Moe's Triathlon... 2 down, 2 to go

After a nasty flu virus-type week, I was thrilled on Sunday to feel well enough to participate in my second triathlon.

I was more nervous this time... partly due to the fact that I was less familiar with the scenery and didn't really know what to expect.  I wasn't really sure of the course, I had only swum in this pool once and I wasn't sure how I'd do with the added pressure of being timed.

I arrived at 7:30 to register, get my number and set up my transition area... and then I waited!  and waited!   My swim time wasn't until 10:30.   I was feeling anxious too because during my timed swim the previous week, I had swam 300m in 6min 35sec.   After 3 days in bed with not much to eat, I was pretty sure that I wouldn't be able to make that pace but we had already been assigned to groups based on our speed.  I was pretty sure I was going to get mowed over.  Also, I was the first heat in my lane.  Knowing that 3 other people would be hot on my heels didn't ease my anxiety.

Fortunately, I ran into a bunch of other Just Tri It women who were expressing equal thoughts and feelings.  This definitely reassured me.   After an hour or so of watching others swim and make the mad dash for their bikes, I was feeling ready.   Sort of.

I also gave myself a little talking to.   Firstly, to calm my spirit.  I said all the right stuff "it's only important that you do your best".. "if you feel like you're going to puke, it's okay to stop".. "remember to breathe and you'll be fine".  

And then there was the more stern talking to.  My number one goal in my life is to cultivate compassion, love and generosity towards others.  I reallllly want to be THAT person... the one who is selfless, kind and deeply respectful of humankind.   And I think I can be that... except that I am also fiercely competitive.   Sometimes I get hit by the competitive bug and become quite the opposite of who I want to be.   It's a struggle.  So my other talking to sounded a little like this "okay... if you are speeding along on your bike and someone in front of you wipes out, you WILL STOP and help them.  You WILL NOT keep going.  That would be WRONG and UNKIND."   I am SO glad that I didn't have to put that to the test.  I'm going to say that I have no doubt I would have stopped...

Anyway... about half way through the first length I started to panic and was pretty sure I was going to vomit.  I felt the woman behind me tap my foot (which indicates she wants to get by).  I paused at the end of the length to let her pass and then I was off again.  I felt completely uneasy.  I felt like I couldn't breathe.  I thought I was going to drown.  The voice in my head was shouting "oh no oh no oh no oh no".  I did the only thing I could think of to do... I started reciting from memory the 5th chapter of the Big Book of Alcoholics Anonymous (cuz after 21 years sobriety I've got that baby memorized).  By the time I reached the 12th step, my heart had stopped racing, I'd found my breathing rhythm and I was feeling like everything would be okay after all.   I finished my swim in 7min 23sec.  About 55 seconds slower than my practice but I was okay with that.

My transition to bike went much smoother this time.  I didn't get caught in my pant leg cuz I'd chosen different pants this time... ones that were a little more loose fitting and easier to pull on over wetness.   The bike part is my favorite.  I love my antique roadbike... it is super fast.  I would love love love to get the clip shoes and pedals but I've already spent more on this obsession that I should.  I just think.. I'm so super fast with my regular shoes/pedals... imagine how fast I'd be with THOSE.   Then, of course that leads me down the path of "if only I had a NEW roadbike... just imagine.."   That's a dangerous (and expensive) path to journey on.   Anyway, I completed the bike without any trouble.

The transition from bike to running is so amusing to me.   Honestly, my legs feel like a combination of jello and led.  It is ridiculous.  I pushed through it though and soon found my pace and ran at a reasonable pace (for me).

I completed the whole thing in 43min 53sec.

I placed 8th overall (out of 26).

I placed 1st out of 8 in my age group (40-49).

I was feeling pretty proud.

And then, I went home and slept for 2 solid hours.  It was a very satisfying day.

I learned a couple of very important things:
1.  When I have an in-water panic attack... I can handle it.  That's a relief.
2.  While looser fitting pants are easier for the swim/bike transition... they also lose their shape and fall off during the run.  That's awkward.  I had to stop several times to pull them up.  I find the fashion aspect of triathlons the most challenging.  Considering buying an actual triathlon outfit... but there's that dangerous path again.

I blame YOU Just Tri It

... and I also want to thank YOU.

First.. the blame!   You have turned me into a complete fanatic.  What did I think about before this program?  Cuz now my thoughts are mostly this:  "when can I work in my next run/bike/swim?" "what piece of clothing/bike equipment/other do I need to buy to make me faster?" "how many races/triathlons can I afford to register in?". 

