Question:

 Has anyone here weighed an apple to see what a 4 oz apple looks like?  It’s *tiny*. However, even if I needed two hands to lift it, I would still count any apple as a point!

I now weigh apples – since I have started putting on weight – and I am very partial to apples. I recommend Jonah Gold at present – though you will be faced with at least a 3 pointer! As Morecambe and Wise used to say "You don’t get many of *those* to the pound!" (but they weren’t referring to apples).

Response:

I do envy you Diane!  Congratulations! That mini triathlon sounds like it would be fun (I think!) )) — Linda from Edmonton, Alberta Canada 204.4/183.8/(min goal #4 180) 155 916 mile club – 35.82/916

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I lost 1.8 lbs this week, which really surprised me!  Pleasantly, I assure you.  I feel a bit guilty about losing when I didn’t expect to, but looking back over the week, I really didn’t go over on points, so I really shouldn’t be so surprised. My WW goal weight is 150.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been below that "magic" number when I can move the *large* weight over on the doctor’s scale.  Being at 146 is almost like a dream.  I honestly don’t remember ever being this low for more than a weekend. But my neck is still flabby.  I know, most folks want a flat stomach, but I want a skinny neck.  It’s just something that’s always bothered me about my looks and something I always look at in other people first.  (Audrey Hepburn had a very slim neck.)  I am out of my 20s, so I suppose I’m being a bit hard on myself.  I really can’t afford to lose yet another 5 lbs and still look healthy.  But I’m considering it.  Perhaps I just need to get to the gym more. I have been running some nights.  Not a lot and certainly not enough to get to the point where I’ll be ready to train for the Marine Corps Marathon this year.  It’s just not enough of a habit yet.  I guess I’ll need to find another goal. Has anyone ever heard of the Danskin Women’s Triathlons?  They do about 6 across the country every year.  They are specifically designed for beginners (1/2mile swim, 11 mile bike, 5K run).  A professional female triathlete runs the course and is the last one across the finish line, so you’re guarenteed not to come in last.  The closest one for me is in Massachusetts in July.  Maybe I’ll do that.  Of course, that would mean I have to buy a bike and find a place to swim. Yesterday I spoke to my local WW about working as a leader.  They’re in the middle of a training course right now, so I wouldn’t start for a while.  I’m looking forward to doing that and will let you all know how it goes. More on my losing.  I’ve been eating at 29 points.  Since I had been maintaining at 31 points, I figured the weight would come off slowly. Well, it hasn’t.  So, is my true maintenance range higher?  Geez, this maintenance thing is more complicated than I figured. Favorite new food: Sara Lee Chocolate-covered Cheesecake Bites.  In the frozen foods, individually wrapped.  Each one is 2 points.  YUM. Okay, I guess that’s it.  I’m doing some work avoidance, because we’re swamped and I’m just in over my head right now.  Oh, yes, my monitor blew out last night.  I reached to turn it on and got an electric shock (my place is very dry and static-y).  Then it just would not turn on.  *sigh* Of course I couldn’t reach tech support last night because it’s not like I keep their numbers handy. I usually just look them up on the web, but with no monitor…. Hope everyone else is doing well!  I haven’t been able to read through everything or respond to much.  Welcome to all the new folks, this place made the difference for me! Best, Diane asdww FAQ: http://www.didian.com/asdww/ 185/146/145

Response:

It’s not a dream Diane – it’s reality and you deserve every accolade and congratulations. I can’t wait until I get into those 140’s. — ~ ~ Rocki ~ ~ S. Devon,  U.K. 219/158/140 Total Lost : 63 lbs Final Dream Goal :133 "If you believe – you can achieve"

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I lost 1.8 lbs this week, which really surprised me!  Pleasantly, I assure you.  I feel a bit guilty about losing when I didn’t expect to, but looking back over the week, I really didn’t go over on points, so I really shouldn’t be so surprised. My WW goal weight is 150.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been below that "magic" number when I can move the *large* weight over on the doctor’s scale.  Being at 146 is almost like a dream.  I honestly don’t remember ever being this low for more than a weekend. But my neck is still flabby.  I know, most folks want a flat stomach, but I want a skinny neck.  It’s just something that’s always bothered me about my looks and something I always look at in other people first.  (Audrey Hepburn had a very slim neck.)  I am out of my 20s, so I suppose I’m being a bit hard on myself.  I really can’t afford to lose yet another 5 lbs and still look healthy.  But I’m considering it.  Perhaps I just need to get to the gym more. I have been running some nights.  Not a lot and certainly not enough to get to the point where I’ll be ready to train for the Marine Corps Marathon this year.  It’s just not enough of a habit yet.  I guess I’ll need to find another goal. Has anyone ever heard of the Danskin Women’s Triathlons?  They do about 6 across the country every year.  They are specifically designed for beginners (1/2mile swim, 11 mile bike, 5K run).  A professional female triathlete runs the course and is the last one across the finish line, so you’re guarenteed not to come in last.  The closest one for me is in Massachusetts in July.  Maybe I’ll do that.  Of course, that would mean I have to buy a bike and find a place to swim. Yesterday I spoke to my local WW about working as a leader.  They’re in the middle of a training course right now, so I wouldn’t start for a while.  I’m looking forward to doing that and will let you all know how it goes. More on my losing.  I’ve been eating at 29 points.  Since I had been maintaining at 31 points, I figured the weight would come off slowly. Well, it hasn’t.  So, is my true maintenance range higher?  Geez, this maintenance thing is more complicated than I figured. Favorite new food: Sara Lee Chocolate-covered Cheesecake Bites.  In the frozen foods, individually wrapped.  Each one is 2 points.  YUM. Okay, I guess that’s it.  I’m doing some work avoidance, because we’re swamped and I’m just in over my head right now.  Oh, yes, my monitor blew out last night.  I reached to turn it on and got an electric shock (my place is very dry and static-y).  Then it just would not turn on.  *sigh* Of course I couldn’t reach tech support last night because it’s not like I keep their numbers handy. I usually just look them up on the web, but with no monitor…. Hope everyone else is doing well!  I haven’t been able to read through everything or respond to much.  Welcome to all the new folks, this place made the difference for me! Best, Diane asdww FAQ: http://www.didian.com/asdww/ 185/146/145

