Question:

After finishing a half-marathon, my legs and feet are sore and I have a fever.  I already had a cold Friday night, but no fever until I finished the race.  I might have done too many things wrong.  First of all, I weight trained, both upper and lower 8 hours before the race.  I had to meet my quota for that week, so I had to do the weight training, which was a bad idea when I woke up the next day because my left calf was in pain.  I woke up late and by the time I arrived at the race, I had 10 minutes to get ready.  That means getting my chip, number, and souvenir as well as put my stuff in the bus to be taken to the finish line.  My warm-up was basically the 5 or 8 block run from the train station to the starting line.  When they announced two minutes to start, I still had to pee and the line was so long.  I felt being rushed, but thank goodness the race was delayed by 10 minutes.  I didn’t even get to enjoy the scenery of Coney Island, a place I’ve never been before.  I didn’t have breakfast or any kind of food along the way.  I think I was dehydrated too since I didn’t have time to drink water before the race.  I forced myself to stop at every water station to hydrate myself.  Should I have eaten something along the way like PowerGel?  I saw a lot of people eating them.  I guy I met at the train was eating some kind of protein bar.  I wanted to ask him if he had anymore, but I was embarassed.  I figured it’s only a half marathon and when I did the 10M run last week, I did the same thing, no food and I was fine.  But in this race, after the 10M, I was just dragging.  After the race, my time was under 2 hours and I actually beat my expected time by over 2 minutes, but I was basically dead tired.  I felt like I don’t want to run ever again.  The pain in my left calf got worse and to make the story worse, I had to walk 13 blocks to my car.  To make it even worse, I had to carry furnitures to my new apartment because I was moving that afternoon. When I went to WalMart to buy some cleaning stuff, I was just cursing everybody who got in my way.  I was irritated and tired from the fever. Thank God nobody fight back. Fever is worse today and I still have to move more stuff.

Response:

Great report, Bob. Keep it up. Jonathan

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After finishing a half-marathon, my legs and feet are sore and I have a fever.  I already had a cold Friday night, but no fever until I finished the race.  I might have done too many things wrong.  First of all, I weight trained, both upper and lower 8 hours before the race.  I had to meet my quota for that week, so I had to do the weight training, which was a bad idea when I woke up the next day because my left calf was in pain.  I woke up late and by the time I arrived at the race, I had 10 minutes to get ready.  That means getting my chip, number, and souvenir as well as put my stuff in the bus to be taken to the finish line.  My warm-up was basically the 5 or 8 block run from the train station to the starting line.  When they announced two minutes to start, I still had to pee and the line was so long.  I felt being rushed, but thank goodness the race was delayed by 10 minutes.  I didn’t even get to enjoy the scenery of Coney Island, a place I’ve never been before.  I didn’t have breakfast or any kind of food along the way.  I think I was dehydrated too since I didn’t have time to drink water before the race.  I forced myself to stop at every water station to hydrate myself.  Should I have eaten something along the way like PowerGel?  I saw a lot of people eating them.  I guy I met at the train was eating some kind of protein bar.  I wanted to ask him if he had anymore, but I was embarassed.  I figured it’s only a half marathon and when I did the 10M run last week, I did the same thing, no food and I was fine.  But in this race, after the 10M, I was just dragging.  After the race, my time was under 2 hours and I actually beat my expected time by over 2 minutes, but I was basically dead tired.  I felt like I don’t want to run ever again.  The pain in my left calf got worse and to make the story worse, I had to walk 13 blocks to my car.  To make it even worse, I had to carry furnitures to my new apartment because I was moving that afternoon. When I went to WalMart to buy some cleaning stuff, I was just cursing everybody who got in my way.  I was irritated and tired from the fever. Thank God nobody fight back. Fever is worse today and I still have to move more stuff.

Response:

scenery of Coney Island, a place I’ve never been before.  I didn’t have breakfast or any kind of food along the way.  I think I was dehydrated too since I didn’t have time to drink water before the race.  I forced

Not fully hydrated does not mean you are dehydrated. A little like you don’t need a full tank of gas to drive your car. If you had get enough water the day before you weren’t dehydrated. If you got stinkin’ drunk the night before you were dehydrated. myself to stop at every water station to hydrate myself.  Should I have eaten something along the way like PowerGel?  I saw a lot of people

Along the way to the start? If so PowerGel won’t get you very far, my experience is that they will last me 40 minutes. Along the way in the race? Probably a good idea if you didn’t eat breakfast. figured it’s only a half marathon and when I did the 10M run last week, I did the same thing, no food and I was fine.  But in this race, after

Then you should have had the Powergel around 8 or 9 miles. That would have gotten you to 12 miles at least. the 10M, I was just dragging.  After the race, my time was under 2 hours and I actually beat my expected time by over 2 minutes, but I was basically dead tired.  I felt like I don’t want to run ever again.