But mostly.. THANK YOU.   This program has given me so much:  new friends, practical tips (bike safety, running form, core workouts), and a motivation and passion for fitness.   I am so so grateful to our fantastic leaders Michelle and Maryann... to all of the volunteers... and, of course, to the other participants.  It was so very awesome to watch you offer each other support and encouragement throughout.

I can't say how disappointed I was to have to miss the last run.  Sadly, I was struck by a horrible flu virus on Wednesday which kept me in bed until Friday morning.   It is my deep hope that there will be continued opportunities for some of us to gather to run/bike/swim together.   I'm still planning to participate in Moe's Triathlon tomorrow so hope to see some of the Just Tri It ladies there as well.

ALSO... I am still looking for women to join my Dirty Donkey team.   Please please let me know if you are interested and I'll send you the team name and password so you can enter.  It'll be SO SO SO much fun.

Feeling so excited (and a bit apprehensive) about tomorrow.  I shall post when I'm finished (if I finish).

might need help...

wondering if someone can come to my house and help me get out of bed this morning?

Last night was bike training.  I biked to the German club to meet the group (10k from my house) and my group then biked on the highway 13k (one way).  A round trip bike of 50km. 

Did I mention that 13km of that highway biking was uphill against gale force winds?  (sadly, it was on the return trip too).

I arrived at home, in my backyard, at about 8:30pm and it took me a good 2 minutes before I could walk from the bike rack to the house. 

15 minutes later I was in a hot lavender epsom salt bath, sipping peppermint tea and feeling REALLY PROUD of myself.

I woke up at 3am to use the bathroom and took 2 Advil.

This morning my legs are a little on the stiff side... and so are my shoulders.  I kept reminding myself to keep my shoulders down and back but clearly they were up in my ears for part of the time.

AND, on another note, I have signed up for 2 more triathlons and am considering a 3rd.  

Yup... TOTALLY ADDICTED!!!

Gratitude and stuff

After a surprisingly good night sleep, my favorite healthy breakfast (oatmeal, berries, greek yogurt & vanilla protein powder), I loaded my backpack and headed off to my first triathlon at Lakewood Civic Centre.   I had to make a quick stop at my office (which is right by the civic centre) to pick up my contact lenses as I'd forgotten them there on Friday.

My office.. my church... is a place of great peace and solace for me.  I took advantage of that and spent a few moments sitting in silent gratitude for the amazing day.   I'm so glad I did.  I felt the anxiety knot loosen and my nervousness shrink. 

Contacts in and spirit renewed, I went to Lakewood to register and prepare.  There was so much excited energy... it was awesome.  Chatting with others as I was preparing my bike and transition area was helpful.  There were many who were participating in their very first triathlon.  There really is comfort in numbers.

My number was 59.   This is me & my friend Holly just before start.

After a brief pre-event gathering, we went into the pool area for the swim.  I was in the 3rd heat starting at 8:45 (there were 5 heats in total... starting every 15 minutes... 4 lanes... about 6 or 7 people per lane). 

Watching the other heats go was very exciting and heartwarming.  There was lots of cheering and encouragement.  Many of us were standing along the sidelines in tears as we loudly cheered on two women who were the last out of the water in the first heat.  Both of them were older women who were clearly not comfortable in the water but pushed through and made it through to the end.  A HUGE accomplishment.  One women had another younger woman in the water with her (her daughter, I think)... right by her side.. encouraging her the entire way.   They got out of the water to many high fives and hugs.   A beautiful moment to witness.

Soon, it was my turn.  I was the first to go in my heat.  My fear was that I would get caught up in the adrenaline and take off too quickly and tire out before it was over.  It wasn't a long swim (200m) though so I was feeling pretty confident as I'd been swimming much further than that during practice. 

I was the first out of the pool.  That was unexpected.

I was not, however, the first out of the swim-bike transition area.

Running out of the pool and into the cold (-1) air was not pleasant but, surprisingly, not as awful as I thought it was going to be.   The first gasp of ice cold air might even have felt refreshing.

So I was the first into the transition area.  I found my bike and stuff and started to dry off.  It was in the putting on of my shorts that things got tricky.  I couldn't seem to get my right leg through the leg hole and almost toppled over... twice.  Eventually I figured it out... got my helmet on, my bike off the rack and I was on my way.

As I was running my bike to the mounting area I looked to my left and sitting there was the greatest blessing of all... my daughter Hope.   For those of you who don't know Hope... she is 16 and really likes to sleep in on Sundays.   I had invited her to come and cheer me on but, to be honest, I really didn't expect her to be there.  In fact, I worked hard at letting go of that expectation so I wouldn't be disappointed when she didn't show up.  And there she was.   Hearing her shout "go Mom" was better than an energy bar.   My heart swelled and my body came alive. 

