Tag Archive for adventure

The Triathlon Rx | August 4, 2011
9 comments

Thoughts on a Thursday // Bikes & Baseball

(For those of you that follow my Groucho Sports posts on Thursdays… you get a week off! Hope no one minds the crossover posting, but I definitely felt like this one was worth sharing in both places. Check over there next week for something new. LET’S GO TWINS!!)

There is one thing in this world (/state) that I love with a burning passion. One thing I’m willing to buy fan-gear for, put on body paint, cheer until I lose my voice, and maybe even lose my temper over. (If you want to argue with me, claiming we lost the first series against the Royals, make sure you know your stats first. For the record, we beat them in all 4 games in June.)

Yeah – I can get a little emotional.

So imagine my response when I went to my first game of the season, to see the bike racks surrounding Twins stadium OVERLFLOWING with bikes. Big bikes. Little bikes. Bikes with a tag-a-long attached. I even saw one really sweet bike with race wheels on it (note that I am not commenting on the stupidity lack of thought on the part of the owner…). There were so many bikes that people were locking up on railings, trees, and light posts! It was AWESOME.

(Target Field Bicycle Routes & Parking Map – click for full size!)

Although that might make it sound like Target Field doesn’t have enough racks, I definitely want to commend them on their support and encouragement for human-powered transportation to the games. Truthfully, there is a lot of bike parking, which just means that there are a lot of people riding to the game! The Twins’ MLB site even has a page dedicated to “Getting to Target Field by Bike or Foot” which not only has this sweet bike route/parking map, but also information about walking routes, the downtown Skyway system, and the Cedar Lake Trail.

And speaking of the Cedar Lake Trail, please tell me you’ve ridden the new extension!! It runs underneath Target Field, connecting the existing Cedar Lake Trail with the Mississippi River! No more wandering your way through downtown, questioning whether you’re going left or east or on your way to Wisconsin. Ignore the ugly white stuff in the photo below… but YES that trail goes right under the stadium!!

Much unlike last year, I’m slacking on my home-game attendance this season. I’ve been to only four games so far, compared with over three times as many in 2010. But mark my words – I will be attending at least three more games, and I will bike to the stadium. I don’t know if I could imagine a more perfect day…

What about you? Have you ever biked to a Twins Game? Do you frequently ride for transportation, or is it just for fitness? Either way, it can definitely help you towards your weekly 100 miles!

Ride on!

-E

Category: Thoughts on a Thursday | Tags: , ,
The Triathlon Rx | May 27, 2011
5 comments

Friday Confessional // 05.27.2011

You know how to play. (What? You don’t? Check here for the 101.) I only have one for you today… so the rest of the ‘fessin up is up to you!

1. // In just a few hours, I’m taking my bike, my boyfriend, and a book (non school related!) and running away. [Until Monday.] No email, no computer, no cell phone. And hopefully, no stress. [Until Monday.] At which point I will return with a Medical Monday (which likely won’t go up until Tuesday), some x-ray film, and an update on the race calendar. All in response to THIS tweet:

Thanks so much for all the good vibes sent via tweet, text, and facebook! In the mean time, I’d really appreciate your answer to my question on my Groucho Sports post from this week, as I’ve lost my little friend and am not sure where to turn next!

READER Qs:

Any fun plans for the holiday weekend? This is the first year I’m not WORKING on memorial day! Woooo hooo!!

OK chicos – the rest is up to you! I hope you all have a wonderful, happy, healthy weekend!

-E

Category: Friday Confessionals | Tags: , , ,
The Triathlon Rx | March 18, 2011
8 comments

San Juan // vacation + 70.3 preview

While there is something very special about having a “home base” to come home to after time away… I’ll tell you – I have never wanted to not leave a country as much as I didn’t want to leave San Juan. Mom, I know it will pain you to read that – I’m sorry. Minneapolis will always have a special place in my heart. But the people, the culture, the LACK OF  stress (and that’s not because I was on vacation – I was working on research every single night!), the pace of life, ok ok ok – the WEATHER, everything in Puerto Rico – I love it there!! And there happen to be three accredited medical schools in Puerto Rico… just sayin’ :D

(p.s. If I have any readers who live IN Puerto Rico or anyone who as attended one of those schools – Universidad Central del Caribe, UPR, or Ponce – please please please contact me!! I would love to talk with you about it!)

SO. First of all we have a brief (mmm, maybe) rundown of the trip, with commentary kept to a minimum. Truthfully I had a very athletic week while there, and knowing that 99.9% of my readers are athletes, I hope my “review” may help you in preparing for a trip to PR or in narrowing down your vacation options. Secondly, the Ironman San Juan 70.3 is TOMORROW (Sunday – 3/19), and my hotel – the Caribe Hilton – happened to be the host hotel for the race! So for anyone considering the San Juan 70.3, I have a little “course preview” and race info for you as well. AND lastly because it’s Friday, you get one confession. ¡Vamos!

From Minneapolis it’s about a 5 hour direct flight to San Juan Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport… which is the “big one” that you would likely fly into. Even though San Juan (the capital) is on the northeast side of the island, the sweet thing about Puerto Rico is that the entire place is just about 3x the size of Rhode Island. MEANING you can rent a car and be to any of the other coasts in about 2 hours max. Which I did when I went to el Yunque National Forest (see photos below)!

