Sunday, January 21, 2007

Essential

Something has been missing since Ironman Florida 2006. Nothing that you can see or buy. But something important. Something essential to triathlon. Such that you can't prepare for a race with out it. Yet, it's been been missing and I knew it too. A brick workout.

Training takes on a new phase today. Long, slow, and steady runs and bike sessions give way to higher intensity intervals and multiple events. Welcome back brick.

After two weeks of winter ice, wind, and wetness it was good to see a sunny day above freezing. The dawn was cool and crisp. Once the sun rose above the trees it warmed my face and arms; keeping its promise of a clear day. Perfect for the task:

1 hour aerobic zone bike,
45 minute tempo run,
1 hour aerobic zone bike,
45 minute tempo run.

The brick returned with its trademark rubber legs and stiff back. That's to be expected and soon the just-off-the-bike shuffle was replaced with a smooth stride. Undoubtedly, my favorite training session because it reminds me so much of the magic of T-2.

Although I trained alone today I felt a presence from the north. The air was still cool, reminding me it was still winter, but my heart was warmed by what I felt on the running trail. The maples shown their buds. Red leaves will soon run with me, brick with me, and inspire me towards my goals.

Check back soon for a big announcement.

Stay tuned...

15 comments:

Trisaratops said...

Great workout!

Big announcement! Don't do this to me--I hate surprises! :)

RunBubbaRun said...

Man, that is a long brick workout. Way to get it in on a cold day.

You have a big TRI year and big announcement? what could it be?

Born To Endure said...

Are ya just going to keep us hanging here?? Come on, come on...you're fans need to know..:-)

Kewl Nitrox said...

Ah bricks... You gotta luv 'em!

Laurie said...

I'm waiting with bated breath for your big announcement.

Barb said...

All right! You always have the BEST "big announcements"! Waiting....

momo said...

great job! my bricks don't start until next weekend (well, they started last weekend, but i spaced it because i was too cold!).

c'mon spill it!

Geo said...

I'm with all the other fans... c'mon Boomer... tell us soon!

Way to go on the bricks!

Vickie said...

I did my first brick today too. Not nearly as long as yours of course, but I figure every bit counts. Gotta keep thinking Steelhead.

Afternoon Tea With Oranges said...

WOW! Awesome brick. I don't think I've every done a double one like that...I will try that sometime.

Unknown said...

I'm checking. Almost obsessive-compulsively ...

TRI TO BE FUNNY said...

I love a brick workout! It truly sets triathletes apart from the rest! Nice work and way to take advantage of the sunshine!!

Unknown said...

Sounds great. I too look forward to getting my training under way. Up here outside Chicago it's pretty cold and snowy. Interested in the big announcement.

Andy said...

Wow,

Now that you mention it, September was the last time that i compeleted a brick workout. Man I need to get back on that.

Murtha...

SingletrackJenny (formerly known as IronJenny) said...

3 1/2 hours??? That is long. Way long.
Way to go!
Jenny