My Soul Is INSPIRED!

We ran for peace this weekend in Portland, Vallejo, Savannah and other Places. We ran for justice this weekend. We ran because others cannot run. Although we did not come to lots of solutions, we did come to one solution, that we're going to continue to seek a solution. #ICantBreathe run felt like a success. There were at least 100 people all over the country who got up out of their warm beds to run with me. Not just run with me on my regular Saturday run walk.  But to run with me in a dialogue. A dialogue about peace, justice, and equality. We also ran for those who have been victims of violence. For civilian on civilian violence, and police on police violence, and police on civilian violence, and civilian on police violence.  All acts of violence never end good.  Someone is always the aggressor and someone is always the victim. We've got to work on this culture of violence in our country. I'm not sure I have the answer, however I know there is an answer out there! And we will find it on a run.

Here in Portland Oregon we had a really nice turnout. Our run started around 8 o'clock as people begin to assemble, we talked about the reason why we came together, then talked about the loop, and let everyone go to walk/run around the waterfront. We assembled back at the water fountain on Salmon Street at about 9:05 AM. Everyone came back with smiles on their faces, the good feeling of burning in their chest from the fresh air, and just an attitude of gratitude of being awake on a day when it could be no more. We assembled in a really beautiful circle full of people of all races, ethnicities, cultures, background, age, education, love, and and hope. We took a minute, not a moment, to just stand in silence, reflecting on the unjust system that we live in and how 30 or so people could meet at 8 o'clock in the morning who are also very different seeking the same solution.  Honestly, I was overtaken with so much emotion I didn't really know how to explain it! However we talked about ways that we could continue this dialogue without being hateful or causing pain to anyone.  Solutions came forth like bringing positive stories to the second Saturday run to share with our youth, bringing more used to our second Saturday runs to just share and know that they are safe and people love them, to bring more men to our second Saturday run to show that we care about them and we're here for them, and to finds forums within our own communities that already exists that we can bring this message to as we strive for a more peaceful society. There was total agreement with each and every comment made and suggestion given. No one was willing to let's Saturday be the end of our push towards a just society.  

We all left by hugging three people that we did not know. Just to show love and hope to each other and to each other's children. The smiles on the faces of the children present was exciting. I hope I get to see those smiles again and that those smiles are not taken from us senselessly.

I'm going to continue my runs on the second Saturday of each month through June 2015.  I plan to meet at the same place, the same time, rain or shine, and make it know that I'm willing not only to use my mind to come up with a solution but I'm willing to use my body in a constructive way.  I guess when I say use my mind, I am putting myself out there to think of ways that we can stop the violence and really work on community relationships and getting people ready to relate to each other. I am also ready to use my body, meaning preparing it, for the task that is coming forth through exercise, healthy eating, and healthy meditation.

I am still overwhelmed by what happened on Saturday. I know I went along my day with other things in mind that were seemed more important in the moment that they happen. However the reflection in my mind all weekend, was the thought of The PEOPLE that came out to 8 AM run around the Portland waterfront all for justice, all for peace, all because they can't breathe.  I'm hoping, through my little gesture of organizing people to prepare themselves physically for the task towards reconciliation and peace that we have at hand in front of us, I am able to make a difference for at least one life in this United States of America. 

In Peace!

PhatAthlete

Look Back At It

Ha ha ha! The title of this blog post could've gone wrong. No I'm not talking about the two chainz song but rather I'm back at it!

Oh it feels good to get inside the gym. Especially, after you've been out with an illness. Today was my second day of personal training this week. Due to the high winds and crazy traffic I almost went home! However, I see that working out at night is my forte.

Getting back to working out after an illness can be really tough. I don't know about you, but I find being hydrated is the most important part to get it back to working out. And starting slow is just as important! Many think that just because they've been out of the gym, but don't gain weight, their fitness doesn't suffer. Well, I'm sure most of us can prove you wrong.

We started off pretty slow today. A short walk and then some extensive leg workouts.  But getting back in the gym was actually very therapeutic for me! Being able to sweat out the cares of the day, versus sweat before there are any cares for the day, is very liberating, cleansing, and feels really good!

I am grateful for the ability to move every day. I hope you are too!

Look Back...I'm at IT!

Best,

Phat Athlete

Vena Ford

Great Find!!!

I found it!

I have looked high and low. Check website after website. And all it took was to go pick up some laundry detergent to find it! I knew #Target has a profile for me and knows what I'm looking for. They know so well they put new things in the store just for me to look at. But today, on the clearance rack, I found it! Yes I did!

Being a plus size athlete is sometimes very difficult. Not only do you have to deal with learning your body, learning your instruments, and learning how to perform in the world that's built for svelte skinny fast people, you also have the problem of finding the right gear in the right size at the right time. I've tried brands like #Nike, #Adidas, #Athleta, #Champion, #OldNavy, and sought other brands like #TYR and others to find items I need to perform as an athlete.  However most of the gear is not made for someone who is over an American size 10. Maybe I should clarify, most of the gear it's not design for someone over an American size 10. However, many items are made up to American size 20 but don't allow for extra room in areas that someone at that size would have compared to someone at an American size 10 what have. That being said, someone like me who may now be an American size 18 still has some attributes that are larger than the normal athletic cut. Yes… I am talking about the booty, the hips, and the breast. In my case I also have shoulders which prevent me from fitting in narrowly cut items. Even with stretch and materials that move with you, it is really difficult to find items that fit well so they perform well. And finding items for someone who's under 5'7 is also very difficult. So when one in my size and my height find an item that fits well, that moves well, and the price is well… Well you get it!  So… I bought it!

Today I found a jacket that is water resistant enough to run in the rain in Portland, Oregon.  Though it is a black jacket, with minimal reflection, I am smart enough to have reflective items to keep me visible in a dark area.  This #champion jacket that I purchased at #target is wonderful! It moves with my body, fits very well in the shoulders (Yay!), and was a good price for the type of jacket it was. Most jackets I see it this quality with this type of make cost between $89 and $150. And at that price most jackets don't even go pass an extra large, or American size 12-14. I paid $44 for this jacket. Yes I will have to find some reflections that keep me extra visible and coordinate with my outfit, however that should not cost me more than an additional $10. I purchased this jacket and an XXL and I feel like I have plenty of room in the jacket to pile on the clothes on really cold days.

I wish sportswear makers would consider size in clothes to fit people of all sizes. Besides, in a country that is morbidly obese is, why only market to a segment of the population who is pretty fit? I know fitness is in the eye of the beholder are, however can't someone that is not a smaller size also be fit, and look good while working out? Just a question. I'm not getting any deeper. Not today!

So here's my jacket! Let me know if you see any great workout gear finds for people who are larger than an American size 12! I would love to hear your review!

Let's get it!

PhatAthlete!

And... We're Off!

Wow!  A lot has happened since the last time I blogged.  I had two surgeries, move to a new city, started a new running group, and totally change the way that I eat.  After speaking with a friend, it is time to start blogging again.  It is time to share all the things that are good and bad about a healthy lifestyle. Sometimes I wonder, if I am the only one who experiences these things.  Then I have conversations with my sister friends who tell me they go through the same things!

Being healthy and fit is definitely a lot of work. Yes… it is so easy to go and eat fast food, prepared meals, or just crap and general.  But investing in oneself by creating a lifestyle that encourages fitness and well-being is really hard. But… It is not impossible.

