Up and at 'em early this morning, the dogs got up and so did we. Timmy off to the couch to watch sportscenter before heading off to work, and me onto the bike to bang out some work before a busy day. I woke up feeling much better than when I went to bed in the wee hours of this morning. My back was far from perfect, but it was more malleable and I could change positions without too much difficulty or pain. I set up my transition in the back of the car and checked my tire pressure and headed off. All in all a good ride, still getting used to clipping in and out, not quite second nature yet. The exciting part was when I glanced down at my watch at the end of the ride. I had been listening to the incessant beeps and trying to keep my heartrate in zone, and aside from the hills, I seemed to be successful in doing so. Even then, I shaved 2 minutes off my fastest time for the 12.1 miles. I clipped out and went to hop off the bike, and in doing so, clipped back in on my right foot, nice work right? I almost face planted in the driveway, but thankfully was able to bang my foot out and get it down.
The transition... left something to be desired, it was fast, under 90 seconds, but thinking to how awkward it was.... and painful... I can't help but wonder how fast I could be in perfect conditions. Now my back felt ok getting onto the bike, but after 48 minutes of one position, standing upright was not agreeable, much less bending over to unstrap my shoes, put on socks and running shoes. I did it, and it worked, and I got the feel for the transition and after about 2 minutes of jogging, had loosened up my back enough that I was able to start picking up my pace, so I turned around and came back home- no need to push any farther- I got what I came for :)
Now I lay with BioFreeze on my back and powerade/banana/ibuprofen on the coffee table beside me. I can't help but think of all of the things I have learned over the course of long workouts and challenges. Most have been things that I have discovered about myself, some have made me laugh, some have made me change even what I do/the attitude I have on a daily basis, but I think the most important one of all has been this: I am not out there to win this, I love this, my body loves this, and as long as I finish- I met my goal. Sure I have goals for the fall, and will need to gain some speed in order to not get kicked off the course, but in reality, I am here to finish, to enjoy the journey, not to compete. Now, that coming from someone who in general is very very competitive is a goal in itself. I guess we'll have to see :)
For now, I need to stretch and do some core work to try and take the pull off my back... because its too early for Bacardi! :)
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