Squeezing More Into The Virtual Gym Bag

Wow, it is amazing how much more time I have for blogging now that I am on “The Taper.” Especially since I missed one day of workouts because I caught some weird bug on Sunday that left me feeling like crap (and a bit worried about what it might escalate to) until I self medicated myself for a few days with left over antibiotics. Now, I am feeling mostly back to normal. Got in a workout yesterday (yeah, TRIgirl SQ, no idea what was up with the Butterfly or the "one breath" sets). But today, the depressing, cold, rain and wind had me totally using “The Taper” excuse to skip today’s workout, too.

So, it is back to packing…

Strategy (much thanks to all the coaches, teammates and fellow bloggers who have helped me put these together - feel free to contribute more!)

Swim –

• Get in the water any chance you can before the race. Look for your landmarks. Get used to the current, waves, clarity.
• Don’t worry about the mass start. (I’m working on it.)
• Hold your own in the swim and don’t start as far back as you’ve been thinking.
• Dolphin dive through the waves, push hard for the first 50 – 100 meters.
• Then find your rhythm. You can – you have – don’t panic if it takes awhile.
• Try to draft. You can do this in a pool now. There’ll be a whole lot of people in the water. There have got to be some with feet just going slightly faster than your normal pace.
• Start kicking harder before exiting the water to get blood flow to your legs.
• Appreciate your time in the water. You’ll be missing the swim in about 7-8 hours.
• Try to enjoy the waves. Coach B and Irongirl AM think they are fun. You love riding the waves when not doing a triathlon.
• Try not to get kicked in the face.
• Avoid jellyfish and vomit.

Bike –

• Take it easier than what you feel you can do when starting off on the bike.
• Get past the first few miles then start eating and drinking as many calories as possible. Focus on solid foods early on.
• Push harder the second half if your legs feel strong.
• Think of your inspiration songs and those your friends and teammates have recommended.
• Stay in the moment, but take in the scenery.
• Don’t draft or block. Socializing on the bike can get you a penalty.
• Stop to refuel or use the bathroom – you’ll feel much better and the few minutes lost by getting off your bike are likely to be regained by being more comfortable.
• Change gears occasionally, even if the terrain remains the same.
• Remember the last 20 miles are more mental than physical. The shoulder and butt pain are tolerable and temporary.
• Appreciate the bike. The distance is longer than ideal, but it is still easier than running.
  

Run -

• Again, start conservatively. You’ve got 26 miles ahead.
• Think of the distance more as chunks.
• One mile to the next aid station where you can walk for a bit.
• Fourish 10Ks.
• It is OK to walk.
• But remember, tired, swollen legs can still run. Slowly.
• Alternate sports drink with water, gu, endurolytes at each station.
• While you couldn’t socialize on the bike, you can on the run. Try talking to someone if you need motivation – or see someone else who does.
• Appreciate the run. This will most likely be your biggest challenge.

General -

• Thank the volunteers
• Lots of people will pass you. You can still be the turtle that crosses the finish line.
• Remember how seeing your teammates during the race always makes you feel better. Knowing they are out there – racing strong – gives you strength.
• It is OK to cry – but try to make the tears due to happiness, relief and knowing your goal is in sight.
• Look for your family and friends who’ve come miles to cheer you and your teammates on (or picture those who are cheering from afar). Each time you see someone, you’ll be recharged and reminded of how much they believe in you, whether or not you cross the finish line.
• Find gratitude in every moment. You’ve spent months preparing for this day. You’ve sacrificed so much – and so have your sherpas. It isn’t supposed to be easy.
• It won’t be - but the finish could be spectacular.