Most people don't know that at the beginning of 2014 I decided to become a vegan. Really, I've decided to become a Nutritarian.  Changing my eating happen it's really affected my body drastically. I found almonds I didn't know I had due to being hidden by the effects of horrible food.  Since that time, I can probably count on three fingers how many times I've eaten meat that has feet. Understanding how food affects our body is really important.  One's bodyweight, I guess, is important but also being fit and healthy and understanding how your body is affected by food is probably more important. Many people live in sickness every single day because they don't understand how food is processed in the body. Until one feels the feeling of wellness, no one really knows what sickness feels like. After my gallbladder surgery, I couldn't believe just how my body was rejecting bad food. But by paying attention to what one's body has gone through, and what one's body is going through, we can figure out that fine line between sickness and wellness.

For 2015, PhatAthlete is not going to focus on weight loss but rather Wellness!  We're going to have good conversations about physical activity, food, lifestyles, meditation, clothing, music, and just being one with the earth that we live in. I will invite some guest writers, guest speakers, and just people who were interested in living a full life. We will share great Facebook pages, great blogs, and great websites that offer opportunities for us to explore and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.  We will also explore this idea of veganism and begin to see how we could take foods that come to us in its natural state and make amazing meals that not only satisfy her body but nourish our bodies. Now I'm not going to ask you to give up your meat, but, I am going to ask you to try something new!

So look for my new blogs coming beginning today and throughout all of 2015.  I have some really great stuff to share with you and I hope you have some great things to share with me.

Let's get it!

PhatAthlete

And the Journey Continues...

"If you run, you are a runner.  It doesn't matter how fast or how far. It doesn't matter if today is your first day or if you've been running for twenty years. There is no test to pass, no license to earn, no membership card to get. You just run."

Today, I did my first organized 5K since October 2011. It was the first annual Running of the Elk in Elk Grove.  It was nice. More than 2300 people completed a 5K, Relay, or 13.1 mile half marathon.  Amazing.

While walk/jogging (I did more walking than jogging) and listening to my Soul Sanctuary Mike Mix (All Michael Jackson for 45 minutes), I wonder what goes through people mind when running or walking these events.  Is it to keep in shape? Is it to prove someone wrong? Is it personal sacrifice? Or physical torture? Does is make them happy?  Does is make them mad? Is is just about the feeling of accomplishment?  I wonder?

After thinking about it this afternoon, I had to ask myself the same questions. As I think about it more and more, I really don't have an answer except that doing this gives me a feeling like no other.  I feel free!  Free to go as far as my body will take me and then stop.  Free to enjoy everything around me including the flowers, the feeling of the sun on my face, the smell of the grass or ocean, the smiles I give and get as you past fellow participants and volunteers and they past you, the feeling I feel when I feel every inch of my body as I move towards an end.  It is a sense of freedom for me.  I don't have to talk to anyone, I don't have to work with anyone, I don't have to negotiate my time or my pace or my willingness to jog fast or slow.  I just feel free to do what I need and want to do to get to the proposed end, only negotiating with one person... me.

Today was a little hard at the end and my negotiation with my self went a little bit like this.  "Ow! My ankle hurts.  Stop jogging (slowing down).  Do I stop or just keep going?  I am almost 3 miles in.  DANG IT!  Michael Jackson went off.  Oh well, new song.  Wait, now my knee hurts.  Awe, suck it up.  You will be OK. Just keep going.  It is just around the corner! You can do it! Besides, you still need to get to your car.  OH BOY!  That man is fast!  I wish I could run almost that fast.  Wait, I can, I would just have to keep trying.  Awe whatever.  I he can't be anymore than 23 years old. Why didn't I start running when I was in my 20's? Good question.  Keep going... There is the chute!"  As you can see, there were many things going through my head but the remaining theme for me despite the pain and the bouncy little boy running past me to finish the 13.1 miles,  I kept my mind on finishing.  Despite how slow or fast, how long or short, how many people past me, I kept going.

Now 3 miles is not really that much but for some reason, my mind was ready but my body felt different. But despite the difference, I kept going.  I believe I am a runner.  Not a fast runner, a mostly walking runner, but I will keep going despite the challenge! I will get there soon.

I am excited about the triathlon in June and still have a lot of training to go.  I even got some personal training to help strengthen the areas I am the most weak (knees and ankles).  Last week was an interesting week of training as I kicked it up a lot and even got in two (ok... 1 and a half) brick workouts.   This week is going to be interesting as I will be kicking it up again and doing my walk/jog training outside now that the rain is gone. We are going to rock this TRI and I hope that you are here with me!

I want to also give a shot out to the Black Girls Run! Sacramento group.  I felt like everyone was at an event this Sunday representing.  Keep running girls!  Maybe it is time for me to start a group called Phat Girls Run? What you think?

Peace, Blessings, and happy MOVEMENT!

PhatAthlete

I'm BACK! And I promise regularly!

"That which matters most, should never give way to that which matters least!" (From a poster in my house)

Hey Phat Athletes all around the world! I am back, the PhatAthlete herself.  And ready to get this going.  It has been an interesting three months for 2012.  Some great things, I lost 31 pounds (woo hoo Paleo!), I have learn to reduce stress, I purchase my new bike (photo below!!!) and I have started on the next 31 pounds.  Some not so great things, I could not sign up for the Maui Triathlon (Boo!!!), I got a slight injury yesterday (same ankle... yeah I know, wear my brace), and it is going to rain ALL WEEK!  WAAAHHHH!  I want to ride my bike.  Now all this time with no rain and we get rain as soon as I get a new bike (I have not named it yet).  Oh well, maybe I will pick up a trainer this week!!!

So, despite not being able to do Maui, I did sign up for the Mermaid Series Triathlon in Alameda (yes, cold bay water... burrrr) (http://www.mermaidseries.com/alameda#!__alameda).  Join me if you can.  I am determined to complete 3 triathlons this year; maybe four!  I have been swimming, treadmill walking, stationary bike, and yoga!  I think the yoga is what is making me stronger.  I hope I do well.  I am doing it the same weekend I should be in Maui so I am definitely gonna have some mixed feeling on the swim. I miss my Team in Training folks in the Bay Area but the drive at $4.20 a gallon is CRAZY!

I have also joined a great group of women in Sacramento with the Black Girls Run! Sacramento Chapter.  (http://www.blackgirlsrun.com/)  What a great group of women!  I had the opportunity to go to the Shamrock 1/2 Marathon and see these ladies run.  WOW!  I must say they were AWESOME!  I am so proud of all of them and many I met just the night before.  I will have to keep up with this group as I need to keep moving (walking/running) and I need motivation (I hate the running/walking part).


Well, look forward to hearing from me frequently as I blog my next Triathlon experience.  This should be great!  Only 3 months away... Time to kick it in GEAR!


Until next time....


Be the best you you can be!


PhatAthlete!

The Last Day of the Last Days!

So I signed up to do the South Maui Triathlon with Team In Training. Wow what was I thinking? I committed to getting my butt up twice a day to workout, giving up BACON, no more junk food, and no more soda. Boooooo! Such a boring diet. I have committed to eating blue, green, yellow, and red foods and also eating whole foods for most of my diet (90%). And blogging... Oh will you get tired of me!

I am going to the Gym on Sunday to bring in the new year. Will you join me?

Oh what a year... and what a year to come!

WHAT'S UP MY PHAT ATHLETES?

I am back.  After a long time off, really getting these knees back together after the spill last year in Arizona, I am ready to get back in gear and move from a Sprint Triathlon to a Olympic!  Yes... I said it... I just signed up for the South Maui Triathlon with TEAM IN TRAINING!  OMG!  I am so nervous.  Because I am not the "normal" size athlete, I have a lot of work to get my body in the shape and to the level of endurance I need it to be to complete the South Maui Tri!  But at the same time, I am EXCITED about trying... NO DOING... the Tri! 