Response:

Congratulations,  Sara – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I lost 1.8 lbs this week, which really surprised me!  Pleasantly, I assure you.  I feel a bit guilty about losing when I didn’t expect to, but looking back over the week, I really didn’t go over on points, so I really shouldn’t be so surprised. My WW goal weight is 150.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been below that "magic" number when I can move the *large* weight over on the doctor’s scale.  Being at 146 is almost like a dream.  I honestly don’t remember ever being this low for more than a weekend. But my neck is still flabby.  I know, most folks want a flat stomach, but I want a skinny neck.  It’s just something that’s always bothered me about my looks and something I always look at in other people first.  (Audrey Hepburn had a very slim neck.)  I am out of my 20s, so I suppose I’m being a bit hard on myself.  I really can’t afford to lose yet another 5 lbs and still look healthy.  But I’m considering it.  Perhaps I just need to get to the gym more. I have been running some nights.  Not a lot and certainly not enough to get to the point where I’ll be ready to train for the Marine Corps Marathon this year.  It’s just not enough of a habit yet.  I guess I’ll need to find another goal. Has anyone ever heard of the Danskin Women’s Triathlons?  They do about 6 across the country every year.  They are specifically designed for beginners (1/2mile swim, 11 mile bike, 5K run).  A professional female triathlete runs the course and is the last one across the finish line, so you’re guarenteed not to come in last.  The closest one for me is in Massachusetts in July.  Maybe I’ll do that.  Of course, that would mean I have to buy a bike and find a place to swim. Yesterday I spoke to my local WW about working as a leader.  They’re in the middle of a training course right now, so I wouldn’t start for a while.  I’m looking forward to doing that and will let you all know how it goes. More on my losing.  I’ve been eating at 29 points.  Since I had been maintaining at 31 points, I figured the weight would come off slowly. Well, it hasn’t.  So, is my true maintenance range higher?  Geez, this maintenance thing is more complicated than I figured. Favorite new food: Sara Lee Chocolate-covered Cheesecake Bites.  In the frozen foods, individually wrapped.  Each one is 2 points.  YUM. Okay, I guess that’s it.  I’m doing some work avoidance, because we’re swamped and I’m just in over my head right now.  Oh, yes, my monitor blew out last night.  I reached to turn it on and got an electric shock (my place is very dry and static-y).  Then it just would not turn on.  *sigh* Of course I couldn’t reach tech support last night because it’s not like I keep their numbers handy. I usually just look them up on the web, but with no monitor…. Hope everyone else is doing well!  I haven’t been able to read through everything or respond to much.  Welcome to all the new folks, this place made the difference for me! Best, Diane asdww FAQ: http://www.didian.com/asdww/ 185/146/145

Response:

I lost 1.8 lbs this week, which really surprised me!  Pleasantly, I assure you.  I feel a bit guilty about losing when I didn’t expect to, but looking back over the week, I really didn’t go over on points, so I really shouldn’t be so surprised.

Congratulations! I don’t know why surprise or guilt should be involved – you obviously know what you are doing, and you are clearly sticking to the program. <some snippage here But my neck is still flabby.  I know, most folks want a flat stomach, but I want a skinny neck.  It’s just something that’s always bothered me about my looks and something I always look at in other people first.  (Audrey Hepburn had a very slim neck.)

Audrey Hepburn was underweight because she had lived through near starvation during the war in the Netherlands. She was the Kate Moss/Calista Flockhart/Twiggy of her generation and not a role model that a healthy woman should seek to emulate. In my humble opinion.  I am out of my 20s, so I suppose I’m being a bit hard on myself.  I really can’t afford to lose yet another 5 lbs and still look healthy.  But I’m considering it.  Perhaps I just need to get to the gym more.

Maybe *being* healthy is more important than *looking* healthy? <more snippage here More on my losing.  I’ve been eating at 29 points.  Since I had been maintaining at 31 points, I figured the weight would come off slowly. Well, it hasn’t.  So, is my true maintenance range higher?  Geez, this maintenance thing is more complicated than I figured.

That is a realisation that has come to me too! You are doing better than I am. Favorite new food: Sara Lee Chocolate-covered Cheesecake Bites.  In the frozen foods, individually wrapped.  Each one is 2 points.  YUM.

The point being that these are portion controlled and therefore less likely to push one over points – unlike, say, icecream, where a "scoop" is a notoriously vague concept. I suppose that’s why so many of these diet program rely on portion controlled packaged food. Maybe the airline caterers could add them as a side line. Or perhaps they have. — Stephen Rees Richmond BC, Canada to reply by email take off yer boots 204.8/165.4/164

Response:

You have to be sooooo proud of your accomplishments!  I am almost envious, but too busy being happy for you!  : ) I admire your goal of making exercise a habit.  You will truly get so much enjoyment out of either goal or goals you set….the marathon, or the triathlons.  Maintaining is just living one’s woe. : )  That is the hard part…where one has to accept what it takes to keep what they have or want. Best and congrats!! Doe – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I lost 1.8 lbs this week, which really surprised me!  Pleasantly, I assure you.  I feel a bit guilty about losing when I didn’t expect to, but looking back over the week, I really didn’t go over on points, so I really shouldn’t be so surprised. My WW goal weight is 150.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been below that "magic" number when I can move the *large* weight over on the doctor’s scale.  Being at 146 is almost like a dream.  I honestly don’t remember ever being this low for more than a weekend. But my neck is still flabby.  I know, most folks want a flat stomach, but I want a skinny neck.  It’s just something that’s always bothered me about my looks and something I always look at in other people first.  (Audrey Hepburn had a very slim neck.)  I am out of my 20s, so I suppose I’m being a bit hard on myself.  I really can’t afford to lose yet another 5 lbs and still look healthy.  But I’m considering it.  Perhaps I just need to get to the gym more. I have been running some nights.  Not a lot and certainly not enough to get to the point where I’ll be ready to train for the Marine Corps Marathon this year.  It’s just not enough of a habit yet.  I guess I’ll need to find another goal. Has anyone ever heard of the Danskin Women’s Triathlons?  They do about 6 across the country every year.  They are specifically designed for beginners (1/2mile swim, 11 mile bike, 5K run).  A professional female triathlete runs the course and is the last one across the finish line, so you’re guarenteed not to come in last.  The closest one for me is in Massachusetts in July.  Maybe I’ll do that.  Of course, that would mean I have to buy a bike and find a place to swim. Yesterday I spoke to my local WW about working as a leader.  They’re in the middle of a training course right now, so I wouldn’t start for a while.  I’m looking forward to doing that and will let you all know how it goes. More on my losing.  I’ve been eating at 29 points.  Since I had been maintaining at 31 points, I figured the weight would come off slowly. Well, it hasn’t.  So, is my true maintenance range higher?  Geez, this maintenance thing is more complicated than I figured. Favorite new food: Sara Lee Chocolate-covered Cheesecake Bites.  In the frozen foods, individually wrapped.  Each one is 2 points.  YUM. Okay, I guess that’s it.  I’m doing some work avoidance, because we’re swamped and I’m just in over my head right now.  Oh, yes, my monitor blew out last night.  I reached to turn it on and got an electric shock (my place is very dry and static-y).  Then it just would not turn on.  *sigh* Of course I couldn’t reach tech support last night because it’s not like I keep their numbers handy. I usually just look them up on the web, but with no monitor…. Hope everyone else is doing well!  I haven’t been able to read through everything or respond to much.  Welcome to all the new folks, this place made the difference for me! Best, Diane asdww FAQ: http://www.didian.com/asdww/ 185/146/145

