Slornow and Wannabefaster's Winter Group version 3-CLOSED (Page 59)

Jason-get over it! Yeah, easy to say but not so easy to do. Here is a paragraph on rest from Chrissie Wellington. I'll link the whole article below which are her 10 Performance Tips:

Performance tip #4: Rest is as important as training.

"Recovery is an integral part of training. People have their log books, and they tick everything off in all of the columns, but where's the column for recovery? That's the 4th pillar. Without that, the whole structure collapses. I break recovery down into nutrition, compression garments (which I wear), getting enough sleep, and resting between sessions. Also learning not only to relax your body but also relax your mind. Without recovery, I wouldn't be the athlete I am."

http://www.active.com/triathlon/articles/10-performance-tips-from-chrissie-wellington

We get so obsessive about our watts, time, speed etc. but when we really make gains is when we are resting. With your work schedule I suspect skipping that run was far more beneficial both physically and mentally. You were right to listen to your body. Being disciplined and being able to recognize when you need a break is hugely important....its a long season.

On the other hand maybe you are just a slacker  

Here's a good, straight forward article about strength training for running. I started doing some strength training at the beginning of the year but as things ramp up heading into the season I have a hard time figuring out where to fit it in.

 http://www.runnersworld.com/race-training/strength-training-misconceptions

Jon -  Work sure does get in the way of things doesn't it? Actually, one quality workout a day is pretty good. Keep up the balancing act. You can do it!

Randee - Sorry to hear about your migraine. Hope you can get back to the training again.

Randy -  Thanks for the pointer to the strength training article and the earlier links on recovery. I just read another article today on recovery, so it must be a hot button topic right now: "Train To Recover — Don’t Recover To Train"

Chris - I hear you on the frustration with weight loss. Getting those stubborn lbs. to leave your body is tough. After several years of getting absolutely nowhere, I finally went gluten-free a couple of weeks ago. So far, I've dropped a little more than five pounds. I didn't realize how much fat gets packed on by wheat. My body is a little slow adjusting to the change, but it's all good.

Blanda-you are ready. If you get stressed just think of the picture of your daughter running in the recent race. All the joy and excitement she showed......be just like her on raceday. Enjoy every minute of it.

Mary-the marathon class sounds interesting. You are tapering....so when is the race? Want to wish you good luck at the appropriate time.

Steve-nice article. Lots of good points there on recovery. Nice job on the diet. I can't imagine going gluten free although I do need to cut back on my bread and butter consumption.

Group question-What brand/type transition bag do you use? I have been using a Desoto bag since I started and thinking about getting a new one. I like the Desoto fine but its getting pretty worn. Was looking at tthe Zoot Ultra Tri Bag.....not the "carry on" version. Anything you would recommend or warn against?

I'll let you borrow the trucker hat if you are serious about working on your "street cred."

Randee-yeah the Desoto holds alot of stuff and I don't tend to pack light for races.

Blanda--you have to wipe those thoughts from your mind before you get to the venue.  Stay positive and focus on your goal.  You have a goal firmly planted, right?

I do think Blanda brings up an interesting point and one I have thought about a bit.  How do you approach a venue where things have not necessarily gone right in the past?  does it affect you?  what tactics do you use to ensure it doesn't?

Case in point, I've wondered whether doing an IM in a different location would be a good idea.  in all four years, I have been a nervous wreck about the swim.  The last two years, the weather has been very windy and the swim was a challenge for even those that have no fear.  I admit that sticks with me and I am certain it really affected the outcome in '13.    I am good at moving on once I'm out of the H20, but a really bad swim time doesn't set you up for a good day no matter how you look at it.  As I plan for IM '15, it's on my mind.

I've made it through three bike rides with absolutely no knee issues, but today I hit the pool with the intent of not kicking and tweaked things. I guess I must kick a little even when I think I'm not.  Very angry with myself.  I should have used the pull from the beginning.  It's not a crisis, since it's already a crisis, but it made me aware that healing is probably not likely and surgery is.....wahh....enough whining.  Enjoy your weekends kids.

Sounds like a blast. About half way through ask Nate how that Crossfit stuff is working out..... Is this a RAGNAR event? Where you starting and finishing?

Kevin-at the bottom of the area where you type a post there is a box you can check to "Attach a file after posting." Check that box and then you can browse the photos on your computer to attach to the post. I think max file size is around 90mb but I'm not sure about that.