Ran a 10k in June (4 Viewers)

[jonmhend]

Did 5 this morning sub 9 min miles. Pretty good for me. Anxiously anticipating the upcoming races to see where I am...

 

[Third]

Cold front just came through in my neck of the woods. It was 40F and windy last night. I am definitely a warm weather runner. Even though it doesn't get that cold in Arkansas, training for a March race through the winter months is really going to test me.

 

[meeka]

Now for more crap, if Baltimore's kicker scores 5 points or less (and it is looking that way), then MJD will have cost me a win and a position alone atop my division in one league by taking a ####### knee yesterday

Yeah, everybody keeps talking about it was such a smart, unselfish play by MJD, but I think it was stupid. Something gets effed up on the FG attempt, and you lose the game. Like Tom Jackson said at halftime tonight, take the points when you can get them.

The % of missing a FG that close (1%) is smaller than the percentage of letting your opponent score on you with 1:50 left on the clock. It was the right play. Sorry that it screwed you over 2young. that is not a fun way to lose.

 

[gruecd]

Cold front just came through in my neck of the woods. It was 40F and windy last night. I am definitely a warm weather runner.

See, you and I are total opposites. It was breezy and cool this afternoon when I went out to run, with wind chills in the upper 30's. I wore shorts and a long-sleeve technical t-shirt, with a short-sleeve cotton t-shirt over the top. And of course gloves and a hat. I was supposed to do 5 miles at recovery pace, but I felt so good that I ad-libbed and did a fast 8-miler instead. Ended up averaging 7:32 pace, and did the last mile in 6:57. I think I'm finally getting my legs back after the back-to-back marathons.

 

[gruecd]

did 5 miles last night at a pretty good pace. Somehow managed to do a out and back from my house with 15 - 20 mph winds in my face both ways...not sure what was going on, but made it back anyway. Hoping I can get back out there tonight, but it is supposed to be raining. I will try if it id light rains. I am a little sore today, but also did a heavy core workout last night so double sore today with legs and mid section tired.

Anyone do any good core workouts they are willing to share with everyone?

This is a large problem for people who run extremely fast. Gruecd is always running into the wind, as he is traveling faster than them. I have the same problem in my car, when on a highway.

You're always good for a laugh, liquors!

 

[Darrinll40]

Ran 4.08 miles today in 44:31. Still slow but today I added in interval training. Basically at the 1 mile mark I sprinted for .25 mile then slowed down for .25 mile. I did this four time between miles 1 and 3.

 

[2Young2BBald]

Now for more crap, if Baltimore's kicker scores 5 points or less (and it is looking that way), then MJD will have cost me a win and a position alone atop my division in one league by taking a ####### knee yesterday

Yeah, everybody keeps talking about it was such a smart, unselfish play by MJD, but I think it was stupid. Something gets effed up on the FG attempt, and you lose the game. Like Tom Jackson said at halftime tonight, take the points when you can get them.

The % of missing a FG that close (1%) is smaller than the percentage of letting your opponent score on you with 1:50 left on the clock. It was the right play. Sorry that it screwed you over 2young. that is not a fun way to lose.

Del Rio has been such a dumb ### all season. Why did he have to pick this week to use his head?

 

[pigskinliquors]

My minor update: Ran 4 miles yesterday. Mile 1 at 7:58, 2 at 7:48 3 and 4 = ??? My Garmin's battery died during the start of the third mile which is probably a good thing. My legs felt great in with the temps in the 50's they wanted to fly. Having the Garmin stop got rid of my ego = most likely slowed me down. I'm still treating this week as a recovery week, and will start actual training again next week. The question is what type of race/ride/tri will I be training for?

 

[Darrinll40]

Going to the gym for a workout after work. First time in one of those in years. One thing I won't do while there is run on a treadmill.

 

[jonmhend]

Ran 5 this morning right at 9 m/m (same as yesterday). I'm going out Sunday and will see if I can hold that pace for 10.

I've been noticing lately that my HR isn't going above 155 when I run. If I go at a 9 m/m pace or 10 m/m it doesn't matter (although the 10 m/m pace is generally on my longer runs). Does this mean I'm not working hard enough during my run?

 

[2Young2BBald]

My minor update: Ran 4 miles yesterday. Mile 1 at 7:58, 2 at 7:48 3 and 4 = ??? My Garmin's battery died during the start of the third mile which is probably a good thing. My legs felt great in with the temps in the 50's they wanted to fly. Having the Garmin stop got rid of my ego = most likely slowed me down. I'm still treating this week as a recovery week, and will start actual training again next week. The question is what type of race/ride/tri will I be training for?

Search out a Lifetime Fitness Indoor Tri. I am doing one on 12/6 and did an indoor brick last night on the bike trainer & treadmill. Have you done a 1/2 IM? I wouldn't mind having a training partner (and bike guru) next year.

 

[wraith5]

Hello, friends.

I took a couple of weeks off from the thread - I've been sick and my runs showed it big time. I couldn't bring myself to put more bad runs in writing, so I just decided to lay low, get healthy, and focus on doing the best I could on each run. It's been a brutal 2 weeks - everyone in my house was sick, all but my 3 year old had to be on antibiotics, and we're all still coughing. I swear we've been through about 6 boxes of kleenex too.