So, most of you probably know, it is time to gear up (yes new gear)!  I need a new bike to take me to the levels I want to go.  I also just need new gear.  I lost a few pounds so need new shorts, pants, swim wear, and a new helmet!  Wooo... training can be expensive!  But as I find new and exciting things on sale (got new cycle shoes at pearl izumi for $32 on Black Friday) I will share with the group.  As well as sharing my nutrition, weight loss, progress, times, and love and frustration with training.  I am back ya'll... I am back!

I will begin my pre-training training on Monday, December 5 and will continue through to June 7, 2012!  The Tri is on June 10 and I hope you can join my in person or in spirit!

So in the meantime, Let's get it started! 

P.S.  I didn't post my mud run photos... Here is one for you to giggle with me at!

Have a GREAT weekend!

Phat Athlete

Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still - Chinese Proverb

STANDING STILL!  Isn't it amazing what happens when you stand still? 

Positive: 
You can reflect and learn from what was just accomplished. 
You can replenish, recharge and take in what is needed for the next journey.
You can take in what God has put on this Earth for us to enjoy.
You can take a deep breath.
You can clear your mind. (hahaha... Ocean Wave (inside joke))

Negative:
You become stiff, unable to move and hit with pain.
You don't know how to get started again.
You can be frozen with doubt.
You can forget why you are going in the direction you are going.
You become distracted by stopping and are not satisfied with where you thought you should be.

WOW!!! Standing still is amazing.  If you stand still long enough to get what you need to keep going, no matter the pace, forward movement is constant progress.  Standing still too long unproductive and stifling.

I have stood still too long.

This week has been an amazing transformation back into my focus on my health, my spirit, and my mind.  Oh how scared I was that my blood pressure had gone up.  I had not slept well in about 4 weeks, my eating habits, though not back, were not perfect, my leg hurt for two weeks almost to the point of being unable to move, and my mind kept racing though my body was standing still.  It was time to transform and I took the time to do just that. 

This week, I tried something new and did it slowly.  I went for an outdoor walk and it was wonderful.  I also tried a spin class.  A level 1 class to begin to develop some strength for next cycle season.  Honestly, I had tried spin classes in the past and HATED THEM!  But this was different.  It was 30 to 45 mins and it was pretty much a GO HARD or GO HOME class.  It was a test of my willingness to sweat it out and darn it, I did.  I liked it so much I have gone three times this week.  My butt hurts of course (I need to wear my padded pants and learn how to get out of the saddle) but my body feels wonderful. 

I also joined a wonderful group called "Black Girls Run- Sacramento" on Facebook (there is probably one near you).  What a great group of women interested in their health (not their hair) and encouraging others to do the same in a group setting.  I missed the run on Thursday because I wanted to get in a swim before it got cold.  But bet, you will see me out there next week doing what I can and what my body tells me I am capable of.

Well, I promised I would try to post once a week.  I hope someone gets something from this!  Have a GREAT week all!

PhatAthlete!

Getting Back On Track can be WACK! (Yes... I said it!)

"The world is changing at such a rapid rate that waiting to implement changes will leave you 2 steps behind.  DO IT NOW! DO IT NOW! DO IT NOW!" - From a poster that was given to me

It has been a while since I have been on my site.  Well, it is time to get back on track.  My body, though feeling healed, does not feel like the me of last year after the Pacific Grove Triathlon (I still can't believe I finished).  I feel stressed, yucky, tired, sluggish, and just BLAH!  My eating habits have improved (Weight Watchers is my friend) I am even 10 pounds lighter than I was during the Triathlon (though I went up 15 pound over when I moved to Sacramento.. BLECH!), I have been swimming and walking/jogging but I still feel like crap!  I need not only a routine, but I need a partner to work out with.  Working out with a group or with a partner makes you accountable and since I do not have many (any) friends in Sacramento, I have no one to hold me accountable and weekends are often spent in the Bay eating and catching up on sleep I am not getting in Sac. 

Well, all that is changing.  I have no patience for laziness and sluggishness; stress and sleeplessness.  BACK TO MY ROUTINE I GO!  I have to!  No way around it.  My skin and my body are mad at me and are ready to get it started. 

I have a goal.  Next year, I am going to sign up for Nike Women's Marathon 2012 and I will be running/jogging/intervals the 13.1 miles instead of walking like I have done in the past.  That means hitting the streets, walking until I can jog again; jogging until I can run!  I am going to do it and NO ONE IS GOING TO STOP ME!  Now I don't have a finish time in mind, but my iPOD will hold me accountable towards progress. 

So, the journey begins.  I promise to update the blog at least once a week, but will strive to do it on a regular basis.  I hope you will cheer me on.  I am excited just thinking about it.  But I know there are going to be times when I want to quit.  Will you call me and tell me to keep moving?

Well, the PHAT ATHLETE is back and will be discussing issues that affect our mind, body, and soul.  I look forward to sharing with you!

---Phat Athlete

"If at first you don't succeed, dust yourself off and try again!" -Aaliyah Haughton

HAPPY NEW YEAR ATHLETES!  I hope you started the new year off right!  Well, I have.  BACK TO DA GYM!  Oh how hard it is when you take some time off.  Well, don't wait, get it started today!  You know you don't have to have a gym membership to get in shape.  Walk, run, ride, swim, dance, climb, garden, roll... whatever gets you active.  I hope to have a lot of PLAAYY (Physically Loving Activity All Year, Ya'll!) in 2011 (or the Oh-Eleven as my friend Cha Cha would say). 

So, I am sure you want to know what I did.  Well, Friday (New Year's Eve) I did some weight lifting with my BFF!  He worked me OUT in the gym.  I think I pulled a little muscle but it has healed.  We did every muscle group on Friday.  So Saturday, I rested.  I was so tired and felt sick.  But I got right back up on Sunday and did 45 mins of Precore and 15 mins of the Spin Bike.  I used to hate the spin bike.  But know, I kinda like it.  I am going to build up to 30 minutes on the Spin Bike over the next few weeks and then... I will probably attempt to take a class.  Humph!  Can you say crazy?

So, we (my BFF and now distant trainer) will be working out on the following pattern. 

Monday:  15 to 30 mins Cardio; Lifting (I think Upper Body)
Tuesday: 45 to 90 mins Cardio (swimming included)
Wednesday: 15 to 30 mins Cardio: Lifting (I think Lower Body)
Thursday: 45 to 90 mins Cardio
Friday: 15 to 30 mins Cardio:  Lifting (Total Body)
Saturday: PLAAYY!
Sunday: 45 to 90 mins Cardio

I am determined.  I have a 100 pound goal this year. Can I do it?  Yes!  Will it take a lot of work and dedication? YES!

So, have you made your health commitment this year?  I have my first one right here.  I have been debating my goals this year and have not buckled down on them just yet.  But you now have my first goal!  Keep me accountable!

I will be signing up for LiveStrong Davis, AMBBR, and Pacific Grove Triathlon for 2011.  I am not sure if I am strong enough for Wildflower Triathlon yet, but you never know what may happen.  I may also look at signing up for Luna Bar Triathlon some others this year too.  Oh, what the heck!  Like the Goddess Nike... JUST DO IT for VICTORY!  Who is gonna join me?

Well have a Happy New Year Athletes!  I look forward to sharing my story and hope that you will share yours too! 

In Happiness and Health!

Phat Athlete

P.S.  Check out the new Solano Fit Magazine for this month.  VERY NICE!  Shots out to Jessica!     Solano Fit Magazine

To Eat or NOT to EAT! Yeah RIGHT... Its Thanksgiving!

Hey All!

OMG... I have not posted in a while.  But I am please to tell you that I should start posting regularly going forward.  Once a week is my hope.  More if I have something important to say!  Hee hee.

I turned 36!  Wow!  I feel like I am still 25 with some extra aches and pains.  And, I need a little more sleep to go all day but other than that, I feel great.  Still working on the weight but that is a never ending battle!