In terms of things that travelers/tourists may want to know:

  • I can’t speak for all of PR because I was staying in San Juan, but IMO it was VERY safe. I ran alone, I ran with random locals, I ran with other travelers, I took off exploring on my own. Sin problemas. Granted, I don’t do dumb $#!& to put myself in dangerous situations… but nonetheless, I felt safe the whole time.
  • You don’t need to speak Spanish… at least in San Juan. Just about everyone can speak English at a functional level where you can order food/get directions/get a taxi, etc.
  • That being said, if you do speak Spanish (or are learning?) … GO FOR IT! Aside from talking to the people I was traveling with, I spoke Spanish the entire time. Even if you are just learning, don’t be shy! Being immersed in it a foreign country is hands down the best way to learn a language.
  • Typical Puerto Rican food has a lot of rice and beans and plantains. But if that’s not your thing there are plenty of options. (siiigh) They too have Micky D’s, KFC, etc.
  • There is a lot to do! National rainforest, beaches, parks, old forts, restaurants, the bioluminescent bays, kayaking, snorkeling, hiking… there is really no reason to be bored.

(On the way to the rainforest and it definitely looks like it’s going to be wet!)

(so much green!! // repping Ragnar in the rainforest (note the footwear!!) // whoever lives there has a pretty sweet view)

(I found some gallinas in the rainforest… wanted to bring them home for my friend Willie but thought customs might pose a problem.)

And now para mis atleteas – what can you do to keep up your training in Puerto Rico? You’ve got options! I guess my only disclaimer would be that if you’re on vacation, don’t let stress about getting your training in ruin your time. Know that you might not get in your “usual” volume… know that you might be enjoying some, um, late nights out in Condado. The point is you can still keep up your fitness on vacation without sacrificing the fun! This info is also for any prospective Ironman San Juan 70.3ers – information on pre-race course access and what’s available in San Juan!

  • SWIMMING: Is definitely doable. Lots of the hotels have pools… I was thinking mine had a lap pool but found out I was WRONG when I got there. I got some good ocean swimming in though… aside from the part about my Timex Ironman Racer flooding with water and dying the second I hit salt water. (Not kidding… I wanted to cry. [No - that's my Friday confession] I use that watch for EVERYTHING!! NTM I don’t really have $200 to drop on a new HR monitor/watch.)
  • SWIMMING IMSJ 70.3: If you get to Puerto Rico and you see the wind and the waves and your thinking oh hecccck no… don’t worry. The swim is protected in Condado Bay, and goes from there for 1.2 miles over to DIRECTLY outside of my hotel lobby. The exit swim exit is up this ramp… which when I took this photo (below) looked kinda iffy. They guys building it said they were going to put something over the wood to make it a) non slippery, and b) not splintery. I would recommend NOT standing up anywhere along the swim, even though at times it is like 3 feet deep, because there are rocks and you could easily cut yourself. The water is very nice and you should NOT need a wet suit at all. It’d just add time to your T1. Also be prepared for a good distance jog from the water-exit to the transition.
  • BIKING: I didn’t ride at all while I was out here, but my dad rode with me for one of my runs!! (We’ve been doing this for a long time together (see PHILLY 2009) … it’s kind of “our thing”. I miss you dad!) My hotel had bikes to rent for $15/hour or $25/day. I was expecting them to be huge slow beach cruisers, but we were pleasantly surprised to see some nice Treks!
  • BIKING IMSJ 70.3: If you want to ride the course pre-race, please BE CAREFUL. The first 5-10 miles of the bike course are in an area with HEAVY TRAFFIC. There is a reason they’re closing the road for the race!! The bike portion starts out going south out of San Juan, and then rides west along the coast. At about mile 12.5 you start a loop – of which you’ll complete 2 – before retracing your steps back to SJ. Personally, I wouldn’t ride with a disk because the winds can be pretty strong coming off the ocean. But that’s coming from someone who weighs under a buck and would probably blow to the south coast of the island. The choice is totally up to you, but know that there WILL be wind.
  • RUNNING: You can run your heart out in Puerto Rico… and I happened to do just that! There are plenty of miles of paved paths to get in whatever you need. Know that it is HUMID so if you are coming from a place like, oh… Minnesota, it might take some acclimating. I was staying in between Old San Juan and Condado (which is convenient, because those are both the neighborhoods with the “things to do”), and you can run either direction. There were so many other runners out too!! That was in part due to the fact that triathletes were arriving for the weekend’s race, but also because people are active in PR. :D I joined up with some local guys who happened to be running at the same time on a couple of the days (HI if your reading!!), and the other days I ran alone. Shortest run: 7. Longest run: 14. Every run: BEAUTIFUL.
  • RUNNING IMSJ 70.3: You have open access to run the course at any time. The run course starts at the Sixto Escobar Stadium (which was literally a minutes jog from my hotel lobby) and head west along the Atlantic coast (during this part you will hopefully get a nice breeze off the water to cool you down) to an old fort (San Felipe del Morro) before turning back. I think it’s a DOUBLE loop out and back… just an FYI.