ANYWAY, I took the time to read all of the 3+ pages I missed out on:

SteveUK - I hope the insert helps your foot issue. Callus shaving doesn't sound very fun to me, by the way...

Sand - great 10k time. That negative split was HUGE!! I know some of that was because of the race conditions but still pretty awesome.

PSL - your race report was truly outstanding!! Congratulations on your amazing run. 5:46:55... just wow man. Plus you used the word "intrepidity" - how cool is THAT?!??

2Y - The Rugged Man sounds rugged, indeed. Sorry about your ankle and hope it's feeling better.

jonmhend - congratulations on your 11 and 13.1 milers!! what a ton of progress!! Regarding the chaffing issue, I am not a fan of gruecd's Nipgards - I had bad experiences with them years ago. I use Walgreens brand bandaids, similar to Tri-mans Clear-spots except the Walgreens ones are round. If you're at all like me you have to make sure no hair gets in the way and breaks the seal, but I have NEVER had one fall off. In fact, it's sometimes a bit of an effort to remove them (much preferred to bloody nipples, IMO).

Dexter - did you post your finish time of your bike race? I didn't see it and was curious. Also, what kind of Camelbak do you use that you had to refill it mid-race? Saw you got sick last week and I'm right there with you brother. Hope you're recovered now!!

BNB - nice job on your 12 miler!! Love seeing those "longest run of the year" posts!

Prosopis - great to see that you're back on the horse!! I'm sure it will take some time to get your legs back (but less than you think!). I've been meaning to ask you about the weather in Tucson - the race website says to expect 40 at start but 60+ by the finish...

gruecd -

... and a general to everyone else!!

 

[wraith5]

OK, so quick update on my running:

11/6 - my planned 20 or 22 miler turned into an agonizing 17.5. Not only did my left quad really hurt, but my HR was over 180 by the time I'd finished only 10 miles. I kind of knew it was a bad idea even before I started the run, and after a couple of miles I knew from my HR that I was in trouble. I bet I walked close to 1/2 of the last 3.5 miles just to get home & take my kids to see Santa at the local shopping mall.

11/8 - No run. Felt like crap, decided I needed a small break.

11/11 - 3x 1600s. Target of 7:27s, did 7:24, 7:37, 7:46. My HR hit 192 on the last repeat. It was a real struggle. But I did the run.

11/13 - 10 miles, 8:53 target. Did the front 5 in 9:02s, back 5 in 8:56s. HR still high but happy with negative splits.

11/15 - 15 miles, 9:03 target. Hit 8:58s - the fastest I've ever run that distance - with negative splits (front 5 in 9:10s, next 5 in 8:56s, last 5 in 8:49s) HR was much more in-line with my "normal" efforts.

11/18 - 10x 400s with 400 recoveries. It was raining, so I decided to just use the treadmill. Instead of the 7:04 planned pace I just used 7:30 since my stride is shorter on the treadmill and it's a lot easier to just hit "8" for the repeats and "6" or "4" for the recoveries (pace buttons). Plus my quad is just now feeling close to 100% and I don't need to mess it up doing speedwork.

My last 20 miler is this weekend, then taper (though I am currently planning on running a 1/2 marathon on 11/28 as my final 13 miler).

 

[gruecd]

Thanks for the update, wraith. I was wondering where you went!! I hope you're feeling better soon.

I'm pretty much back to doing the "6 on, 1 off" thing, so today is a rest/XT day for me. Gonna go play some pick-up basketball at 8:00, so that should be interesting. Other than shooting around a couple of times, it's been months since I've played. I'm in pretty good shape from all my running, but "running shape" and "basketball shape" are two distinctly different things, so I'm sure my lower back, knees, etc., will be plenty sore tomorrow. And that sucks, because I have to get up before work tomorrow to do 7 miles with strides.

Have a good night, everybody!

 

[tri-man 47]

Anyone do any good core workouts they are willing to share with everyone?

Good ol' push-ups and sit-ups are fine. I've become an increasing fan of planks. Push-up position, but resting on your elbows/forearms - just hold it for several breaths. Then turn to the side, rest on just one arm; the side of your bottom foot/lower leg will be on the ground, and the other foot/leg resting on top ...great for the obliques. On your back, you can do simple leg lifts and hold the position, or keep the legs grounded and gently lift your upper body as though your head/shoulders are being pulled straight up (just an inch or two of lift, though). Easy to rotate through the set during commercials.---Easy 30 minute run this morning on a paved trail along the coast in Monterey's Cannery Row. (Also did the beautiful drive through Pebble Beach and Carmel) Will catch a longer run the other direction tomorrow before flying home. Heading out now to a forest preserve east of Carmel for a bit of hiking.

 

[prosopis]

Prosopis - great to see that you're back on the horse!! I'm sure it will take some time to get your legs back (but less than you think!). I've been meaning to ask you about the weather in Tucson - the race website says to expect 40 at start but 60+ by the finish...