Response:

I am out of my 20s, so I suppose I’m being a bit hard on myself.  I really can’t afford to lose yet another 5 lbs and still look healthy.  But I’m considering it.  Perhaps I just need to get to the gym more. Maybe *being* healthy is more important than *looking* healthy?

So true, Stephen.  Thanks for keeping me focused on what’s really important.  I so like being thin though.  It feels shallow, but I love being slim. Healthy is really what is important long term.   Favorite new food: Sara Lee Chocolate-covered Cheesecake Bites.  In the frozen foods, individually wrapped.  Each one is 2 points.  YUM. The point being that these are portion controlled and therefore less likely to push one over points – unlike, say, icecream, where a "scoop" is a notoriously vague concept.

Yes, I like pre-packaged foods.  It’s easy with fruit as well, but you have to be careful.  Has anyone here weighed an apple to see what a 4 oz apple looks like?  It’s *tiny*.   However, even if I needed two hands to lift it, I would still count any apple as a point! Best, Diane asdww FAQ: http://www.didian.com/asdww/ 185/146/145

Response:

I lost 1.8 lbs this week, which really surprised me!  Pleasantly, I assure you.  I feel a bit guilty about losing when I didn’t expect to, but looking back over the week, I really didn’t go over on points, so I really shouldn’t be so surprised. My WW goal weight is 150.  It’s been a long time since I’ve been below that "magic" number when I can move the *large* weight over on the doctor’s scale.  Being at 146 is almost like a dream.  I honestly don’t remember ever being this low for more than a weekend.   But my neck is still flabby.  I know, most folks want a flat stomach, but I want a skinny neck.  It’s just something that’s always bothered me about my looks and something I always look at in other people first.  (Audrey Hepburn had a very slim neck.)  I am out of my 20s, so I suppose I’m being a bit hard on myself.  I really can’t afford to lose yet another 5 lbs and still look healthy.  But I’m considering it.  Perhaps I just need to get to the gym more. I have been running some nights.  Not a lot and certainly not enough to get to the point where I’ll be ready to train for the Marine Corps Marathon this year.  It’s just not enough of a habit yet.  I guess I’ll need to find another goal. Has anyone ever heard of the Danskin Women’s Triathlons?  They do about 6 across the country every year.  They are specifically designed for beginners (1/2mile swim, 11 mile bike, 5K run).  A professional female triathlete runs the course and is the last one across the finish line, so you’re guarenteed not to come in last.  The closest one for me is in Massachusetts in July.  Maybe I’ll do that.  Of course, that would mean I have to buy a bike and find a place to swim. Yesterday I spoke to my local WW about working as a leader.  They’re in the middle of a training course right now, so I wouldn’t start for a while.  I’m looking forward to doing that and will let you all know how it goes.   More on my losing.  I’ve been eating at 29 points.  Since I had been maintaining at 31 points, I figured the weight would come off slowly. Well, it hasn’t.  So, is my true maintenance range higher?  Geez, this maintenance thing is more complicated than I figured.   Favorite new food: Sara Lee Chocolate-covered Cheesecake Bites.  In the frozen foods, individually wrapped.  Each one is 2 points.  YUM. Okay, I guess that’s it.  I’m doing some work avoidance, because we’re swamped and I’m just in over my head right now.  Oh, yes, my monitor blew out last night.  I reached to turn it on and got an electric shock (my place is very dry and static-y).  Then it just would not turn on.  *sigh* Of course I couldn’t reach tech support last night because it’s not like I keep their numbers handy. I usually just look them up on the web, but with no monitor…. Hope everyone else is doing well!  I haven’t been able to read through everything or respond to much.  Welcome to all the new folks, this place made the difference for me! Best, Diane asdww FAQ: http://www.didian.com/asdww/ 185/146/145

Response:

Question:

I’m training to run the London Marathon but I’ve only managed to complete one run over 20 miles.  Every other time I’ve tried to achieve this distance, I fade badly at around 16 miles and can’t run any further.  My lungs feel great and I don’t feel that tired but my legs just don’t seem to want to run any further.  Has anyone got any advice about what I can do to improve on my performance. Thanks Mark

Response:

Be hydrated before running Hydrate while running Be carb loaded before starting the run Eat carbs early and often in the run (or take carbs in a sports drink) evaluate training program a good deal of the time "hitting the wall" is associated with drops in blood glucose and glycogen depletion.  The body can carry about 2 hours of glycogen so once past that you rely on fatty acid oxidation more heavily (fat burns in the fire of carbohydrate as the saying goes) and fat oxidation is not as efficient.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m training to run the London Marathon but I’ve only managed to complete one run over 20 miles.  Every other time I’ve tried to achieve this distance, I fade badly at around 16 miles and can’t run any further.  My lungs feel great and I don’t feel that tired but my legs just don’t seem to want to run any further.  Has anyone got any advice about what I can do to improve on my performance. Thanks Mark