(Run map going out through Old San Juan. While it was fun going running over in Condado and even to Isla Verde, Old San Juan was definitely my favorite place to run. They have a paved path that goes outside of the old city wall which is pretty cool too. You can also check out the official swim map and bike map for the 70.3)

I know it’s a little early to start building a 2012 race calendar, but unless I face grave injury or severe financial instability, I will definitely be returning to San Juan next year for the Half Ironman. (In bold because I need a commitment, dangit!) It’s kind of at an inconvenient time if you live in a cold state, since you probably won’t have ridden your bike out on the real roads in a few months. And you for sure won’t have been swimming in any open water! Which sounds to me like all the more reasons to make a week out of it and get acclimated. ;) I’ve already put the word out to a few of my MN tri buddies and it seems like there is definitely interest there. Julia? Steve? Whattya think…? March is a good time for a family vacation!

This San Juan 70.3 is part of the Ironman 70.3 series – so as all other Ironman events, you can expect a very well put on race. They’ve obviously put on enough races by now to know how to make sure everything is organized and running smoothly, and there are volunteers galore to help ensure a successful day! I, however, have not done any races that far away. So if anyone wants to give me advice on shipping/flying with a bike, I’d definitely appreciate it!

Some more photos from the trip:

(El Fortin de San Geronimo – right outside my bedroom! You can also watch the swim portion of the 70.3 from here.)

(L: This guy is kayaking in the proctected lagoon that the swim is held in… also right outside my room! Just for an idea of how smooth the water is. // R: The Caribe Hilton’s protected bay. Nothing too exciting in terms of marine life in there, but nice that it cuts the waves!)

(PEACOCK! Totally not phased at all..)

(Go ahead… ♪ shake ya tail feathers ♪)

This is my one Friday Confession. You guys know how big I am on sun protection and usually I am SO good about it! On this trip I had my faithful Kinesys packed, including my 30spf spray bottle and the sunscreen “stick” for lips n’ face. And both of these products worked without fail… when you remember to put them on!! DOH! On ONE single day I forgot to put on sunscreen, and yes I did burn. That nice little quemadura there is from like two hours without sun block.

Of course my face is peeling now, which I’m sure looks super attractive. I feel the need to explain myself wherever I go… like “oh, just ignore the layer of skin coming off my forehead – I just got back from a trip.” Cuuuute.

I think that about wraps it!! At the time I hit publish, San Juan 70.3 is 13 hours and 21 minutes away!! GOOD LUCK TO EVERYONE RACING TOMORROW!! See you next year! :D

  • Reader Qs:
  • Have you ever been to Puerto Rico?
  • Where did you stay and what was your favorite part?
  • Have you ever raced in a different country or over seas? What can you tell me about shipping/flying with my bike!? Seeing as how MyCardCan’t (%&@# you Delta!) I am expecting some large fees. :(
  • Anyone out there gone to medical school in Puerto Rico?
  • Any other fun spring break / race trips this spring?

Ohhh Minnesota. It feels about 33% good to be home. Warm up a little and we can readdress this. Totally unrelated, but for you locals – GOOD LUCK GET LUCKY RACERS!

-E

Category: Friday Confessionals | Tags: , , , , ,
The Triathlon Rx | September 3, 2010
18 comments

Fair Game Friday Confessionals

Fair, because those are the photos you get, and Fair Game, because it’s barely “fair” to still call it Friday, but hey, posting two days in a row? Take it or leave it amigo. ;)

And for the second part of today’s title, I want to set the precedent for THESE right now, until forevermore.

FRIDAY CONFESSIONALS 101

If you’re new to my practice of Friday Confessionals, well, I don’t blame you. HOLY CATS my last one was on April 9th?!?! No wonder this has been such a rough summer!! The “rules” are that there are no rules. You can fess up to whatever you want – I promise, I won’t judge! :)

This sacred practice of divulgence here at Dr.TriRunner dates back all the way to November 7th, 2008. At that time I was living in Boston, on crutches, 5 weeks run-fasted, and on the more “angry” end of the red-headed-emotional-spectrum.

This edition of Friday Confessionals will be a bit of a twist on the regular – a “then and now” if you will. Isn’t that a category on Wheel of Fortune? C’mon….. what am I trying to think of?!? Before & After!! Anyways… my first confessions (the then’s) on November 7th, 2008 were as follows:

  • I’ve become rather spiteful without running. I’ve seen other people running outside or hearing them talk about running and wished they couldn’t run too. It’s like if I can’t run, no one else should. :(
  • I stole my roommates pack of Cinnamon Spice gum off her desk. Sorry Laur – I owe you.
  • I ODed on Cinnamon Toast Crunch one night in the beginning of the week. I literally had FIVE bowls. Just dry. Back to back.  And I felt sick as hell afterwards/the next morning. It was completely emotional and very delicious. But I don’t need to do that again.
  • I paid $55 for unlimited group fitness at the Marino. And I’m yet to take ONE class. I signed up for abs tonight and spinning tomorrow morning.
  • I accidentally brought home a pool belt from the Y. And it is sitting under my bed. And it’s mine.