It was 33 when I drove to work at 5:30am. It was 80 on my way home at 4:30. It is a higher elevation where the marathon is so it may be chillier. I may look into volunteering for this marathon since I am not running in it.

 

[prosopis]

5 miles for me today.

 

[Sand]

Sand - great 10k time. That negative split was HUGE!! I know some of that was because of the race conditions but still pretty awesome.

Seriously - that course is up for the first half and back down for the second. Custom made for negative splits. I am mostly proud of the last 1.2 miles - the 6:57 on flat ground coming in and the 5:30 pace or whatever it was for the final .2 mile sprint.Anyway, on my front I have been struggling with illness and overexertion from the weekend. I put in 12 hours of hard work over the weekend and ended up earning a pinched nerve in my shoulder. So no running Mon. or Tue. I did run today - 5 miles at 7:40 pace. I could have gone another lap and gotten 7.5 in, but I don't want to burn out before the weekend. Silly question for the experienced guys - if I can pull off a 5 mile run at 7:40 pace (a good tempo run, I was definitely not burnt after it was done), do I have a shot at sub 7min/mile for a 5k?

 

[Dexter]

Dexter - did you post your finish time of your bike race? I didn't see it and was curious. Also, what kind of Camelbak do you use that you had to refill it mid-race? Saw you got sick last week and I'm right there with you brother. Hope you're recovered now!!

Nope I finished in 3:01 and my Camelbak is 70oz. It was pretty warm and I had major cramp issues last year so I made sure I drank a lot of water. I feel pretty good now so I'm just trying to get my strength back before the turkey trot next week.Thanks for asking.

 

[pmbrown_22]

tri-thanks for the update. I actually am doing those plus some so that is good to here that I am doing something right. I am actually doing the Lola Jones workout from a couple months back in Runner's World with a combination of a Men's Health Core workout as well 3xs a week. It helped when I was doing it awhile back, but I stopped doing it because time was getting slim with the marathon training.

wraith- glad to here you are feeling a bit better. Being sick is no fun especially when you are trying to train. Been there and done that before. Don't sweat the runs that much. I know it is easier said than done, but you have put in a ton of training and I think you will be ready when the race comes. Just make sure you hit the 20 miler for your last one. It will give you the confidence you need to finish the marathon.

_________

As for me, did 4 miles yesteday on the treadmill as it is raining like crazy here. I am trying to get in 5 tonight, but not sure if I will be able to.

Also, for you bike guys. Wife and I are getting bikes for Christmas. I have a mountain bike and thought about getting a road bike. What is a biginner bike that I can get that I will be happy with. Reading all of the biking posts has gotten me thinking about biking more. Plus my neighbor is going to start biking as well so I may join him as well. Price range for me is about $400.

 

[BassNBrew]

Also, for you bike guys. Wife and I are getting bikes for Christmas. I have a mountain bike and thought about getting a road bike. What is a biginner bike that I can get that I will be happy with. Reading all of the biking posts has gotten me thinking about biking more. Plus my neighbor is going to start biking as well so I may join him as well. Price range for me is about $400.

Honestly I doubt you'll find much new for $400 that you'll be happy with. I'd look for a used bike. I'd suggest staying away from triple cranks (24/27/30 speed) and focus on a double (20/18/16). If you'll be riding in the mountains than a compact crank is your friend. I'd look for 105 components as a min. You'll also need to budget for shoes and pedals.

 

[pmbrown_22]

Also, for you bike guys. Wife and I are getting bikes for Christmas. I have a mountain bike and thought about getting a road bike. What is a biginner bike that I can get that I will be happy with. Reading all of the biking posts has gotten me thinking about biking more. Plus my neighbor is going to start biking as well so I may join him as well. Price range for me is about $400.

Honestly I doubt you'll find much new for $400 that you'll be happy with. I'd look for a used bike. I'd suggest staying away from triple cranks (24/27/30 speed) and focus on a double (20/18/16). If you'll be riding in the mountains than a compact crank is your friend. I'd look for 105 components as a min. You'll also need to budget for shoes and pedals.

Okay, let me start over. Is there a beginner's book I should look at before getting into cycling at all? I have no idea for most of what you said. I am down with the used bike and will check them out and see what I can find. I am looking for brands that I can go with and I am not sure if I will stick with it so I don't want to sink a ton of money into something that I am just trying out only to find it is not for me. There has to be a halfway decent road bike that I can atleast use to get my feet wet and see if I enjoy it. If not then this is a little more involved than I thought it was going to be. I will put full trust in you guys that have experience as I have none and we can see where that goes.

 

[pigskinliquors]

Search out a Lifetime Fitness Indoor Tri. I am doing one on 12/6 and did an indoor brick last night on the bike trainer & treadmill. Have you done a 1/2 IM? I wouldn't mind having a training partner (and bike guru) next year.

I still haven't done a 1/2 IM, though it is on my to do list. I haven't logged any swim time in quite awhile, and won't have easy access to a pool until next summer. I'll most likely shoot for my 1/2 IM next Fall (two very near me; one in October, one in November). I'm slowly getting back into running, but really want to start getting back on my bike. I'll most likely look for a century to ride, while maintaining my running fitness. I have a half marathon scheduled for March 7th, and a duathlon the first week of April. I'm just hoping to have a different carrot in front of me to get me through the holidays.