3 loops around the bike track to complete the 6km.   Throughout the track there were many volunteers pointing us in the right direction, warning us about loose gravel and sharp turns and enthusiastically cheering us on.  The volunteers for this event were AMAZING. 

I finished my bike, took off of my helmet, had a sip of water and was off on the run.  Oddly, my legs felt fine this time around.  Must have been adrenaline.

Running was the part that I was the most nervous about... mostly because I have the least amount of experience.  One of the highlights for me was running by McClure United Church and seeing my colleague Debra's car parked with it's rear bumper to the road with a big sign in the back window that read "Go Laura Go".  Again.. heart swelled and energy perked in gratitude for the love and support.   I thought of my faith family who were, at that very moment, gathering to begin worship together.

Twice around the running route to complete 2km.   I came around the corner to that finish line and Michelle and MaryAnn... our amazing Just Tri It leaders... and I wanted to explode with happiness.  Not because it was finally over but because I was feeling so proud of myself (1) for trying something new (2) for blowing my expectations for myself out of the water and (3) for discovering Just Tri It and this amazingly supportive and caring group of women.

After 38 minutes of swimming, biking and running....I approached the finish line.   Michelle was there to greet me with a medal and a hug... followed closely by hugs from MaryAnn and Hope. 

By 10:00 I was at the church changing in to my church clothes and preparing for the second service at 11.   As folks were leaving the first service many of them admired my medal (which I was still wearing) and congratulated me on my accomplishment.  I TOTALLY soaked it in.   I was still completely pumped and excited and bursting with energy.

I felt the energy flee my body at around 1:00 as I shared a Mother's Day meal with my wife and daughter.  Fortunately, I had nothing else to do that day but rest and bask in gratitude for all of the blessings of this amazing day.

I can't WAIT until the next triathlon... June 1st at the Shaw Centre. 

the time has come...

and I'm ready to roll.

Bike is ready.   Swimsuit ready.  Running shoes ready.

Feeling ridiculously nervous and excited.  And a little apprehensive about the cold.  The Weather Network tells me that it's currently -4.   Geez.  Running outside in my wet swimsuit is going to be deeply unpleasant.  I'm hoping that my adrenaline will keep me warm.

My swim time start is 8:45.  If you could think warm thoughts and send them my way, I would be very grateful.

I'll post photos and an update later today (if I survive that is).

Til then...

a bad omen?

So yesterday my tire blew on my bike.  (took me 45 minutes to figure out how to get it off... couldn't figure out how to get the tube out so took to Bike Doctor... and another 1/2 hour to get it back on!  I'm thinking if I blow a tire during the triathlon everyone will be finished and cleared out by the time I get it fixed).

Today I went for one last practice swim and my bathing suit bottoms fell apart.   Yup.. got out of the pool and walked to the change room when I realized that they were drooping to my knees and completely see through.  I suppose I could be grateful that the flat tire and faulty bathing suit appeared BEFORE the triathlon and not during (oh my gawd that would completely suck).

They say bad things come in 3s.  If my running shoes blow a hole tonight, I'm calling it quits.

The good news is that the lovely guy at Bike Doctor filled my tire with "magic speed air".  So as long as it doesn't blow again...

Onward and upward.

so close...

... aackkk...  triathlon in 3 days.

This Sunday I will be joining the other Just Tri It ladies for our first triathlon (although I know some have done it before, I think most of us are newbies).   This is a shorter version of a triathlon (200m swim, 6k bike, 2k run).

A few things to report today...  it is ridiculously hard to go from a hard bike to a run.  I tried it on Tuesday.  After biking the 6k my legs felt like they were made of iron.  I think I looked ridiculous.  I started running with my arms swinging madly at my sides to try to pick up some momentum but it felt like my legs were about 10 paces behind.  (sort of reminded me of when I would jump on a trampoline and then try to jump on the solid ground)   Fortunately, after about a block the sensation started to wear off and I was able to run better.  I managed to complete the 2k run.  It wasn't easy (although I didn't really anticipate that it would be). On Sunday we will begin with a swim in the Lakewood Civic Centre pool and then run out onto the grass in our wet bathings suits (in the freezing cold morning air) and prepare for our bike ride.  That is going to be so very very unpleasant... riding in a wet bathing suit in the cold.  Tonight I'm going to practice putting my biking/running pants on over damp legs and wet bathing suit.. just to see if it's even possible.