HAHAHA. Dang. I wish I still had that pool belt, but it was left behind in Boston. Let’s look at the now, as I find myself once again in a state of non-running, on September 3rd, 2010:

  • I am still semi-spiteful of other runners, although definitely to a lesser degree. I’m not about to steal your running shoes or anything… and I promise I wont  bite if you tell me about your next race!
  • I don’t think my “flatmate” chews gum, but I did a brownie that I gave her. I brought it home from work because I know she really likes chocolate, and I ended up eating it two days later. Who does that?!
  • I have possibly ODed on not fantastic food from time to time (coughpulledbbqchickencough), but I haven’t touched Cinnamon Toast Crunch since I left the dining hall in Boston.
  • My gym membership is almost $80 a month. You better believe I take advantage of group fitness!! I’m a cycle regular during the winter, and used to double up on classes on the weekend. But for the “confession” part, I haven’t been to a spin class since March 25th. Gotta take advantage of the Minnesota summers and ride outside… (gentle nudge my friend, gentle.)
  • I’m back to pool running, and using the craptastic belts offered by my $80/month gym. Like I said, I wish I still had that belt….

And there you have it. If you want one more now confessional, try this on for size:

I have taken more “rest days” or days off of training this summer than I did in the entire last three years combined. I had this little epiphany while in the shower the other day, haha doing my physical therapy exercises. (Calf raises – while conditioning. WOW this “one” confession is giving up way more than I intended…) Mostly just due to stress, and/or stressed for time. Mmmm yep, this summer was rough.

YOUR TURN!! (in the comments)

Crap!! Wasn’t half of this post supposed to be about the MN State Fair? Alright, photos and captions only. I’m all worded out now!!

A [slightly slow :( ] start to a grrrreat day!

You know how we roll Park n’ Ride.

My first clinical rotation of Med School.

Trust me… you can fry/put anything on a stick at the Minnesota State Fair.

Sweet Martha’s. One of the state fair items I just “don’t get”. They’re just plain chocochip cookies!!

My mom has a minor panic attack just watching this. And then proceeds to take 5 photos in horror. :)

Full blown panic did not ensue until I told her I went on it just the year before…

“Oh God.. just get me past the smell!” – Mama D.T.R.

My grill is attractive, I know. Taken exclusively for my dental school cousin!

You know what they say: the family that brushes together… has good teeth. Knock on wood – 21 years and cavity free!!

Was so dang determined to find my PEACE COFFEE! Heads up: Information Services was saying you didn’t exist. My favorite part of the whole fair.

Ok… get real. This kid was my favorite part. ;) Think he looks familiar?

My favorite lady in the world, about to try the ostritch. It was GOOD!

Another item I “don’t get” why it’s so special at the fair. But we both agreed, it hit the spot!


Tobogán Gigantica.

A sweet ending to a SWEET day.

Phew! I’m tired again just thinking about it!! READER QUESTIONS: Do you go to your state’s fair? My Minnesota amigos – what’s your favorite thing at the MN State Fair? Don’t forget your Friday Confessions!!

That’s all for now folks! Buenas noches.

-E

Category: Friday Confessionals | Tags: ,
The Triathlon Rx | September 2, 2010
9 comments

Thoughts on a Thursday…

Since this new theme is going to show my “categories” tags whether I like it or not (read: still  can’t figure out the html), I might as well start some posting categories. Welcome to Thoughts on a Thursday! I know, how original. But it might just get me to post more often…. here’s to wishing!

[Edit: I DID IT!!! There is now (... there better be ...) a "LEAVE A COMMENT" link at the bottom of each post. Take that HTML!!!]

Won’t take you too many guesses to figure out where I’m headed today! Which means I better get my ass out on that bike as soon as I hit Publish. I’m not usually one for “justifying” calories, but if you’re going to eat a days worth in mini donuts and camel on a stick, I want to know I at least broke a little sweat today. If you’re not from this wonderful state and are not able to take in the wonder that is the Minnesota State Fair, fret not, sorrow be gone. I will share with you! Not my Tiny Tim’s mini donuts (back off bucko - get your own bag!), but photos.

(These are not mine, although the photoshopping is. :) Click for credit, and look for my photos this weekend.)

Assuming he didn’t win any Sunscape giveaways :)

Minnesota’s Largest Boar…

Minnesota’s Largest …… …

My wife is going to love you!! ….. (Hahha!! Sorry. Inappropriate.)

Crack. Really hot, straight-out-of-the-fryer crack. Fair warning.

I don’t care how much it costs, I don’t care if you’re 5 or 55. Do the slide.

Alright amigos – I’ve got a hot date with Rilo (supervised by Joyce Meyer on my ipod… because yes I do plan on Enjoying Everyday Life), and it’s time to get moving. Over n’ Out!

-E

Category: Thoughts on a Thursday | Tags: ,
The Triathlon Rx | June 23, 2010
20 comments

how many triathletes does it take to go camping?

Really only one… but it did sound like a clever title, right?