Silly question for the experienced guys - if I can pull off a 5 mile run at 7:40 pace (a good tempo run, I was definitely not burnt after it was done), do I have a shot at sub 7min/mile for a 5k?

Sand using Runners World's calculator, here is your estimated race times using a 38:20 5 mile race. This suggests a sub 7:00 mile, but not a 5k = you need to get more speed work in! Wraith: Great to have you back. Having a high HR should be expected as you get back at it. It sounds like you're already back on track

PMBrown: I agree with BnB; I'd go after 105 as a minimum, and no need to ride on a triple. This Website is a good place to start looking. I'd most likely look at this bike as a good starting point. Another good bike can be found here (Culdeus is high on this site for purchasing bikes). Ebay and Craigslist are great places to look, but you'll have difficulty finding a 105 or better for less than $600.

 

[pmbrown_22]

Thanks for the info guys. It would appear that I have a lot of research to do, but I am more than willing to dive into it and find out more about it. Knowledge reigns supreme. Or what ever the saying is. I noticed the Mercier was a 2009 model. Is there a chance to find a 2008 or 2007 model someplace out there or do they not get resold often?

 

[BassNBrew]

Thanks for the info guys. It would appear that I have a lot of research to do, but I am more than willing to dive into it and find out more about it. Knowledge reigns supreme. Or what ever the saying is. I noticed the Mercier was a 2009 model. Is there a chance to find a 2008 or 2007 model someplace out there or do they not get resold often?

I suspect they come up on e-bay from time to time. Check the completed listings. If you get into road biking you'll end up upgrading sooner rather than later. Used and cheap is best on the front end, however you don't want junk that ruins your experience, hence the suggestion of 105 components. The bikes direct website is a good place to get familair with the components available.

 

[2Young2BBald]

Also, for you bike guys. Wife and I are getting bikes for Christmas. I have a mountain bike and thought about getting a road bike. What is a biginner bike that I can get that I will be happy with. Reading all of the biking posts has gotten me thinking about biking more. Plus my neighbor is going to start biking as well so I may join him as well. Price range for me is about $400.

Honestly I doubt you'll find much new for $400 that you'll be happy with. I'd look for a used bike. I'd suggest staying away from triple cranks (24/27/30 speed) and focus on a double (20/18/16). If you'll be riding in the mountains than a compact crank is your friend. I'd look for 105 components as a min. You'll also need to budget for shoes and pedals.

Okay, let me start over. Is there a beginner's book I should look at before getting into cycling at all? I have no idea for most of what you said. I am down with the used bike and will check them out and see what I can find. I am looking for brands that I can go with and I am not sure if I will stick with it so I don't want to sink a ton of money into something that I am just trying out only to find it is not for me. There has to be a halfway decent road bike that I can atleast use to get my feet wet and see if I enjoy it. If not then this is a little more involved than I thought it was going to be. I will put full trust in you guys that have experience as I have none and we can see where that goes.

Bicycling Magazine recently put out a book called something like "The Complete Guide to Road Cycling". It is somewhere around the house, but I cannot seem to find it right now. It was a quick read and had some good, but basic information. As a suggestion, I'd avoid any book and look at getting Triathlete Magazine. It is very much written like Runner's World and Bicycling, but hits all 3 disciplines. I have found the advice articles more helpful than any book. Although, I find some of the training plans and nutritional info a little over the top.As for buying a bike, I would think hard on what you are going to use it for in the near term and in the future and maybe decide to up your budget just a bit. I screwed this up a bit and if I could go back, I'd change things. Last June I decided I'd try a sprint triathlon and trained for the bike portion on a 1979 Schwinn Continental I had a shop fix up. I figured it'd be a one and done notch in the race belt, so why invest big bucks. As I edged closer to race day and my confidence was building I made an impulse buy and bought a new road bike, with the thought that if I like the sport or not, I'll still have the road bike to ride. Well, I didn't like the sport, I fell madly and obsessively in love with it. So, here I am now, with 7 tris raced in '09 looking forward to attempting a 1/2 IM next year and my road bike is doable but quite wrong for this (I don't think I can roll old school like tri-man). Having it to do over, I wish I had bought a decent used road bike and raced that last year and saved a few bucks. I'll still use the road bike to train with my daughter and have it on a bike trainer now. However, as I posted recently, I pulled the trigger on getting a used tri bike and could not be happier with the purchase. FWIW.One more thing, the guys here are pros and you'll get much more credible and immediate feedback here then what you might read in a book.

 

[wraith5]

Wraith: Great to have you back. Having a high HR should be expected as you get back at it. It sounds like you're already back on track

PMBrown: I agree with BnB; I'd go after 105 as a minimum, and no need to ride on a triple. This Website is a good place to start looking. I'd most likely look at this bike as a good starting point. Another good bike can be found here (Culdeus is high on this site for purchasing bikes). Ebay and Craigslist are great places to look, but you'll have difficulty finding a 105 or better for less than $600.