Goes to show that even when things go wrong they can end up better than expected. Incorporate what you learned today into your future race planning. But I know what you say about never wanting to run again. pain in my left calf got worse and to make the story worse, I had to walk 13 blocks to my car.

Warm down? hehe.  To make it even worse, I had to carry furnitures to my new apartment because I was moving that afternoon.

You should have included that in your week’s worth of weight training. But since you live in NYC that means you have a nice elevator in your building ;-. When I went to WalMart to buy some cleaning stuff, I was just cursing everybody who got in my way.  I was irritated and tired from the fever. Thank God nobody fight back.

Yeah, dis is Noo Yawk, you’re f***’in lucky. Fever is worse today and I still have to move more stuff.

I once moved into a new place the week before a long triathlon. Lesson learned: never move right before or after a big race. For the rest of the week I was incapacitated by a fever and achey back. Man that was no fun. You deserve a break. Andy

Response:

Question:

Im a new swimmer and have joined the local high school swim team for the sole purpose of being coached. Coach has told me how to improve my stroke but has mainly concentrated on swimming my rear off. Sprints, and multiple 500m by the clock. Im not a coach and am thankful i have one and will do whatever he says gladly. However, it seems his tech. is swim fast and hard to get better. My tech. still sucks, 10yr olds are still slapping my heels. Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

The coach is right.  The approach to swimming for speed is different from running in a few ways, even in open water distance training. The thing that you have discovered is the composition of the workout. Every workout has substantial interval content.  Also, the rest interval is MUCH shorter than in running (five to fifteen seconds rest). Now, regarding your subject line…  I am a former competitive swimmer, so my technique is fairly good.  However, I did the GCT last year in red flag conditions.  The chop was SO bad, I suspect that brute strength and conditioning became more important than efficient technique.  The current and waves are very disruptive to your form, IMHO. rsquared Coach has told me how to improve my stroke but has mainly concentrated on swimming my rear off. Sprints, and multiple 500m by the clock

Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Get yourself a copy of the total immersion book and/or video.  It really helped me a lot.  I am a firm believer of technique over strength. gordo "getting faster but will always have his feet slapped by the 10 yr. olds" byrn

Response:

Im a new swimmer and have joined the local high school swim team for the sole purpose of being coached. Coach has told me how to improve my stroke but has mainly concentrated on swimming my rear off. Sprints, and multiple 500m by the clock. Im not a coach and am thankful i have one and will do whatever he says gladly. However, it seems his tech. is swim fast and hard to get better. My tech. still sucks, 10yr olds are still slapping my heels.

There is an old judo addage. "Power is no substitute for technique " but also.. "Technique is no substitute for power." That being said , as a swiming newbie myself, my huge leaps forward have all been due to my coach correcting ( and drilling in those corrections ) my technique. Bottom line is its a skill thing. And BTW.. Some 10 year olds are very fast. Brian P "swims like a brick" Casey

Response:

That being said , as a swiming newbie myself, my huge leaps forward have all been due to my coach correcting ( and drilling in those corrections ) my technique. Bottom line is its a skill thing.

 AHA! There is your problem! You have been ’swiming’ and the rest of us are ’swimming’! Just drop that extra ‘m’ in there and you are golden! J/K John OSN: 1×600 (50 F, 25 B) 10×50 pull on the 1:30, WU, WD "Ad astra per aspera" "A rough road leads to the stars"

Response:

 There is an old swimming addage that goes:    "Practice does not make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect"  Loose translation – Unlike other sports, you can practice swimming,                      and practice it a lot. And you can do so without                      risking overuse or stress injuries. This of                      course assumes that your technique is solid and                      nothing in your stroke is placing undue stress on                      critical joints, ie; the shoulders. Thus, the                      concept of practicing perfect.    The point, make sure your technique is solid and fundamentals are  in place so when you are practicing, your not reinforcing bad  habits or risking stress injuries.  Rich Davis                          Home Page: http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~twm/TTH.html

Response:

Get coaching that will improve your technique, you’ll make greater speed improvements than thrashing through the water. On the other hand, I bet a swimmer with mediocre technique gets a pretty good cardiovascular work out compared to the efficient swimmer going at the same speed. Everitt

Response:

There is an old judo addage. "Power is no substitute for technique " but also.. "Technique is no substitute for power." That being said , as a swiming newbie myself, my huge leaps forward have all been due to my coach correcting ( and drilling in those corrections ) my technique. Bottom line is its a skill thing.

