Thursday, 2/26 - Spin class - 1 hour & Swimming - 45 minutes
Well, sort of. I went to spin class during lunch on Thursday and loved it. Again, the drill sargeant, I mean instructor kicked my arse...I was dripping with sweat in the 1st 10 minutes! I met Katie at the pool on Thursday night and we swam more and rested less than we ever have. It felt great!
Friday, 2/27 - rest
I had Friday off from work, and normally that would mean relaxing on the couch after the kids with a glass of vino and a snack (a healthy one of course)....but I had back to back dr's appointments the next day and one of them required that I fast the night before. Soooo...instead, I kept myself busy by organizing my closet and had some water. Such an exciting life I lead, lol.
After my dr's appointments, I headed to the mall to look for a couple of new pairs of cute sandals for the Spring and to have some lunch. I was planning to go to a movie before my 4 pm hair appointment, but decided to head home and take care of some stuff around the house that I have been meaning to do forever - putting the baby's bouncy seat and swing in the attic, hanging pictures that have been in boxes for almost a year, etc. While it wasn't the relaxing afternoon I had planned, it felt great to get it done.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Catching Up....
Wednesday, 2/25 - Run, 3 miles, 10:47 pace
I wasn't feeling like going for a run, especially on the dreadmill. But, as usual, once I got going it was all good! I worked on progressively increasing my pace throughout the run and decided to skip the walk breaks. It felt great!
Tuesday, 2/24 - Swim, 45 minutes (lost count of laps!)
I couldn't make it to spin class during lunch due to a dr's appointment, but there's still swimming after work. I had to share a lane with 3 other people...people who can actually swim. (Yeah, the Y is going a bit overboard on the freaking swim classes these days!!!) You know what that means? No resting at the wall!!! Okay, so I did rest a little at the wall, but less that I have before. At first I was worried about getting in someone's way, which caused spazz-girl to come out. Once I concentrated on relaxing and doing what I was supposed to be doing, I was much better. Some laps were better than others though...seriously, I am beginning to wonder if I'll ever be able to swim continuously!!!!
Monday, 2/23 - rest
I should have done an upper body or core workout, but after staying up late to watch the Oscars the night before (GO SLUMDOG AND KATE WINSLET!), I decided turning in early would be a better idea.
Sunday, 2/22 - Bike, 11 miles, 14.1 pace
I decided to ride around our neighborhood, since we have a few streets where the land has been cleared, but there are no homes going up...imagine that. :o) When I 1st started out, I was on the slightly busier streets and had quite a few stops and turns...my pace was only 9.12! I knew I needed to speed it up once I got into the less populated area. For the 1st time back on the bike in over 2 weeks, I think the ride went well! Once I got off my bike and put it in the garage, I attempted to run to the end of the block and back...wow! Wow! WOW! I thought my legs were going to give out on me at first. This is going to be very interesting.
Saturday, 2/21 - Run, 7-ish miles
Katie to the rescue again! Katie agreed to meet me for a hilly 9-miler in the afternoon. It was warm and sunny...actually, it was only 63 but when you haven't run in anything warmer than the mid-50s in awhile, 63 and sunny feels, well, HOT! Jeeze, how am I going to make it when I have to do my runs in the afternoon and it's 90? I had a little snafu with the Garmin, so I'm not sure of the exact time, pace or distance. Doh!
Friday, 2/20 - rest
Thursday was quite a workout day between spin and swim. It also happened to be our company's BBQ cook off and my Dad's birthday, so between the two I knew I would not be working out!
Thursday, 2/19 - PM - Swim, 50 minutes
Thank goodness Katie met me at the pool! It's so much more fun when there's someone else there. The pool is getting more and more crowded, as more and more swim classes are being scheduled. I started off a little shaky with the whole spaz thing going on, but by the end of the night I felt like I was getting back into the groove
I wasn't feeling like going for a run, especially on the dreadmill. But, as usual, once I got going it was all good! I worked on progressively increasing my pace throughout the run and decided to skip the walk breaks. It felt great!
Tuesday, 2/24 - Swim, 45 minutes (lost count of laps!)
I couldn't make it to spin class during lunch due to a dr's appointment, but there's still swimming after work. I had to share a lane with 3 other people...people who can actually swim. (Yeah, the Y is going a bit overboard on the freaking swim classes these days!!!) You know what that means? No resting at the wall!!! Okay, so I did rest a little at the wall, but less that I have before. At first I was worried about getting in someone's way, which caused spazz-girl to come out. Once I concentrated on relaxing and doing what I was supposed to be doing, I was much better. Some laps were better than others though...seriously, I am beginning to wonder if I'll ever be able to swim continuously!!!!
Monday, 2/23 - rest
I should have done an upper body or core workout, but after staying up late to watch the Oscars the night before (GO SLUMDOG AND KATE WINSLET!), I decided turning in early would be a better idea.
Sunday, 2/22 - Bike, 11 miles, 14.1 pace
I decided to ride around our neighborhood, since we have a few streets where the land has been cleared, but there are no homes going up...imagine that. :o) When I 1st started out, I was on the slightly busier streets and had quite a few stops and turns...my pace was only 9.12! I knew I needed to speed it up once I got into the less populated area. For the 1st time back on the bike in over 2 weeks, I think the ride went well! Once I got off my bike and put it in the garage, I attempted to run to the end of the block and back...wow! Wow! WOW! I thought my legs were going to give out on me at first. This is going to be very interesting.