Thanks GB. The high HR is definitely a direct result of being sick so I'm hoping that's in the rear-view mirror now. I only skipped 1 tempo run so I don't think I lost any ground in my training. This Sunday will be the real test. Sportsbeans - anyone use?

PMBrown - I used that first site PSL recommended to find my bike (a Motobecane Fantom Cross) but ended up buying it from a woman on eBay for a better price (sprtymama, who gruecd knows I believe). FWIW, I went with that one because it has the 105 rear derailleur, a double crank set, and 2 sets of hand brakes: 1 in the drops and 1 on the crossbar. I ride on paved bike trails and dirt/gravel more than I ride on roads so don't spend a ton of time in the drops - but I can if I decide to focus on more road time in the future.

 

[2Young2BBald]

Sportsbeans - anyone use?

Glad you are back and getting better. I am sure being sick caused zero stress as you looked forward to AZ. I get when I get as much as a sniffle anywhere close to race day.I have tried just about everything (including Luna's, which I found out are chick chews only after I'd used them - had a good cry and some chocolate after running with them). Sportsbeans have been my favorite for a while. Normal routine is to have a bag of lemon/lime pre race with my bottle of Heed. I then carry a bag of cherry with caffeine and orange. I really like the size and texture as I can "snack" on them a few at a time and typically start eating a few at a time about a 1/4 mile out from water stops so I can wash them down. For 1/2 marathons, I usually eat the orange 1st and save the cherry until around 4 miles to go (for the extra kick). For tris, I open both bags in my back pouch when I go in to the bike and just snack on whatever I grab (its a bit of a PIA with a wet tri top, but its nice and easy to just grab and go versus getting them out of the pouch. I like the taste of GU Chomps & Cliff Bloks, but they are too big and too chewy IMO.

 

[pmbrown_22]

Bicycling Magazine recently put out a book called something like "The Complete Guide to Road Cycling". It is somewhere around the house, but I cannot seem to find it right now. It was a quick read and had some good, but basic information. As a suggestion, I'd avoid any book and look at getting Triathlete Magazine. It is very much written like Runner's World and Bicycling, but hits all 3 disciplines. I have found the advice articles more helpful than any book. Although, I find some of the training plans and nutritional info a little over the top.As for buying a bike, I would think hard on what you are going to use it for in the near term and in the future and maybe decide to up your budget just a bit. I screwed this up a bit and if I could go back, I'd change things. Last June I decided I'd try a sprint triathlon and trained for the bike portion on a 1979 Schwinn Continental I had a shop fix up. I figured it'd be a one and done notch in the race belt, so why invest big bucks. As I edged closer to race day and my confidence was building I made an impulse buy and bought a new road bike, with the thought that if I like the sport or not, I'll still have the road bike to ride. Well, I didn't like the sport, I fell madly and obsessively in love with it. So, here I am now, with 7 tris raced in '09 looking forward to attempting a 1/2 IM next year and my road bike is doable but quite wrong for this (I don't think I can roll old school like tri-man). Having it to do over, I wish I had bought a decent used road bike and raced that last year and saved a few bucks. I'll still use the road bike to train with my daughter and have it on a bike trainer now. However, as I posted recently, I pulled the trigger on getting a used tri bike and could not be happier with the purchase. FWIW.One more thing, the guys here are pros and you'll get much more credible and immediate feedback here then what you might read in a book.

I really agree with this. I only threw the starting price out there not really knowing what to expect price wise. My biggest hurdle will be trying to convince the wife the I "need" this type of bike. She does not understand such things and thinks in terms of "it is just a bike", but we will see what kind of persuasive techniques that I can some up with. I just don't want it costing me double just to get one of the bikes you listed.I also complete understand about not getting something good at the start of it and regretting it later. I have done that many times before and learned my lessons there.I will shop around though and see what I can find. There are always deals on the internet.

 

[2Young2BBald]

Bicycling Magazine recently put out a book called something like "The Complete Guide to Road Cycling". It is somewhere around the house, but I cannot seem to find it right now. It was a quick read and had some good, but basic information. As a suggestion, I'd avoid any book and look at getting Triathlete Magazine. It is very much written like Runner's World and Bicycling, but hits all 3 disciplines. I have found the advice articles more helpful than any book. Although, I find some of the training plans and nutritional info a little over the top.

As for buying a bike, I would think hard on what you are going to use it for in the near term and in the future and maybe decide to up your budget just a bit. I screwed this up a bit and if I could go back, I'd change things. Last June I decided I'd try a sprint triathlon and trained for the bike portion on a 1979 Schwinn Continental I had a shop fix up. I figured it'd be a one and done notch in the race belt, so why invest big bucks. As I edged closer to race day and my confidence was building I made an impulse buy and bought a new road bike, with the thought that if I like the sport or not, I'll still have the road bike to ride. Well, I didn't like the sport, I fell madly and obsessively in love with it. So, here I am now, with 7 tris raced in '09 looking forward to attempting a 1/2 IM next year and my road bike is doable but quite wrong for this (I don't think I can roll old school like tri-man).