Like I mentioned before, el chico and I packed up and headed out on a camping trip on Friday morning. Accompanying us was el hermano del chico, along with a handful of my boyfriend’s buddies. This trip was for his birthday, and I’m pretty sure there was no better way he’d spend it than with friends, biking, a bonfire, food, and beer. I’d hope that me being there was somewhat of an added bonus too. ;)

Our camping adventure took place at Baker Park Reserve, located in Maple Plain, Minnesota. Truthfully, this was only about 20 minutes outside of the city, but it FELT like we were far enough away to be truly “camping.” You don’t need to portage, dig your own potty hole, or be attacked by a bear for the experience to be legit. Plus, Baker has tons of great stuff goin’ on – I was going to list it all, and then I saw this handy little key on their website:

Family friendly, triathlete friendly, manly-man [respectfully] drinking beer friendly. It’s all good.

We got there around 2:00, and after a quick preview of our camp-site, decided to depart on a ride.

It was a lovely two hour ride, sans run-ins with any semis. Or moose. After riding, we decided to get in a little open water swimming before the rest of the crew got there. All I’m gonna say is we got some good choppy water practice (and rehydrated with a little lake water…), which did a good job of tuckering us out. At which time we we decided we were ready for this:

Aforementioned buddies began to arrive, nature walks were had, wildlife was sought after (to no avail – the “wildest” thing we saw was a beaver. Or was it a hedge hog? Prairie dog? I don’t know… it looked like a tubby squirrel on roids. I clearly don’t spend nearly enough time “in the wild.”)

After hanging out at the campsite and unpacking a bit… we realized we better pitch our tents before it got too dark to see what we were doing. How many triathletes does it take to pitch a tent? Also only one, but we’re a helpful breed. We share our body glide… we zip each other’s wetsuits… we’ll for sure help pitch a tent.

We played some games, and then it was time to start el fuego and get some food in the belly. El hermano was designated grill master.

(Note: you don’t really need lighter fluid for self starting coals. But obviously that’s just how triathletes roll… lighter fluid = jet fuel. Watch your back when we get out on those bikes!)

And then I neglected to take pictures for basically rest of the night. Because we were too busy eating. And eating some more. Not kidding guys.. there was a lot of [really delicious/maybe not 100% healthy] food. :D I did manage to snap one.

(This was the best I could do at 10:25 pm…)

The next morning I woke up early – surprise surprise – but luckily I was not the only one up. Apparently some of these kids were raised under the impression that coffee is optional in the morning. Not so mis amigos. So I coerced convinced El chico to go scout out some coffee with me. We ventured out of Baker to a little local bakery/cafe type place and returned with six cups for the people that were awake already. Ya’ snooze, ya lose hombre. I’m not sure the coffee was any better than gas station quality, but I have learned not to turn down coffee when it’s there. Black. Gold. If it’s available, it’s good. Don’t argue.

Baker Park has this nice little 10K loop paved trail, and a 1 mile loop around all the camp sites, as well as miles of unpaved. I was going to do a few loops of the 10K trail on my roller blades, but after a quick 5 minutes on wheels I scratched that idea and pulled on my Asics. 7.4 miles later I was a sweaty beast – not because I was running fast, but because it was FUMID as hell. (Told ya’ I’d find a way to use it!)

When I got back from my run, one of the ladies whooped out a can of pancake-whoopie and got to bidness. I was super impressed with these bonfire pancakes, but apparently even more impressed with my coffee.

Lovin’ my coffee…

Lovin’ sus panqueques…

The remaining two photos are for the viewing pleasure of my girl J.B. and el novio de mi madre. He likes animals. I got a bunch more but due to my crappy photo taking skills the swiftness of these lil’ ones… they’re all blurry.

Puppy love? Oh yes. These two are in it to win it.

Ya mom. I play hard.

Real hard.

So that in sum is my camping experience at Baker Park. I would most definitely go back, weather it would be for an overnight or just for a training day. Hmmm… UMN team camping trip? Maybe?!

And now I go.

The end.

-E

Category: Uncategorized | Tags: , ,
The Triathlon Rx | April 11, 2010
7 comments

Epic workout winner!

No.. the mystery box does not contain an epic workout. Nor does it contain a personal assistant to complete your workout for you. NOR a highly attractive Italian Stallion to go workout with you. But you do get to read about my epic workout/hands-down-best-day-ever-#2 before finding out who the giveaway winner is. Because if you didn’t win.. you have to have something to comment on, right?! So hang tight, and an apology in advance for the photo-booth-trigger-happy-finger I seem to have developed.

Ohhhh goodness. Do I even have time to backtrack to yesterday? Of course I do… I’m currently sitting in a big ol’ adirondack chair love seat at the lake, watching the sun set. I have time for anything. :D

Saturday 04.10.10

Yesterday = run with the Team MED guys // ride with the UMN tri team. It was 7 miles of [why the hell do] my-legs-feel-good glory.. and 27 miles of myself and one of my new-favorite-riding-partners getting dropped by the fast riders on the team! Hahah!! It was only slightly disheartening watching them get farther and farther away. And when said new-favorite-teammate said to me, “You don’t have to wait, you can go ride up with them if you want” … my response [in short choppy sentences] was “No. I can’t. I really can’t.” Hahah it’s what we should have expected given the people who turned out for the ride, and we had a blast. AND I wore my padded shorts. Success!!