Saturday, 2/21 - Run, 7-ish miles
Katie to the rescue again! Katie agreed to meet me for a hilly 9-miler in the afternoon. It was warm and sunny...actually, it was only 63 but when you haven't run in anything warmer than the mid-50s in awhile, 63 and sunny feels, well, HOT! Jeeze, how am I going to make it when I have to do my runs in the afternoon and it's 90? I had a little snafu with the Garmin, so I'm not sure of the exact time, pace or distance. Doh!
Friday, 2/20 - rest
Thursday was quite a workout day between spin and swim. It also happened to be our company's BBQ cook off and my Dad's birthday, so between the two I knew I would not be working out!
Thursday, 2/19 - PM - Swim, 50 minutes
Thank goodness Katie met me at the pool! It's so much more fun when there's someone else there. The pool is getting more and more crowded, as more and more swim classes are being scheduled. I started off a little shaky with the whole spaz thing going on, but by the end of the night I felt like I was getting back into the groove
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Going.to.die.
OMG
Today, I made it to spin class during lunch. Within the 1st 10 minutes I thought to myself, "I am going to die. Right here. On this bike." Yeah, and then the instructor said, "Tension at 1 1/2. Okay now take the tension another 2." To make matters worse, he's an ex-military guy, so we had to repeat everything he said as loud as possible.
Rat bastard.
It sucked the big one, but I survived it.
And I will be back for more.
I am such a masochist.
And tonight...there's more swimming.
Today, I made it to spin class during lunch. Within the 1st 10 minutes I thought to myself, "I am going to die. Right here. On this bike." Yeah, and then the instructor said, "Tension at 1 1/2. Okay now take the tension another 2." To make matters worse, he's an ex-military guy, so we had to repeat everything he said as loud as possible.
Rat bastard.
It sucked the big one, but I survived it.
And I will be back for more.
I am such a masochist.
And tonight...there's more swimming.
Run Baby Run
The kiddos actually went to sleep at a decent hour and I took advantage of the free time by jumping on the treadmill.
I felt really heavy at first, but once I got going I felt great! The goal was 30 minutes with a nice, consistent pace. The end result - 2.72 miles, 11:01 pace. Not so speedy, but considering the lack of running over the past couple of weeks, I'm pretty pleased.
I felt really heavy at first, but once I got going I felt great! The goal was 30 minutes with a nice, consistent pace. The end result - 2.72 miles, 11:01 pace. Not so speedy, but considering the lack of running over the past couple of weeks, I'm pretty pleased.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Foiled again...
Drats, for the 2nd week in a row, I was going to attempt to make it to spin class on my lunch break. And once again, I remembered that I had a lunch meeting! Grrrrr...
Back in the swim of things
For the 1st time in over a week, I finally made it back to the pool! Hooray! I was a little concerned, because I am still hacking up a lung...but, it was all good. Well, except for the sensation that I had forgotten 1/2 of the stuff I'd been working on for the past few weeks!
I don't know what was up, but the pool was uber-crowded. Once again, lane after lane of 6 year olds were swimming like they were born in the pool. Okay, maybe they were tweens and not 6 year olds, but they were good.
Seriously, I don't know if it was the killer upper body workout I did the day before (not real smart!), the fact that I was recovering from this cold/allergy/sinus stuff, or that I hadn't been in the pool for awhile, but I couldn't seem to get things going. My stroke felt awkward and my breathing wasn't quite right. But, thankfully Kelly was there and watching her helped me remember what I was supposed to be doing....she makes it look soooo easy!
I did manage to get in lots of laps...how many, I'm not sure because I lost count. Lots and lots of laps, lol.
I don't know what was up, but the pool was uber-crowded. Once again, lane after lane of 6 year olds were swimming like they were born in the pool. Okay, maybe they were tweens and not 6 year olds, but they were good.
Seriously, I don't know if it was the killer upper body workout I did the day before (not real smart!), the fact that I was recovering from this cold/allergy/sinus stuff, or that I hadn't been in the pool for awhile, but I couldn't seem to get things going. My stroke felt awkward and my breathing wasn't quite right. But, thankfully Kelly was there and watching her helped me remember what I was supposed to be doing....she makes it look soooo easy!
I did manage to get in lots of laps...how many, I'm not sure because I lost count. Lots and lots of laps, lol.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Feel the Burn
Ah yes, it's been awhile and I've missed it so.
THE BURN
For the 1st time in about a month, I did P90X. There's not much time for it when you're trying to train in 3 different sports, but I have missed it. And, I knew I'd be getting in a spin class at least once this week, so I decided my upper body needed a good workout. I used my favorite of the dvds - Shoulders and Arms. It's great because it does a shoulder exercise, triceps and then biceps - you repeat the set and then you do a different set of shoulders, tris and bis, repeat, etc.
LOVE IT!
THE BURN
For the 1st time in about a month, I did P90X. There's not much time for it when you're trying to train in 3 different sports, but I have missed it. And, I knew I'd be getting in a spin class at least once this week, so I decided my upper body needed a good workout. I used my favorite of the dvds - Shoulders and Arms. It's great because it does a shoulder exercise, triceps and then biceps - you repeat the set and then you do a different set of shoulders, tris and bis, repeat, etc.
LOVE IT!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Cough, Run, Cough, Bike, Cough
Between the back and funerals one week, and the lovely head cold the next, the workouts have been few and far between lately. I hate it, because I feel like I've missed two very vital weeks of training for both the Zooma 1/2 and the tri. To top it off, I still have a lingering nasty cough and my runny nose returned last night. Grrrr....