I'm very excited.   I'm also very nervous.  Haha.. and the funniest part is that I will be running right by my church DURING WORSHIP on Sunday morning.  I took the morning off to participate.   Maybe they can be saying a prayer for me and the rest of the gang on our way by.  I'm hoping to be finished the triathlon and at church for the 11am service.

The other thing that I'd like to report is that I have no idea how to change a bike tire, despite the very informative lesson at the beginning of the program.  I set out on my bike this morning only to discover a very flat tire.  I did figure out how to get the tire off (its an old bike and doesn't have quick release tires) and I got the first little thingamajig in the tire to try to get it off the rim but that's as far as I got.   The tire also looks like it might have a more serious issue than I can deal with.  I'm heading to the Bike Doctor later today.  I was disappointed because I really wanted to do another practice run this morning but I would have been wayyyyy more disappointed if this had happened Sunday morning before the triathlon.  

Tonight is our pep rally where we'll receive more detailed info about Sunday.  So much fun.

And that's it for now...

(I still haven't actually worn my bike shorts)

Triathlon ready:  helmet, swim goggles, swim suit, bike gloves, running shoes and BIKE SHORTS.

Not sure how I'm supposed to swim with a helmet and shoes on...

and bike shorts it is...

First of all, survived Easter weekend.  Had a fantastic time with 30 youth and young adults as we kept vigil in anticipation of Easter.  I was awake for 32 hours straight and for 15 of those I was in constant motion.  At about 7am I thought I wouldn't make it (but still had two worship services to be present for) so I decided that I should go for a swim.  I joined my swim team at 8am and it was definitely the right choice.  That little bit of exercise gave me the boost I needed to make it through.  

Curious... I always used the excuse of  "I'm too tired" as a way to avoid exercise.  Turns out that I was too tired because I didn't exercise.  Who knew that exercise actually GAVE people energy?

Anyway, slept off and on for the rest of Sunday but it took until today (Wednesday) before I finally feel normal (well, normal for me).

Monday was bike night.  I had not yet been on my new (to me) bike so decided to give it a go in the afternoon and biked to The Bike Doctor to pick up a few supplies.   I bought my bike on Kijiji for $50.  It's an antique I think.. road bike.  Probably from the early 80s.  It works fantastic.  I could not believe 1. how fast I could go and 2. how much less energy it takes to ride than my mountain bike.

I decided to bike to our meeting place which I mistakenly thought was about a 15 minute bike from my house.  Took me half an hour.  I checked online and turns out its just over 8 miles one way.  So, first time out and biked 30 minutes there... over 30 minutes with the group... and 30 minutes home.  (I'm not really known for doing things in moderation).  My butt felt every single bump and stone all the way home.

The bike itself was FANTASTIC.  I had such a fun fun fun time.  I decided to take a risk and join the intermediate/advanced group and I'm really glad I did.  I was able to keep up with out much trouble at all.  It was exhilarating.. really.   I arrived home pretty hyped up.. despite my aching backside.

And about my butt... so I've rethought my decision to return my bike shorts.  I'll take the diaper-butt look over the sore-butt feel any day.  So... back to the store I go.

Tonight I'm going for a practice swim and tomorrow is run night...

LOVIN EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!

@#$%$ weather

I really hate to complain BUT... SERIOUSLY!!!!

This cold/snowy/winter weather is really annoying me.   I know it's pointless to get upset about things I cannot change and have absolutely no control over BUT.. SERIOUSLY!

Monday night bike was cancelled again.  We were given a few options instead... run, a fitness class at the YWCA.   I chose to go swimming.  I'm glad I did as I struck up a conversation with a woman swimming in my lane and turns out she is a Tri It volunteer.. Karen (I think).  It was just fun to make that connection.   Also, she is a great swimmer and although I couldn't keep up to her, it caused me to push myself a little harder than I otherwise might have.

I'm not able to go on the run tonight because I will be participating in the Maundy Thursday service at my church.   I'm going to try to get in a run on my own before that.   Did you know running is kind of addictive?   I thought about just taking the day off but my legs are twitching.

This weekend is going to be fun and challenging.  Beginning on Saturday evening at 8pm I will be gathering at my church with youth and young adults from around Saskatoon for our annual Easter Vigil.  We spend the entire night praying, worshiping, making new friends, playing games and consuming crazy amounts of sugar and caffeine so that we can stay awake.   Sunrise this year for Easter is at 5:59 so we will be on the Wildwood hill at 5:45 to begin worship with other early birds to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.  After worship we head to the church for breakfast and then a little break until regular worship at 9:15.