I’ve also found, though, that as a triathlete, who’s not competing in 100m swim events, that all the technique training in the world won’t help if, after the first 1/8 mile, you become sloppy due to fatigue. Tired arms don’t reach as far, or track proper form as well as arms that are not tired.

Response:

My two cents on this: Technique. You don’t actually have to be that strong to motor through the water. (Witness all the women in my masters group that wake me every practice.  I know for a fact that… well, until the accident… that I had way more upper body strength, and comparable or better endurance.) As nearly as I can figure, the components to swimming success, in order, are: 1.  High, straight body position. 2.  Technique. 3.  Upper body stamina. 4.  Upper body strength. 5.  Knowing how to kick just enough to keep your body position high, but without kicking hard enough to create drag.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My two cents on this: Technique. You don’t actually have to be that strong to motor through the water. (Witness all the women in my masters group that wake me every practice.  I know for a fact that… well, until the accident… that I had way more upper body strength, and comparable or better endurance.) As nearly as I can figure, the components to swimming success, in order, are: 1.  High, straight body position. 2.  Technique. 3.  Upper body stamina. 4.  Upper body strength. 5.  Knowing how to kick just enough to keep your body position high, but without kicking hard enough to create drag.

These are great points, but I believe that these actually have to work completely together.  For instance.  You may have poor form and lack upper body strength and stamina.  Well, all the stroke perfecting advice in the world will not help you much if you run out of steam (and therefore concentration) to maintain your perfect stroke.  Many of the coaches I knew would emphasize building upper body strength and then concentrate on stroke when you could actually maintain your stroking for many numbers of laps. Also, with swimming, you really have to spend a long time to get your stroke and technique down to working for you.  It took me almost 2 years of swimming 5 days a week to where I could swim some very long distances with good stroke and speed.  Hang in there and keep working at it.

Response:

Also, with swimming, you really have to spend a long time to get your stroke and technique down to working for you.  It took me almost 2 years of swimming 5 days a week to where I could swim some very long distances with good stroke and speed.  Hang in there and keep working at it.

I think this is very true.  I heard somebody say that it takes about 100,000 meters before you start to figure out what you’re doing in the water.  At the rate I put down laps, It’ll be a while before I figure anything out.

Response:

For the beginner, it’s technique first. Don’t worry about the power yet, you will develop some power as you focus on technique anyway. And it’s not an overnight process either; you have to be patient as the average swimmer takes about 1.5 – 2 years of continuous swimming to "get the feel of the water" and develop the technique necessary to go faster. Once you get to be a decent swimmer you can then add focus a little more on strength to compliment the technique that you learned (and are still learning) to get you a little faster.                           |26      | IMC’96: 10:36:37          |   Fe   |   IMCAL, IMC Y2K IMC’99: 10:45:03          |        |                  "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING"

Response:

I seem to recall a quote by a famous swim coach… I think it was Popov’s, but not 100% on that… anyway, it goes something like: The 5 major factors to swimming fast are: 1. Technique 2. Technique 3. Technique 4. Specific Strength/Fitness 5. Technique — MB.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – For the beginner, it’s technique first. Don’t worry about the power yet, you will develop some power as you focus on technique anyway. And it’s not an overnight process either; you have to be patient as the average swimmer takes about 1.5 – 2 years of continuous swimming to "get the feel of the water" and develop the technique necessary to go faster. Once you get to be a decent swimmer you can then add focus a little more on strength to compliment the technique that you learned (and are still learning) to get you a little faster.                           |26      | IMC’96: 10:36:37          |   Fe   |   IMCAL, IMC Y2K IMC’99: 10:45:03          |        |                  "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING"