So what do you plan on eating during Thanksgiving?  Are you going to get in the little workout before you fine tune your hand to mouth coordination?  My soft spot is that my Birthday and Thanksgiving always fall between 2 to 6 days of each other.  Oh goodness... I just spent this past weeking wining and dining and now Thanksgiving.  Well, I am going to go Trot before I EAT!  That is right, I am going to walk/jog the Solano County Turkey Trot! ( http://www.solanoturkeytrot.org/index.php ) Even if I trot by myself, I am going to walk and/or jog a nice 3.2 miles on Thanksgiving morning.  This way, I don't feel bad about eating and will not eat too much because I won't have as much of an appetite.  If you have nothing to do, JOIN ME!  I would love to have you with me.  There is a 5K and a 10K... They are $45 and $55 to sign up the day of the event!  The money benefits Solano Hearts United so come on... do it for the kids!

Also, I want to share with you a new magazine in Solano County.  Solano Fit (http://www.solanofit.com/) is a magazine dedicated to those in Solano County to care about their health!  I downloaded the December Issue and loved it.  It has lots of ads for health and wellness companies and trainers in Solano County.  I even found someone to help me with my weight!  I am excited about this magazine and hope that there will be opportunities to see people like me who struggle with their weight but love themselves and treat themselves right all of the time.  I am proud of the Editor Jessica for taking this big step.  Support her in the effort to make Solano County the Healthiest County in the State.  The Magazine is FREE!

I look forward to hearing about your Thanksgiving holiday.  I hope you get the opportunity to spend it with the ones you love doing the things you love... and a little eating too!

Many Blessings...  I am sure Training is season is around the corner!

Best,

Phat Athlete!
Follow me on Twitter @PhatAthlete2010

Can I look in your garage for a bike to ride?

Hey Phat Athletes:

I found this article in the opinion section of the Benicia Patch newspaper.  I thought it was thoughtful, encouraging, and simple to read for beginning cyclist (everyone can be a cyclist!).  Check it out and tell me what you think!  I will have an extra bike soon if someone under 5 feet 4 inches wants to try to ride! 

Best,

PhatAthlete

P.S.  My new bike... Maybe???

_____________________________________________


What Kind of Bike Should You Ride?
Search the garage for a bike before you buy a new one.


By Ed Brennan
Benicia Patch, 10/22/10
http://benicia.patch.com/articles/what-kind-of-bike-should-you-ride

This column has focused on encouraging beginning riders to get on their bikes and enjoy the benefits of cycling. Chief among those are the health improvements of aerobic exercise coupled with being outdoors and exploring our environment. With those thoughts in mind let's talk about what it takes to get started.

The first thing required for getting you involved with cycling is your own motivation to get out and do it. Most Americans are way too sedentary to have a healthy lifestyle. Riding a bike is an easy way to break the inertia of standing still and get moving. It is easier on your body than other forms of exercise, since the bike supports your weight and absorbs bumps as you travel.

After motivating yourself you'll need to have a bicycle, naturally. You may have one, or have access to one. I have observed that most American garages contain at least one bicycle, many of them rarely ridden! Your neighbor may have a neglected 1972 Peugeot PX-10 10 speed, or a 1985 Specialized Hardrock mountain bike. Anything that works to get you started is good enough at first.

Once you've done the Benicia State Recreation Area enough times to begin enjoying it, your thoughts may turn to getting your own bike, one that fits you and suits your personality and goals as a bike rider.

There are many kinds of bikes being produced but I'll simplify the process of choosing one that's right for you. There are two basic standard wheel sizes. One for riding on dirt trails and other off-road situations, or mountain bikes, use 26" wheels. For riding on paved roads the wheels are a little larger, known as "700C". So get a mountain bike if you are riding off-road or a mixture of paved, gravel and dirt. If you're planning to be primarily on pavement, go with road wheels. I'm assuming that most people are like me and ride primarily on the road.

The next thing to think about in choosing a bike is what kind of riding you will do. Do you aspire to go with the fast club riders who head out of town on weekend mornings and sprint for the city limit signs? If so, you'll want a light racing bike with 23 millimeter wide tires. Maybe you picture yourself touring the Oregon coast, 50 miles a day between picturesque villages. Touring will require a stouter bike, 32 millimeter wide tires, and bags to hold your gear. Or do you see yourself riding between Benicia, Vallejo, and Martinez as you visit the grocery store and farmer's markets? If this is your bag, you'll want a bike that gives you a more upright position, wider tires, and racks and bags to carry cargo.

Any of these choices, or variations of them, are valid and will lead to increased fitness and better health if pursued consistently. Once you overcome the inertia of standing still, the fun of riding a bike will make you want to keep going.

An Article I want to share...

So... now that I am all into this athlete thing... I get lots of great articles and information in my inbox.  Well, I am gonna share them with you!  See below on great seasonal foods to eat and why!  Also, cheer me on on Sunday, I am going to try and walk Nike Women's Marathon!

Best,

Phat Athlete

You can get me on Twitter @PhatAthlete2010

P.S.  I took out the links and the photos from this article.  You can get the article at
http://www.active.com/nutrition/Articles/5-Fruits-and-Veggies-to-Eat-This-Fall.htm?cmp=306&memberid=110897261&lyrisid=21052688
_____________________________________________-

5 Fruits and Veggies to Eat This Fall


By Chris Griffy

Dieting doesn't have to be about flavorless foods and high prices. In fact, those who are most successful with their diets are the ones who skip the pricey and preservative-laden foods in the grocery store's diet aisle and head down to their local farmer's market. Getting your seasonal, locally grown fruits and vegetables from a local farmer not only ensures that you get your food at the peak of flavor and freshness, but also helps support your local economy and the environment by reducing trucking pollution.

In this part of our ongoing series, we will look at the items that you will find in your local farmer's market in the early fall. It is a huge transition for farms as the summer fruits and vegetables are at the end of their seasons, while the fall produce is just coming into season.

Here are some of the healthiest fruits and vegetables available, along with links to some healthy recipes using the produce.

Artichokes

The artichoke ends its brief harvest season in September, so it's the last chance to get them while they're fresh. Health-wise, artichokes are very nutrient dense. One medium artichoke runs a mere 60 calories and 13 carbohydrates. For that cost, you get 6 grams of fiber, more than 15 percent of your daily requirement of Vitamin C and Folate, and a good dose of magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorous. Artichokes have been shown to lower blood sugar in diabetics and is a diuretic, promoting healthy bladder.


Beets

Beets have two seasons in and the second half of September begins the second one. Beets are one of the most delicious and versatile vegetables available. They can be prepared in a number of ways--from pickling to boiling--and complement virtually any entree. Beets are also a nutritional giant. A whole beet is a measly 35 calories and brings a whole wealth of nutrients to the table including Vitamin C, iron, and beta carotene.


Collard Greens

Very few vegetables scream southern cooking like collard greens. They have long been one of the staples of the southern table, and for good reason. In addition to being delicious, they are a leafy green. This means they're extremely low in calories and extremely high in nutrients. A cup of cooked collards has just 49 calories. For those calories, you get the nutritional benefits of 5 grams of fiber, more than 300 percent of your daily value of Vitamin A, and high doses of thiamin, potassium and riboflavin. Indulge your Southern self and serve up some collards at your next meal.

Carrots

As beautiful as they are delicious, these orange vegetables are one of the most well-known superfoods. As every child knows from the old joke, carrots are good for your eyes because you've never seen a rabbit with glasses. Carrots are also an extremely versatile recipe, working equally well in soups, stir fry, sautees, and even raw. One large carrot has approximately 30 calories and loads of Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, and Niacin. Carrots help fight heart disease, promote colon and lung health, and help protect your vision.