Response:

If you’re new to marathoning, maybe one completed 20-mile run is the best you can do this time. The worst thing you can do in that case is tire yourself out repeatedly trying to do it again.  One thing that might work is to walk 26 as quick as you can in the next few days.  This is not as crazy as it might sound.  It gives you an awareness of what 26 feels like – and will help with stamina. Julie

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m training to run the London Marathon but I’ve only managed to complete one run over 20 miles.  Every other time I’ve tried to achieve this distance, I fade badly at around 16 miles and can’t run any further.  My lungs feel great and I don’t feel that tired but my legs just don’t seem to want to run any further.  Has anyone got any advice about what I can do to improve on my performance. Thanks Mark

Response:

Marathon conditions are different than any training run. The excitement of other runners and spectators could either help or hurt you. Help you by giving you extra psychic energy to finish the race; Hurt you by making go to hard at the beginning and burning out too early. The best marathon training to have run a marathon. Otherwise it sounds like you’ve doen reasonable training so far and just need go out and try it. It could be be easier or harder than you think. Before you buy.

Response:

Mark, Although it may be too late to try before your race, you might consider slowing the pace of your training long runs to 1.5 to 2.0 minutes per miler slower than race pace. Also, take a few walking breaks whenever you feel like it. Then over time, you can gradully build up to 18,20, or even 26 mile training runs. There is nothing magic about 20 or even 26 miles, the wall is just beyond  what your body is used to. Remember that many ultrarunners do 40-50 mile training runs every month. Rock. Great Floridian Triathlon (4 times: best: 12:28) Old Dominion 100 mile run (1 time: 28:59) * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

Response:

Sam Thanks for you advice about the importance of staying hydrated and eating carbohydrates during the long runs.  Yesterday I ran 22 miles, drinking twice as much water as I used to and sucking on a few butterscotch sweets along the way for the carbohydrates.  I had no problems with hitting the wall and as a result I feel more confident about doing my first Marathon in mid April. Thanks again. Mark

Response:

Glad to help….. Good luck.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sam Thanks for you advice about the importance of staying hydrated and eating carbohydrates during the long runs.  Yesterday I ran 22 miles, drinking twice as much water as I used to and sucking on a few butterscotch sweets along the way for the carbohydrates.  I had no problems with hitting the wall and as a result I feel more confident about doing my first Marathon in mid April. Thanks again. Mark

Response:

Try some type of carbo gel.  You might find it more energizing than candies, due to its long chain carbs. JW – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Sam Thanks for you advice about the importance of staying hydrated and eating carbohydrates during the long runs.  Yesterday I ran 22 miles, drinking twice as much water as I used to and sucking on a few butterscotch sweets along the way for the carbohydrates.  I had no problems with hitting the wall and as a result I feel more confident about doing my first Marathon in mid April. Thanks again. Mark

Response:

Question:

Rick Denney’s 40-30-30 bars p.s – and if anyone out there hasn’t tried these yet, you oughta.  they’re sooo good.  credit to rick.

I second that – they’re great anytime, but they’re frickin’ amazing right after a workout. TriathRon

Response:

hey folks – so i’m home from university for the xmas break and i just realized that i left the recipie for Rick Denney’s 40-30-30 bars back at school.  HELP!  if anyone has it could they please send it along (in simple text is probably easiest) — i’m starting to get really hungry!

Rick "http://home.earthlink.net/~rdenney/rickbars.htm" Denney

Response:

Hi, What is this Rick Denny’s 40-30-30 recipe? I do take the Ironman 40-30-30 bars but i have never heard of that recipe. Maybe, you would be kind enough to share it with me. i only found out about this diet when I was doing triathlon some time back. But i am not too sure if the diet works? Let me know. Irwina

Response:

Hi, What is this Rick Denny’s 40-30-30 recipe? I do take the Ironman 40-30-30 bars but i have never heard of that recipe. Maybe, you would be kind enough to share it with me. i only found out about this diet when I was doing triathlon some time back. But i am not too sure if the diet works? Let me know. Irwina

- I heard that the Rick Denny bars give you alot of energy, but they make you run to the bike shop to buy a new bike;-) D.J.  " I’m only allowed to eat the bars after the LBS closes"  (IRONKID)

Response:

hey folks – so i’m home from university for the xmas break and i just realized that i left the recipie for Rick Denney’s 40-30-30 bars back at school.  HELP!  if anyone has it could they please send it along (in simple text is probably easiest) — i’m starting to get really hungry! thanks, -mike p.s – and if anyone out there hasn’t tried these yet, you oughta.  they’re sooo good.  credit to rick.

Response:

it’s on the OLD RST website, at http://rec.sport.triathlon.homepage.com  I left it up because I’m still stealing things from it for the new site. The new one’s almost ready. Mike

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – hey folks – so i’m home from university for the xmas break and i just realized that i left the recipie for Rick Denney’s 40-30-30 bars back at school.  HELP! if anyone has it could they please send it along (in simple text is probably easiest) — i’m starting to get really hungry! thanks, -mike p.s – and if anyone out there hasn’t tried these yet, you oughta.  they’re sooo good.  credit to rick.

Response:

Question:

diagnosed w/ meniscus tear in right knee.  dr said i could begin light stationary cycling immediately, swimming in 10 days, & running in 4 weeks.  i would appreciate comments from anyone who has been subject to this procedure, ie, describe your recovery & how long did it take you to get back to running?  thanks. cajunman

Response:

I had the same problem a year ago. I came back too soon and injured my knee again. The second time I did stationary bike for about four weeks and strenghtening exercises for the muscles around the knee, but no weights. After about six weeks I started to run again with little problems but occcasional soreness if I don’t rest. For me the treadmill makes my knee hurt but actual running doesn’t.                                  TJK Tim K.

