Merging the trainining

One of my big challenges is trying to figure out how to merge my sprint triathlon training with my 1/2 marathon training. I figure what ever day has the most activity is what I will do. I will also keep my 1/2 marathon distance days (Fridays).

This weekend I'm doing a 5K with Lael, or rather I'm running a 5K while she runs a 10K. With the 5K coming up, I decided to move up my distance day to today. This week held a 4 miler in my future. The weather finally warmed up and the wind died down, so today was the perfect day for a run.

The first mile was tough. I've realized this week how much I've hurt myself over the past few months. I've really let myself go. I've gained too much weight. I haven't kept up with my workouts. Now, I'm struggling a bit.

Normally, the pain and struggle would make me stop running. Instead, I just think that this is temporary. This is how I will feel during the 1/2 marathon or during the run portion of the triathlon. I'm training for the struggle too. Struggle can be good. Struggle is really going to make me stronger. I need to be happy that this is tough. I need to get a mental workout too.

At 3.75 miles, my side ache that I'd been battling for 1/2 mile caught up with me. Or rather, it caught my breath. I had to stop and walk to catch my breath. I felt defeated at first. Then, I heard Greg tell me that walking isn't a failure. I'm in training. I still got my mileage in. It wasn't what I expected, but it was a success.

Tomorrow, biking outside! I can't wait!!

wii fit plus!

Today I decided to work my wii fit plus routines. Greg and I got our wii from his son for Christmas, and I had no idea how much fun it would be. I went out the next week and bought wii fit. I love it!

First, I started with 30 minutes of yoga/strength training routines. It is amazing that the little balance board can figure out how well you are doing.

Next, I moved onto 40 minutes of various exercises. Wii lets me select which parts of my body or areas I would like to work on. I picked 5 different areas, with 3 different routines for each area. It keeps me moving and keeps me interested.

After I was finished, I was sweating bullets. There are a few routines that I struggle with, but grin and bare it. However, I'm loving boxing, judo, hula hoops, biking, snowball fighting and skate boarding.

I think the Wii Fit is going to be good for me. I can work on other parts of my body I ignore when running or biking. It should be fun. Although, I hate my HUGE Mii character. It takes your weight and adds size to your character. I'm going to shrink that Mii if it kills me :)

Motivation

Motivation came come in all forms. My friend just found it in a total stranger at the gym. I know I need more than that. I need a goal to work towards. I need a BIG goal.

I got it today! Greg, my stepson and I made the lottery for the Grandma's 1/2 marathon in June! From everything I've heard, it's an amazing event! The best thing is, I don't have to fly to a destination for it.

I've felt so unmotivated the past few months. I've eaten horribly, planning to start my Weight Watchers plan the next day. The next day never came. Well, the next day is today!

I ate a good breakfast, drank more water, and hit the road. It was my first outdoor run in Minnesota in 2010. It felt great! What a wonderful 5K + it was! The sun was shinning, the snow melting, and a very light wind.

I hope this motivation sticks. Now the diet begins again...