a 13.6kg or 16kg bell. I asked a question about core strength and she started into explaining core, functional and grip strength. She then took off her sweatshirt and had a sleeveless shirt on. She was ripped. She laid down and did some abdominal exercises. She had the kettlebell in some positions I would be afraid of breaking my nose.
Her son (8yr old) started doing stuff with a 4.5kg Kettle. Also,
impressive.
They did jump rope demonstrations and her oldest son did Tae Kwon Do.
I approached them after the session to check out the kettlebell but also ask some questions. Her 8 yr old proceeded to show me his six pack abs, he was cut. He also told me about the one armed chin ups and the three finger chin ups he was doing.
She also told me about getting certified in the Max Kettlebell program in January. Guess where, only an hour north of you in Williamsport, PA.
After I told her about your interest she gave me two websites:
www.dieselcrew.com You can find this guys on You Tube under dieselcrew.
www.rosstraining.com
I also checked out the Max Kettlebell website:
Racing Flats
I realized I am carrying these 10 ounce barbells on my feet, when during races I could be using a lighter 4 ounce speed inspired injury creator.
Anybody? I have read a little about using a racing flat and essentially the concept is lighter helps you move faster. Of course lighter means less protection or cushioning. But some people say I should be barefoot anyways.
Do I buy new trainers and use them for all things, or do I buy a racing flat and use my current trainers (I have two trainers now, one is not working on long runs, so I am in the market) for majority of the training. Actually I am not opposed to having two trainers and a race pair, but is it worth it. Potentially two to five seconds, some say.
AnyONE know, I need led!
Anybody? I have read a little about using a racing flat and essentially the concept is lighter helps you move faster. Of course lighter means less protection or cushioning. But some people say I should be barefoot anyways.
Do I buy new trainers and use them for all things, or do I buy a racing flat and use my current trainers (I have two trainers now, one is not working on long runs, so I am in the market) for majority of the training. Actually I am not opposed to having two trainers and a race pair, but is it worth it. Potentially two to five seconds, some say.
AnyONE know, I need led!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Warren Newspaper / Fundraiser
I'm not sure if I've asked you guys about this before. I'm thinking of contacting the Warren newspaper to see if they are interested in a "Local News" story. Maybe we aren't local news anymore?
I'm guessing you guys are cool with that? I figure I'll try to work in the Tango '07 was a training race for us. Also that this is the 20 year WAHS reunion for Craig and I. Just to get some more "local" into the story. Of course I expect they will write what they want. I'm just hoping that they will list our fundraiser link without a typo. It might be the easiest way to contact much of the Warren crowd.
Not sure if you've checked the fundraiser site lately. I feel it's going rather well. I think I've only contacted half the people I intend to send to. I still have work to do there.
Genine / Bloomingdales is doing well too. I'm not sure there is an easy way for me to add that to the fundraiser page. If you are interested in details let me know. I'll have Genine comment on that project.
As you can see, Ruth has a bunch of support on the site as well. It's all very cool to see how many people are on board with us. At some point I should put together a list of the people that are planning to go to NH that weekend to watch, cheer and "Post race" party with us.
Lastly: Racing Singlets from the fundraiser. I would like to get mine early for the races later this month. Should I request 2. One Large, One Extra Large? Should I find out if they go bigger than that? I just figure it would help us out deciding on fit for everyone else if I get a couple and find out how big/small they run.
Depending on the fit. I may only wear the jersey on the run portion. Just pull it on over my tri-top in T2. We will see.
Go Team!
I'm guessing you guys are cool with that? I figure I'll try to work in the Tango '07 was a training race for us. Also that this is the 20 year WAHS reunion for Craig and I. Just to get some more "local" into the story. Of course I expect they will write what they want. I'm just hoping that they will list our fundraiser link without a typo. It might be the easiest way to contact much of the Warren crowd.
Not sure if you've checked the fundraiser site lately. I feel it's going rather well. I think I've only contacted half the people I intend to send to. I still have work to do there.