Response:

diagnosed w/ meniscus tear in right knee.  dr said i could begin light stationary cycling immediately, swimming in 10 days, & running in 4 weeks. <snip

I had the same problem. The doctor told me not to run for 4 months. He said biking and swimming were OK. That would strengthen the muscles around the knee and help prevent a reoccurrence. The doctor recommended against surgery because I am young enough (32) that removing any cartilage would be worse in the long run. That pretty much ended my triathlon season before it got started this year. How frustrating! Good luck,Paul

Response:

These posts are interesting.  (I hoped there would be more discussion, however. I have been diagnosed with a meniscus tear and I am about to see some surgeons for  consultation.  I assumed they  would all recommend surgery.  Is this not the case?  Have people recovered from this injury without surgery?  (The tear is still there,  presumably.)  If you don’t have surgery, what happens? OTOH, if you  do have the surgery, what happens?  What kind of recovery have people experienced who have had arthroscopic surgery?  How long does it take, do you have to use a cane, etc.? I should add  that I am 53 and have been running for 21 years. Lenore Beaky

Response:

I had surgery on wednesday. The Dr. trimmed away the inner tear and smoothed the bones. ( That’s what my wife said. I was out.) I had planned to run a 5K on Oct. 31st. The Dr. told me not to put ANY weight on it and to keep it elevated until I see him on Tues. He told my wife that I would not be running for 6 weeks minimum. I knew it would be a while but I was hoping that it would be more like 2-3 weeks. Of course right now I would settle for walking. I fear I may let my teammates down in the race. I’ll have very little time to train at this rate ( If I can make it at all). We were to do a Tri in Nov. I was to do the bike leg. I think I’ll make that. Any one else want to share recovery times and suggestions? Wayne

Response:

: I had surgery on wednesday. The Dr. trimmed away the inner tear and… : I had planned to run a 5K on Oct. 31st…. : I knew it would be a while but I was hoping that it would be more like : 2-3 weeks…. : I fear I may let my teammates down in the race. I’ll have very little : time to train at this rate ( If I can make it at all). We were to do a : Tri in Nov. I was to do the bike leg. I think I’ll make that. : Any one else want to share recovery times and suggestions? First suggestion.  Don’t take this the wrong way, but don’t be an idiot. You’ll be much worse off pushing it and hurting yourself than telling your teammates to shove it.  In fact, if they really were your friends, they would be encouraging you not to run and not putting any pressure on you.  So much for the opinion…  Now some anecdotal data. I had "exploratory" arthoscopy once (and never again) since the quack- excuse me, doctor- couldn’t figure out what was wrong.  Since he was in there with nothing to do, he ripped out a plica.  I was relatively young (28?)  and in great shape before the surgery.  The bozo kicked me out the door with not much advice other than "ride a bike a lot".  Lots of pain and swelling.  If I recall right, the surgery was in May, and by late June I ran a relatively slow two mile race on the track, and in late July ran a decent mile. A year later I had another surgery that actually fixed the problem. This time I had a good doctor who properly diagnosed the problem (scar tissue on the patellar tendon from smacking my knee on the edge of a desk), and he cleaned it out.  That surgery was in March, and I think I was almost full speed by July. Most relevant data: I had a meniscus tear trimmed in June of 1992. Again, I was in pretty good shape going into the surgery.  Less than a week after the surgery I was spinning an exercise bike at 80 rpm with no load.  About 4 weeks later I was going a few gentle, few minute runs on a treadmill.  I ran on a track the first time, 800 meters very slowly, in late July.  In October (I think) I ran a slow but not embarrassing 10k. So, 6 weeks to first run seems about right.  3 to 4 months to getting to the point where you are in out of shape shape is what I think you might expect.  I would recommend doing standard cross training stuff if you want to get back as soon as you can: biking and swimming.  Do as much as you can to keep your cardiovascular up, and then all you’ll need to do is train the legs. -pfrench

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Question:

Hi;  This was my first year applying for a lottery spot and was not selected. I am curious to know how many years it took for any of you to get lucky in the lottery?  One triathlete I know told me it took him 10 years to get in!  For all of you have waiting and got in, Congratulations!!!   Kim  

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Hi;  This was my first year applying for a lottery spot and was not selected. I am curious to know how many years it took for any of you to get lucky in the lottery?  One triathlete I know told me it took him 10 years to get in!  For all of you have waiting and got in, Congratulations!!! Kim

My first attempt this year also. No go! I guess I will be sending in for nine more years along with you. Congrats to all that made it.   Alan

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I didn’t get in either. This was my first year as well.  I had a blast for 4 months though training and dreaming.  There is always next year.  Congrats to all the lucky winners! James – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi;  This was my first year applying for a lottery spot and was not selected. I am curious to know how many years it took for any of you to get lucky in the lottery?  One triathlete I know told me it took him 10 years to get in! For all of you have waiting and got in, Congratulations!!! Kim My first attempt this year also. No go! I guess I will be sending in for nine more years along with you. Congrats to all that made it. Alan

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Shucks, shucks, shucks. No luck for me either…Been sending it in for years. I did get there in 1991 though, so at least I’ve had a shot. Best, Mark

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Shucks, shucks, shucks. No luck for me either…Been sending it in for years. I did get there in 1991 though, so at least I’ve had a shot. Best, Mark </PRE</HTML

So do some people PAY for their slots?  Does that happen?

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I suppose you mean with money? What about training really hard and qualifying through merit? Does that count as paying? — Phil Squire Going for it in Roth 98. http://w1.116.telia.com/~u11602093/pstri.htm ICQ 11599162 – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Shucks, shucks, shucks. No luck for me either…Been sending it in for years. I did get there in 1991 though, so at least I’ve had a shot. Best, Mark </PRE</HTML So do some people PAY for their slots?  Does that happen?

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Made it my first year.  Nothing since.  4 years!

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This was my tenth year in the lottery and I have never been picked.