I'm going to use that opportunity to go for a swim for my regular swim time from 8:05 until 8:40.  I really hope I don't fall asleep and drown in the water.  My hope is that the little burst of exercise will perk me up enough to help me make it through til worship is over at noon and I can finally go home to bed.

Heads up to my swim team... if it looks as though I'm drowning, I probably am.  Help!!

Words has it that next Monday we're going to bike rain, snow or shine.. can't wait!!

Happy Easter everyone!

gettin my groove on

So far this week I have ran roughly 20km, swam about 8km and beat my personal best in squats, deadlifts and bench presses at the gym.

Feeling pretty good.

Hard to believe I've had time to do anything else. 

t's a bit ridiculous (and embarrassing) how much I am enjoying this whole fitness/exercise/triathlon training.  Honestly, I go to bed and night feeling excited and I just can't wait to get to sleep so it'll be morning and I can go to the gym/go for a run/go swimming.   I know I tend on the side of obsessiveness in general but this is over-the-top... and I'm not at all interested in changing that.  It feels so good to be excited in my body... to be doing something physical... to be pushing myself.  I kind of feel unstoppable.  

I know I need to be careful so as not to injure myself... and I am.  I feel pretty confident that all the core/butt/back/leg work I have been doing at the gym for the past 7 months has prepared me pretty well for the more intensive cardio workouts.   So far nothing aches or twinges (well, nothing new.  I do have a little hip issue but it actually seems to be sorting itself out thanks to my much beloved foam roller).

Monday night we had our bike boot camp.  Lots of fun.  We did coordination exercises, core exercises, stretching and something for our butts.  I liked the ladder drills the best.   I'm reallllllllly hoping that next Monday it will be nice enough out for us to actually get out on our bikes.

Thursday night was run night.  Again I was able to run for a little more than 30 continuous minutes at a fairly decent pace.  The evening began with an informational session on proper running form.  Learned lots and was able to practice some of what I learned (who knew that running properly would take so much concentration... shoulders down and back, lean forward, arms at a 90 degree angle, feet striking closer to the body so as not to strike with the heel... here I thought all I needed to do was run).   I'm enjoying my little running group.  So far there are 5 of us but I suspect the group will get larger as others move up.  It was a beautiful night to run along the river.

I'm going to have to miss the swim on Sunday morning.  It's Palm Sunday and I'm responsible for the service this week.  I have lots of prep I need to do and have to be at the church early to greet people.  I will try to swim a little later in the day though.

So.. I'm feeling pretty darn grateful right now.  Grateful for this program.  Grateful that my body is more than cooperating with me.  Grateful that I am meeting new friends and feeling more at ease in the group all the time... they are a wonderfully supportive bunch.  Also, very grateful for Michelle and MaryAnn's amazing leadership.... lots of love and laughter between the two of them.

Have a fantastic weekend everyone!!!

just couldn't do it...

returned the bike shorts.  Had to be done.

I remember as a kid/teen riding my bike everywhere and never having issues.  Do our bits get more sensitive as we get older?  At any rate.. I'm gonna suck it up and ride on.

Speaking of riding... I got a new bike yesterday!   So excited.  Found it on Kijiji.  It's a "vintage" road bike.  Probably from the 80s.  Excellent condition.  Already tuned.  New tires.  Comfy(ish) seat.  Took it for a little test spin yesterday.  WOW.. is it different from my mountain bike.  Almost peeled out a couple of times on gravel (but didn't).  Can't wait to give it a real go.

But that won't be tonight.  Still too mucky out for our bike sessions so instead we will be doing a "boot camp".  Sounds awful but am looking forward to meeting some more ladies from the group.  Those that sweat together, bond together.

I think I'm finding a nice rhythm to my exercise routine.  I'm working with my trainer (Reed) at Goodlife Fitness doing strength training on Mon, Wed and Fri mornings.  Biking on Monday eve, running Thurs eve and swimming on Sunday morning.  I'm trying to get in an extra bike/swim/run each week so that every day I am doing some sort of cardio activity.

Speaking of cardio activity... holy crap is it hard to run against the wind.  I went for a run on Saturday afternoon along the 14th street trail.  Running away from home it was a breeze.  Didn't even notice the wind.  Made it to the Preston corner no problem.. feeling pretty proud cuz I wasn't really even out of breath (it was about 2.5k).  Turned around to run home and made it about 2 blocks before I thought I was going to die.  Walked a minute or two and then carried on, alternating walk/run.  Started thinking about how disappointing it must be for real triathletes (or any other athlete for that matter) to train and train and train... striving to beat their personal best... only to have crappy weather on traithlon day.   I can run 5k no problem on a nice day but...

