WRITING CHECKS YOUR LEGS CAN'T CASH
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Mon, 19 Feb 2007 by Michael Pajaro
Several months ago a friend of mine announced she was going to do the Ironman Arizona Triathlon in April (2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run). I foolishly offered to support her any way I could. I had run a marathon and a few (much shorter) triathlons, but my longest bike ride had been about 30 miles. I assumed that "support" would mean a few runs after work every now and then, and making up t-shirts and posters for the big day.
As it turns out, supporting an Ironman-in-training means joining them for their long weekend bike rides. Which over the past few months has meant 28 miles. Then 56. 84. 112. Another 84. Let me tell you, if you're not an experienced cyclist this is not the way to build up your miles. It has been too much, too fast, and my legs have felt like jelly for about 2 months now.
This weekend called for a brick workout, doing a 56-mile bike ride followed by a one-hour run. I think my legs may finally be toughening up a bit because for once I actually felt pretty good at the end. Tired, but good. Those century rides are still a bit daunting, but I'm getting there.
