Calm Air

So this evening I got in one of my weekly "swim/run" workouts at the YMCA. Overall it felt like a good workout and I left feeling energetic not drained, which is good.

Swim: 500 yds. focusing on keeping my body balanced, both head to toe and side to side. I noticed my feet "sinking" from time to time, but I was able lower my head slightly and quickly correct my form. It was the first time my heart-rate never went over 150 during a workout. I credit smooth form for that little milestone. Total time: 17:51.

Run: After a 1/4 mile warm up, I set the treadmill to a 9 min/mi pace and settled in for 2 miles. I took another 1/2 mile break and finished up with another 1 mile at a 9:30/mi pace.

Total time/distance: 3.5 miles in just under 38 minutes.

The hardest part right now is staying slow. I keep reminding myself to build up my endurance and not worry about "winning" the race during that particular workout. So far so good.

The other thing I MUST remember is to consistently use my inhaler. I didn't notice any major issues today, but I could tell my breathing wasn't as smooth and calm as it has been this past year. About a month after I began using my inhaler regularly ( 2-3 times/day) I noticed a HUGE difference in my physical performance, especially after I finished a workout or race. I was not wheezing or coughing after I was done. When I was racing 5-7 years ago, I sounded terrible after a race and it would take my hours to feel better.

It's amazing what you can do when you can breathe!

I am very excited about the DVDs I ordered today: Total Immersion for Free Style swimming and the newest Spinerval training ride - Ironman Louisville! It's a virtual ride through the actual bike course from the IM Louisville race. That will be priceless in my preparation for next
August. I also bought myself and official Ironman running visor. I won't race with it until next year's IM, but I will use it during my training. Anything for motivation.

Hopefully the weather holds out so I can do a nice long Saturday morning ride and Sunday morning run. If not maybe my DVD will come and I can use it this weekend. I guess we'll find out soon enough!