Sweet Potatoes

One of the tastiest and most beautifully colored vegetables available in the fall is the sweet potato. While most Southerners mash them and top them with unhealthy marshmallows, ruining the nutrition, sweet potatoes are already sweet enough to need very little, if any, additional sweetening. A whole medium sweet potato is 130 calories and packs more than 200 percent of the daily value of Vitamin A, a high value of Vitamin C, and powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.


Nashville Weight Loss Examiner Chris Giffy can be reached at cgriffy@vallnet.com or follow him on Twitter at @gryphonkin.

"There is no better than adversity. Every defeat, every heartbreak, every loss, contains its own seed, its own lesson on how to improve your performance the next time." Malcolm X

Wow!  I am a two-time Triathlete this year.  I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!  Can you ? 

Sorry I haven't written in a while.  I have been extremely busy with work and life.  I thought about it, often, but when I sat down at the computer, I had other pressing things to do.  Well, I AM BACK!  Did you miss me?  The Phat Athlete is in the house!  Hee hee.

So, last you knew of me, I was recovering from the Pacific Grove Triathlon (can't believe I am saying this) and getting ready for the See Jane Run Women's Triathlon.  Well, I did that one too! (can't believe I am saying this, again!)  It was a little more difficult than the Pacific Grove Triathlon.  Well despite the poor planning, lack of organization, late start, difficult transition area, and HOT WEATHER, I finished.  DFL!  Yes I did friends, I finished Dead Freaken Last!  But I was determine to not cut the course short like a lot of participants did. 

So I know you want to hear about my experiences.  Well, I cramped as soon as I got in the water.  My legs were mad at me for walking so much and probably not stretching well enough before swimming.  When I was getting out of the water, I was so dizzy I almost fell over.  I managed to stay upright though and make that long trek on concrete and slippery mud (thank goodness for my little water shoes) to my transition area.  I did better in transition this time.  Only 10 minutes. :)  Yay!  Still long, but dang it, I was dizzy.  I had to close my eyes for a moment; no I did not take a nap!

I transitioned to my bike and got to the road.  I felt like I was one of the last people on the road.  I started pedaling and lo and behold, THAT CRAMP CAME BACK!  All I could do was drink, drink, drink and take some tums (I forgot my banana in the car...).  I was a mile out and had to stop until the cramp went away.  After the cramp subsided, I carefully continued on the route.  I wasn't gonna stop because of no STINKEN CRAMP!  The route sucked to me.  Too many cars; we rode down a street on the wrong side of the road; the Police being mean and stopping us; and it was getting hotter and hotter.  I wish sometimes I was a faster biker.  It was a flat course except one small hill.  Well, it was at that hill that the heat got to me and instead of my knee cramping up, MY WHOLE LEG cramped up.  OOOUUUCCCCHHHH!  I had to walk up the last 100 feet because I could not take it any more.  As I was walking, SAG came by to see if I was ok.  I told him I was cramping and he offered me a solution.  He gave me some electrolyte or sodium pills (I would not have took them but I was desperate and they were in a sealed package) to help me out.  I took them, drank some fluids and got back on my bike and headed back at about 17 miles an hour.  The cramp went away and I got to my transition area feeling good.  I took my shoes off and felt weird.  I thought I was sick but realized I was just HOT!  It was about 83 degrees in Pleasanton at 1045 AM!  GRRR and I still had 3 miles to jog.  So, I poured water on my head and sucked it up and headed out on my jog.  Little did I know it was mostly unshaded.  OMG!  Now I know why many of the participants took it short.  Well, I am no punk.  Maybe short, fat, and silly, but I am definitely not gonna punk out because of heat!  So I started my walk and about a half mile in I started throwing up... EVERY 15 steps... So I stopped jogging and walked only.  I was still throwing up my favorite work out food... Cliff Bars (yuck.. sorry)... and there was nothing I could do.  I drank lots of water, ate GU, and walked in that ridiculous heat.  I met a lady at the water stop who walked with me.  I forget her name but she was an Awesome support person.  She kept reminding me to breathe and taught me some techniques that I did not know (I need to take YOGA).  She walked with me for about 2 mile.  That was the longest two miles of my life.  I was so tired, it was so hot, I was so thirsty, but I kept walking.  Yes I did... I walked.

Finally we got close to the end and picked up another person from the last water stop who walked with us.  These two ladies were so wonderful.  Sara says I always meet friends when I go out.  She is right... I do!  I think people can't believe I am out there doing what I am doing and they want to be in my positive glory... Ok... I am feeling myself right now.  But really, I think at a Phat Athlete, people can't believe I am trying as hard as they are and feel empathy or excitement to see me trying.  I am glad people recognize that.  I can't lose this weight sitting on my butt watching TV right?  I hope I can be inspiration to others to think that way.  It is not about when you finish, it is more important that you finish.  And in 85 degree heat, I finished.

I rounded the shoot about 1210pm.  I was exhausted.  It usually takes me about 45 to 55 mins to walk three miles.  This took 1 hour and 30 minutes.  I was a little defeated in my mind because I knew I could do better.  But then I reminded myself about how horrible the weather was, what our training weather was like and that this was my first time trying something like this.  I reminded myself (in my mind of course) that I am just here to finish and not to race anyone but myself.  Well when I got to the finish line, I was the winner!

Big thanks and KUDOS to Sara for waiting for me.  She is such an awesome inspiration.  I am going to catch her one day, not tomorrow, but in a year or two at one of these events and show her how much of an inspiration she really is.  I was greeted by the See Jane Run Staff who actually waited for me with Sara!  They presented me with my medal, a pretty RED Cape, and some beautiful flowers that I have since killed. (Darn heat!)  As excited as I was about this wonderful reception, I was so exhausted!  I was the last person on the route.  It was about 88 degrees now and all I could smell was carne asada cooking on the grill.  After photos, water, and salty things, Sara (my Girl! THANKS!) and I grabbed my stuff and thew it in my truck and I headed out.  I could not believe I finished this event.  I was so beat and tired that I could not eat for 4 hours.  I went to another event in Vallejo and discovered it was 100 degrees outside.  All I could do was drink water.  I finally went home, ate some food and slept for 12 hours.  I wasn't as tired from the Pacific Grove Tri as I was from the Pleasanton Tri.  I guess the weather really made a difference.  I was dehydrated for more than 18 hours.  I thought I was hydrated but I guess not.  Now I know what do next time we expect a heat wave!

So, now I am training for the Scottsdale Marathon.  I am going to pass on Nike because my knee is just now getting back in shape and I need not stress it.  I am looking forward to walking with my Mom in Arizona.  I am looking forward to completing my fourth event this year!  Can you believe it?  Oh, and by the way, I am down 30 pounds.  Isn't that GREAT?

I hope to see you out there with me soon moving and shaking both literally and figuratively.  Nothing beats a failure but a TRY.

Have a GREAT day friends!  Don't forget to TRI something new today!

Best,

Phat Athlete

"Triathlon: The pain is temporary; the PRIDE is FOREVER!" (Thanks Sara!)

I DID IT!  Yes friends... I completed my TRIATHLON!  And I did not finish last!  Woo HOO!  What a journey.  This has been a tough one.  But I did it and I struggled and I did it.  Ok... enough with the babbling, lets get to the MEAT!

Well, I know it had been a while since I posted to the blog but I was busy preparing mentally, physically, and spiritually for the Pacific Grove event.  Now, for those of you who do triathlons like they are everyday business, this simple sprint tri may be as simple as peeling an orange to you.  But for me, a PHAT Athlete, this took more than training physically, I had to be their mentally too.