Having it to do over, I wish I had bought a decent used road bike and raced that last year and saved a few bucks. I'll still use the road bike to train with my daughter and have it on a bike trainer now. However, as I posted recently, I pulled the trigger on getting a used tri bike and could not be happier with the purchase. FWIW.

One more thing, the guys here are pros and you'll get much more credible and immediate feedback here then what you might read in a book.

I really agree with this. I only threw the starting price out there not really knowing what to expect price wise. My biggest hurdle will be trying to convince the wife the I "need" this type of bike. She does not understand such things and thinks in terms of "it is just a bike", but we will see what kind of persuasive techniques that I can some up with. I just don't want it costing me double just to get one of the bikes you listed.I also complete understand about not getting something good at the start of it and regretting it later. I have done that many times before and learned my lessons there.

I will shop around though and see what I can find. There are always deals on the internet.

I thought of one more place you may be able to go for help. BeginnerTriathlete has their message boards set up by state. Michigan's is awesome and I found the same when I was out in Colorado this fall and looking for a place to swim. Here is the Ohio Forum. When you are getting closer to wanting to buy, I'd post a general topic on where to look, or what is available. You may even find someone who is looking to unload a bike at a great price.

 

[jonmhend]

On the bike discussion, what about fit? Is there a good guide that would help with getting the right fit on a bike bought over the internet? Is it as easy as measuring height and inseam or something like that? I'd hate to invest $$ on the wrong thing and end up spending tons more on shipping costs to get it right.

In thinking about next year's plan, I've been giving thought to trying a tri after the running focus lets up. There are a couple in northern AZ in the summer that could work out to get out of the heat. Is an Olympic distance a good one for a first timer or is that too much to start out with? I'd have about 5 months after RnRAZ to get ready.

 

[2Young2BBald]

On the bike discussion, what about fit? Is there a good guide that would help with getting the right fit on a bike bought over the internet? Is it as easy as measuring height and inseam or something like that? I'd hate to invest $$ on the wrong thing and end up spending tons more on shipping costs to get it right.In thinking about next year's plan, I've been giving thought to trying a tri after the running focus lets up. There are a couple in northern AZ in the summer that could work out to get out of the heat. Is an Olympic distance a good one for a first timer or is that too much to start out with? I'd have about 5 months after RnRAZ to get ready.

The Oly swim is 1500 meters in open water, just shy of a mile. If you are Sand-like in your swim background, you MAY want to start with the Oly. But if I were you, I'd find a sprint with a swim between 1/2 mile and 500 yards. Its not the distance or the amount of exertion that will get you the first few times. It is the holy ####, I am in open water with a 100 other dudes and they are touching my feet, etc, etc. It takes some getting used to and you probably don't want to have to figure things out over a 35 to 45 minute swim. A 500 meter swim will run a beginner only about 10 to 15 minutes (did my 1st in 11 or so) and you can flop to your back to get wind if all hell breaks loose. I hope I am not scaring you away from this, to the contrary, I think I have the most fun with the swim leg (although, being a runner first, I also like picking off the bike guys as they typically crush me on the bike leg only to be reeled back in on the run). For bikes, I am 5'7"ish which is at the very, very low end of what should fit the standard 56 CM frame, which I have found to be the most prevalent frame size out there. I was scared off from buying online because of this. I'd say if you can get in a good LBS and get a general feel for what frame size works for you and the Google up the fit charts online, you may be okay. It just wasn't for me.

 

[pigskinliquors]

On the bike discussion, what about fit? Is there a good guide that would help with getting the right fit on a bike bought over the internet? Is it as easy as measuring height and inseam or something like that? I'd hate to invest $$ on the wrong thing and end up spending tons more on shipping costs to get it right.

In thinking about next year's plan, I've been giving thought to trying a tri after the running focus lets up. There are a couple in northern AZ in the summer that could work out to get out of the heat. Is an Olympic distance a good one for a first timer or is that too much to start out with? I'd have about 5 months after RnRAZ to get ready.

Culdeus gave me this website when I was looking for my first road bike. Have somebody else measure you, and double/triple check each measure.

 

[Darrinll40]

Getting ready for an easy 4 miler. Found this article in my email from Active.com

20 Questions Every Cyclist Should Ask

 

[Sand]

On the bike discussion, what about fit? Is there a good guide that would help with getting the right fit on a bike bought over the internet? Is it as easy as measuring height and inseam or something like that? I'd hate to invest $$ on the wrong thing and end up spending tons more on shipping costs to get it right.

www.wrenchscience.comwww.competitivecyclist.comI like the wrenchscience one a bit better, but they both put me in the right range. At 5'8" I ride a 52cm.

In thinking about next year's plan, I've been giving thought to trying a tri after the running focus lets up. There are a couple in northern AZ in the summer that could work out to get out of the heat. Is an Olympic distance a good one for a first timer or is that too much to start out with? I'd have about 5 months after RnRAZ to get ready.

How much of a swimmer are you? Are these local type races or big productions? And are they mass starts or time trial type starts? If you are a good swimmer and do the work and at least try an OWS or two ( I assume these are lake swims), then I don't see why an Oly couldn't be your first shot. I'd still start with a sprint distance to get your feet wet, though. They are loads of fun and plenty challenging.