Thursday, February 12 - Brick - bike/run - 40 minutes
I was feeling great on Thursday, so I decided to head to the Y for a spin class during lunch. That plan was foiled when a 10 am meeting ran long and I missed the spin class. Sooooo...I headed over to the Y after my meeting and did 20 minutes on the stationary bike, followed by 20 minutes on the treadmill. Not much of a workout, but a good "ease back into it" workout I suppose - and my 1st brick. The only problem was the coughing. People looked at me funny and one guy asked if I was okay, lol.
Friday, February 13 - Swimming - almost
I was in a training class in The Woodlands all day and looked forward to heading over to the Y for a swim the entire time. Since swimming is my weakest sport, I didn't want to go an entire week without at least one swim! When I arrived at the Y, I saw a work truck parked near the pool and the pool doors open. Hmmmm....that's strange. Then, as I walked by, I noticed that no one was in the pool. Hmmmm...not looking good. When I entered the Y, I could see the pool through the windows. Even the lifeguards were not there. Dang! Next, I noticed a nice little sign on the counter - "The pool will be closed for repairs on Friday, February 13..."! UGH! I hadn't brought any other workout clothes, so home I went.
Saturday, February 14 - Long Run - almost
The goal was to head out for my run as soon as the hubby made it home from work. However, one of our friends stopped by before I made it out the door and by the time he left it was pouring down rain (complete with thunder and lightening). I still had to make it to the grocery store for stuff for our Valentine's Day dinner and finish the truffles I was making, so again no workout.
Sunday, February 15 - "Long" run - finally!
After church, I decided to take the car to NTB for some work. Turns out that I needed an alignment, a couple of new tires and new brakes....my car was there until 5 pm! In the meantime, I was hanging out with the kiddos at my parent's house since they live nearby. The hubby picked us up on the way home from work, so I could do my run. Unfortunately, my run was cut short due to all this. My 8-miler with hills ended up just being a 6-miler in the 'hood because that was all I had time for. Oh well, I'll just call it a cut-back week and hit the hills again next week! It was probably for the best, since I felt like I was coughing up a lung the entire time!
Thursday, February 12 - Brick - bike/run - 40 minutes
I was feeling great on Thursday, so I decided to head to the Y for a spin class during lunch. That plan was foiled when a 10 am meeting ran long and I missed the spin class. Sooooo...I headed over to the Y after my meeting and did 20 minutes on the stationary bike, followed by 20 minutes on the treadmill. Not much of a workout, but a good "ease back into it" workout I suppose - and my 1st brick. The only problem was the coughing. People looked at me funny and one guy asked if I was okay, lol.
Friday, February 13 - Swimming - almost
I was in a training class in The Woodlands all day and looked forward to heading over to the Y for a swim the entire time. Since swimming is my weakest sport, I didn't want to go an entire week without at least one swim! When I arrived at the Y, I saw a work truck parked near the pool and the pool doors open. Hmmmm....that's strange. Then, as I walked by, I noticed that no one was in the pool. Hmmmm...not looking good. When I entered the Y, I could see the pool through the windows. Even the lifeguards were not there. Dang! Next, I noticed a nice little sign on the counter - "The pool will be closed for repairs on Friday, February 13..."! UGH! I hadn't brought any other workout clothes, so home I went.
Saturday, February 14 - Long Run - almost
The goal was to head out for my run as soon as the hubby made it home from work. However, one of our friends stopped by before I made it out the door and by the time he left it was pouring down rain (complete with thunder and lightening). I still had to make it to the grocery store for stuff for our Valentine's Day dinner and finish the truffles I was making, so again no workout.
Sunday, February 15 - "Long" run - finally!
After church, I decided to take the car to NTB for some work. Turns out that I needed an alignment, a couple of new tires and new brakes....my car was there until 5 pm! In the meantime, I was hanging out with the kiddos at my parent's house since they live nearby. The hubby picked us up on the way home from work, so I could do my run. Unfortunately, my run was cut short due to all this. My 8-miler with hills ended up just being a 6-miler in the 'hood because that was all I had time for. Oh well, I'll just call it a cut-back week and hit the hills again next week! It was probably for the best, since I felt like I was coughing up a lung the entire time!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Omigod!
I went to see Legally Blonde: The Musical last night and had a blast. The musical is cute and funny with lots of fun, upbeat songs. I only wish I would have lucked out and seen Laura Bell Bundy in the lead role....Laura originated the role on Broadway and is filling in for the touring cast lead who broke her toe. But instead, I saw Lauren somebody, who won the MTV reality show Legally Blonde: The Search for the New Elle Woods. She was good - she has the acting and dizty Elle down, but her singing voice was not quite Broadway caliber. The rest of the cast was amazing, especially the gal who played Brooke Wyndam! She had to do an entire song while jumping rope - it was very impressive. Overall, I really enjoyed the show. I'd love to see it on Broadway when I make it back to NYC, but unfornately it closed this year due to lack of ticket sales. It seems like even Broadway has been affected by the recession. Sigh.
(Oh and by the way, the 1st song in the musical is "Omigod You Guys" in case you're wondering about the title of the post, hahaha.)
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Nothing New
Nothing new to report here. Yesterday, I finally felt like I was recovering from that nasty cold. But, there was no time for working out, because I had to make a roadtrip to A&M for a presentation. We arrived home at 11 pm and I was beat!
Tonight, I'll be heading to the Hobby Center to see Legally Blonde, so again no workouts!
After the back issues last week (which are much, much better) and the cold this week, I am so sick of this not working out business! It makes me one grumpy gal (just ask my hubby!). Tomorrow, I'm planning to hit the spin class at the local Y during lunch. Friday, I'll be heading to the pool...wooohooo!