About two week prior to the triathlon, I woke up on a Saturday (of course a training day) with knee pain.  Not just an ache, but pain, swelling, and popping.  Not good!  I was at a training the day before and I think I did a little too much up and down and moved something that I should have not. But was I gonna quit?  NO, of course NOT!  I got my self up, gathered my thing and went to practice at Aquatic Park.  I put on my wetsuit and jumped in the water and got my swim on.  The water was choppy but the weather was beautiful so motion sickness was at hand.  But... I fought through it.  Motion sickness and a jacked up knee wasn't gonna stop me.

Me knee hurt for the last two practices and jog/walking was not on the menu!  I did however swim and enjoyed the feel of being in the ocean finally without fear and resistance.  I just decided in my mind that I was gonna do it and get over my nerves, and I DID!  Oh by the way, I discovered what my nerves were about... I COULD NOT SEE!  I hate my contacts so I purchased a pair of prescription goggles from Site for Sport Eyes (http://www.sporteyes.com/).  A few dollars spent and I can see almost perfectly... well enough to see faces, fish, and buoy's!  Hee hee.  If I had known earlier that I could get prescription goggles, I would have invested earlier.  I am so glad I did it.  It made Pacific Grove Triathlon that much nicer!

So, we arrived in Pacific Grove on September 10th and the Coaches wanted those of us who had never done the tri to get in the water and experience the kelp crawl before the event.  OH MY GOODNESS!  On top of the water, the area looks nasty and creepy, but in the water (especially with my prescription goggles), the water was clear and beautiful and you could see the kelp and the sea life.  Though the water was very cold at first (I cramped as soon as I got in), out where the kelp was thickest, the water was warm and clear.  Now, they call this event the KELP CRAWL and really, it was a crawl.  On Friday, the kelp was very thick and you literally had to crawl over it to get to where you were going.  It was a really awesome experience!  One I will not forget!  After swimming on Friday, I was STUPID EXCITED and really jazzed about the event on Sunday.

I arrived back at my hotel and discovered that my knee was still a bit sore, but I iced it and thought it would be ok on Sunday.  Well, I was wrong!

On Saturday, we got to the event to cheer on the Olympic Distant teammates (most everyone except me, Michelle, and Coach Jer).  Everyone looked so strong, excited, and determined.  I did not catch the swim because we had to park so far away, but I did catch the bike and runs.  I was so proud to be apart of something so amazing!  As we cheered each teammate (Hey Nick!), checked out the really sexy male triathletes (sorry... couldn't help myself), and walked, I discovered that the cramp I had the day before was getting worse.  My knee was acting up and I just could not take it.  I found a chiropractor who did something to my hamstrings that I have never experienced before.  He found all of the kinks that were bothering me and several more I did not know about.  He worked them out as I sang, hollered, hummed, and moaned.  But he made what was turning into a bad situation, into a good situation.  After my massage, I took his advise to go to the hotel, drink lots of water, and rest up for the next day.  I also purchased a hot/cold wrap that I put in the microwave that relaxed the muscles in my knees and relieved some of the inflammation.  I also iced my knee, took a Tylenol, had a sip of wine with my dinner (Thanks SISTERS: Paula and Tracy: for the GREAT dinner), and went to bed to prepare for Sunday morning.

Sunday morning, MY KNEE FELT better.  Yes is did!  I was so happy.  I got my things together, pulled my self together, taking care of my fragile knee, and headed out to the start (Thanks Marsha for your help).  I got to my transition area, got myself set up, got my body markings, put on my Teletubby Suit, swim cap, nose and ear plugs, and of course my new prescription goggles, and headed with Michelle and Coach Jer to the beach.  WHAT A GREAT DAY!  I had a great swim... I think.  17:00 mins.  From the time I walked (not ran) across the mats to the time I walked (not ran) across the mats leading to the transition area.  GREAT JOB VEE... I kept telling myself as I rinsed my mouth and headed to my transition area.

Once at my area, I took my wetsuit off, put on my cycle jersey and shirt, put on my cycle shoes and socks, grabbed my helmet and sunglasses (yes prescription), and headed out to the bike out area.  People were cheering me on.  I was so excited!  I pushed off and headed down the road for my 12 mile ride.  I was doing great until...MY KNEE LOCKED UP!  OUCH!  Of course I was mad, in pain, and frustrated.  I calmed myself down and unclipped my shoe and started to pedal with my right leg only until I could get the knot out of my knee.  Oh, did that slow me down.  But I just kept pushing on... I was not going to stop.  I slowed down (I was actually at a 12 mile pace and slowed down to a 10 mile pace) and dropped into easier gears because I could not risk my knee acting up again.  I started to eat and drink on the ride to put some food and potassium and salt into my body to stop the cramping.  It started to work about a mile down the road and I started singing to keep my spirits up because I was in pain.  "Strength, Courage, and Wisdom..." by India Arie.  I sing this during my swim and during my rides.  Sometime, I sing "Motivation" by TI, but I don't know all of the words (figures).  But India was what I needed to finish the first lap and head back into my second lap.  By the time I started my second lap, most of the people were off the course and it felt at times that I was by myself.  But I wasn't!  I had the ocean and the beautiful views that GOD made with me.  And I got to see Jessie and Abel at the turn around (on the hill of course) while they took photos of me.  I felt so good after the cramp went away but my knee started to get stiff... the cold air was affecting it now.

I finished my lap and headed into the transition zone for my last change.  Into my running shoes I go.  I also put on a Jacket, my TNT Singlet, and my running cap (to keep my head warm) as I headed out (I had on Hella Clothes).  WHOA NELLY!  My knee told me I had to walk it out!  So I walked out and caught up to my coach who had some choice words for me to keep going.  I did.  I jogged some, I walked some, I jogged some, I walked some... but my knee was not going to make it possible to go any faster than I did.  So, I did my first lap and saw my 1st cycle coach at the turn around (Mel with Vivian).  She and Vivian were talking photos... the trees were pretty in the background I heard.  Mel is a good photographer.  I look forward to the photos.

After my second lap, I headed back.  The last .5 mile.  Mel offered me a cinnamon roll on the way back (no icing... my favorite).  Yes... good FOOD!  As I walked back, I could see the end.  I talked to people who were inspired by my fight and were going to get off their duff and train for next year.  I met TNT coaches who just pushed me further with encouraging words and compliments.  I saw the people at the Hotel on the corner having breakfast watching me come in, and then I saw my Sisters, my BFF, and my TEAM.  All cheering me on.  My Coach, my assistant coach, and my co-mentor all came and ran the last few meters with me.  My sisters were cheering on the side with my BFF Marsha! And the rest of the team was cheering me on.  I wanted to cry, but I couldn't get the tears out!  I was so happy!  We had a great celebration!  WOO HOO!  And, I got a cool medal!  I finished in 2:45:07.... My goal was 3:00:00 or less!  WOO HOO!

Well, as I think back, I ask myself, would I do it again.  HELL YES!  To physically accomplish something so great to someone who usually would not do something like this is amazing.  I am now gonna commit to swimming 2 to 3 times a week along with my marathon training.  I will still cycle with the Vallejo Breakfast Cycle Club to keep working on my cadence and my hill climbing abilities.

So now, I am considering signing up for the See Jane Run Marathon on September 25th.  I am taking care of my knee to ensure that I have ability to participate.  I will make my decision tomorrow to sign up based on my the progress of my knee.  I will also be doing the Nike Women's Marathon on October 17th in San Francisco with the Homies and the Runner's Woman's Marathon on November 7th in Scottsdale with my Mom, My Aunt, and several of their friends and other family. 

If nothing else, I have committed myself to keeping active and getting into a smaller shape versus getting in shape!  I want to do the Olympic Distance next year but I have loose more weight.  I am committed to do it and I hope you will join me.  BTW, 21 pounds down, 31 inches lost.  So FAR!