On another note...
I made an observation about myself today (in response to my friend Hillary's comment on my previous blog post where I was giving credit for my ability to run to my magic shoes and she pointed out that perhaps it was I... not my shoes... that deserved the credit).

I have never been an athletic, fit person (actually, I've mostly felt pretty disconnected from my body for most of my life).  My decision last August to join the gym and get in shape had more to do with panic about reaching middle age than anything else.  Working with a personal trainer has been absolutely transformative for me.  I began at the gym with the goal to take off a few pounds and gain more energy.  And that has happened.  But, over the last few months I have been amazed as my body has changed... become more strong, more dependable, more confident).   I would have NEVER signed up for Just Tri It if I hadn't already begun this journey.  

So the body has changed so much.. but the mind.. my self-image.. is slow to catch up.   I didn't think I'd be able to run more than 5 minutes and I ran 30.   I didn't think I'd be able to continuous swim for more than a few lengths and I swam the other day for 30 minutes.. no problem.  I'm pretty sure I'm going to do okay on the biking as well (so long as I don't wipe out).   So I can no longer think of myself as "a lazy slug" (seriously.. that was my inner message).  I can no longer make excuses for not trying and doing new things because I really have no idea of the strength and power that are inside of me.  I am more and more coming to believe that my body's capacity to do amazing things is 80% mental and 20% physical.

Now I need to work on translating this to my social life.  I have always seen myself as shy, awkward and not very good meeting new people.  So.. I am shy, awkward and have a hard time meeting new people.  My new mantra needs to be "I am a loving and loveable person".    So watch out Just Tri It ladies...

Who knew Just Tri It would be so inspiring... I just thought it'd suck :-) (I like to start with low expectations so I'm not disappointed).

and on to week #2

This week started with our Monday bike session where we learned how to change a bike tire (well, someone demonstrated how to change a bike tire, the verdict is still out as to whether I actually learned anything).   We also spent time learning about road safety and having our helmets fitted.

I can't wait to actually get out on my bike.  I wish I had a road bike though... more speed with less effort.  However, it will be fun to go out with the ladies and pedal our butts off.  I can't say I'm overly anxious to put on my new bike shorts though.  I'm afraid my decision to purchase them might have been a bit rash.   I'm just far too vain to wear something that makes it look like I'm wearing a diaper (call me silly). It's probably not as bad as I think and if other women in the group were to swear to me that they too would be wearing these horrible things, I be willing to look ridiculous in solidarity.

It must be possible to be comfortable AND fashionable.

Thursday night was our run night.  I did decide to be brave and give the 30 minute continuous run group a go.  There were only 4 of us:  the volunteer Bernie, Jane, Jill and myself.  It was awesome.  We ran from the YWCA along the river to the Broadway Bridge, up the bridge, along the river and then back down the University Bridge, over to City Hospital and back to the Y.  I have no idea how far it is but it took us 30 minutes exactly.  I was completely fine for the first 10 minutes, then there were about 2 minutes when I thought I might die but that passed quickly and then I felt like I could have ran for another 30.  Strange.   I wonder if the "feeling I"m going to die thing" was just anxiety.. "what if I can't do it?"  "what if I'm too slow and hold everyone else back?"  Not only did I do it, but I met some lovely women in the process.  I ran mostly beside Jill, a lovely woman who recently moved to Saskatoon from Toronto with her partner.  Time went rather quickly when there was someone to chat with.

My new magic shoes continue to amaze me.

Tonight is a "wine and cheese" night at Brainsport for the participants with sales on all merchandise just for us.  There isn't really anything I need, but...

Swimming... YES!

I used to be a swimmer.  I used to LOVE swimming.  I haven't swam for a very very long time.

Today, I put on my bathing suit and headed to the YWCA at 7:45 to be there to swim for 8:05.  