Tonight, I'll be heading to the Hobby Center to see Legally Blonde, so again no workouts!
After the back issues last week (which are much, much better) and the cold this week, I am so sick of this not working out business! It makes me one grumpy gal (just ask my hubby!). Tomorrow, I'm planning to hit the spin class at the local Y during lunch. Friday, I'll be heading to the pool...wooohooo!
Monday, February 09, 2009
It's been a busy few days...between work (including a recruiting trip to A&M), 2 funerals, 2 kids, a sick kid, and a sick me (the back issues and now a friggin' cold!), etc. blogging has taken a bit of a backseat. And to be honest, there weren't a heck of a lot of workouts to blog about. I am planning to take today off and get to bed early again in an effort to fight off whatever it is I have. Tomorrow, I'm off to A&M again and won't be home until late, late, late. By Wednesday, I am hoping to get on the treadmill for a test run to see how I do. The back was feeling better until I lifted the kiddo, but it's still better than it was.
Sunday, 2/6 - Rest
The cold started coming on late Saturday...I noticed the scratchy throat on Thursday and the sneezing and headaches on Friday, but I refused to acknowledge they were there. I just kept telling myself, "I am not getting sick! I am not getting sick!" It didn't work, because by Sunday I felt like total and complete crap! After church on Sunday, the kids and I just hung out around the house doing as little as possible. I did manage to take my bike in to be re-fitted...turns out my seat needed to be moved forward. Jeeze, all that back pain caused by something so simple!
Saturday, 2/5 - Running, 8 miles w/hills
In an effort to prepare for the upcoming hilly Zooma Austin 1/2, I met up with the girls for a run on Flintridge. For those who aren't familiar with The Woodlands, Flintridge is the hilliest street in these parts. On our Saturday Woodlands Fit runs, you'd hear lots of groans from the group if the route card showed Flintridge as part of the run. It's that bad. So, we started at a nearby park, so we'd at least have a little warm-up first. Then we hit Flintridge. To make things even more challenging, we turned into one of the neighborhoods so we could run on even more hilly streets. Overall, it wasn't too bad and to my surprise, I didn't feel any of the usual fatigue later in the day (although I felt it in my hammies the next morning). I think if we keep using this route between now and Zooma, we'll be ready for the hills! And, it was fantastic to finally get to run with the girls again...I miss all the fun conversation and the trips to Starbucks afterwards!
Friday, 2/4 - Swimming, 45 minutes
With the back still feeling a little iffy, I thought a swim might be the only form of exercise that wouldn't aggravate it. For the most part, I was right. When I was relaxing and doing what I was supposed to, the back felt great. When I was getting tense and spazzing out, the back hurt like heck. I have no idea how many laps I swam, but I think I am getting better...I paid careful attention to the amount of rest I was taking between lengths.
Sunday, 2/6 - Rest
The cold started coming on late Saturday...I noticed the scratchy throat on Thursday and the sneezing and headaches on Friday, but I refused to acknowledge they were there. I just kept telling myself, "I am not getting sick! I am not getting sick!" It didn't work, because by Sunday I felt like total and complete crap! After church on Sunday, the kids and I just hung out around the house doing as little as possible. I did manage to take my bike in to be re-fitted...turns out my seat needed to be moved forward. Jeeze, all that back pain caused by something so simple!
Saturday, 2/5 - Running, 8 miles w/hills
In an effort to prepare for the upcoming hilly Zooma Austin 1/2, I met up with the girls for a run on Flintridge. For those who aren't familiar with The Woodlands, Flintridge is the hilliest street in these parts. On our Saturday Woodlands Fit runs, you'd hear lots of groans from the group if the route card showed Flintridge as part of the run. It's that bad. So, we started at a nearby park, so we'd at least have a little warm-up first. Then we hit Flintridge. To make things even more challenging, we turned into one of the neighborhoods so we could run on even more hilly streets. Overall, it wasn't too bad and to my surprise, I didn't feel any of the usual fatigue later in the day (although I felt it in my hammies the next morning). I think if we keep using this route between now and Zooma, we'll be ready for the hills! And, it was fantastic to finally get to run with the girls again...I miss all the fun conversation and the trips to Starbucks afterwards!
Friday, 2/4 - Swimming, 45 minutes
With the back still feeling a little iffy, I thought a swim might be the only form of exercise that wouldn't aggravate it. For the most part, I was right. When I was relaxing and doing what I was supposed to, the back felt great. When I was getting tense and spazzing out, the back hurt like heck. I have no idea how many laps I swam, but I think I am getting better...I paid careful attention to the amount of rest I was taking between lengths.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Updates...
It's been a rough week in our household this week, so the workouts might be a little scarce.
First, the kiddo has been under the weather with a cold. Fortunately, she's better today and was able to head back to school.
Second, the hubby's cousin passed away on Sunday. Her funeral is today and the viewing/rosary was last night. DH's cousin passed away on Sunday. She was 55 and had cancer. By the time it was found, it had spread into several of her organs. She was diagnosed the day she was graduating from school as a pharmacy tech...her lifelong dream. The funeral is later today and the viewing/rosary was last night. There were a ton of people there last night and it was standing room only in the chapel! She was a happy, fun-loving woman and was loved by pretty much anyone she met...it's no wonder so many showed up to pay their respects.
This morning I received a call from my Mom and found out that my Aunt Mary had died. She was my Dad's oldest sister (she was in her 70's). She had Alzheimers, but was still the sweetest lady you've ever met. She lived with her daughter who said that she heard a noise in her Mom's room last night. When she went to check on her, she was on the floor and already gone.If you don't mind, please keep both my family and the hubby's family in your prayers.
