Day 9: Killer Spin Class - First TimeTriathlon Training - Is it all Mental?
Last night I took my first spin class as a prerequisite to triathlon training. I had to go at my own pace even though the coach was cranking up the resistance. He kept pushing me and I felt like I was on the Biggest Loser. I didn't want to quit and I did my best. Next time will be better, I hope. Padded shorts will help. I need to find my rhythm and position so I don't feel the pressure around my knees.
This is serious cardio burning 500 calories a class. There were a lot of people in the class, some around my age, and if they can do it, I can do it too. "They've been doing it forever.", the instructor said. Good to know. Where's the beginners like me?
He thought I did fine and we met with the rest of the team who had just finished 16 weeks of training. They are going to do open swim, which means swimming outdoors, in May, which is really cold. I need to get a wet suit. Can't I start out with laps in the pool? The swim clinic is just up my ally. What a plunge!
There will be open runs starting at 6AM. The time doesn't scare me. These guys have been running together for 16 weeks. I don't run yet. I downloaded the C25K Free app which will pace me, 3 days a week, on my iPhone, letting me know how many minutes to walk and then to run, in eight weeks. Then I can run with these guys. They will inspire me to work harder. It's good to workout with people more advanced so there's a lot of learning.
The coach told me I needed to get a road bike and they are riding long distances on the LIE this weekend. Is he kidding? I'd rather do spin and get my cycle legs before hitting the highway. Is it even safe? Can't I use my trail bike in the back of the garage that still has the kid's baby seat in the back? That's how long it's been. They are teenagers now.
I have my work cut out for me and my plan is to work on at least one area a day, preferably two. Something every day no matter what. I will swim, spin and C25K on my own, until I get some mileage under my belt, and hope there are other beginner triathlons who will go at my pace. I will work my way up to playing with the big boys.