I was a little reluctant... not because I was nervous about the swim but because I didn't sleep last night.  I didn't sleep first, because a certain teenager forgot to tell me she wasn't coming home and when I got up for the regular 3:30am pee break I discovered the car wasn't here and neither was she... a quick text cleared everything up.  I was just nicely falling back to sleep when all hell broke lose.  We have been trying to integrate a new cat into our house for the past week (we already have 2).   It's not going well.  The beasts decided at about 4:30am to have an all out war ON OUR BED.  I was uninjured but my partner ended up with a fairly deep gash in her cheek just below her eye.   It bled.  Quite a bit.  Once the cat fur settled into the carpet, the blood was cleaned away and the wound sufficiently cleansed... we tried for sleep again (with cats separated in different rooms).  Again, just dozing when the injured cat decided he needed to pee (we have a litter box in our bedroom as the cats are trying to sort this all out - disgusting, I know).  He took the longest, loudest pee in the world and then proceeded to spend the next 15 minutes or so scratching at the litter trying to cover it up.   I was not so much impressed.  Finally, giving up on the desire to sleep, I got up, made some coffee and began to prepare for the day.

Made it to the pool on time.  After a little talk from our lovely leader Michelle, we divided into lanes and started swimming.  Ooooo.. to be back in the water again.  I am a Pisces... a fish.  When I was a kid I lived in the water, either in the swimming pool or at the lake.  Later, I started lane swimming.  I'm a good and confident swimmer and although I haven't done it for quite some time, it felt like I'd never stopped.  The water is SO calming... soothing.  Swimming, I think, is going to be my favorite part of the training.

My anxiety was getting to work on time.  I think I mentioned in a previous post that I am a minister in the United Church.  I work at McClure United Church which is roughly a 12 minute drive from the YWCA.   The swimming was done at 8:40 and I needed to be showered, dressed and present for the worship service which starts at 9:15.  I wasn't sure I could do it.  I arrived at the church at 9:05.  Time to spare.  All of the rushing first thing in the morning was a little stressful though so I'm not sure I'll keep it up.  I'm going to try for a couple of weeks and if it's too much, I will just go lane swimming on my own.  That option would mean missing out on the community aspect of the swim training... but I'm not exactly building community when I'm rushing like a mad woman to get out of there.

Looking forward now to tomorrow's second bike session...

AND... on another note:  does anyone want a cat?

my magic shoes

Put my shoes to the test tonight.

Just came back from running 30 continuous minutes and a total distance of 5.12km.

Could have gone longer!

just sayin'... these shoes are amazing!!!

and run #1... DID IT

Now I'm convinced that my new running shoes really are magic.

Last night was the first run of the Just Tri It program.  I had decided to join the "run 5 minutes, walk 1 minute" group.  Not sure I could do it but really wanting to push myself.

Not only did I do it... I did it with ease.  Didn't even break a sweat.  So grateful to my new running shoes (and also a little grateful to my personal trainer from Goodlife Fitness... Reed-the-amazing... for pushing me so damn hard over the past 7 months).  I knew that my cardio had improved as I've been doing interval training on the treadmill 3 x per week and also other cardio exercises as part of my training sessions (burpees, mountain climbers and other equally torture-like movements).   I did not, however, know how all the training would translate into running outside for a longer period of time (my normal intervals are:  sprint for 90 seconds and walk for 30... for 30 minutes total).

Anyway, now I know that I can do it.  Now I'm curious to know how far I can go... so tonight I'm going to go out on my own and test my new "magic shoe" theory.  I wonder how long I can go?!

And... as well as being magical for their cardio-boost properties, my shoes also gave me the courage to strike up not one.. not two... but three conversations with complete strangers.  Whoa!!!

I continue to really enjoy the leadership of Maryann and Michelle.  They immediately put others at ease with their easy nature and great sense of humor.  Clearly they enjoy what they are doing.. it shows and it helps to think of this training as fun.  I'm really looking forward to getting to know them and the other ladies better.

Next stop.. swimming.  Sunday morning at 8am.  That will be interesting.  Not at all worried about the swimming part.  I used to be a great swimmer and I think it will come back to me quickly.  What worries me is the timing.  I swim from 8:05-8:40 Sunday morning.  I need to be showered, dressed and in the pulpit at my church by 9:15 (for those of you who don't know me... I am a minister at a United Church).  I hope I don't get any speeding tickets along the way.

Successfully finished first bike session...

Okay, so it was an informational session in which no actual riding was involved... but still!  I did it!  YAY.

Who knew there was so much to know about bicycles?  We covered the different styles & sizes and all of the various bits that hold the thing together.  To be honest, I didn't pay too much attention.  I'm pretty content with words like "the thingy majigy" or thewhatchamacallit".   I did learn some valuable stuff though that I might use to impress someone someday.