 

[jonmhend]

In thinking about next year's plan, I've been giving thought to trying a tri after the running focus lets up. There are a couple in northern AZ in the summer that could work out to get out of the heat. Is an Olympic distance a good one for a first timer or is that too much to start out with? I'd have about 5 months after RnRAZ to get ready.

How much of a swimmer are you? Are these local type races or big productions? And are they mass starts or time trial type starts? If you are a good swimmer and do the work and at least try an OWS or two ( I assume these are lake swims), then I don't see why an Oly couldn't be your first shot. I'd still start with a sprint distance to get your feet wet, though. They are loads of fun and plenty challenging.

Tough to answer the "how good a swimmer" question. From a competition standpoint, I'm a complete newbie. I've never raced other than with friends as a kid. I don't know how to complete a flip turn other than by what I've seen in the Olympics. I have no idea if my mechanics are good or not.From a recreational swimmer standpoint, I'm a seasoned vet. I was a lifeguard in high-school. I don't have any fears around swimming and I routinely swam in lakes/rivers/and the ocean as a kid (and adult). I don't think I'll have any open water fears. I do think it will be mostly a stamina issue but I think of that sort of like running in that you just need to do your time in the pool at the right distances and you can be ready.I think you're right though - it probably is a good idea to get in a sprint and build my way up.Thanks for the links.

 

[Darrinll40]

4.06 in 41:31 tonight, a 10:13 pace. I was going to do a nice easy run after my workout at the gym yesterday, but I felt great tonight. I pushed it just a bit and could of done more if I had wanted to collapse afterward. I only missed negative splits by 4 seconds in my 3rd mile and the 4th mile was done in 10:01. I am getting closer to where I was and it feels great. I am glad I have had all of you to encourage and counsel me when I restarted. I think sometime I do it so I won't let everyone down. Sounds dumb, but I use whatever I can to motivate myself, even self delusion.

ETA: I forgot, this was the first run with nipguards. They worked great.

 

[prosopis]

3.37 miles in 34 mins for me tonight. Got a little darker then I like at the end but it was a nice temp for running.

 

[Sand]

Tough to answer the "how good a swimmer" question. From a competition standpoint, I'm a complete newbie. I've never raced other than with friends as a kid. I don't know how to complete a flip turn other than by what I've seen in the Olympics. I have no idea if my mechanics are good or not.From a recreational swimmer standpoint, I'm a seasoned vet. I was a lifeguard in high-school. I don't have any fears around swimming and I routinely swam in lakes/rivers/and the ocean as a kid (and adult). I don't think I'll have any open water fears. I do think it will be mostly a stamina issue but I think of that sort of like running in that you just need to do your time in the pool at the right distances and you can be ready.

You'd be fine in an Olympic (given the training). You don't have to be super fast in a tri (let's face it, the average pace in a typical tri is somewhere in the 2:00/100yd range, which is quite slow by swimmer's standards). You'd be shocked at how dangerous some folks are - next to zero swimming skills. Unlike biking and running there is a price for failure in the water. In your shoes really the only thing to worry about is getting accustomed to a mass start. Other than that I think you'd be just fine.Still, starting with a sprint or two is great. They are loads of fun and offer plenty of challenge. In AZ the tris probably start up as early as April. Heck, it is probably a balmy 103 there at that time of the year.

 

[BassNBrew]

You'd be shocked at how dangerous some folks are - next to zero swimming skills. Unlike biking and running there is a price for failure in the water.

Price of failure in the water....50/50 shot at mouth to mouth with a hottie. Price of failure on the bike...being scrapped off the pavement with a shove.

 

[BassNBrew]

4.06 in 41:31 tonight, a 10:13 pace. I was going to do a nice easy run after my workout at the gym yesterday, but I felt great tonight. I pushed it just a bit and could of done more if I had wanted to collapse afterward. I only missed negative splits by 4 seconds in my 3rd mile and the 4th mile was done in 10:01. I am getting closer to where I was and it feels great. I am glad I have had all of you to encourage and counsel me when I restarted. I think sometime I do it so I won't let everyone down. Sounds dumb, but I use whatever I can to motivate myself, even self delusion.

ETA: I forgot, this was the first run with nipguards. They worked great.

Don't worry about the negative splits...way, way over rated. Typically it means you either loafed the first half of a hard work out or didn't stick to the plan on a scheduled easy day. Varying a few seconds either way like you did is awesome!I had a huge negative split yesterday....5k with the girlfriend at 10:10 pace and then 5k solo at 8:45 pace.

 

[gruecd]

You kids and your swimming and biking.....

Honestly, I have a hard time finding time to be good at one discipline. I don't know how you do it.

Anyway.....played basketball again this morning, and it wasn't pretty. I guess that's what happens when you don't play for 3-4 months. After a few games, guys were just stepping back and letting me shoot. Brutal. And now my lower back is killing me. Maybe I should just stick to running....

I'll head out later this afternoon for an easy 7, and I'll probably do another 8 tomorrow. Kinda looking foward to ramping the mileage back up.

Have a great weekend, everybody!

