I have to say, training for a triathlon is no joke, especially when you're out of shape! I'm happy to say, I am doing well with learning how to swim, not in too much pain after riding 14 miles, and progressing in running, especially no longer feeling like I'm going to faint after the first 30 minutes! It's been an adventure to say the least!
Here's a recap of the first two weeks of Training.
Week One
Day 1: Bike: The journey began with our first team (Tri-team pic below) intro & etiquette clinic at Sauvie Island, known for its berries, veggies, pumpkins and flowers. It was a great day, clear skies, and had a wonderful time learning about my new teammate as I enjoyed the peaceful scenic twelve mile bike ride around the island.
Day 2: Run: Went around the neighborhood to "run". My thoughts: "Yikes! I am out shape! Out of breath! I feel like I am having a heart attack and it's only warm up time!". I managed to run non-stop for a whopping twenty minutes! hehe :)
Day 3: Bike: Rode for 35 minutes, explored neighborhood and biked around Orchards Park. A little rainy... not so much fun when you're riding.
Day 4: Swim: Team met at Stott Center at Portland State University. My thoughts: "what have I gotten my self into??? I don't know how to swim!" Okay, made it past first swimming lesson, coach Jana was awesome and super patient. Learning how to breathe, keep head under water and trying not to drink pool water. Total 500 Yards.
Day 5: Bike: So excited, I found a biking trail near home! Rode for an hour, and it was a hoot to hear a dad tell his kid, "make way for the cyclist" :). I must look like a pro in my borrowed, "Jake the Snake Bike".
Day 6: Bike: Begun at Waterfront Park at the Salmon Springs Fountain, in Portland and enjoyed a 14 mile ride through historic Southeast Portland neighborhoods, returning along the beautiful Willamette River.
Week Two
Day 7: Run: Ran around the neighborhood, 30 minutes non-stop! :)
Day 8: Swim: Did I mention, swimming is hard? What a work out, I didn't realize how much strength you need to keep moving and afloat! Learned how to kick down, swim back, drill down, and back. :) Total 600 yards.
Day 9: Run: Ran two miles, around neighborhood, it is great to see so many families out on the trails enjoying the sun!
Day 10: Bike: Met team out in Portland, it poured on us pretty hard, after what seemed like 2 hours (must have been close to an hour) I was craving being in my warm bed and not training for a triathlon! I endured though, soaked, tired and enjoyed a nice dinner with the team after.