And then there's the back issue...much better today, but I still can't bend over to get the muchkin in and out of his crib. I will probably take today off from working out. Then, I head off to A&M for college recruiting, so no workout on Thursday either, blah! Hopefully on Friday, I can at least get in a swim...something nice and low impact for the back!
I am just ready for this week to be over!!!!
First, the kiddo has been under the weather with a cold. Fortunately, she's better today and was able to head back to school.
Second, the hubby's cousin passed away on Sunday. Her funeral is today and the viewing/rosary was last night. DH's cousin passed away on Sunday. She was 55 and had cancer. By the time it was found, it had spread into several of her organs. She was diagnosed the day she was graduating from school as a pharmacy tech...her lifelong dream. The funeral is later today and the viewing/rosary was last night. There were a ton of people there last night and it was standing room only in the chapel! She was a happy, fun-loving woman and was loved by pretty much anyone she met...it's no wonder so many showed up to pay their respects.
This morning I received a call from my Mom and found out that my Aunt Mary had died. She was my Dad's oldest sister (she was in her 70's). She had Alzheimers, but was still the sweetest lady you've ever met. She lived with her daughter who said that she heard a noise in her Mom's room last night. When she went to check on her, she was on the floor and already gone.If you don't mind, please keep both my family and the hubby's family in your prayers.
And then there's the back issue...much better today, but I still can't bend over to get the muchkin in and out of his crib. I will probably take today off from working out. Then, I head off to A&M for college recruiting, so no workout on Thursday either, blah! Hopefully on Friday, I can at least get in a swim...something nice and low impact for the back!
I am just ready for this week to be over!!!!
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Oh my aching back!!!!!!!!!
I’ve been a bad blogger lately…one of my goals this year was to get more sleep (anything more than the 5 or so hours I usually get). So, for the past 3 or 4 days, I’ve done just that! Of course, that cuts into my computer time, lol!
Here’s what I’ve been up to:
Back Issues!
Workout Stats: Monday, 2/2 - Bike (on trainer indoors), 5 minutes
Yeah, you read that right. I got in approximately 5 minutes on the bike when the kiddo yelled out “MOOOMMMMEEEEEE”. I went upstairs to check on her, came back downstairs, got back on the bike and realized that my lower back was really hurting. I started to pedal, but realized that the pain was not going away. I got off the bike, did a few things to get ready for bed and then laid down. About 30 minutes later, I got up to go to the bathroom and I couldn’t walk back to the bed.
Seriously.
The hubby had to come to my rescue and help me, because it hurt to move my legs! I applied a heating pad and took a strong Ibuprofen (leftover from after having the baby), but it still hurts today….not as excruciating, but not comfortable either.
What the funk?
Since I was feeling a bit better this morning, I actually packed my bag to go to the gym today during lunch…we have a funeral to attend this evening, so no pool time for me. However, given the back situation, I’m thinking resting might be a better idea instead.
Workout Stats: Sunday, 2/1 – Rest Day (went to friend's to "watch" superbowl)
Here’s what I’ve been up to:
Back Issues!
Workout Stats: Monday, 2/2 - Bike (on trainer indoors), 5 minutes
Yeah, you read that right. I got in approximately 5 minutes on the bike when the kiddo yelled out “MOOOMMMMEEEEEE”. I went upstairs to check on her, came back downstairs, got back on the bike and realized that my lower back was really hurting. I started to pedal, but realized that the pain was not going away. I got off the bike, did a few things to get ready for bed and then laid down. About 30 minutes later, I got up to go to the bathroom and I couldn’t walk back to the bed.
Seriously.
The hubby had to come to my rescue and help me, because it hurt to move my legs! I applied a heating pad and took a strong Ibuprofen (leftover from after having the baby), but it still hurts today….not as excruciating, but not comfortable either.
What the funk?
Since I was feeling a bit better this morning, I actually packed my bag to go to the gym today during lunch…we have a funeral to attend this evening, so no pool time for me. However, given the back situation, I’m thinking resting might be a better idea instead.
Workout Stats: Sunday, 2/1 – Rest Day (went to friend's to "watch" superbowl)
Saturday, January 31, 2009
"Long" Hilly Run Mishap
Workout Stats: Saturday, 1/31 – Long Run, 8 miles
The plan was 8 miles, but I didn’t quite make it. I parked at a shopping center in The Woodlands, so I could run to what’s known as the hilliest street in The Woodlands and get in some good hills to help prepare for the upcoming Zooma ½ in Bastrop. I was looking for a large intersection to get to this hilly street…what I didn’t know is that from where I was at, the hilly street didn’t have a large intersection. So, I ran and ran on the greenbelt until I was in between people’s backyards! Hmmmm, this didn’t look right…but since I still don’t know The Woodlands very well, I just kept going. I had to really be aware of the different landmarks, so I could be sure I’d find my way back. After awhile, I realized that I had made a loop…so I did the loop one more time before heading back to my car.
I debated about what to do…I had only run about 4 ½ miles and no hills! I certainly wasn't ready to head home. So, I decided I would find the hilly street, dammit! I hopped in my car and headed in the direction that I had run….imagine my surprise (and embarrassment) when I realized that I had actually crossed said hilly street, not once but twice. That’s a “DOH!” moment if I ever heard of one. So, I found a place to park and hit the hills. I was running out of time, so I just did 1 ½ miles out and back for a total of 3 miles of hills…or a total of 7 ½ miles.