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Curious question to ask. The "odds" of getting selected in any particular year are not effected by having entered in previous years. That is, those who entered the lottery for the first time this year had the same odds as someone who had entered every lottery for 10 years. They are independent acts, like flipping a coin. The previous flip has no effect on the next. Each flip is 50/50. The only thing for sure:  if you didn’t enter – you weren’t selected. Mike "TriBop" Tennent http://www.gate.net/~wbrunner/ WebRunner Running My Model Railroad ‘98 Ironman Canada IronVirgins Site

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I just started training for my first triathalon.  I need to bye a road bike to train and race on.  I wanted to ask the newsgroup if they had any suggestions on what kind of bike a begining triathalete should bye thanks mike Mike: There are a lot of options in this case. I guesss one of the important questions is whether or not triathlon is the only sport you practice that uses a bike. If you also participate in cycling, and would want to use one and the same bike for that, it becomes a tough nut to crack. If you only need a bike for triathlon training and racing, I would really suggest you look at a triathlon specific bike. This way, all later upgrades will bring you closer to your "ultimate bike". If you start with a road bike and later upgrade the aerowheels (700c), it may prevent you from switching to a 650c triathlon frame later, as you are stuck with these expensive wheels. This happens to many people. For beginners tri bikes, there are quite a few options these days, depending on how serious you are and how much you want to spend. For about $ 1000, you can buy a Scott Waimea, if it is still available. Cannondale has several models as well, although I don’t know exact pricing and specs. I do know that they do not have a very steep seat angle, but stick to around 75 degrees. This is less than optimal. For $ 1500-2000, there are QRs ranging from a bike with a normal fork and Ultegra 8speed to on with an Aluminum "aero" fork and Ultegra 9speed. Also $ 2000 (1998 to be exact), is the Cervelo Eyre Tri. It comes standard race ready with Ultegra 9speed, a carbon aerofork, racewheels and integrated aerobars. No need for upgrades here. It isn’t strictly a beginners bike, but one you can keep using until you win Powerman Honolulu or Holland, or a stage in the France IronTour

Well, that’s all good advice, but for a beginner, I’d say to get something used until you really know you want to stick with the sport.  You can pick up a really nice bike (either a standard road bike or a tri-specific steed) for astonishingly good prices if you go used. Also, I would not advise a beginner to go with a tri-specific bike for his/her first bike.  A standard road bike is going to be far more versatile, and the forward position of a tri bike takes more getting used to than does the road bike.  Not to mention it can still be a hassle getting tubes and tires for 650c wheels in some places. Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "REAL Triathletes don’t draft." *** Ironman Canada 1997 – 13:04:09 *** http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~brooksie        

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I just started training for my first triathalon.  I need to bye a road bike to train and race on.  I wanted to ask the newsgroup if they had any suggestions on what kind of bike a begining triathalete should bye thanks mike

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I just started training for my first triathalon.  I need to bye a road bike to train and race on.  I wanted to ask the newsgroup if they had any suggestions on what kind of bike a begining triathalete should bye thanks mike

Mike: There are a lot of options in this case. I guesss one of the important questions is whether or not triathlon is the only sport you practice that uses a bike. If you also participate in cycling, and would want to use one and the same bike for that, it becomes a tough nut to crack. If you only need a bike for triathlon training and racing, I would really suggest you look at a triathlon specific bike. This way, all later upgrades will bring you closer to your "ultimate bike". If you start with a road bike and later upgrade the aerowheels (700c), it may prevent you from switching to a 650c triathlon frame later, as you are stuck with these expensive wheels. This happens to many people. For beginners tri bikes, there are quite a few options these days, depending on how serious you are and how much you want to spend. For about $ 1000, you can buy a Scott Waimea, if it is still available. Cannondale has several models as well, although I don’t know exact pricing and specs. I do know that they do not have a very steep seat angle, but stick to around 75 degrees. This is less than optimal. For $ 1500-2000, there are QRs ranging from a bike with a normal fork and Ultegra 8speed to on with an Aluminum "aero" fork and Ultegra 9speed. Also $ 2000 (1998 to be exact), is the Cervelo Eyre Tri. It comes standard race ready with Ultegra 9speed, a carbon aerofork, racewheels and integrated aerobars. No need for upgrades here. It isn’t strictly a beginners bike, but one you can keep using until you win Powerman Honolulu or Holland, or a stage in the France IronTour Hope this helps, Sincerely, Gerard Vroomen, Cervelo Cycles website: http://www.cervelo.com

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Question:

I would like to take a moment here to thank USAT, their stellar Medical Team led by T.K. Miller, Masseuse Team of David Ledesma, Peter Block and Carole, JB Betzold, our genius bike mechanic, Steve Locke, and especially Tim Yount !!  These are personnel of stellar talent , skill, and character.  In addition to their encouragement, support  and confidence in us, they also performed several miracles. The interaction amongst International Athletes was authentic and invigorating !  The Australian athletes were incredibly awesome;  combat swimming is their specialty ! The country is tremendously beautiful and the Australian people are warm, gentle , accommodating, polite and gracious. It was an honor and a privilege to be counted among this chosen few for, as I have been told, the best World Championship in its history. I can now speak first hand as to the continuity and support of our Governing Body, USAT.  They work diligently to provide the World Arena with a body of athletes that can be counted as among the best. Congratulations to Pete Kain;  best in the World in the 30-34 division ! Also, Walt Palmer, Bill Scweitzer and Jim Ward, also the best !

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I would like to echo all of Lynne’s praise comments and to add a thank you for Dick Koons who organized all of the Hotel accommodations and air bookings for the trip package.  His work schlepping our bikes around did not go unnoticed.  Thanks Dick. The only down side was that 11 days was not enough to see Australia AND do a race.  I can’t wait to go back and just see Australia. — Ray Plotecia | I would like to take a moment here to thank USAT, their stellar Medical Team | led by T.K. Miller, Masseuse Team of David Ledesma, Peter Block and Carole, | JB Betzold, our genius bike mechanic, Steve Locke, and especially Tim Yount | !!  These are personnel of stellar talent , skill, and character.  In | addition to their encouragement, support  and confidence in us, they also | performed several miracles. | | The interaction amongst International Athletes was authentic and | invigorating !  The Australian athletes were incredibly awesome;  combat | swimming is their specialty ! | | The country is tremendously beautiful and the Australian people are warm, | gentle , accommodating, polite and gracious. | | It was an honor and a privilege to be counted among this chosen few for, as | I have been told, the best World Championship in its history. | | I can now speak first hand as to the continuity and support of our Governing | Body, USAT.  They work diligently to provide the World Arena with a body of | athletes that can be counted as among the best. | | Congratulations to Pete Kain;  best in the World in the 30-34 division ! | Also, Walt Palmer, Bill Scweitzer and Jim Ward, also the best ! | | |