Sara, my Mentee, gave me a sticker that says "Triathlon:  the pain is temporary; the PRIDE is FOREVER!"  This is so true with everything in life.  If you can push through the pain, you will achieve the accomplishments of a Champion!  And no one can take your PRIDE from you.  I am gonna keep pushing... keep reading my posts... you will see.

On to a taper swim!  (Medal Photo to come)

Smooches.

Phat Athlete

“Perseverance is not a long race; it is many short races one after another.” Walter Elliott

Hi Friends:

I DID IT!  Yes... I completed my practice triathlon!  WOOOO HOOOO!  No injuries, at my own pace, and feeling good feeling GREAT afterwards.  (See Photo)

It was not easy.  As most of you know I pulled a muscle in my chest (still weird to me) and I was concerned that I was not going to be ready for the practice try.  I went to track training last week and then I did some swimming to get my muscles used to the motion.  Well, at this point, in my mind, I was ready.  But I still had some anxiety.  DON'T ASK ME WHY!  I really don't know why.  I guess the excitement of doing something that I have never done, in a 2 feet x 4 foot transition space, and not know how long it was going to take me gave me a little stress.  Needless to say, I could not sleep Thursday or Friday night just thinking about the swim.  I was not too concerned about the bike or the run/walk, but the swim was my vice as a .25 miles seems like 100 miles to me.  Don't ask why... It just does.

Well Saturday morning I got up at 5:15 am and got my clothes on.  Everything was packed the night before.  All I had to do was throw my stuff in the car and put my bike and bike rack on the car.  I also remembered I needed to get gas for my car so that little stress did not help.  We met at the Starbucks and I got some food and tea.  My teammate Michelle and I loaded up my car and headed to Santa Rosa.  (I really forgot how far but close it is)  We were both very nervous so we put The Roots on the iPod and rocked out to the lake.  It made us feel better.  Well, when we arrived, I saw the place where we were going to swim and was AYE OKAY!  It was a swimming hole, very different and calmer than the ocean, but it was .25 miles around.

Everything was set up for us.  We had to set up our area like a REAL TRIATHLON!  Small space, bikes on racks, clothes, shoes, stuff for later everywhere.  There was Goose Poop everywhere too.  I think the poop is still on the bottom of my pants even after wash.  After checking in, getting our race packets, numbers (I was 67... 6+7= 13... my lucky number???), putting on our wetsuits and swim gear, we were ready to go at 835... AM that is.  We jump in the water and  I expected it to be as cold as it was outside but when we got in the water to test it out, it was exceptionally warm.  Well once we got wet and used to the water we got out and the whistle was blown.  OFF WE GO!!!!!!!!!!  I jumped in the water and just could not get myself together.  My NERVES had taken over.  Finally, I found a spot so stand and just shake myself together.  Finally, after about 5 second, I said GO and jumped in and swam the rest of the lake.  I swam slow, but dang it, I did it!  When I got to the end, I got out of the water and headed to my transition area and took off my wetsuit, put on my bike shirt, my race shirt, glasses, a jacket, socks, bike shoes, my backpack and my helmet and off I went on a 10 mile ride.  I was a little slow on the out (7 to 9 mph) but fast coming back (14 to 17 mph).  I was surprised about how strong I was on the bike and I was not putting forth a lot of effort because I knew I still had a run to complete.  I did my two laps and on the way back, just before the big hill, I got a killer cramp in my calf.  I think it was because of how cold it was and because I did not eat much, but nonetheless, that hurt.  I walked up most of the big hill (about 1.5 blocks) to work the cramp out and then I pedaled back to my transition area to start my run/walk.

Well, the run/walk turned into a walk/run.  My calf hurt.  Finally, after walking about a half mile, I found my shot blocks with the sodium and potassium, ate those, and kept on moving.  I walked most of my 2.3 miles, but dang it, I did it.  I am so excited how well I did.

I am not sure how long it took, but I know it was less than 3 hours.  For the Pac Grove race, I am going to give myself 3 hours to complete it.  I will pace myself and go at my own pace.  I can do it.  I know I can.  I just have to find a way to combat my nerves.

Doing a triathlon takes a lot of perseverance.  You are really doing several short races, one after another after another.  This takes great training, but it also takes a healthy mind and a health spirit.  You have to have some fight in you.  My race is not a long one, but really, as Phat as I am, who would think I could do something like this?  Well, something in my heart has told me I could and I am not going to stop.  My goal is to one day complete a 1/2 IronMan Tri.  I want to do it before I turn 40!  You know that is a long time from now but I am pacing myself, getting myself in shape and keeping my mind and spirit in a place to achieve that goal.  I can do it, and you can too, if you look it as several small successes versus going out there one time and achieve One Big Success!

I will take a photo of my medal later and put it up with my next post.  Well, back to Aquatic Park this weekend!  Burrrr, just thinking about it.  Thank GOD for the SUPERSUIT!

Don't just stand there.... BUST A MOVE!

Best,

Phat Athlete

"Thanks Swimmer Biker Walker Texas Ranger!"- Jen "Mojito" Mojica

Hahaha.  This was the text from a message I received this week after helping a friend with something.  It kind of stuck with me as inspiration this week as I struggled with a little setback.  Walker Texas Ranger was the BEST!  You could get in a punch but you could never defeat him!  That is how I felt about my self this week as I had to deal with a minor injury.

I think (yes I think...) that sometimes we forget to listen to our bodies when we are striving for perfection or striving to reach something that seems out of our reach.  Well this week, I finally had my first real injury of the season.  You might think it should have been a sore ankle, strained leg muscle, knee problems, or another fall of the bike (stop laughing).  But it was the strangest injury, a strained chest muscle. (http://www.ehow.com/about_5073567_symptoms-strained-pectoral-muscle.html)

Oh the pain I had!  I don't know how I did this or how it got so bad, but I went for a swim on Monday, washed my hair, and braided my hair.  I think somewhere between getting out of the wetsuit and braiding my hair, I messed something up!  Again I repeat... OH THE PAIN!  I am on training restriction until the 17th!  (Grrrrr!  In George Lopez's voice... "Maaaannnn...I can't do nothing!")

Muscle strains are not joke.  Seeking proper treatment is important.  As much as I wanted to fight the pain and fact that I was actually hurt, my body stopped my mind from doing any kind of major activity this week (including excessive driving).  I think I said this before, but LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!  It is usually telling you the right thing.  After lots of ice, heat, and pain medication, I an feeling better and ready to jump in the water to finish mastering swimming on top of water in my Supersuit!

While resting, I learned how to workout in other ways.  I worked my mind by reading up on proper training and preventing injury, I worked my body by feeding it what it needed to repair itself (lots of protein) and by doing other low impact exercises like leg lifts and some core exercises to strengthen my core, and I worked out my patience by watch quite a few movies, documentaries, and catching up on my Summer TV Series (Drop Dead Diva and HawthoRNe).  Because I was so used to moving and going and training for the last two months, actually slowing down a bit was good for me.  Very good!

While resting, I realized... I have a long season ahead of me.  After I complete the Triathlon in Pacific Grove, I will be training for the Nike Women's Half Marathon ( http://inside.nike.com/blogs/nikerunning_events-en_US/?tags=nike_womens_marathon_2010) and the Women's Running Magazine Women's Half Marathon (http://www.womenshalfmarathon.com/scottsdale-tempe/), and last the annual Solano County Turkey Trot (http://www.solanoturkeytrot.org/)!  This is gonna be a long season and I have a long way to go... injury is not an option... REST when I need it is!

So, if I haven't seen you at practice or out on the street, I want to let you know... I'm BACK!  Back to training in the morning and a light swim tomorrow evening.  I know you missed the PHAT Athlete:  A Super Swimmer Bike Walker Texas Ranger! (Thanks Jen)

Ok all... Let's Keep It MOVING!  Today is gonna be the day!

