Monday, May 14, 2007

hotel reservations made

using my reward points from work travel, so I don't have to spend actual $$$. King suite about 20 minutes from the race site; complimentary breakfast, although I doubt I'll be able to eat anything beyond my usual oatmeal and banana. I guess I'll have to fine-tune the nutrition for the swim in the next four weeks.

Yes, 4 weeks. Eeep.

Because Vicki so generously offered to provide a training plan, I felt I should publish and request feedback on my plan for the duration, cobbled together from a couple of websites and Triathlon Training in 4 Hours a Week:

Week 1-
Monday-Rest
Tuesday-swim 35
Wednesday-bike 45/run 30
Thursday-swim 20
Friday-rest
Saturday-bike 60/run 30
Sunday-rest

Week 2-
Monday-Rest
Tuesday-swim 35
Wednesday-bike 45/run 40
Thursday-swim 20
Friday-rest
Saturday-bike 60/run 30
Sunday-rest

Week 3-
Monday-Rest
Tuesday-swim 35
Wednesday-bike 45/run 40
Thursday-swim 30
Friday-rest
Saturday-swim 20/bike 40/run 20
Sunday-rest

Week 4-
Monday-Rest
Tuesday-bike 30
Wednesday-swim 15
Thursday-swim 20
Friday-rest
Saturday-swim 15/bike 15
Sunday-TRI



I will be swimming more often than the plan calls for, just because I need all the practice I can get, and I will be running more than it calls for because I need to for my sanity. I also need to incorporate some weight training into there somewhere.

Sigh. Suggestions are welcome.

I have decided, though, that I will take a cue from TriSaraTops and have my own version of a "push present," to be procured AFTER I cross the line. I'll get my new bike as soon as I finish the Danskin race. Trek will be out there at the Expo with test rides and I plan to try as many as possible and see which of them is a good fit. I'll be doing research and trying some other brands before then, but I will actually lay the money down after I cross the line. But before then, I have to actually cross the line.

details, details, details!

Update:
I swam for 30 minutes today after we put the boys to bed, while Hub was on the TM watching CSI Miami. Notice I didn't put it in quotes this time. It was sloppy, it was messy, it was less than elegant (way less!!) but i believe it actually counts as swimming now. I timed myself at the end -- 50 yards, with only a breath or two at the turnaround -- 1:40. I really don't want to do the math and see what that means for the 800 yd distance...

I need more help. I looked into the Dallas Aquatic Masters program, and they have an introductory session for 1 week free, and the website at least promises they're inclusive for all levels. I think I drive to Dallas for a few days at lunchtime to try it out. Can't hurt, and I'm sure any help they can offer will certainly help.

peace out, it is WAY past my bedtime now!!

2 comments:

Vickie said...

That's a good reward program--finish the tri and then get a new bike. I looked over your training plan, and I'm sure it is fine. If you send me your e-mail, I can send you the schedule I have. I think the main difference in yours and mine, which I am finding with the Olympic distance schedule as well, is that it involves two key workouts of each discipline a week. Since swimming is obviously your weakest link, it might be better to focus on two key workouts here particularly. It also helps you determine your swim training pace (a very easy formula--easy is always best!), which might give you an idea of what to expect for your race. If you can get through the swim not too tired out, you will do fine with the rest. The swim can do a couple of negative things: put you in a panic and leave you wrung out from the experience. So it is important to relax here and do the best you can and not worry about how fast, just about getting through it. You will be nervous at the start and until you can get into a rhythm, so hanging back from the crowd will help you with any possible panic issues as well. And you always have someone in front of you to sight from too!

Una said...

GREAT Job!! Love the reward! New bike... ahhhhhh.

Is your race in a pool or in open water? If the latter, any chance you can get one or two outdoor swims in before the race?