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As one of the many volunteer officials at the event and a ‘not good enough for the Aussie team’ triathlete, all I can say is that is was an awesome experience having the event here in our fair city.  It was a pleasure dealing with all the best atheletes in the world and the common theme was by far and away their good natures. Hope to see you all back in Perth again. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would like to take a moment here to thank USAT, their stellar Medical Team led by T.K. Miller, Masseuse Team of David Ledesma, Peter Block and Carole, JB Betzold, our genius bike mechanic, Steve Locke, and especially Tim Yount !!  These are personnel of stellar talent , skill, and character.  In addition to their encouragement, support  and confidence in us, they also performed several miracles. The interaction amongst International Athletes was authentic and invigorating !  The Australian athletes were incredibly awesome;  combat swimming is their specialty ! The country is tremendously beautiful and the Australian people are warm, gentle , accommodating, polite and gracious. It was an honor and a privilege to be counted among this chosen few for, as I have been told, the best World Championship in its history. I can now speak first hand as to the continuity and support of our Governing Body, USAT.  They work diligently to provide the World Arena with a body of athletes that can be counted as among the best. Congratulations to Pete Kain;  best in the World in the 30-34 division ! Also, Walt Palmer, Bill Scweitzer and Jim Ward, also the best !

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Paul, On behalf of our TEAM USA, may I offer our most heartfelt thanks for the incredible hospitality extended to us by your team of very hardworking volunteers !!  Your attention to detail in handling the athletes , the transition area and rolling out the red carpet was indeed impressive !! Personally, I have never witnessed such a level of hospitality ! You folks are so warm, gentle, kind and selfless ! Thanks so much for making our experience in Perth a most memorable and special time ! – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – As one of the many volunteer officials at the event and a ‘not good enough for the Aussie team’ triathlete, all I can say is that is was an awesome experience having the event here in our fair city.  It was a pleasure dealing with all the best atheletes in the world and the common theme was by far and away their good natures. Hope to see you all back in Perth again. I would like to take a moment here to thank USAT, their stellar Medical Team led by T.K. Miller, Masseuse Team of David Ledesma, Peter Block and Carole, JB Betzold, our genius bike mechanic, Steve Locke, and especially Tim Yount !!  These are personnel of stellar talent , skill, and character.  In addition to their encouragement, support  and confidence in us, they also performed several miracles. The interaction amongst International Athletes was authentic and invigorating !  The Australian athletes were incredibly awesome;  combat swimming is their specialty ! The country is tremendously beautiful and the Australian people are warm, gentle , accommodating, polite and gracious. It was an honor and a privilege to be counted among this chosen few for, as I have been told, the best World Championship in its history. I can now speak first hand as to the continuity and support of our Governing Body, USAT.  They work diligently to provide the World Arena with a body of athletes that can be counted as among the best. Congratulations to Pete Kain;  best in the World in the 30-34 division ! Also, Walt Palmer, Bill Scweitzer and Jim Ward, also the best !

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Here, here.  I second or third Lynne and Ray.  As they say in Aussieland…..WELL DONE.  What an awesome experience.  And to all the staff, Thank you.  Its one heck of a long way and the Team USA staff  had to put up with a lot of whinney cranky people when we got off that plane.  They made us feel special and never complained.  The people in Austalia are so nice.  We were all in a culture shock when we landed in LA. Hope I make it to Switzerland.

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Question:

It is amazing but when I am in the pool I can swim steadily without any breathing problems.  But put me in a race with a wetsuit and halfway through the swim I am gasping for air trying to rip the neck off the suit. Now I will admit that I swim faster in the race,  but how do prevent my breathing problems?  If you can help . . . . .

One thing you can do is practice in the pool using your wetsuit, I’ve found out that after a winter of non use my wetsuit seem to shrink and needs to be stretched out every season.  It taks a little while to get used to the tightness of a wetsuit around your chest and neck.  Just remember the more you use it the easier it gets.   Just rinse out your suit well after using it in a pool.

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It is amazing but when I am in the pool I can swim steadily without any breathing problems.  But put me in a race with a wetsuit and halfway through the swim I am gasping for air trying to rip the neck off the suit. Now I will admit that I swim faster in the race,  but how do prevent my breathing problems?  If you can help . . . . .

It’s simple – leading up to your race season, get out in the open water, in your wet suit and swim, swim, swim.  This problem affect many triathletes who do most of their training in the pool.   Our club has two swims a week through the summer, almost all in the sea. One is a coached session and we will either swim a long course -1.5km-2.5km- or mix it up with short dashes between moored boat or buoys.  The other is a "get together" where we swim for 40min-1hr in a semi-organised fashion, with someone setting a course similar to the coached session. We also practice turning at buoys, drafting(!!!!), swimming over another swimmer, entry and exit. I also try and have a solo swim once a week for about 20mins where I practice my navigation (head up every 6 strokes or on the crest of a swell). All this means that I go into a race relaxed and confident about my race environment – the water.  Of course, I’m just as uptight as everyone else about the race itself.  It is possible that your problem of breathlessness is simply tension about the race.  (I do duathlons too and I have to fight the tension in the first run to get my breathing under control). Another thought – get in the wetsuit early and have good warm up before the race – this could help you establish your breathing pattern. Jeff — |At work:        Phone: +64-9-424 5388      Fax:    +64-21-785 097 | |   Program Development/Client Support      Mobile: +64-21-635 185 | |   Aspect Systems Ltd                                             | |   Specialists in software for Real Estate and Human Resources    | |At home:                                   Phone:  +64-9-424 0336 | |   Husband, Dad, Grandad                                          | |   Enthusiastic but slow triathlete                               | |   Justice of the Peace                                           | | This information is probably worth more than you paid for it     |

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It is amazing but when I am in the pool I can swim steadily without any breathing problems.  But put me in a race with a wetsuit and halfway through the swim I am gasping for air trying to rip the neck off the suit. Now I will admit that I swim faster in the race,  but how do prevent my breathing problems?  If you can help . . . . .

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Question:

Count me too!!

Julie Baker

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Newsgroups: rec.sport.triathlon Organization: Deakin Uni Count me too!!

Julie Baker

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:   : : Count me too!! :   :   : Julie Baker *puts hand up as another aussie* Any others going to the UNi Games in Darwin for the triathlon or cycling? Gemm — Occasionally attends the University of South Australia, Adelaide.

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:   : : Count me too!! :   :   : Julie Baker *puts hand up as another aussie* Any others going to the UNi Games in Darwin for the triathlon or cycling? Gemm — Occasionally attends the University of South Australia, Adelaide.