PHAT Athlete!

“You can’t fly a kite unless you go against the wind and have a weight to keep it from turning a somersault. The same with man. No man will succeed unless he is ready to face and overcome difficulties and is prepared to assume responsibilities.” William J.H. Boetcker

Arrrrggg!  The Supersuit! Also know as the Teletubby suit!  Hee hee.  I have found my difficulty!

Hey all.  It has been a few days.  Last week was crazy busy with trips and work, training and being a volunteer.  I had a lot going on and did not get to bed before 12 Midnight any night last week except for Friday. 

So I know you wanna know what is going on with my training... Well, here you go!  Last week, Tuesday, when I postponed my trip to LA, I decided I was going to be Superwoman and do a mini tri at 24 Hour.  Hahaha... I crack me up!  So I got on the bike and was so uncomfortable (there is something to be desired about gym bikes versus your own) that I could not get through a 5 mile ride.  So I moved to the treadmill... yes, I busted out 2 miles.  Now, I was with my friend who next to me look 10 feet 12 inches.  I was jogging at the pace she was walking.  Oh well, I will just have to move and train faster if I am going to keep up with her at Nike Marathon!  After the jog, I thought I was going to have a peaceful swim in the pool to only be greeted by "RED SPEEDO MAN" and "Octopus Man."  Well Red Speedo thinks he owns the pool at 24 Hour gym.  He comes in in his red speedo and stands over the pool doing jumping jacks, side bends, squats, and various other exercises that can be deemed offensive when you are swimming and come out of the water to the... RED SPEEDO!  YUCK!  I know I irritate Red Speedo because he tries to move me out of my lane and I just bump into him.  Hee hee.  And then Octopus Man... So, I have never been in the pool and been hit by someone swimming in a totally different lane.  The Man smacked the stuff out of my leg and almost pulled me under.  I know it was an accident but jeesh!  Whose arms are that long?  I had to get out of pool after 40 mins after being hit like that!

So, Wednesday I missed Track Practice.  (Hey Marathon Team!)  I was on a day trip to LA.  I was so tired when I got back that I slept half of Thursday away.  I did a little walking but nothing major... I said it was a tough week.  Well Friday, I got the Teletubby suit BACK!  Yay!  It was cut back a lot.  I tried it on and could hardly breathe after getting it on.  My 10 foot 12 inch friend was there to watch me try it on.  Oh did we laugh.

Then Saturday came.  I was not feeling good on Saturday.  I started sneezing and I had leg cramps.  But I got in the water anyway.  BOY!  DID I FREAK OUT!  Don't ask me why, but I freaked out.  Being in the wetsuit just did not seem normal to me.  As I dived in to swim, I had a mini attack.  No, I did not think I was gonna drown (that suit will not let you) but I just could not get my mojo to get past the difficulty of wearing the suit!  I did however do my BEST to get used to it and I swam on half length down and back a little closer to the shoreline than I would like.  I had a fight with the water the whole swim.  So bad that I got out of the water and want to give up.  My Coaches were reassuring but that was not enough for me.  I wanted to overcome the difficulty of this suit and get my swim on!

I then changed into my running shoes and started on my jog/walk.  I am so impressed with my progress.  I job/walked 3.6 miles at 3/1 intervals (3 mins jog/ 1 min walk)  I was able to complete all but 3 intervals, of course they were both up the hills.  My jogging is getting better and my knees are not hurting.  I was jogging and watching the thin, fast runners pass me by.  I thought to myself that it would be nice to run with that level of ease.  But if I could run with that level of ease, I wouldn't run!  So, my challenge is to get there.  Right now, I feel good about my slow jog... I just need to work on my swim in that suit.  Hmmmmm, can I swim naked?  Kidding!

As much as I would like this Triathlon training to be a cakewalk for me, it is not.  Every week I have a new obstacle to navigate and somehow I always win.  Again, I can only win when I try.  This week, the lesson of not comparing yourself to others really sunk in.  I am AMAZING despite how slow or fast or if I come in first or last!  I ROCK HARD... Like the GRAND CANYON!

P.S.  YOU ROCK HARD TOO!  I am going to overcome this wetsuit this week.  What are you going to overcome this week?

Loving you!
Phat Athlete!  :)
 

“You don’t have to be a fantastic hero to do certain things – to compete. You can be just an ordinary chap, sufficiently motivated to reach challenging goals.” Edmund Hillary

How many of us want to be FANTASTIC all of the time?  Meee... (my hand it raised) but is it possible?

This has been an interesting few days for me.  Since my last post a lot of great and wonderful things have happened.  I will share with you my want to be FANTASTIC and how once can actually accomplish FANTASTIC doing ordinary things.

On Friday, July 30, I met up with some GREAT ladies from the 'hood' and we went on a 13-14 mile bike ride.  This was SO much fun!  Just a leisurely ride from the Florida Street Art Museum to the wetlands in American Canyon.  We all had different styles of bikes, rode at different levels, enjoyed each others company and flirted with traffic violations! (hee hee)  WHAT A FANTASTIC RIDE!  All we had to do was set a time and a place and roll!  The Vallejo Breakfast Cycle Club was born!  8am everyday at Florida and Marin, not matter if there is only one person or many people riding... someone will ride in honor of the earth, our health, and our community!  I am proud of these ladies.  They know who they are.

While on this ride, I got a call from the Boys and Girls Club to come by because the Members had something for me.  Well, I took a detour and went over to the Club to have the kids present me with a Scooby Doo Lunch Box, Flowers, and a Card signed by each kid!  I was so TOUCHED!  I felt FANTASTIC.

Well, Saturday was the BIG DAY!  In the SF Bay with my wetsuit on.  OH want a FEELING!  It was a nice early cold day (as predicted in the Bay Area).  When we go to Aquatic Park, I actually put on my wetsuit to keep warm!  I was coached into the water by my dear friend and cycle coach and believe me, I fought him all of the way in.  First the water was too cold, then my face and hands were cold, they I could not work my way upright one way so I did it another way.  Then I had to learn how to float on my back.  Then float upright (Oh those amazing wetsuits).  Then it was time to start swimming... and yes, the green water freaked me out a bit, but I started swimming a little at a time until I finally swam to the mid point buoy!  I than swam to another buoy, and then another one, and then the final one.  I was so excited I actually swallowed a huge gulp of salt water (yuck) and choked.  Though I was CHOKING, I felt FANTASTIC!  I was so excited when I saw just how far out I was... Yes, my suit was filling with water, yes my face was cold, yes something gross touched my hand, but I WAS EXCITED!  As I gathered my breath, I started to swim back to the shore.  I felt good in the water.  I kept swimming until I finally hit the shoreline with my hand.  As I tried to stand up, I fell face forward into the sand (ahahhaah) and finally I floated over and picked myself up!  What an experience!  I haven't swam in the ocean in a long time.  Now, the Triathlon is real!

On my way home, I stopped of and played Wii with my Friends and their Son.  Again, I was exhausted from swimming and jogging, driving and waking up early, but I still had lots of energy!  I later went to a party and again though I was tired, I FELT FANTASTIC having a great time with great friends!

It is our responsibility to decide if we are going to be fantastic or not.  You have to be self motivated enough to be FANTASTIC when you want to be FANTASTIC and know that reaching goals are your choice.  Again not matter how fast or slow, first or last, getting to the end is all that matters.  I truly believe that heroes are not made they are born... put on this earth to be and achieve the goal of being FANTASTIC for themselves and for those they surround themselves with.

Have a FANTASTIC week!

Some Really FANTASTIC People (GO TEAM!)

Phat Athlete