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I seem to recall a quote by a famous swim coach… I think it was Popov’s, but not 100% on that… anyway, it goes something like: The 5 major factors to swimming fast are: 1. Technique 2. Technique 3. Technique 4. Specific Strength/Fitness 5. Technique — MB. For the beginner, it’s technique first. Don’t worry about the power yet, you will develop some power as you focus on technique anyway. And it’s not an overnight process either; you have to be patient as the average swimmer takes about 1.5 – 2 years of continuous swimming to "get the feel of the water" and develop the technique necessary to go faster. Once you get to be a decent swimmer you can then add focus a little more on strength to compliment the technique that you learned (and are still learning) to get you a little faster.                           |26      | IMC’96: 10:36:37          |   Fe   |   IMCAL, IMC Y2K IMC’99: 10:45:03          |        |                  "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING" Thank you all for the- as usual- great advice! Blue Skies

Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

Are there any used size M or L skinsuits for sale out there? Pretty much any shape will do. Please email… Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Hi,  Emilio De Soto here from De Soto Sport.  We sell the best selling skinsuit on the market.  You can see it on our website at: http://www.desotosport.com/catalog_racing.asp Below are the specs: MEN’S POWER SKINSUITTM (#7000) $88.00 Nylon Lycra

Question:

fyi for those thinking ahead to the Spring, 1999 Mid Atlantic racing schedule.  I got these dates from the rd, Mr. Vigo himself. May 23, The Columbia Triathlon June 6, Blackwater Eagleman 1/2 IM Thinking ahead to the spring is what gets me through these dark days.  : ) Dave — "Why do you participate?" "Because I am Mad" –Response from an English competitor to the question asked on the entry form for the Marathon des Sables, the 142 mile run across the Moroccan Sahara.

Response:

David,    The site for Blackwater has the new registration form now.  Here’s the site: http://www.tricolumbia.org/eagleman.htm See you there! Bobbi "IQO sub 17 in LP"

Response:

Question:

I found that for myself, swimming works the best.  I try to build my lungs by only breathing every 6 strokes, and this actually has resulting in some of my best running times due to the increased lung capacity and cardiovascular fitness. I ran a 10K once (after 3 months no running, just swimming) in 45 minutes, and I can’t do much better than that when I actually practice running.   I had to get my lung capacity tested for a job I was applying for, and the lady just about freaked out because she’d never seen such a good result before.  I strongly believe in swimming as the best cross-training sport.  Good luck. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Hi there! I just found out that I probably have a stress fractured foot and I’ve been instructed not to run for the next 4 weeks….   Because I’m planning to start training for a marathon at the beginning of January, I really want to try and stay cardiovascularly (sp??) fit.  I have access to a gym, a pool and I’m also thinking (if finances permit) of getting a ’spinning’ membership. What would be the best way to cross-train during these 4 weeks?  Also, would cycling have a negative effect on running?  I’ve heard that runners must try to avoid building their quads.  Too much muscle mass in the quad could cause a muscle imbalance and possibly another injury when running resumes .  Any truth to this? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Ann Aylmer Quebec

Response:

RESIST THAT TEMPTATION, YOUNG LADY!!!!! Mike "TriBop" Tennent Remove "nospam." for email reply

Mike, I couldn’t take it anymore — I went out for a short easy run tonight after work.  It was GREAT!  I think my doc was wrong and it might just be tendonitis (I’m crossing my fingers).  It was the first snowfall here in beautiful Aylmer, light winds, and just gorgeous to run in (ask me if I still enjoy this weather in January — probably not). Anyway, seriously, I’m getting a second opinion on Monday…. I will definitely keep swimming and just maybe try a triathlon next summer…. NO, NOT THE IRONMAN — now, THAT is INSANE ;-D. Take care and have a GREAT weekend. Ann in snowy Aylmer Quebec

Response:

Hi Mike, Thanks for your response… I gather from your sig (TriBop) that you do triathlons (?)

Yep. My first love. Because I haven’t been running , I’ve been spending alot of time in the pool and also taking an "Improve your Stroke" class and realizing that I love swimming…. Maybe I’ll try a triathlon next summer.

Careful. It’s a slippery slope. First a little "sprint" tri, just to see what it’s like. No inhaling.  Then it’s bigger, harder stuff. Olympic distance, half-Ironman. $2,500 Aero bikes, wet suit, speedos… And then before you know it, you’re putting your name in the Ironman Hawaii lottery. <g Anyway, my question is:  Is swimming going to help me when I start running again?  