Count me in for the UNI games in Darwin too. It’s going to be hot. Stuart Monash Uni, melbourne

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Newsgroups: rec.sport.triathlon Organization: Silicon Graphics Inc Count me also! — Ian Lilly                                         Phone  +61 2 879 9500 Marketing Manager                         Home   +61 2 523 1509 Mining and Petroleum Industries                   FAX    +61 2 879 9585 Silicon Graphics Inc, Intercontinental Area       Voicemail       58890 Up and down the lane I go, day after day, year after year.       ,===/o__

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Count me in for the UNI games in Darwin too. It’s going to be hot. Stuart Monash Uni, melbourne

Oooh, oooh, I’m only a Kiwi, but I’ll be in Cairns for the weeks spanning the games (with some Melbournites actually – the Melbourne Epidemiology Group).  Wonder if I could make it to Darwin to see the tri and stuff…how much is travel from Darwin to Cairns return? (or better still, round the other way) Tri-Git, aka Myles Cockburn, Dept of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago Medical School, P O Box 913, DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND. e-mail:

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Count me also! — Ian Lilly                                         Phone  +61 2 879 9500 Marketing Manager                                 Home   +61 2 523 1509 Mining and Petroleum Industries                   FAX    +61 2 879 9585 Silicon Graphics Inc, Intercontinental Area       Voicemail       58890 Up and down the lane I go, day after day, year after year.       ,===/o__

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Newsgroups: rec.sport.triathlon Organization: ADFA News Service (John Pollard) writes: On a totally different line, just how many other Aussies are there out there who read r.s.t.? Well here we go, the Kiwi’s did it, now so are we!

Count me in Tony Jeffery Australian Defence Force Academy Canberra

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On a totally different line, just how many other Aussies are there out there who read r.s.t.? Tri Wezel aka Stewart Ralph Canberra, Australia Well here we go, the Kiwi’s did it, now so are we!

just keep counting. john pollard               | Queensland Corrective Services

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On a totally different line, just how many other Aussies are there out there who read r.s.t.? Well here we go, the Kiwi’s did it, now so are we!

Count me in Tony Jeffery Australian Defence Force Academy Canberra

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What about bike prices in australia? Can you compare them with prices in the USA or are the bikes in australia much more expensive. Friedrich-von-Spee Str. 10 | 33098 Paderborn            |   Germany Phone: 05251/640740        |  

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What about bike prices in australia? Can you compare them with prices in the USA or are the bikes in australia much more expensive.

Absolutely more expensive, in my experience about 30% more. Sheesh! Regards, PB  :-)  home page:        http://werple.mira.net.au/~pb/pb.htm  triathlon page:   http://werple.mira.net.au/~pb/tri/tri.htm

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What about bike prices in australia? Can you compare them with prices in the USA or are the bikes in australia much more expensive.

I can’t give you any exact figures, but prices in the States should be much cheaper than in Australia. Regards, Richard

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What about bike prices in australia? Can you compare them with prices in the USA or are the bikes in australia much more expensive. I can’t give you any exact figures, but prices in the States should be much cheaper than in Australia. Regards, Richard

Here are a few examples of the hyperinflated bike prices in Australia; Softride Qualifier (26") A$ 3300 = U$ 2500 (This is what I ride.) Trek 5200               A$ 3400 = U$ 2550 Cannondale R 700        A$ 3000 = U$ 2200 Zipp 400/440 wheels     A$ 750  = U$ 550 Spinergy wheels         A$ 800  = U$ 600 These are but a few examples ( but are particularly relevant to tri’s.) These high prices of bikes and related gear are caused by high import tariffs and excise duties, and a relatively small domestic market for these goods. To make the situation worse (for us Aussies), by the time goods are imported privately from the US, then are slugged with shipping and customs duties, they are not altogether cheaper. This was shown by a recent article in (for all you Aussies reading) "Cycling World." This makes the sport of triathlon appear fairly expensive for newbies to get into; even so, the sport is currently expanding at an unseen of rate here in Australia; especially with the Advent of the Triathlon Grand Prix series of races. On a totally different line, just how many other Aussies are there out there who read r.s.t.? Tri Wezel aka Stewart Ralph Canberra, Australia "You can’t always go fast, but at least you can look good." (Anon.)

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On a totally different line, just how many other Aussies are there out there who read r.s.t.? Tri Wezel aka Stewart Ralph Canberra, Australia

Well here we go, the Kiwi’s did it, now so are we! Tri-nomial yet to be decided Stuart Jacobson Melbourne, Australia

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On a totally different line, just how many other Aussies are there out there who read r.s.t.? Tri Wezel aka Stewart Ralph Canberra, Australia Well here we go, the Kiwi’s did it, now so are we!

Yep, another… —     Andrew Moore      |    Department of Robotics and Digital Technology Ph:  +61 3 990 53234  |   Clayton Campus, Monash Uni, VIC 3168, Australia This space for rent   |     WWW: http://www.rdt.monash.edu.au/~andrew/

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Question:

Can anyone reccomend a bike shop that has the triathlon in mind in or near Baltimore?  Heck, I’d be happy to have a shop with competent mechanics and more than two road bikes on the floor.   Thanks for any info… Scott. p.s.  I agreed with the Baltimore "City Paper"’s Best Bike Shop in Baltimore: none. — S. MacDougall-Shackleton Dept. of Psychology               -another Canadian stranded in Baltimore- Johns Hopkins University      

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(Scott MacDougall-Shackleton) writes:

<<bike shop that has the triathlon in mind in or near Baltimore? None there.  However, there is a great one not too too far away in College Park, aptly named College Park.  Our beloved Ruth Kazez shops there, I believe.  The shop is owned by very enthusiastic Larry Black, and managed by very accomplished age-group triathlete Maryanne Zuckerman.   QRman

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Can anyone reccomend a bike shop that has the triathlon in mind in or near Baltimore?  Heck, I’d be happy to have a shop with competent mechanics and more than two road bikes on the floor.   Thanks for any info… Scott. p.s.  I agreed with the Baltimore "City Paper"’s Best Bike Shop in Baltimore: none.

guess you didn’t like race pace (assuming they’re still alive).

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