At least now I know where the hills are and I know where to park! What I did find odd was when I ran the non-hilly section, my pace was 11:38. On the hills, my pace was 11:07! How'd that happen???
The plan was 8 miles, but I didn’t quite make it. I parked at a shopping center in The Woodlands, so I could run to what’s known as the hilliest street in The Woodlands and get in some good hills to help prepare for the upcoming Zooma ½ in Bastrop. I was looking for a large intersection to get to this hilly street…what I didn’t know is that from where I was at, the hilly street didn’t have a large intersection. So, I ran and ran on the greenbelt until I was in between people’s backyards! Hmmmm, this didn’t look right…but since I still don’t know The Woodlands very well, I just kept going. I had to really be aware of the different landmarks, so I could be sure I’d find my way back. After awhile, I realized that I had made a loop…so I did the loop one more time before heading back to my car.
I debated about what to do…I had only run about 4 ½ miles and no hills! I certainly wasn't ready to head home. So, I decided I would find the hilly street, dammit! I hopped in my car and headed in the direction that I had run….imagine my surprise (and embarrassment) when I realized that I had actually crossed said hilly street, not once but twice. That’s a “DOH!” moment if I ever heard of one. So, I found a place to park and hit the hills. I was running out of time, so I just did 1 ½ miles out and back for a total of 3 miles of hills…or a total of 7 ½ miles.
At least now I know where the hills are and I know where to park! What I did find odd was when I ran the non-hilly section, my pace was 11:38. On the hills, my pace was 11:07! How'd that happen???
Friday, January 30, 2009
"Long" Ride
Workout Stats: Bike Ride, 14 miles, 14 mph
I headed out for my ride after work. The weather was perfect and there were no flat tires this time! I felt like I was keeping a pretty decent pace…I still haven’t bought a computer for my bike, so I was using my Garmin. My overall pace was 14 mph, but that included stops at 3 traffic lights and a stop to tighten my water bottle cage (because the rattling was driving me crazy!). Toward the end of my ride, I noticed that my lower back was a bit sore. I thought that was odd, since this would be the 4th time I’ve ridden the bike 10+ miles at a time and I’ve never had that problem before. When I finally finished, my legs felt like jello….jeeze, I’m supposed to run after that??? LOL!
I headed out for my ride after work. The weather was perfect and there were no flat tires this time! I felt like I was keeping a pretty decent pace…I still haven’t bought a computer for my bike, so I was using my Garmin. My overall pace was 14 mph, but that included stops at 3 traffic lights and a stop to tighten my water bottle cage (because the rattling was driving me crazy!). Toward the end of my ride, I noticed that my lower back was a bit sore. I thought that was odd, since this would be the 4th time I’ve ridden the bike 10+ miles at a time and I’ve never had that problem before. When I finally finished, my legs felt like jello….jeeze, I’m supposed to run after that??? LOL!
It's Official...
I've known which tri would be my 1st for awhile now, but I didn't register until yesterday.
At first, I thought my 1st tri would be CB&I. It was perfect - it was practically in my backyard (The Woodlands) and 4 of my Woodland's Fit friends were also going to train for it (and it would be the first tri for 3 of the 4!). Plus, we joined a team for training and advice - this would be Team iTri, headed by a local, experienced triathlete. But, when I went to register for CB&I it hit me like a TON of bricks....CB&I is on the munchkin's 1st birthday!
Now, I know what you're thinking...the baby has no clue that it's his first birthday. But, he has two sets of grandparents who do. Much like the kiddo's 1st birthday, we'll have a house full of family there, kiddos running everywhere, tons of hoopla to commemorate the event and the munchkin will have no clue what's going on. But that's okay...in our family, it's just what we do (rolling eyes).
So, my 1st tri will be....
At first, I thought my 1st tri would be CB&I. It was perfect - it was practically in my backyard (The Woodlands) and 4 of my Woodland's Fit friends were also going to train for it (and it would be the first tri for 3 of the 4!). Plus, we joined a team for training and advice - this would be Team iTri, headed by a local, experienced triathlete. But, when I went to register for CB&I it hit me like a TON of bricks....CB&I is on the munchkin's 1st birthday!
Now, I know what you're thinking...the baby has no clue that it's his first birthday. But, he has two sets of grandparents who do. Much like the kiddo's 1st birthday, we'll have a house full of family there, kiddos running everywhere, tons of hoopla to commemorate the event and the munchkin will have no clue what's going on. But that's okay...in our family, it's just what we do (rolling eyes).
So, my 1st tri will be....
May 10
200 yd swim, 8 mile bike, 2 mile run
Honestly, I do feel better knowing that with my limited schedule, I will only have to pull off a 200 yd swim (CB&I was 500m). The bike and run are shorter, so that will be easy peasy (with some brick workouts of course).
So there you have it - my 1st tri! If I find that I actually enjoy this tri-thing, I do plan to register for a couple more (including ones with a 500m swim).
My heroes have always been 6 year olds...
Not really. :-) But, I found out that the kids swimming 2 lanes down from me are actually 10-year olds, not 6-year olds. Either way, they swim pretty darn good...then again, compared to me almost anyone does!
I headed to the pool after work. I was prepared to swim for about 30-35 minutes, then change into running clothes for an easy 20-minutes on the treadmill.
Yeah. Right.