From an aerobic conditioning standpoint, yes. It really doesn’t matter how you exercise – if you stay in your target exercise Heartrate, you gain (or maintain)  conditioning. I’m using a training program by Rob Sleamaker called S.E.R.I.O.U.S. training. It’s basic premise is to measure your exercise in terms of time spent at particular exercise exertion levels, not mileage in a particular discipline.  Through the year the mix of time and levels changes depending on your goals. It’s great for triathletes because you’re free to create your own mix of activities as long as you meet the time/exertion levels. (It does help to know what mix works for you.) Although I can run for 42Km, all I can manage in a pool is about 1.5Km.  Do you still benefit from just a 30 to 40 minute swim session?

From an aerobic conditioning standpoint, 30 minutes swimming at 70% of MHR is the same as the same as 30 minutes running at 70% of MHR. Now, the problem is that 4 hours a week of swimming at 70% MHR doesn’t do diddly for your legs when you’re ready to start running again. From an aerobic conditioning standpoint, you’re ready to go, but if you go out and try to run at a pace your lungs and heart are ready for, you’re gonna hurt yourself. So you have to ease back it into it, running slower than your aerobic conditioning allows. It ’s wise not to drop the cross-training for awhile while keeping your runs real slow. Thanks, Ann Aylmer Quebec PS  Foot wasn’t sore at all today and I’m tempted to go for an easy run…..

RESIST THAT TEMPTATION, YOUNG LADY!!!!! Mike "TriBop" Tennent Remove "nospam." for email reply IMC ‘98 IronVirgins Website http://www.gate.net/~wbrunner/imc_iv.htm WebRunner Running Page and my Model Railroad page http://www.gate.net/~wbrunner/index.html

Response:

Hi Mike, Thanks for your response… I gather from your sig (TriBop) that you do triathlons (?)  Because I haven’t been running , I’ve been spending alot of time in the pool and also taking an "Improve your Stroke" class and realizing that I love swimming…. Maybe I’ll try a triathlon next summer. Anyway, my question is:  Is swimming going to help me when I start running again?  Although I can run for 42Km, all I can manage in a pool is about 1.5Km.  Do you still benefit from just a 30 to 40 minute swim session? Thanks, Ann Aylmer Quebec PS  Foot wasn’t sore at all today and I’m tempted to go for an easy run…..

t… – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I don’t necessarily buy into the "harm" theory, but I’d stay away from spinning classes. They really are designed to build bike specific skills and endurance. If they’re included WITH running (not possible with you) then you end up with a balanced program. If you do bike training on a machine, keep it at an easy level, but a high rate of spin. Don’t mash the gears. Get in your exercise heart rate zone and stay there. Mike "TriBop" Tennent Remove "nospam." for email reply IMC ‘98 IronVirgins Website http://www.gate.net/~wbrunner/imc_iv.htm WebRunner Running Page and my Model Railroad page http://www.gate.net/~wbrunner/index.html

Response:

Ann, 4 weeks is on the short side of recovery, although if you already had time off  it might be sufficient.  My experience with the runners I work with is more  like 6. Cross training is a good idea and spinning certainly makes sense.  The work  will not bulk up your quads too much.  Many runners have knee  problems  because their quads are not strong enough. You may discover that the spinning may cause some pain depending on the  location of the fracture and the intensity of the work. Try resting your heel  on the pedal if the break is in the metatarsals.   Also interestingly enough  some runners found swimming uncomfortable as it flexed the foot and caused  pain at the fracture site.  You will just have to try and see. Also strength work has also shown itself to be useful as part of the cross  training.  This includes upper body work.   Best of luck, BJC Coach in Colorado

Response:

Hi there! I just found out that I probably have a stress fractured foot and I’ve been instructed not to run for the next 4 weeks….   Because I’m planning to start training for a marathon at the beginning of January, I really want to try and stay cardiovascularly (sp??) fit.  I have access to a gym, a pool and I’m also thinking (if finances permit) of getting a ’spinning’ membership. What would be the best way to cross-train during these 4 weeks?  Also, would cycling have a negative effect on running?  I’ve heard that runners must try to avoid building their quads.  Too much muscle mass in the quad could cause a muscle imbalance and possibly another injury when running resumes .  Any truth to this?

