I have no idea what I'm doing

gamebofh - 2008-09-23 3:58 PM Hahahahahahah. You're looking for a sport that takes less time. You're looking for a sport that is less expensive. [ Off on stage left, Jot proceeds to fall to the floor and laugh until he passes out. But not before laughing so hard that he's crying and has great big snot bubbles coming out of his nose. ] Um. Where was I? Welcome. It's a great sport, but as Cody (aka Ox) stated, it can become very addictive. The good news on the hours front is since it's largely an individual sport you can workout when it works for your family. For me that means early mornings, late nights, or lunch. Swimming: If you weren't a "fish" when you were a kid, is hard. Biking: The easiest part to do, but also the most expensive. And don't kid yourself about it just being strength. I've got legs like tree trunks and you'll get out there with some skinny little cyclist and they'll pull away from you faster than Paris Hilton at a monster truck race. Very humbling. Running: Hey, everyone can run. Some of us just suck more at it than others. This is a great place to get involved. The Brother's Grimm worked their way past the bridge troll and haven't looked back. Everyone is supportive and we're happy to answer questions. It definitely helps to have people you can ask questions of and not worry about how stupid you think the question sounds. So, start with the questions and we'll help how we can. Oh, and if you come to an ESCKTC group training session (which is just us getting together to train) you have to bring dues the first time. Dues are carbonated and alcoholic. Barley pops. As Tanya says: "Even if you don't drink, we do!" -Jot

Who knew Jot was funny?  That was pretty good.

 It's a great sport and a great community here at BT and in Arizona.  Your post title 'I have no idea what I'm doing' - - you've come to the right place.  My best advice for the noobie - - use your training logs and don't be afraid to ask questions.

And one other thing - - don't pi$$ Tanya off. (or PJ)

As Cody and Jot said, there is a good amount of time it takes to do this.  However, there is a payoff.  The first time you cross that line and finish your first tri and become a Triarthlete ...  well you will have to experience that one for yourself.  My road was a tough one filled with flats, but I finally made it.  You want to be a triathlete and that is great.  I was not really taking the training very seriously until I went on my first group ride with the cool kids.  I realized that they train hard and party just as hard. 

You are in a great spot to start.  6 months ago I was told that I would never be able to run a triathlon because of a back injury that will never heal.  I trained anyway and followed the advise of the poeple here on BT, and was careful to not train myself into injury, and after Sunday I am now a triathlete.  Screw those doctors!  sorry got side tracked.  Really though, you should come to a training session with the cool kids and see what it's all about.  And don't worry only Tanya bites, but the rest of us are harmless.  Well then there is Jerry... and well don't want to scare you off.  Come training! 

To clarify some things.

1. ESCKTC means East Side Cool Kids Tri Club. That is the name of our group. We are located all over the valley, because everyone lives on the East side of somewhere.

2. THe Brothers Grim, are Myself, Adam, and Ox because we are honestly brothers. Too my knowledge we are the only brothers that are also Triathletes on this forum.

The greatest thing about this sport is that you only compete against yourself. However, most of us train together. We all communicate with each other via this web site and any question is welcome. Just like almost everyone on this site I knew nothing about Tri before and have learned almost everything I know through the great people on this site.

Most of the athletes here have spouses or significant others that either also race or support the races. We have become a very nice family. I just bought my two kids shirts this weekend that say "my daddy tri's" My kids can hardly wait to wear them.

As far as time goes, look at the training programs on this site and you will see what it takes. You may need more or less time depending on your level. And you can log your training here as well. Everyone can see how you are doing and they will send words of encouragement.

Well that is long enough for now, I'm glad that you found us and we are happy to welcome you into a sport that will likely influence the rest of your life.

Now, Cody, there's no need to give our new members subtle warnings about me!

gamebofh - 2008-09-24 8:17 AM That's too bad. Most people quit when they meet me in person. -Jot

You must be perfecting your art.

I'ma gonna git you now, Fitzy!

Now, now...I didn't say you were mean or anything...all I said was not to pi$$ you off (like mispronouncing your name over and over).

You haven't scared me off at all.

To be honest, I expected (after I made my initial post) to come back a few days later to see maybe one or two replies from desparate moderators/admins trying to generate thread counts.

I was pleasantly surprised, however, to find a great number of posts full of support and advice with the first post being no more than 8 minutes after my initial post.

I will be signing up later today for one of the memberships with BT when I get the chance.

Where can I get some more information about the ESCKTC?

depends on the type of info you are looking for;  If you click a members picture (such as myself) and visit their logs, most have a link in their "my links" section on the left side of thier page.  Also, StandsWithFist likes to post a flurry of links and welcomes to possible new members in hopes of scoring beer.

My advice is to attend an OWS (this Thursday at Butcher Jones Cove at 5:30 - Lake Saguaro), a Sunday Long Bike ride (see the thread) or a Wed night Run at Tempe Town Lake (also has a thread).  Or just PM one of the supposed members (I think we are close to a couple of dozen right now).

Need some fun names:

so many more and not to short anyone, but I am not the list keeper, but that should get you started!

wow...and I thought we were friends

Like Fitzey said. I thought we were friends.