Maine Rob's Group - Closed

Bump for people looking for a mentor group that's still open .

Welcome Jennifer! Of course I don't mind you being in the UK, as long as you don't mind some us blathering about yards, miles, and other made up measurements.

Those sound like some good goals. Where are you now in terms of progress toward those goals? Are you (or are you going to be) following a structured plan of some kind?

Hi Rob - do you have space for one more?
A little background - I turned 40 in December and decided it was time to get back into shape and keep fit (about 25 lbs of extra weight... which I call statuesque!).  Some of my friends became involved with sprint tri's last year and suggested I join as part of my resolution. 

So here I am!  I am a good swimmer, decent casual biker, and have mental barriers on running (that's a challenge to say the least, and I tend to walk/jog when I venture out).  Some slight injuries as the body ages, but nothing that should stop me, and I am determined to make this work, but nervous as well.   The goal would be to achieve a sprint-tri in the July timeframe, and I am looking at Michael Pate's 22 week workout to follow.

Phew!

Sharon

Welcome to the group Sharon! That is a reasonable and attainable goal you have laid out. The 22 week program is solid, and should get you to the starting (and finish ) line in good shape.  The swim is often the biggest obstacle for many of us adult onset athletes, so it's good that you're already strong in the water.  As far as running, there is nothing wrong with training and/or racing with a run/walk program (Run 3 minutes, walk 1, repeat...). That's how I got started with running, and eventually I phased out the walk breaks.

Pick a plan, pick a race, and get ready to rock!

Hi Rob! I was wondering if you would be willing to take on one more?  I've never competed in a tri, and I'm looking at doing a duathalon in my area on May 23rd, because frankly, while I can keep myself from drowning that's about the extent of my swimming capabilities for now.  

My story:  I'm 32, about 20 pounds fluffier than I would like to be after finishing up grad school this year and get in about 12-15 miles of walking/jogging/running per week.  I LOVE riding my bicycle recreationally in the warmer seasons and recently started spinning indoors to get my fix of biking while it is too cold for my wimpy self out there.

I've been married 11 years and we have 2 boys ages 10 and 5.  My husband does NOT run, so my training partners are my dogs.  I'm a nursing instructor at a local community college, so I keep very busy and a little extra accountability will be good for me.

Thanks in advance!

This thread can be used as an ongoing discussion between all of the members of the group. You can also send and receive "inspire me" notes on group member's individual logs. It's a nice way to motivate members of the group or other people that you connect with here on BT.

Sure Cris, still plenty of room, and welcome to BT!

Sounds like you've got a good start toward your goal, and are doing some good winter work with the spinning. Let us know how we can best keep you motivated.

Absolutely!

Any specific goals for this year Becky?

Whoops - I should have looked at your log first .  IMLou - giddyup!

Welcome Ronda!

Already being able to swim 2 miles puts you far ahead of most people just starting out. The couch to 5k plan for running is a great way to get started, with gradual increases in time and distance.  Do you have access to a bike, or at least a stationary bike?

Welcome to the group Kristen!

First of all, let me say a huge CONGRATULATIONS on beating cancer! After doing that, getting ready for your first tri will be a cinch .

Have you been outside on a bike recently?  It does take some getting used to, but maybe start in a quiet parking lot, or multiuse trails if you have any in your area, before you hit the actual road.

Please feel free to fire away with any questions.

Welcome Zane!

I have to say I'm jealous of you being in San Antonio at this point, although I've been there in the summer and do not envy that .

Do you have some goal races planned for this year?

Good morning Anne! Did you make it to the gym today at 6 ?

Most of the training plans that you can find here on BT or from other sources are balanced and should help to minimize injury risk.  Start with a plan where you can look at the first week and think "hey, that looks doable."  3x in each sport every week is a very solid plan, and will get you to those goals. It is definitely a change in mindset for people who were single sport athletes, where running 8-12x a week is not unusual.

As for team in training - I have never worked with them, but know people that have.  Most people who have done it have found it very supportive and useful, although a few have complained that the fundraising minimums can be tough. Do some searches through the BT forums and you should be able to find some good info from people who have done the program.

Welcome Jim!

5 sprints will make for a fun year. Will you have access to a road bike this year?

Finding time for the training with young kids can be a challenge, but it can definitely be done.

Congratulations on starting the new year off with a good plan and goals!