Genine / Bloomingdales is doing well too. I'm not sure there is an easy way for me to add that to the fundraiser page. If you are interested in details let me know. I'll have Genine comment on that project.
As you can see, Ruth has a bunch of support on the site as well. It's all very cool to see how many people are on board with us. At some point I should put together a list of the people that are planning to go to NH that weekend to watch, cheer and "Post race" party with us.
Lastly: Racing Singlets from the fundraiser. I would like to get mine early for the races later this month. Should I request 2. One Large, One Extra Large? Should I find out if they go bigger than that? I just figure it would help us out deciding on fit for everyone else if I get a couple and find out how big/small they run.
Depending on the fit. I may only wear the jersey on the run portion. Just pull it on over my tri-top in T2. We will see.
Go Team!
Swim Test
Ran a test last night to see how long it would take for me to swim a 1,000 yds non stop, staying within myself and keeping good form. Non-stop worked out, staying within myself was happening, my form may not have made it the whole way, I hope I didn't do any permanent damage to my muscle memory. 23:48 was my time. That would be 2:22 per 100yds. This is really only 914 meters, so that translates into 2:33 per 100m. I could keep this pace for a long time so I have determined my 1500m time would be 38:25. Not good, but at least I am out of the water.
I have now went to the Mooseman results and found the first person who swam slower than this. Placing 340, a guy (I won't name him because he may not want to be known for this) swam a 40 minute swim. He was the first. There was not even a 37 minute until him. The next person slower than the time I listed was at position 358, he was over 48 minutes, he looked a lot like a runner who did this on a drunken bet. The first 37 minute person was the next position 359 @ 37:42.
Now, I didn't kill myself in my test, but I was not doing backflips afterwards either. I want to do a sub 30 minute swim without destroying my bike/run, but that is 8 minutes. That equates to over 30 seconds faster per 100m. Only one trip to the pool per week is not going to get it. My form is coming, but I still lack the speed.
Was it 7 or 9 seconds faster with the wetsuit. This means I am down to about 25 seconds I need to trim per 100. Of course that is a 16.5 % improvement. I am only talking a 5% improvement when going from 32 to 33.6 KmPH on the bike, and only a 5% improvement going from 5 minute/km to 4.75 mins/km. I have my work cut out for me.
I have now went to the Mooseman results and found the first person who swam slower than this. Placing 340, a guy (I won't name him because he may not want to be known for this) swam a 40 minute swim. He was the first. There was not even a 37 minute until him. The next person slower than the time I listed was at position 358, he was over 48 minutes, he looked a lot like a runner who did this on a drunken bet. The first 37 minute person was the next position 359 @ 37:42.
Now, I didn't kill myself in my test, but I was not doing backflips afterwards either. I want to do a sub 30 minute swim without destroying my bike/run, but that is 8 minutes. That equates to over 30 seconds faster per 100m. Only one trip to the pool per week is not going to get it. My form is coming, but I still lack the speed.
Was it 7 or 9 seconds faster with the wetsuit. This means I am down to about 25 seconds I need to trim per 100. Of course that is a 16.5 % improvement. I am only talking a 5% improvement when going from 32 to 33.6 KmPH on the bike, and only a 5% improvement going from 5 minute/km to 4.75 mins/km. I have my work cut out for me.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
HR Checkup 2008
I keep meaning to check my resting HR first thing in the AM. Maybe if I post this I will actually get it done. If I have time maybe I'll run on the treadmill to check these other numbers as well.
Last Year's HR stuff
I'm just going to add on to this post.
I woke up at 4AM not sure why, was dehydrated, so I went down to get some water. Figured I'd put on the HR monitor and go back to sleep. I haven't looked at the graph yet. Should be interesting. Average was 50, Max was 90.
Okay. Looked at the graph all the spikes were me hitting the snooze. Ha Ha. Lowest reading was 45.
Still need to add the treadmill test.
Last Year's HR stuff
I'm just going to add on to this post.