I did my 1st 200 yards pretty quickly...I only stopped to cough and sputter once, I only rested for about 30 seconds between lengths, etc. I did pick my head up out of the water more than I'd like to admit, but managed to get back into the swing of things. Then I got tired. I started getting a cramp in my foot, I had to stop to cough and sputter a couple more times, blah, blah....I did a couple more laps, but this time I tried to relax, stay focused on breathing, and just took it slow. Much better! Sometimes I let my mind wonder which means I forget to think about what I'm supposed to be doing and I start to go into total spaz mode. I'm assuming that the more I practice, the less I'll have to think about it. (At least I hope so!)
After another 300 yds or so, the older man in the lane next to me commented about his shoulder pain messing up his stroke. I told him he looked like he was doing okay, bum shoulder and all. After we exchanged "why I started swimming" stories (he was a runner, but had bad knees), he gave me a few pointers - let your body float, relax, breathe, the "roll" and he gave me some tips on my stroke. He left the pool soon after, so I tried to put a few of the pointers into practice - between my long chat break and the pointers, I seemed to do much better and swam another 100 yds before calling it a day. When I made it back to the locker room, I was beat and decided the run would have to wait. I swam longer than I intended and well, this swimming stuff is tiring (especially when you don't know what you're doing!).
Workout Stats - Thursday, 1/29/09
Swim, YMCA, 24 slow laps = 600 yards
*** Edited to add - It's so funny when I think 600 yards is such a loooonnnnnggggg swim, then I read Viv's blog and see her 1500 yds...holy cow, I can't imagine that distance right now, LOL! And to follow it with the bike!!!
I headed to the pool after work. I was prepared to swim for about 30-35 minutes, then change into running clothes for an easy 20-minutes on the treadmill.
Yeah. Right.
I did my 1st 200 yards pretty quickly...I only stopped to cough and sputter once, I only rested for about 30 seconds between lengths, etc. I did pick my head up out of the water more than I'd like to admit, but managed to get back into the swing of things. Then I got tired. I started getting a cramp in my foot, I had to stop to cough and sputter a couple more times, blah, blah....I did a couple more laps, but this time I tried to relax, stay focused on breathing, and just took it slow. Much better! Sometimes I let my mind wonder which means I forget to think about what I'm supposed to be doing and I start to go into total spaz mode. I'm assuming that the more I practice, the less I'll have to think about it. (At least I hope so!)
After another 300 yds or so, the older man in the lane next to me commented about his shoulder pain messing up his stroke. I told him he looked like he was doing okay, bum shoulder and all. After we exchanged "why I started swimming" stories (he was a runner, but had bad knees), he gave me a few pointers - let your body float, relax, breathe, the "roll" and he gave me some tips on my stroke. He left the pool soon after, so I tried to put a few of the pointers into practice - between my long chat break and the pointers, I seemed to do much better and swam another 100 yds before calling it a day. When I made it back to the locker room, I was beat and decided the run would have to wait. I swam longer than I intended and well, this swimming stuff is tiring (especially when you don't know what you're doing!).
Workout Stats - Thursday, 1/29/09
Swim, YMCA, 24 slow laps = 600 yards
*** Edited to add - It's so funny when I think 600 yards is such a loooonnnnnggggg swim, then I read Viv's blog and see her 1500 yds...holy cow, I can't imagine that distance right now, LOL! And to follow it with the bike!!!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
"Speed Work"
I haven't done speed work since before the baby. Well, since I was preggo with the baby. I haven't consistently done speedwork...well, since before I started grad school. That would be over 2 years! And yes, I know you can't do "real" speedwork on the treadmill...hey, I gotta work with what I've got, okay???
Since it's been soooo long, I decided to start from the beginning. I went and looked at my old Houston Fit schedules....way back to the 1st week of speed training. The schedule called for 8 x 30/30. I did a 10-minute warm-up, 10x30/30 (added 2 more for good measure) and finished with a 10-minute cool-down. Then, I ran a little longer just to finish up an even 2-miles. It's a start I guess!
Workout Stats
Wednesday, 1/28 - 21:15, 2 miles, 10:37 pace
Since it's been soooo long, I decided to start from the beginning. I went and looked at my old Houston Fit schedules....way back to the 1st week of speed training. The schedule called for 8 x 30/30. I did a 10-minute warm-up, 10x30/30 (added 2 more for good measure) and finished with a 10-minute cool-down. Then, I ran a little longer just to finish up an even 2-miles. It's a start I guess!
Workout Stats
Wednesday, 1/28 - 21:15, 2 miles, 10:37 pace
Attempts at Swimming
Naturally, since I am training for a triathlon, I do need to spend some time in the pool (yes, I am afraid to put it in print). Especially since swimming is my weakest area...it's my nemesis, lol. So, I headed over to the Y for some laps. I was pleased that I made some progress last week, so I had high expectations for the day.
First thing I noticed when I arrived at the Y was that it was cool outside. Seriously, the temp dropped about 15-20 degrees on my commute from Houston to The Woodlands! I hurried up and changed clothes...when I made it to the pool, I was happy and surprised to see two lanes open and only one person swimming! Yahoo! My first attempt going down the lane wasn't great, but not so bad either. It took me a couple of laps to remember what worked for me last week. My goal was to swim 500m doing what I'm supposed to do - swim with my head in the water, breathe and try not inhale water causing me to stop mid-lane, sputter, cough, etc. I met my goal...well, almost....I swam 22 laps (550 yds, or 502.92m) and only stopped mid-lane twice to cough and sputter. There were also a few times when I picked my head up for a couple of strokes (a habit I need to break), but I made myself put my head back in the water and keep going. And yes, I'll admit that I did have to rest at each end of the pool...that will get easier, right???