I don’t necessarily buy into the "harm" theory, but I’d stay away from spinning classes. They really are designed to build bike specific skills and endurance. If they’re included WITH running (not possible with you) then you end up with a balanced program. If you do bike training on a machine, keep it at an easy level, but a high rate of spin. Don’t mash the gears. Get in your exercise heart rate zone and stay there. Mike "TriBop" Tennent Remove "nospam." for email reply IMC ‘98 IronVirgins Website http://www.gate.net/~wbrunner/imc_iv.htm WebRunner Running Page and my Model Railroad page http://www.gate.net/~wbrunner/index.html

Response:

Pool running works for me.  Obtain a flotation belt or vest which will hold you upright, and jump in and run.  You get to go through the proper motions, training specifically for running, but you keep the stress from injured feet, joints, etc…  And you get to keep relatively cool while working out. The only problem I’ve found is that it’s mind-numbing (but so are the other options). That is partially balanced by the cool "detached head floating down the pool" effect. -Ray – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there! I just found out that I probably have a stress fractured foot and I’ve been instructed not to run for the next 4 weeks….   Because I’m planning to start training for a marathon at the beginning of January, I really want to try and stay cardiovascularly (sp??) fit.  I have access to a gym, a pool and I’m also thinking (if finances permit) of getting a ’spinning’ membership.

Response:

Hi there! I just found out that I probably have a stress fractured foot and I’ve been instructed not to run for the next 4 weeks….   Because I’m planning to start training for a marathon at the beginning of January, I really want to try and stay cardiovascularly (sp??) fit.  I have access to a gym, a pool and I’m also thinking (if finances permit) of getting a ’spinning’ membership. What would be the best way to cross-train during these 4 weeks?  Also, would cycling have a negative effect on running?  I’ve heard that runners must try to avoid building their quads.  Too much muscle mass in the quad could cause a muscle imbalance and possibly another injury when running resumes .  Any truth to this? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Ann Aylmer Quebec

Response:

Ann, Sorry to hear about the stress fracture.  I have had some experience and  success with cross training because of severe shin splints that kept me from  running for about two months and some knee problems.  My training was for high  school/college cross country so it was the 5k and 8k which are obviously much  shorter than the marathon distance, but it’s still probably applicable. The best way I found to keep in running shape is by pool running or water  jogging (different names for what I consider to be the same thing).  It’s just  like it sounds…going through the running motions in water deep enough that  you can’t touch the ground.  You could easily very the intensity and time to  simulate both speed workouts or distance runs.   Another thing I did was stationary biking.  This was a great workout too, but I  had a tendency to work too hard sometimes.  If you do decide to bike a lot I  would recommend doing some kind of leg curls in the gym to work the hamstrings  because you could develop a muscle imbalance and end up pulling a hamstring or  something of that nature later on. I’ve never much been into swimming but that is also a great was to stay in  great cardiovascular shape.  I also like to lift weights 2-3 times a week but  that’s more for strength than anything else.  Though if you did lift more reps  with lighter weights, and reduce recovery time between sets, that could be a  great cardiovascular workout as well. Good luck with your training and remember that your body is telling you  something (with the injury) and don’t overdue it with the cross-training. Nathan

Response:

Question:

I believe that it was George Sheehan that said "It is not the courage to make it to the finish but the courage to step up to the starting line" that made me decide to try my first tri. The length is 800m/12K/5K and I decided not to spend anything to look like a pro out there, but will I stand out in the crowd if I don’t wear a speed-o for the swim and ride my schwinn varsity on the bike? What are good splits to shoot for to be a mid-packer in a race of this distance? I’m just out to have fun but I don’t care to embarrass my self to bad.

Response:

but will I stand out in the crowd if I don’t wear a speed-o for the swim and ride my schwinn varsity on the bike? What are good splits to shoot for to be a mid-packer in a race of this distance?

Who cares if you stand out? I encourage you to go for it. People ride all kinds of bikes. Don’t worry about it. Splits for a first timer at those distances would depend on what kind of backround you come from. Here might be a median time to see in that race. 800m – 18 minutes 12k bike –  on a Varsity, no hills. – 23 minutes 5k r – 26 minutes How old are you? I am 46 and I would probably do this race in S – 13 B – 19 R – 21 Let me know if this is close after the race.

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I had the very same questions in my mind leading up to my first triathlon. But don’t worry there where lots of people with schwinn’s and swimming in shorts. I too have a complex about the speedo thing.  But now I’m hooked, In three weeks it will be my third tri and I’m actually getting into good condition and am really happy with my progress.  For times all I wanted to do was go as fast as I could but to make sure I didn’t have to walk in the run.  I almost made it.  In my second event I had energy to spare, so this time I plan on picking up the pace. Good luck and don’t worry, just have fun It’s not a race it’s a personal challenge.   Bernie – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I believe that it was George Sheehan that said "It is not the courage to make it to the finish but the courage to step up to the starting line" that made me decide to try my first tri. The length is 800m/12K/5K and I decided not to spend anything to look like a pro out there, but will I stand out in the crowd if I don’t wear a speed-o for the swim and ride my schwinn varsity on the bike? What are good splits to shoot for to be a mid-packer in a race of this distance? I’m just out to have fun but I don’t care to embarrass my self to bad.

