dodgersmom's Group - FULL

Hey Josh,  It's so great to hear from you.  How's your dad?  It was great racing with you last year.  I'm really glad to hear that you are back on the wagon.  I do agree that anyone who watched the Biggest Loser has to be inspired. I am totally hooked on that show.

Wow, a marathon!  That is awesome.  We are heading down to Fla. the first weekend in Jan to do the Disney half...something about races in Disney, I can't stay away!  I'm really excited to be a part of this program.  BT has done so much for me.  The network of people I have met have kept me inspired so it feels great to "share the love".  Please tell your dad I said hi!  I'll talk to you soon!

Hey Sonia,  OK, keep in mind that this in just my opinion but...

Let's start with the bike.  On the trainer, indoors, it's OK but I would really...really strongly suggest that nobody wear headphones while riding outside.  Fortunately, I have never had a close call, but I know many people who have had not just close calls, but actual run in's with cars.  Now I can tell you that the majority of the time, it is the car drivers fault, but we have to take every precaution out there, and being able to hear everything that is going on around you is the most important thing you can do.

As far as the run, I do listen to music about half the time.  The thing is, during a race it is an absolute No No and you will be DQ'd.  So, I have started running more without them so when it comes time to race, I won't go crazy.  Inside on the treadmill I always have either music or the TV.  I would also say to use your judgment as far as where you are running.  On a crowded path or trail, not so bad, but if you are relatively alone, I would say no music so you can hear everything around you.  It is also kinda cool to just listen to the sound of your breathing and your footsteps. 

Well guys, looks like one more and we are full.  So far we have

Josh
Sonia
Susan
Joy

I am really looking forward to us all working together for our common goals!  A few questions for all of you...

Would you prefer to use this forum to communicate, or would you prefer to use inspires (which I will use in addition to forums or PM's) or would you like to use PM's?  However you would be most comfortable. 

Which races in 2007 do you or are you considering your "a" races.  This means the race or races that you are totally focused on?

I have 3 this year, which is probably one too many.  I have the LoneStar tri (oly) in Galveston on April 1st, CapTex (oly) in May and the Longhorn HIM in October.  Galveston may drop off as an "a" race and I may just use it as a gague of my fitness.  Everything I do in 2007 is leading up to Longhorn and hopefull Ironman AZ in 2008 (yikes)

It would be great if all of you could add the others to your friends list. 

Fianlly, as I think I have said to each of you, the best thing you can do is fill out your logs.

Have a great Sunday everyone.  I know here it is almost 80 degrees and I had an awesome bike ride!

I totally agree with Jason.  When I am out running on my own, my times are never as good as during a race, yet is seems like I put out less effort.  Part of it the the adrenaline (sp) on being in an organized run.  Part of it is having other people around.   As you progress and do longer and longer races, there is also a social aspect that comes into play.  I enjoy "talking" to people on the run.  Even if it's just saying hi as they pass me (notice not when I pass them).  Triathletes are the most encouraging people in the world.  There will always be someone saying "good job" or "way to go". 

Running for me is still my weakest of the three, but I really don't hate it like I used to...and shhhh, don't tell anyone, but I am actually starting to enjoy it!

Sonia,

I fit all the criteria of your post too!  In July, I was back to square 1 with my fitness.  Heavier than I ever have been, but hooked on the tri bug.  I have never enjoyed running, but I too use the walk run method of training and it has made amazing improvements in my speed and stamina in a short time.  I still do a 2/1 run/walk most of the time, but im ready to change it to a 3/1. Keep at it and you will see great improvements!

You should all be proud that you have taken this step!

Hey Guys,

Well, I didn't make the whole 14, but did 12.17 in 26 minutes. A big old PR for me!  Have 2 blisters that make things a little uncomfortable.  One on the ouside of the smallest toe on my right foot and one under a toe on my left foot.   I really felt great during most of the run.  Aerobically I was feeling good.  And physically was good until about the last 2 miles when I really started to feel it.  We parked one car at the end of the trail 3.5 miles from the house so we would have extra water bottles.  That was a really good idea but I could have used another water.  By mile 10 I was almost out.

I feel pretty good now except for some cramping in my right hamstring!  Thanks for you encouragement.  The Disney 1/2 is only 2 weeks away and I am now feeling very confident that I will be able to do the distance in the time I want.  I am aiming for 2:45!

Enough about me...how is everyone today.  I know Josh had a great run this morning.  Anyone else get out there today??