Shortly after I got back from the team ride, I finally connected with el chico guapo, who was just about 15 minutes from finishing his EIGHTY mile ride. How’s that for making me feel like a slacker?! Five hours on the bike? Yeah.. you know he got his padded shorts. We proceeded to a pic-Chipotle-nic, from which obviously only good things can come.

Replacing a few of the 3,600 calories burned while riding.

Can I call this an “official” product review? Yes. Yes I can:

CHIPOTLE DIET COKE CON LIMA Y LIMÓN

Subtle yet delightful carbonation.. leading to an extremely refreshing mouth-feel and the desire to say “ahhhh” when imbibed. A masterpiece on it’s own, yet the addition of lemon AND lime is highly recommended to obtain the full Minneapolis-is-almost-as-good-as-Mexico experience. Additionally, appears to emanate a heightened aura of buy-me-now when explicitly declared “not-allowed” in one’s diet.

Thank the lord for 90/10 adherence!

To continue with the remarkably wonderful nature of the day, I was able to go to my place of employment and sit outside in the sun.. sippin some Peace Coffee.. and loving every minute. Granted, I was on the McMac doing school work, but it was lovely none the less!

For the sake of time, and the prevention of eye strain, I suppose I should move on to day #2…

Sunday 04.11.10

My favorite day of the week. A fact you all know well if you’ve been hanging around Dr.TriRunner for any amount of time. And you could have guessssed that the giveaway winner would be drawn on this wondrous of wonderful days. The day started with a solid nine hours of sleep – very welcomed after a busy day yesterday! Per the necessary progression of any day, much less a spectacular Sunday, a very large 2-cups of Tanzanian Peaberry Peace Coffee was in order. Everyone has their preferences on eating pre-workout, and I’m not one to preach what you should or shouldn’t do about that… but given today’s physical endeavors, breakfast was indeed required. Enter: the…

Do It Yourself Duathlon!!

It has been a while since the fast-twitch fibers have been activated. Since the Get Lucky 7K actually. And given my upcoming races on the calendar, I thought it was due time that I [attempt to] lay on a little speed today. For the friends of Facebook and my tweeps on Twitter… you got the preview that my do-it-yourself-Du came in the form of 5K around Calhoun // 20 mile bike // 5K around Calhoun. Because of the route chosen for the 20 mile bike, the lack of closed roads, and the fact that it was GORGEOUS out today so everyone and their mom were out too, the bike was not “race pace.” But because of my chosen company, it was pretty damn near close to it:

[photo]

The duathlon itself is pretty self-explanatory, so I will leave you with photos galore.


D – U. Spells DU.

Pre-leg-one. The necessary hydration.

Hot already.. time to move into T1. El Novio joined the party at this point…

Rilo – ready to ride, and all Nuun‘ed up!

El Novio – making his way through T1

Me.. making my way through T2! Bahaha hello baby-bicep!

Gomer says we worked hard.

Terminado. Success!


The question is… who learned from who? I’m just sayin – Dakota is a smart dog.

Showered. Tired. Protein shake ready to go, and cheers to YOU winner of this mystery box giveaway taht you are all just waiting for me to get to.

Please do indeed get amped for this “Do it Yourself Duathlon” deal… because it will be coming to a city near you very very soon!

But not yet!! There was more splendor to come in this Sunday. There are several items on my need want-to-purchase list: among them, a Timbuk2 bag for my bike >> school commute, a bike trainer, a quality pair of sunglasses for riding, a Vita Mix, and an ice cream maker. The concluding item entered my life today via Craigslist: brand new, an unused / in box wedding present, needing to be cleared out to make room for baby. Thankkk you!! So excited to try this out.

Red… not matching one single item in my kitchen.. and super sassy looking. Perfect! Trust me that an OFFICIAL official product review will come!

Aright… raised your hand if you hit ⌘f and typed “winner” just to get down to this point. Or that would be “control+f” for you who are yet to see the light PC lovers. Yes. There was a giveaway. The first day. And then there was Easter, exams, Friday Confessions, Team MED runs / Tri Team Rides, and then the givewaway closed. Bringing us to the sixth day. And on the seventh day, God rested. So I guess I’ll just have to follow suit and wait till tomorrow to post.

KIDDING!!!

¡EL GANADOR!

Aright… the only thing you’re really reading for – the winner. You guys seriously blew me away with some of these entries. One had me spitting cereal all over my mac… in public. Another one drew the “awwwww!” reaction. It was better than I ever hoped for – thank you ALL so much for entering! And hopefully if you were a new visitor to D.TR, you’ll stick around even if you didn’t win! ;) So, I want to give a biggg ol’ congratulations to:

JAIME! My possibly [ETA: not any more!] only male reader, my swim/bike/run, my why-didn’t-we-meet-when-I-was-living-in-Boston, spandex-wearing, speedyspeedster BUDDY!!! Winning for following on twitter, but his entry was pretty epic too if I do say so myself. Jaime.. I’m sharing!

No Shakespeare, but hopefully you’ll enjoy it either way.