 

[tri-man 47]

'Old school' bike input -

I have a 'cheap' ($400) Fuji road bike, and while tolerable, it can't compete with the better/proper bikes. Most of what I see at the tri's are Trek (by far) and some Cannondale or Specialized. My own recommendation would be to look for a used Trek. I'm 6'3", so I need a long frame. Beyond that, be alert (as mentioned) to the issue of pedals/shoes. I HAVE broken down and gotten clip-ins, and they're not a problem at all. But that does add some cost.

 

[jonmhend]

Another newbie bike question. Is there a difference between a road and a tri bike? Seems like I read that it has to do with positioning and it can take the emphasis off certain muscles to save them for the run. Is it enough of a difference to matter? If the bike is mainly used for tri's, does it make sense to buy a tri bike?

 

[BassNBrew]

Another newbie bike question. Is there a difference between a road and a tri bike? Seems like I read that it has to do with positioning and it can take the emphasis off certain muscles to save them for the run. Is it enough of a difference to matter? If the bike is mainly used for tri's, does it make sense to buy a tri bike?

Yes, it's a big difference. That said, you can get by just fine with a road bike and clip on bars. You can also look for a road bike with a reversible seat post.

 

[meeka]

I got a great run in this morning. I ran 5 miles in around 44 minutes. 9:00 warm-up mile. Then a 8:30 second mile. Miles 3 and 4 were at 8:00 per mile and I finished with a 8:30 mile.

This is a good starting off point for me and my desire to get a bit faster. It seems like I really do not get warmed up until I am about 1.5 miles into my race. I am wound pretty tight, so I think I just need to loosen up for a bit longer than most. This could be why I am not too successful in my 5k races. That and the fact that I am not that fast in the first place. The two 8 minute miles were tough, and I hope to be able to improve down to 7:30's for the middle miles.

My training for my May 30th marathon will start the last week of January, and I am really enjoying this aspect of running again. I went from a half marathon training program right into my marathon training program. Not having a set schedule, but running my own runs has been great these last few weeks. I think by January I will be ready to committ to the training schedule again.

 

[pigskinliquors]

Another newbie bike question. Is there a difference between a road and a tri bike? Seems like I read that it has to do with positioning and it can take the emphasis off certain muscles to save them for the run. Is it enough of a difference to matter? If the bike is mainly used for tri's, does it make sense to buy a tri bike?

The geometry on a tri-bike is different, as you need to get into a lower, more aerodynamic position than on a road bike. My FIRST "road" bike was a tri bike, as I wanted the bike for tri's. After almost two years with it, I went on to also purchase a road bike. I love both of them (Helga and Heidi), and would hate to have to decide which one I need/love more. You can get a road bike and put aero-bars on it to do tri's; but you shouldn't take a tri-specific bike to be used for road races (you can, but other riders typically frown upon it). If I had it to do all over again, I'd do exactly what I did = purchase a tri-specific bike first, then later purchase a road bike. For your decision:1) When riding alone with little traffic (no drafting = tri's and training alone) the tri-bike will be superior2) When riding with others (group rides or road races) or in traffic (commutes or city riding) the road bike will be superiorIf you know which of 1 and 2 above you'll be doing more of; you should have your decision. My .02

 

[wraith5]

Don't worry about the negative splits...way, way over rated. Typically it means you either loafed the first half of a hard work out or didn't stick to the plan on a scheduled easy day. Varying a few seconds either way like you did is awesome!

Funny that negative splits came up today - I really believe I'm a better runner when I start slowly and build up my speed so I almost always shoot for negative splits. Today, of course, was the exception... 8 miler at 8:53s on the schedule. I started out too fast - 8:30s for 2 miles and ave 8:40s for the front 4. I thought maybe I could push at that level but I got my HR up into the 180s by mile 3. Dumb. Managed 9:05s for the next 3 miles but really dragged at the end. Total ave pace 8:57s. Interesting to me at at the RnR 1/2 in August I averaged the same speed but 10 bpm LESS the first 4 miles of the race. I'm guessing I just haven't focused my training on mid-distance so it's suffered as a result. Yeah... that's it...

 

[wraith5]

You can get a road bike and put aero-bars on it to do tri's; but you shouldn't take a tri-specific bike to be used for road races (you can, but other riders typically frown upon it).

Why? I gotta admit, I'm at a total loss at the difference between the two and why it would make any significant difference in performance unless you're a pretty strong rider.

 

[2Young2BBald]

You can get a road bike and put aero-bars on it to do tri's; but you shouldn't take a tri-specific bike to be used for road races (you can, but other riders typically frown upon it).

Why? I gotta admit, I'm at a total loss at the difference between the two and why it would make any significant difference in performance unless you're a pretty strong rider.

To me, it has to do with the rules of each more than anything else. Road racing encourages drafting, tris do not allowing it. You are a racer of one in the tris and so staying aero is key (and I can see a huge difference on a tri bike versus a road bike with aero bars). I cannot imagine group riding with the tri bike as you can barely see 10" in front of yourself, if that. Having now rode both types, the difference are massive. I still have to name the tri bike, the road bike is "B".