The funniest part of the night was when I noticed an older guy next to me swimming effortlessly back and forth. About 15 minutes after I arrived, he got out of the pool and next thing I know, he's walking pushing a freakin' walker! LOL...not only do the 6 year olds two lanes down swim better than me, there's an old geezer (no disrespect) swimming circles around me too! Fellow TRI wannabe, Katie, had told me about him, it was just funny to witness it firsthand.
Take note: I promptly called FINS this morning about some lessons!
Workout Stats
Tuesday, 1/27 - Swim, 550 yds
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Workouts...
Here are my workouts for the past couple of days...
Monday, 1/26 - Cycling, indoors, 30 minutes
Last night the kiddo was just not cooperating with bedtime. She wanted to look at a book until she felt tired. Okay no problem. I went downstairs, got my stuff ready for the next day, changed into my workout clothes, got the bike set up on the trainer and started pedaling.
5 minutes later...."MOMMY!!!" The kiddo wasn't tired and wanted to play her video games (V-Smile hand held thingy). Okay, no problem. I got her games and went back downstairs.
10 minutes later..."MOMMY!!!" Now, she just wants to tell me that she's not tired and doesn't want to go to bed. I try to explain that she can look at her books, play the V-Smile, play with her babies, or lay there until she's tire...but, she cannot get out of bed! I *think* we've come to an understanding, so I head back downstairs.
5 minutes later...I hear crying on the monitor. I head upstairs to see what's wrong. She wants to watch a movie...she's been earning quarters for every night she doesn't wake up in the middle of the night...she's up to 5 quarters and at the end of each week she gets to spend her quarters at the Dollar Tree. She tells me that she really, really wants to watch a movie. I tell her that if she watches a movie, she'll lose 2 of her quarters. She's fine with that. The hubby arrives home from Hapkido and heads for the shower.
5 minutes later...I hear crying on the monitor again. Ugh, I head back upstairs to find out what's wrong. Somehow I proceed to hurt her feelings (her words, lol). So, I spend a few minutes trying to console her when the baby starts crying! Luckily, the hubby was out of the shower and was kind enough to take over and I'm finally able to finish my ride.
So, 1 hour to complete a 30 minute ride! It's just one of those days!
Sunday, 1/25 - Run, 6 miles in the neighborhood, 11:13 pace
This is my 1st weekend with a long run since the hubby started his new work schedule. I can't decide whether I want to run on Saturdays or Sundays...since I will be running at 3 pm, I guess it will just depend on what's on the agenda for the weekend. I am hoping that my Mom will agree to watch the kiddos every few weeks, so I can get in an occasional Saturday morning long run with the peeps from Woodlands Fit.
So, a long run alone, in the middle of the day wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But, then again, it was only 6 miles. I am definitely going to have to do the 10 and 12 milers with a group! I ran the 2-mile neighborhood loop once, then I ran the gravel trail in the middle of the 'hood and back, then another 2-mile loop. The total mileage was 6.04...just right! There were a couple of other runners out and lots of moms with strollers. Maybe next time, I'll finally venture out into the wooded trails in the neighborhood. I've heard they could be pretty fun!
Saturday, 1/24 - Rest day
Monday, 1/26 - Cycling, indoors, 30 minutes
Last night the kiddo was just not cooperating with bedtime. She wanted to look at a book until she felt tired. Okay no problem. I went downstairs, got my stuff ready for the next day, changed into my workout clothes, got the bike set up on the trainer and started pedaling.
5 minutes later...."MOMMY!!!" The kiddo wasn't tired and wanted to play her video games (V-Smile hand held thingy). Okay, no problem. I got her games and went back downstairs.
10 minutes later..."MOMMY!!!" Now, she just wants to tell me that she's not tired and doesn't want to go to bed. I try to explain that she can look at her books, play the V-Smile, play with her babies, or lay there until she's tire...but, she cannot get out of bed! I *think* we've come to an understanding, so I head back downstairs.
5 minutes later...I hear crying on the monitor. I head upstairs to see what's wrong. She wants to watch a movie...she's been earning quarters for every night she doesn't wake up in the middle of the night...she's up to 5 quarters and at the end of each week she gets to spend her quarters at the Dollar Tree. She tells me that she really, really wants to watch a movie. I tell her that if she watches a movie, she'll lose 2 of her quarters. She's fine with that. The hubby arrives home from Hapkido and heads for the shower.
5 minutes later...I hear crying on the monitor again. Ugh, I head back upstairs to find out what's wrong. Somehow I proceed to hurt her feelings (her words, lol). So, I spend a few minutes trying to console her when the baby starts crying! Luckily, the hubby was out of the shower and was kind enough to take over and I'm finally able to finish my ride.
So, 1 hour to complete a 30 minute ride! It's just one of those days!
Sunday, 1/25 - Run, 6 miles in the neighborhood, 11:13 pace
This is my 1st weekend with a long run since the hubby started his new work schedule. I can't decide whether I want to run on Saturdays or Sundays...since I will be running at 3 pm, I guess it will just depend on what's on the agenda for the weekend. I am hoping that my Mom will agree to watch the kiddos every few weeks, so I can get in an occasional Saturday morning long run with the peeps from Woodlands Fit.
So, a long run alone, in the middle of the day wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But, then again, it was only 6 miles. I am definitely going to have to do the 10 and 12 milers with a group! I ran the 2-mile neighborhood loop once, then I ran the gravel trail in the middle of the 'hood and back, then another 2-mile loop. The total mileage was 6.04...just right! There were a couple of other runners out and lots of moms with strollers. Maybe next time, I'll finally venture out into the wooded trails in the neighborhood. I've heard they could be pretty fun!
Saturday, 1/24 - Rest day
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