* Years ago, I would have never even dare
With all of this tight clothing that I choose to wear
* Demanding confidence in my sexuality,
Nothing to hide behind, a daily dose of reality.
* Bike shorts, speedos and tri tops, I own more than any man should.
Shorts over my running tights? You know I never would.
* Funny looks from strangers, smoking out on the street
Running by in tights, they try to catch a peek
* Always the perfect fit on the swim, bike or the run.
Love those thick tan lines, after long rides out in the sun
* Holding close in all the right places, even up my butt crack.
You keep my goodies in just the right place.
* Since no one deserves my junk all up in their face.

I’m not sure what you meant to rhyme butt crack with.. or if that was just thrown in there for kicks. But you definitely deserve to win with a poem like that. I hope you enjoy everything included in this mystery box!! I can’t post a photo YET of what it all includes, because there are some last minute additions I wanted to make depending on the personality of the winner. And so I will. And so I will mail. And so you shall receive. Amen.

I hope ALL of you are having a crazy amazing summery-Sunday wherever you may be. I have about 30,000 posts that I am intending on getting up, including a reader question that I have received many many times, but this lady asked it so nicely and considerately that I have to make a post out of it. :) I’m very much appreciating this God-given streak of how-could-it-be-better?? days.. and knocking on wood that they continue this streak! My battery is about to quit on me. Yet again, I’m at the lake, on the adirondacks, watching the sun set. 10,0oo extra cool points for my restaurant having wi-fi. Catch you soon!

-E

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The Triathlon Rx | April 4, 2010
9 comments

¡Feliz Pascua – Happy Easter – Happy Sunday!

No real post today, other than to say I hope that all of you celebrating Easter today have a blessed day filled with family, friends, laughs, and sunny weather! Today is a day of all things new – new beginnings, new journeys, and of “alleluia” – a feeling that can’t be expressed with words, but simply with joy! And for all of you not celebrating Easter today, I hope I didn’t just scare you away from Dr.TriRunner. Haha and I ALSO I hope you have a wonderful SUNDAY – we all know I like those. :D

Counting my blessings today and off to St. Cloud to spend the day with the fam. If you’re stickin’ around, enter my Mystery Box Giveaway! You guys are  seriously cracking me up with these. Since I missed Friday Confessionals this week, I will give you one on Sunday:

I literally dropped cereal out of my mouth while laughing, in public, at the coffee shop yesterday when I read one of these.

Classy. I hope you have a good friends – I know I will!

-E

Category: Friday Confessionals | Tags: ,
The Triathlon Rx | March 9, 2010
20 comments

Funding your feet!

Alright… James definitely wins the “most creative” award for the topic of “the next post” (ie this one). Running an Easter race dressed as a chick? Haha… that would be AWESOME! Minneapolis readers – you fill me in on an Easter race in the area, and I’m down!

But no, that was not the plan for today. It wasn’t too much of a stretch to figure out that it was NEW SHOE time! The baby chick… long story short, some customer bought it for me when I was working my very first job at a grocery store when I was 14. Awkward experiences = story of my life. Throw that in the “adversity training” category. ;)

ANYWAYS. New shoes! Trust me… it was time. It was past time. If you haven’t noticed, I haven’t really mentioned any injury/pain lately. Before you just say “Maybe that’s just because you haven’t been blogging a ton lately…” (my bad hombres), I’d stop you and say that for the most part, it’s true! No real injuries so to speak of. Hip is feeling as solid as it ever will, I’m strength training like it’s my job thanks to my awesome Model Per4mance team, and I’m taking good care of my body! My weekly running mileage is also half of what it used to be, but I’m swimming and cycling and cross training to make sure I’m the best damn triathlete I can be!

But you’re right.. I said for the MOST part. Twice now since the new year, I have been out on a run with my guys team, and been having a great run. Both times in the last mile (coincidental) I have had this sudden feeling in my right foot like it was going to snap in half… an action that is most definitely not Dr. TriRunner approved! Why the last mile? Why so sudden? Who knows.. but the pain would stick around for more time than it was welcome. Both times I took about a week off of running, and eventually the pain went away. I used to have one of these sweet Trigger Point Quadballers that would have felt amazing under my arches, but sadly in my move from Boston to Minneapolis, it was lost in the shuffle. :(

Sometimes I feel like I’m “barely running” in comparison to my 65 mile/weeks of the past, so it was easy for me to forget that my shoes are still racking up mileage. I can say with about 97.6% assuredness that my foot pain was due to (cue scary movie music…)

EXPIRED shoes

solution!!

I bet many of you have heard/read at least ONE recommendation telling you a time/mileage frame when it’s time to drop money on a new pair. The Run Happy folks would say that to keep running happy, you wanna change up your shoes every 300-500 miles, and that is very consistent with most recommendations out there. Depending on how far/often your run, that could mean new shoes every two months, or only twice a year.

If you’re on the more frequent end of that spectrum, and also happen to be on the broke-college-student end of the spectrum, you might feel exasperated hearing that “guideline” because hey, running shoes are $$$! So what is a broke college kid (or just a cautious spender) to do?

