SUMMERTIME, AND THE LIVING IS EASY...

But not for us triathletes. At least, that's what I am finding. In addition to the extra training (which I'm not minding too much), the usual summer hectic work schedule is upon me. Now I've gone from busy to crazy and nearly out of control work days. This has happened the last two summers, so I guess I shouldn't have been surprised when it started again.

My first couple of weeks of build-up training are behind me, so now I'm finding myself rethinking my training again. With the busier work schedule, and with some new-found energy, I plan to start longer workouts on a daily basis, figuring 2 longer workouts as opposed to 3 shorter workouts each week might help. My running is steadily improving. My swimming is to the point where it really isn't a problem to swim a mile at a time. I know I still have to work on the biking, but here is where I need to make the most changes. After last week's 4 hour ride, I still felt strong each day after. While the ride left something to be desired, I think the ride time is helping put me over the edge on the training.

I think too if I try to get in some longer workouts during the week, instead of trying to constantly double up every day, I still will have more time to do all those other household chores or other tasks that need attending to each week without wearing myself out totally.

It also has led me to the conclusion that I need to focus mainly on the half IM race and not try to cram in a bunch of shorter triathlon races that take away from the training and require recovery days I really don't have to spare. I have a few running events already planned, but up to now have not signed up for any sprint tris. I feel confident enough from having done tris for so many years that I don't need to clutter up my schedule with things I have done before. Sure, it would be a thrill to maybe get a PR, but I really don't have time for that this summer.

On the schedule: a 5k this Saturday. That should be interesting. Its a race I have always thought of doing but never had time on my schedule. However, it was one of the "Triple Crown" races included in my "Gift of Fitness" I had received for Christmas, so its already a paid-for event. The next will be another prepaid 5k on June 28, but since there is also a 10k right after, I plan to do that also, helping me get my long run in for that week.

Hope everyone has a great weekend of training or races!