Yesterday I went shopping for some supplies.  I know we were told to wait for our Just Tri It shopping spree at Brainsport but I just couldn't do it.   I needed new stuff now!   So, I am now geared with some running pants (I honestly really did need these... all I own that currently fit me are jeans and although I'm an unexperienced runner, I was pretty sure that wouldn't do).  I also got a GREAT deal on some new running shoes (Saucony).  The most ridiculous thing I bought is bike shorts.  For the love of God... SERIOUSLY!  I had to think long and hard whether I was prepared to walk around feeling like I have a load in my pants.  I tried on several different pair in several different styles thinking that something was wrong with them.  Hoohoos and butts are NOT supposed to look like that, especially not look like that in public.   If it wasn't for the encouragement of my partner, Jordan, I would have walked away but she assured me that it was well worth it.  (Its a good thing I trust her so much otherwise I'd be thinking she is out to humiliate me).  My privates better enjoy the ride cuz I'm sacrificing a fair bit of dignity on their account.

So, with my new running shoes and running pants I'm all set to go for the first run of the training which starts tomorrow.  Tomorrow we will self-select ourselves into a group based on our fitness level.  I'm tempted to go in the walking group because I KNOW I can do that BUT I have not been training my butt off for the past 7 months in order to take it easy on myself now.  I'm just not sure how the training I have been doing will translate.  For several months now I have been running on the treadmill at the gym for 1/2 hour 3 times per week doing high intensity intervals (I run for 90 seconds at between 6.5 and 8pmh at a 1-2.5 incline and then I walk for 30 seconds).

I think I'm going to try the run 5 minutes, walk 1 minute group.  It's right in the middle.   If I can't do it... no problem, the next week I will move to a different group.  I think I can do it (especially with my new magic running shoes - geez... don't they make plain colored shoes anymore?  What's wrong with black or white?  Mine are florescent green, orange and yellow.  I tried telling the shoe guy that my goal was to NOT stand out...)

So.. tomorrow I run.   If you don't hear from me for a couple of days, it's because I can't move.

Til then..

The time has come - ORIENTATION

I did it!  I actually went!!  Don't think for a moment that I didn't talk myself out of (and back into) going to the Just Tri It orientation session at least 100 times.  Last night I even started to feel sick (physically - as in a sore throat, congestion).  Amazing how much power fear has over our physical selves.  Sadly, I woke up this morning feeling fine.  I had no excuse.  Fortunately, I'd convinced my friend Holly to also sign up for the training and she was picking me up at 12:45.  I'm prepared to let myself down... but not a friend.

I can't even say for sure what the anxiety was (is) about.  I've been working my butt off (literally) for 7 months at the gym getting myself into a somewhat fit condition.  Three times a week working with my fantastic personal trainer at Goodlife Fitness (Reed) and 3 times a week doing interval training on the treadmill.  I also walk to and from work every day (about 45 minutes round trip).  Although all of my training is personal and I have no one to compare my fitness to except me.  What if I only think I'm in good shape?  What if my trainer is only being nice when he says "excellent workout"?  (I should probably mention that I'm slightly neurotic)

Much to my relief and joy, the two fantastic women who are leading this program were incredibly reassuring.   Every single one of my fears was named.  I looked around and saw other women nodding their heads and laughing nervously when they talked about the anxiety of having to put on a bathing suit.   I felt reassured that no matter where I am on the fitness scale, there is a place for me among the Just Tri It women.  

One of my other significant fears relates to meeting other women.  While I am someone who knows many many people, I am not someone who has many friends.  I find meeting people difficult.. awkward.. uncomfortable.  I don't really like putting myself out there.  It's REALLY SILLY and DRIVES ME MAD that at 45 years old I still care so much what people think.  I walk into a room of strangers and I'm instantly 7 years old and walking into my new school for the first time... terrified that no one is going to like me.

So, I reassured myself that I didn't NEED to put myself out there.  I'm doing this for me.  I gave myself permission to hang with my friend Holly, get the info necessary and get out of there.

AND THEN we were invited to play a little "get to know you game" (at which point I begged Holly to shoot me quickly).  However, I remembered another commitment I made as part of a book study group that I was going to risk being more vulnerable in an effort to achieve my personal goal of living in the world more wholeheartedly... with more gregarious love.

So.. I sucked it up and met a lovely women (who's name I now forget).  We had a lovely little chat and as far as I can tell she seemed to like me okay.   The leaders challenged us to take a moment or two at each and every session to meet one new person.   I think I'm going to do it.

So... the truth is that this program is going to help me grow physically and emotionally... also spiritually because I believe a healthy spirit goes hand in hand with a healthy mind and body.

Tomorrow we gather again for our first bike session... but we don't need to bring our bikes yet.  It's informational only.  Can't wait to get going!!!