Round, round we go...

There seems to be a constant theme in my workout (especially with the track and trainer being the source of most of my training) not to mention the lack of balance between work and home - year-end for an accountant!

Although I haven't been able to update my blog in several weeks, I have been able to get in my workouts - although somewhat modified.

Running has been stepped up to three times a week, with my long run on Sundays averaging the same 10K level. Tuesdays and Thursdays are shorter, around 5K, which works fine for me. 5K at the gym is 12 laps of the track - and after four or five, it becomes old real fast. Even Lindsay (one of my running buddies) commented on that after only two runs at the gym. I'm rethinking this whole fair weather runner thing, as outside with ice and other hazards may be better than the 12 dreaded laps of the track. Yesterday, I came to Vancouver for a conference, and was looking forward to the nice weather and a run along the water. However, I was quickly reminded of the winter rains in Vancouver - which then "forced" me to do 5.5 miles on the dreadmill (and dread was an understatement). Luckily there is a hottub outside, which allowed me to enjoy the rain somewhat despite having to run outside.

The trainer has seen me and Dirk once a week, which will need to increase very soon. Although I am happy I've been able to last an hour on it so far. I'll be aiming for two to three rides a week, to improve my cycle time (my worse leg of all events to date) and see how it goes. I am really looking forward to the nice weather and being able to get outside.

Swimming has suffered the most...and likely will until work settles down a bit. Luckily, that's been my best event so I am confident I can make up that training over the next few months.

The big race is 5 monhts away - and I'm looking forward to it.

All for now...

10K along the river

The past week has not been pretty.  Work has managed to get in the way of most of the workouts, although I did manage to run 8 last Sunday (with the girls), a quick 30 minute run at work (snuck out of a meeting and hit the gym) and then a 90 minute bike on Wednesday night.  But nowhere near what I had planned.  Luckily the winter maintenance program is fairly forgiving and the mileage requirements are too extreme.  My official plan doesn't begin for another 4 weeks - and I will be ready.

Today we did 10K along the river downtown.  The Chinook winds were blowing on the way out, which made it a little chillier than it was.  But the 5 k coming back was amazing.  The wind at our backs and the sun on our faces - we weren't sure if it was the run that made us sweat or the sun (I think it was the run and last night's bottle of wine).

I'm looking forward to supper (stuffed meatloaf, sweet potatoes and veggies)...dessert will have to wait for another night. Unless we have something hidden in the cupboards...(fingers crossed).

Glad we moved the trainer...

A couple of days ago (or maybe weeks), Alan suggested we move the trainer into the TV room.  The best idea ever.  Today was the first day back to work after the holidays, and despite my best intentions, I didn't make it to the gym.  So I came home at 7:30 and hopped on the trainer - in front of the TV. 

Did I mention that the TV is a projector...with a decent size screen. I'm thinking we could get some videos of the highway and imagine we're cycling on the road - add a few hills and it could be a good thing.  I'm sure someone has already invented it - if not, then I am staking a claim on this idea.

The ride went well.  Coronation Street and half of Gossip Girl with Jocelyn - what a great way to ride.  

Keep pedalling...

Back in the saddle again...

Happy New Year, everyone!  A new look to the blog to start things off right.  

Well 2009 is officially here and I am back in the saddle again - both blogging and training.  My training has been going as planned since the beginning of December, with last week being an exceptional week (how I have enjoyed the holiday break).  My workouts consist of mostly bike/swim or run/strength training combinations.  So far I haven't missed a day, other than my birthday (and no one should have to work out on their birthday) - besides the gym was closed.

Alan and I "ran" in the New Year at the Resolution Run. It was the first time we ran together and I enjoyed the company - although we didn't talk much (other than when we each had to tie our shoe).  Our time was around 32:30, which I was pleased with given I had significantly over dressed. I'm sure Alan would have preferred a slightly faster pace.

Today, I didn't want to go to the gym.  And when Alan said he was going grocery shopping instead, I was very tempted to join him.  However, last night I indulged in some nacho chips and cheese (you know the spicy kind you make on the stove that is all fat and chemicals - mmm, it was so good) so I knew I should make up for that. So I ran 2 miles straight (no 10 and 1's today) and then did my strength training (a little less on the arms) followed it all with a 1,500m swim (I did a lot of pull drills to make up for the light arm work earlier). Afterwards, I was very glad I went...feeling good.

All for now...