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but will I stand out in the crowd if I don’t wear a speed-o for the swim and ride my schwinn varsity on the bike?

Hey Rtrhock, Standing out in a crowd is what it’s all about!  If you didn’t want to, you’d play softball or something. I’m just out to have fun but I don’t care to embarrass my self to bad.

 So, don’t worry … enjoy the experience.  Don’t worry about beating anyone.  To many of us, that’s not what it’s about. It’s about the thrill of doing something that pushes the edge of your envelope just a little. Stop and walk if you have to. It’s OK. Just finish!  And on your way say thanks to as many volunteers as you can. And when you cross that finish line enjoy the high you’re bound to get.  Then, share that experience by going back and cheering for the people still out there. Bill Clayton

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By the way, the best thing I learned in my first race: have your shoes untied (unless you can slip them on) before you start the race. It really cuts down those transition times Dave

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This is my rookie season as well, number four is tomorrow. There are plenty of people who aren’t decked out in $$$ of gear – don’t worry about looking out of place. I caved after my second race and went Speedo – I don’t know if it is actually faster, but it makes you feel faster. I don’t usually go by splits, but by time per distance. I am a middle of the pack finisher, and my speeds are as follows: swim: about 2:10/100m bike: about 32km/hour (my strongest event) run: about 5:45/km (my worst event) Needless to say, I lose all of my time in the run. Good luck in your tri – it is great fun!! Dave

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Question:

i’m still fishing around for the right marathon for me to start with.  i would like something at least fairly large, relatively flat, and with nice scenery in late fall/early winter.  west coast is a plus.  is the california international marathon for me?  i’d like to know you impressions of it for a first time marathoner. thanks for your help, mark

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i’m still fishing around for the right marathon for me to start with.  i would like something at least fairly large, relatively flat, and with nice scenery in late fall/early winter.  west coast is a plus.  is the california international marathon for me?  i’d like to know you impressions of it for a first time marathoner.

The CIM is an excellent marathon for the first timer, but I would not call it scenic.  The Humboldt marathon in the northern California redwoods in October might be what you are looking for.  /cc

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i’m still fishing around for the right marathon for me to start with.  i would like something at least fairly large, relatively flat, and with nice scenery in late fall/early winter.  west coast is a plus.  is the california international marathon for me?  i’d like to know you impressions of it for a first time marathoner.

CIM fits your criteria except for the scenery.It is quite mundane, all city streets. If you can push up your schedule, Napa would be a fine marathon. See this file for comments: http://www.slip.net/~lewway/marathons.html Best wishes! Lee Rudin San Francisco Bay Area Triathlon Training Sites http://www.slip.net/~leeway/

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Question:

See antibiotic warning in rec.sport.triathlon regarding tendon rupture warning

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See antibiotic warning in rec.sport.triathlon regarding tendon rupture warning

My news server doesn’t carry this particular newsgroup, and I’m afraid that by the time I can have it added, the post will have disappeared — could you give us a quick rundown on this? Thanks in advance! Torsten Hoff (The views and opinions expressed are my own, and should not be construed as representing those of Symantec Corporation)

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Question:

Haven’t you heard? There seems to be an RST-organized boycott of the ITU world championships in the making……. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anyone have any information on the World Championships in 96?

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Does anyone have any information on the World Championships in 96? For example: Location:  (I believe Cleveland) Citizens Wave? Entry Fee? Where to get application? Volunteering Contact? Anything else… Thanks.

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Haven’t you heard? There seems to be an RST-organized boycott of the ITU world championships in the making…….