Here are my best tips to saving money and keep on keepin’ on with a smile on your face:

  • Know your running stores: many smaller independent running stores have a customer loyalty program or something along those lines. Get on their mailing list, and a lot of times you can score coupons for up to 25% off!
  • Know your running stores.II: in respect to ^ stores, I have found many that offer a discount when you donate an old pair of shoes. My local running store has a shoe recycling program that gives the shoes to those in need locally! You save money. You do a good  deed. Everyone wins. :D
  • Be OK with wearing last seasons’ model! I know that the 2150s just came out.. and I know that they have some sick designs and colors…  but truthfully (aside from colors) there often isn’t a big change from one model to the next. Do your research to make sure you’re not missing anything thats  truly “improved”, and if not, try and score the last seasons model, along with some extra change in that pocket.

(My “last season” model still has this awesome tat on the tongue!! Haha – you guys are going to start to think I really DO color coordinate all this…)

  • This tip comes to you via the mens XC team at the gym. Have a “fall jar” – any time you fall while out running or walking around, or even come close to falling, put $1 in your jar. Although the $$ typically whet to adult beverages items other than shoes, this could definitely be your shoe piggybank. Also, if you have the balance of a tight rope walker, I think it would be good to use this as a “negativity jar” … any time you find yourself whining not looking forward to a workout, or skip a workout, drop in a dollar!
  • Run/walk/bike instead of drive when possible. Gas isn’t getting any cheaper, and you can knock out a workout while checking items off your to-do list!
  • Make sure you’re wearing the RIGHT shoes. How much would it sting to figure out three weeks in that you don’t like these shoes, or this model doesn’t have enough arch support.. but its too late to return them? Burn.
  • Online? If you don’t have a good running store near you, or no customer loyalty programs, nada, online shopping brings those options right to your doorstep. I have had ridiculously AMAZING customer service with Zappos.. and I know they’re not even running or athlete specific, but they have a lot of options AND also typically have the last seasons models left over. Especially if you’re like me and have baby feet and stores don’t stock your size… online is the way to go!

Brooks also say that replacing your running shoes is a lot cheaper than replacing your knees. Or foot. Or HIP. Amen to that! These are Asics 2140s (the 2150s are the current model), and I basically always run in the 21XX series. I’m not saying I would never run in a different brand of shoes, but if you know me, you know I’m an Asics girl at heart. If you think about it, it’s sort of funny how we develop certain brand loyalties. Initially I started running in Asics because when I first became a runner, everything I knew I learned from my mom and that’s what she wore. Thankfully, that was also the shoe that was recommended when I was like 12 and went to be “fitted” at our local running store. I’ve tried two other brands, but Asics are my LOVE.

Because I tend to get a little OC with the photos… I might as well share these with you, right?

el pollito was curious -//- i let him break em’ in for me

I decided that red on white would bring out my tan. -//- don’t argue. hard core.

haha you probably can’t tell the diff. between the dirt and my moles -//- don’t argue. hard core. :D

READER QUESTION TIME:

  1. How often do you change your shoes?
  2. Where do you buy them?
  3. Are you particular about the brand you wear, or do you try out different companies?
  4. Do you also have blindingly pale legs but could care less Have you broken out the shorts yet?

OK chiquititos… it’s 5:00, it’s 37°, it’s RAINING, and it’s almost run time. Hmmmmm. If I weren’t meeting the guys, would I be going out in this weather? $1 in the “fall jar”!! Haha, I might be getting new shoes sooner than I think! Peace out.

-E

p.s. psh…. of course I’m running. What kind of a question is that! ;)

Category: Uncategorized | Tags: , , ,
The Triathlon Rx | January 30, 2010
4 comments

Minneapolis Meet-Up, and some exciting things to come!

Shoutout to two of my favorite Twin Cities bloggies Melissa and Kate! They joined me this morning for part II of my endurance ride, and then after showering (ohhh how I love thee) and cleanin’ up we made our way to Whole Foods for food bar lunch and a lil shopping treat! Well, I can’t speak for the rest, but treat for me for sure! My two food boxes totaled up to $14.39! Paying by the pound is serious business kids… I think it was the 5 hard boiled eggs that did me in. Girl’s gotta get her protein! Neither of them are regular spin takers, but I don’t think that will last long! The biggest treat though was their company – they are both awesome ladies and so much fun!

Kate, Myself, & Melissa

Today has been jam packed, with a 140 minute endurance ride to start the morning off strong, lunch with these two lovely ladies, a job interview (which I scored! question is.. do I take it?), some research work, some team bidness’, and now I’m off to a housewarming party for my good buddy and long time running partner who just recently bought his first house! There will be tons of people that I used to run with, a bunch of people from my Ragnar team, and others that I haven’t gotten to catch up with for too long, so I’m really excited!

Also excited about all of the things going on here at Dr. Tri Runner! I don’t have time to go into too much detail, but for the time being, these pages have been updated:

And you will also be seeing posts about some great people that I am working with leading up to Nationals! AND training schedules. AND some reviews. Haha maybe I’m the only one excited, but that’s OK with me, this is my website ;) Gotta get off to partaay, but while you’re here, take a quick sec to tell me your favorite soup and win some for free!

-E

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