General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Starting small but going for the whole thing! Rss Feed  
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2009-07-22 10:07 PM

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Subject: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
OK, I think I've talked myself into doing a whole tri.  I'm probably going to do another relay event or two this year and work at getting ready for a mini sprint tri.  I got the old bike (20 years) down and sprayed the chain.  After working it, I tried a short ride and the chain broke before I got out of the drive.  Don't those things last forever?!

Anyway, I hope everyone doesn't mind if I drive them crazy asking all sorts of, well, probably some stupid questions over the next month.  I'm talking gear, training, water vs. gatorade etc. when it comes to the cycling and running events.

thanks all!

P.S.  Just what is this gel  people talk about when they are discussing tri tops with back pockets to hold it?  Seriously, I don't know.


2009-07-22 11:05 PM
in reply to: #2302897

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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
Gu is a well... gooy substance made of simple brown rice sugar syrup.  It sometimes has flavor and caffeine.  It gives you a bit of energy during training or a race.  It's an energy gel- there are lots of different brands (Cliff, Hammer, GU, ect) but I'm convinced that GU is the best!

http://www.guenergy.com/products/gu-energy-gel

Gu has electrolytes (like Gatorade) but none of the HFCS.  Lots of good stuff on the website.

I will take one before a race...and then in about mile 4 on the bike.  If I'm on a 2h or more workout I will take some with me.  I don't always need it but it's nice to have.  People have different opinions about Gels- lots of different brands.  Your best bet is to try, try and try some more.
2009-07-22 11:08 PM
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Delaware, OH
Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
btw, GU Chocolate Outrage is like eating brownie batter.  I like to leave one in the car so it's warm.  I know.  I'm gross.
2009-07-23 6:55 AM
in reply to: #2302897

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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
danbob - 2009-07-22 10:07 PM

OK, I think I've talked myself into doing a whole tri.  I'm probably going to do another relay event or two this year and work at getting ready for a mini sprint tri.  I got the old bike (20 years) down and sprayed the chain.  After working it, I tried a short ride and the chain broke before I got out of the drive.  Don't those things last forever?!

Anyway, I hope everyone doesn't mind if I drive them crazy asking all sorts of, well, probably some stupid questions over the next month.  I'm talking gear, training, water vs. gatorade etc. when it comes to the cycling and running events.

thanks all!

P.S.  Just what is this gel  people talk about when they are discussing tri tops with back pockets to hold it?  Seriously, I don't know.


That's awesome Dan. Be sure to keep posting your improvements, frustrations, and successes. I'm finding them very encouraging. BTW, chains don't last forever. They last a long time with proper cleaning and lube. Be sure to carry a shoe string with you in your tool pack. A shoe string or twist tie will allow you to tie your chain together and still manage to ride. You won't be able to ride hard but it will at least get you to the finish. Keep up the great work!
2009-07-23 8:28 AM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
Already two things answered.  I was kidding about the the chain lasting forever, but the shoe string or twist tie helps when I can finally start the bike training.

I like brownie batter and raw cookie dough!  Doesn't sound gross to me!

Thanks!  I'll keep up with the questions.
2009-07-23 11:20 AM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
Did you pick a race yet?


2009-07-23 8:50 PM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
For the whole tri,  not yet.  Waiting to hear from a co-worker about the Greater Ohioan.
2009-07-24 8:56 AM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
danbob - 2009-07-23 8:50 PM

For the whole tri,  not yet.  Waiting to hear from a co-worker about the Greater Ohioan.


Where is the greater Ohioan and what is the date?
2009-07-24 9:13 AM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
constiner - 2009-07-24 9:56 AM
danbob - 2009-07-23 8:50 PM For the whole tri,  not yet.  Waiting to hear from a co-worker about the Greater Ohioan.
Where is the greater Ohioan and what is the date?


August 31st in Delaware, 400s 15m b 5k r
2009-07-24 10:20 AM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
danbob - 2009-07-22 11:07 PM

Just what is this gel  people talk about when they are discussing tri tops with back pockets to hold it?  Seriously, I don't know.


To build on K's response.

Gels are just like a condensed sports drink. They generally in a single packet of 2-3oz. or bought in bulk which then is put into a small sport flask. I just buy packets. One packet will be in the 100-150 calorie range. Most long distance atjletes try to average 200-300 calories per hour to keep up energy levels.

There are a lot of products on the market. Try them out to see which brand you like, and what flavor you like. I personally go for orange or just plain. Some of the flavors are just too much. I have tried GU, PowerBar, Cliff and Hammer. I found that I like the PowerBar gels the most. The GU and Hammer upset my stomach. Cliff was okay but I didn't like the consistency.
2009-07-24 4:02 PM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
I'll start looking for some.  Bike should be ready early next week so I can start doing some cycling.  They should come in handy as I'm huffing and puffing down the road!


2009-07-24 5:18 PM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
Grats on the decision, I am working all 3 currently. The swimming seems to be the hardest to get the form on so I hope to make it out to that class one sunday. I have a big project for work that is taking up most of my evenings and weekends minus my normal training. I am doing the deer creek sprint so maybe I will see you there as well.
2009-07-24 7:44 PM
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Subject: RE: Starting small but going for the whole thing!
I found out my freestyle technique was wrong (old school).  The new technique is much easier and less exhausting.  I'm still working on it, but I have always enjoyed swimming so I don't see it as something 'you have to do' but rather as a challenge (to improve on).  Hope you can make it to the class on Sunday.
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