Almost no one at Cancun has heard of RST.  Almost no one on RST was at Cancun.  Therefore a boycott seems unrealistic.  The world championship is, for very many, only secondarily a race.  Very many of the triathletes have been to most of the championships and for them this is primarily a wonderful reunion.  Even the competition itself is between old friends.  Very few would stay away for political reasons although I think perhaps the majority would be happy to see a change in the governing body. The dynamics and machinations of triathlon government are outside my understanding, so anything I say is probably naive.  I don’t see why we accept leadership from megalomaniacs whose are so starry-eyed about olympics they would turn triathlon into any kind of dirty pool to accomplish their goals.  Is it impossible to organize a governing body for amateur triathlon, such as U.S.Masters Swimming?  What if USA Triathlon, who I think serve us very well, were to relinquish their control of pro’s to the ITU.  Precisely what would we lose? Ruth Kazez

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Is it impossible to organize a governing body for amateur triathlon, such as U.S.Masters Swimming?  What if USA Triathlon, who I think serve us very well, were to relinquish their control of pro’s to the ITU?

What a great idea!  Any MAJOR problems with this folks?                                                                     Byron

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Question:

Are there any Texas float trip veterans out here? I am trying to set up a float trip down the San Marcos River beginning in the city of San Marcos where the river originates from some underground springs. We would like to set up camp somewhere along the river so that we can keep the camp up for the duration of the weekend, and locate some canoe liveries which will be able to provide canoe rentals and a shuttle service. We have run this stretch of river before, but took our gear along the last time down. Due to several required portages (dams, pipelines, etc.) it wasn’t a very pleasant experience. If anyone has campground/canoe livery information for this river, could you please post a followup to this message. It would be greatly appreciated. Happy paddling, — Kerry Murphy                       | "There is nothing so important that one’s

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There is a canoe livery in Martindale, about 8 miles or so from San Marcos by river. Its name is Spencer’s CV (used to Goynes years ago) and their number is 512/357-6113. They are very good and can help with logistics. They also organize a number of races there, including a VERY fun two person triathlon (one bikes, one runs, they both paddle) with a big meal afterwards. Its quite low-key and a great time. This is in late Oct, Halloween weekend I believe. There is a PBS special on the SM river called "River of Innocence" Someone there may be able to loan you a copy if youre interested. Check the water levels with them, they vary greatly through the year even though it is spring fed. Good luck Steve

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: Are there any Texas float trip veterans out here? I am trying to set up a : float trip down the San Marcos River beginning in the city of San Marcos : where the river originates from some underground springs. We would like : to set up camp somewhere along the river so that we can keep the camp up         Goyne’s canoe Livery and Shady Grove campground were really nice to deal with some years back, but I haven’t been in contact for some time.  Last phone # I have is 512-357-6113, but the AC may have changed.         Address was: Route 1, box 55r                         Martindale TX 78655         They’re off hwy 80 & fm 1979 (or at least they were).  All the usual livery services plus a place to camp. — | Scot Carpenter      |       Decision & Information Sciences       |

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        Well, we are within a week of our scheduled trip to San Marcos to do a weekend float trip. Last I heard the river was quoted as at a ‘normal’ level, up from earlier reports of being about 190-200 cfs which as also reported at that same time ‘normal’ is defined as around 300 cfs.         Has there been any change due to the recent rainfall? I live in Houston and we have been getting a lot of rain. Don’t know about that area of the state though. Thought I would ask on the newsgroup before calling the canoe livery directly.         It has been over three years since I did a float trip, and I’m looking forward to it. Hope to hear from some of you in the next couple of days. — Kerry Murphy                       | "There is nothing so important that one’s

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KM  Well, we are within a week of our scheduled trip to San Marcos to KMdo a weekend float trip. Last I heard the river was quoted as at a KM’normal’ level, up from earlier reports of being about 190-200 cfs whic KMas also reported at that same time ‘normal’ is defined as around 300 cf KM  Has there been any change due to the recent rainfall? I live in KMHouston and we have been getting a lot of rain. Don’t know about that KMarea of the state though. Thought I would ask on the newsgroup before KMcalling the canoe livery directly. I was on the San Marcos this Sunday (10/16).  The level is still moderate to low, I can’t tell that it has come up much at all.  We got sizable rains today, but I don’t think they fell in the San Marcos or Blanco watershed, most of the rain was east of I-35.  I would call Spencer’s on Thursday, we are expecting more rain tonight. KM  It has been over three years since I did a float trip, and I’m KMlooking forward to it. Hope to hear from some of you in the next couple KMof days. KM– KMKerry Murphy                       | "There is nothing so important tha KM— KM * Origin: Austin InfoMail Association <- Internet Gateway (1:382/87.0  * Wave Rider 1.20 [NR] * … UNREGISTERED EVALUATION COPY

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