Finally back....

I did my first Tri way back in 1997, I was 27 then. Well 7 years later I'm back to training again. My first try was the Metroplex Sprint Triathlon in September '97. Great event that I managed to train for it in six weeks. I was much younger then and it was only 800yds, 13mi, 3.2mi. My wife and I did that one together. We finished way back in the pack but had a good time doing it.

Now I'm back in the saddle after having tried again to start my training in October '03. After beginning training in Oct I pulled a muscle in my back that caused me the worst pain I've ever felt. After x-rays and many chiropractor visits I'm finally feeling 100%. I started up again about 3 weeks ago now. I can get back on my bike no prob, swim no prob, but running is my weakest event. I always feel like my feet are a couple of lead weights. Today though it finally felt a little easier. I've been focusing on my running technique more this time trying to make sure I keep a good long stride without overstriding, lean forward, arms and shoulders level, head up and let gravity do the rest. Of course patience always helps.

When I've been at a certain fitness level and tried to come back after a long break it's always hard to keep my expectations in check. I feel like this time I'm managing those expectations alot better and that's making it more fun. Also, I'm not training with any particular event on my schedule which is a big change. I've always seemed to need an event to stay motivated but now I'm trying to focus on doing it for the pleasure and fun I derive out of it. Maybe I've matured some since I last tackled this challenge.

skeedawg