konichiwa's mentor group - Are we having fun yet? - FULL (Page 8)

Don't worry, I don't know how to breathe bilaterally either; I have yet to have a problem during a race (knock on wood!!!) because I only breathe on one side.

As for "race efforts," if you think you will be running 10 minute miles during the half, its still OK to insert some speedier sets in there the week before the race. Pump it up to 9:15s for 2-3 minutes at a time, if that is something you think is feasible. Anything to get the blood pumping hard for a few minutes is good for cutback weeks.

Charlie,

I always wear a 2-piece tri suit, and i wear the whole thing under my tri suit. Yes I am a girl, but i could just wear the bra and then put the top on if I wanted; however, trying to get a dry shirt on a wet body is not fun. It takes way too long (and more importantly expends too much energy). Simply wear the whole 2-piece under your wetsuit, and then peel it off (you may want to practice getting the wetsuit off before your first race, as it does take some practice). Peel it off as much as you can while you are running up to transition (from your arms down to your waist), and then you will only have to get it over your hips and your legs out once you reach transition.

As for mechanical issues on the bike, always have spare tubes and CO2s so that you can fix your own flat. Most races have a sag wagon driving the course, but it could take a long time to get to you. If it is a more serious problem than just a flat, make it to the nearest aid station or volunteer and ask them to radio for the sag wagon.

KeriKadi - 2009-06-11 10:42 PM You're invited to Keri's pitty party....
My logs for this week are HORRIBLE!  This should be my good week!
The constant pain in my neck is driving me crazy!  I wasn't able to get into the chiro because the baby is sick
I went to the gym tonight after Ken got home and it was miserable.
I am starting to wonder if I should cancel my next race.

The good news is my oldest daughter turns 7 Saturday and we are having a birthday party here.
The bad news is my house is still a mess and I have no idea what to feed these people or what to do with all the kids.  Somebody want to come take over and let me at least try for a good training day Saturday?  C'mon, it could be fun - there will be frozen drinks!

Happy birthday to your daughter! Hopefully her joy will help brighten your bad week. Sorry to hear that the pain in your neck is persisting. As Tim suggested, as hubby to give you a rub down! I would come down this weekend if it meant avoiding all this rain we have been having. Its supposed to rain all weekend here

It's called Bodyglide - http://www.trisports.com/bod13oz.html

I've never used it on my thighs, I use it pretty much everywhere else though....with my wetsuit (neck line, calves so the suits comes off easier, arm area when wearing a sleeveless suit), toes/feet (blister prone areas, esp when going sockless during  race), bike shorts area instead of chamois cream. 

Give it a shot...if it works, it'll be one of the best investments you make.

-Tim

Regardless of one or two piece, I'd wear it under my wetsuit.  My very first tri I put on a top in T1 and it was impossible.  Like Keri said, it ate up time.

Depending on the size of the race, they may or may not have neutral support.  Most bigger races will have it, but I would make the assumption that they won't get to you for 20-30min at best.  I had a friend walk over 2mi during the bike portion of an IM before.  95+% of all issues will be a flat tire.  Make sure you bring a spare tube, tire lever, and co2 or pump.  Besides that, pay attention to your bikes..the noises, now it rides etc.  I would do a once over on the bike about 2 wks out.   That way if you need to take it to the LBS you'll have plenty of time.  I ride my bike a lot so I am a big proponent of doing the regular maintenance...I'll regrease the chain once every cpl weeks (or more if riding in rain etc.), I'll change cable/housing annually.  Rebuild bottom bracket annually.  I can not stand any creaking noises...so I am usually on things quickly.  If the bike is well maintained, chances are you won't have any issues short of some fluke.  If you are unsure, you can always ask your LBS to do the "once-over" for you. 

-Tim

Andrew,

In addition to what Tim said, you can try to put some corn starch on your inner thighs. You can do this before your workout and also right before you go to bed. It should help clear up the chaffing a bit.

Y'all will be glad to know the pitty party is over

I rode my bike to the Y, was swimming and still feeling somewhat yucky but kept on swimming.  Then started chatting with the gal in the lane next to me.  I asked her if she competes and she told me yes, I am ramping up for IMAZ!  It is going to be her 4th IM!!!  We talk a little about training and I tell her about my week and she comments on my 'nice stroke & swim' and tells me I'll do fine in the next race.  That's really what I needed.  Between the neck, sicky baby and this party my brain has been getting in my way.  Keep it simple.  Train and try not to stress.  We had a great 30 minute conversation, super cool!

For those of you who want to track Charlie2 during his first half today.

http://ironman.com/events/ironman70.3/eagleman70.3?show=tracker

Bib Number 891

He finished the swim in 46min.  Based on swim times, it seems like the water was a bit rough. 

Congrats Charlie2!!!  Your times look great!  How was it out there?

Can't wait to read your RR.

-Tim