I woke up at 4AM not sure why, was dehydrated, so I went down to get some water. Figured I'd put on the HR monitor and go back to sleep. I haven't looked at the graph yet. Should be interesting. Average was 50, Max was 90.
Okay. Looked at the graph all the spikes were me hitting the snooze. Ha Ha. Lowest reading was 45.
Still need to add the treadmill test.
Didn't Work
It didn't work. I typed in Matthew McConauhey (appears to be a spelling error) and I got a picture of this guy. Well since it was my wife's birthday I thought I would print this out and slide it into her card, take any subtlety out of it at all and give her some eye candy as you mentioned. It appears this guy is some other actor and is not Irish at all but Scottish. And when I went on about how I wanted to look like him and swimming would get me that way and how much she might enjoy me looking like this . . .I thought his chest was superb!
Well it appears for her birthday I am now purchasing a bedroom suite for the basement (which is now my private bedroom) and lots of jewelry and I swear I heard something about not being able to touch her until 2015, but she was walking away from me and a lot of other things were said that I can't currently repeat.
I think I did this wrong. :) I may need to reread the post.
Well it appears for her birthday I am now purchasing a bedroom suite for the basement (which is now my private bedroom) and lots of jewelry and I swear I heard something about not being able to touch her until 2015, but she was walking away from me and a lot of other things were said that I can't currently repeat.
I think I did this wrong. :) I may need to reread the post.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Girl in the rubber suit
So I finally did it. I bought a wet suit. It will arrive in a few weeks and I'll share how it goes.
But after reading the trials and tribulations of you fellahs as you ask your wives if you can buy one...well I felt I had to make a suggestion.
1st. Find a photo of Matthew McConaughey . Find one where he's coming out of the water (should not be difficult to find), make sure he's topless (chances are he is topless AND wet.) Make sure the photo shows off his superb chest (chances are it does)
2nd. Post it on your refrigerator.
3rd. When your wife asks you "what's with the picture?" Here's where the suit comes in.
"Honey, I am using this picture as inspiration. This is what I'm shooting for with all these strenuous workouts, all these moderate meals, all the running, the biking...the SWIMMING (make sure you EMPHASIZE the word swimming and maybe stretch your arms and shoulders here for effect) and all this GEAR that I need will make me leaner and stronger and faster and will give me endless endurance...
Of course by this point she may have stopped listening and is simply staring at Matthew McConaughey but maybe, just maybe, in her subconcious she'll hear the words SWIMMING and GEAR and next thing you know...well...you'll look like Matthew McConaughey in your rubber suit, suck that stomach in! Good luck!
oh, the REAL reason I decided to post was that I found this link which will probably we useful down the line... Happy swimming :)
http://www.laurenwu.com/fitness/wetsuit101.html
But after reading the trials and tribulations of you fellahs as you ask your wives if you can buy one...well I felt I had to make a suggestion.
1st. Find a photo of Matthew McConaughey . Find one where he's coming out of the water (should not be difficult to find), make sure he's topless (chances are he is topless AND wet.) Make sure the photo shows off his superb chest (chances are it does)
2nd. Post it on your refrigerator.
3rd. When your wife asks you "what's with the picture?" Here's where the suit comes in.
"Honey, I am using this picture as inspiration. This is what I'm shooting for with all these strenuous workouts, all these moderate meals, all the running, the biking...the SWIMMING (make sure you EMPHASIZE the word swimming and maybe stretch your arms and shoulders here for effect) and all this GEAR that I need will make me leaner and stronger and faster and will give me endless endurance...
Of course by this point she may have stopped listening and is simply staring at Matthew McConaughey but maybe, just maybe, in her subconcious she'll hear the words SWIMMING and GEAR and next thing you know...well...you'll look like Matthew McConaughey in your rubber suit, suck that stomach in! Good luck!
oh, the REAL reason I decided to post was that I found this link which will probably we useful down the line... Happy swimming :)
http://www.laurenwu.com/fitness/wetsuit101.html
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