Bloatesque

Age and meds seemingl go hand in hand (or hand to mouth more accurately). A seeming rash of reflux is plauging the team -- at least two of us have "issues". Nothing like a big white barium swallow turd to curve the appetite. I may never eat a brat again.

Anyway, I think some of the change/lack of reflux meds have effected my power curve. I felt really bloated and slow for the past week -- job stress/requirements have not helped. I am at that point where I know I need to train to feel good, but don't feel quite good enough to train. I hope tomorrow's spin class will break that cycle (no pun intended).

The weather down here has been damp and foggy. No reason not to hit the road and I feel a little guilty not riding while my brothers are relegated to indoor training. February will spell the change I hope where obligations will smooth out and I can return to a normal training routine.

Well, it's finally Friday and a cold Chimay is calling. Thank Heaven for Belgian carbs.

Be safe and spin on.

Long Time No Blog

Hi Team,

It has been a long time since I put up a post. I read a few religiously every day but don't write mine. I will try to be more dedicated now.

It is 2008 and I hope to get some centuries and team rides in. Training should have begun in earnest but work and obligations tend to take a front burner at this stage. I still have the same demons namely PTW ratio -- can't seem to drop that last few lbs. I have had more time on a spin cylce than my bike, but they are quality workouts. Plus I have added in weights/core training. I think the teacher is an ex-columbian drill instructor. Or I am a 4 year old girl -- I struggle at times and end up shaking like Paris Hilton's chihuahua.

So, I know I can do the distances. I know I have the right equipment now (triple conversion complete and working). It is up to time, training and diet.

Team, let me know your goals for 2008 and lets work on them together!

Spin on

Ebayer Beware

Okay, getting to the root of my triple conversion problem...it is a mountain bike crank. Alvelo put on two different triples this morning with no problems. Mine -- problem. After pouring through the Bontrager site, the difference visually is obvious. Might be wrong crank length too. Dammit!

So much for "stealing" a deal on ebay.

Spin on:(

Italian Bike Porno

Lasts night was the launch event of Pinarello in Fort Myers. Wow! Sweet bikes. I wanted to take the catalog home and rub one out -- it's okay, my Mom doesn't read the blog -- I hope. The details, frame shapes and Italian styling were phenominal. The rep compared the build process versus Trek and I almost felt dirty for owning a Trek. Also got some good intel on compact and cassette combos from the shop owners. Italian beer, lasagna and Pinarello -- aside from a $3600+ bike, it is a cheap nite out. I'll have to add one to my Holiday Wish List.

Spinning more than actual riding. Early darkness and obligations have cut that short.

Spin On

Lessons Learned

First, as I predicted in my last entry, I have signed up for weekly torture, er,umm, Spin classes. I have gone a few times now and have a better understanding of what the class is like so I can better manage my efforts. I must say, I have noted some increased power already, even though Daylight Savings has put a crimp in my training routine.

That leads me to the the title, Lessons Learned. When one rides at dusk with a light attached to one's helmet, it is not wise to breath in through your mouth. Bugs are instantly attracted to the bright light on top of your head. Also, clear lens glasses are a must!

Sent off our package to Tyler Hamilton today -- let's see if we get soem acknowledgement and maybe even some support for R2R.

Spin On

My Growing Distaste For Women

I went to my first-ever Spin Class today with not one but TWO women coaches. That should pretty much explain the title. They tag-teamed my thighs and calves for an hour. And in typical male fashion I will probably go back for more abuse next week. Hell, I'm a glutton for abuse, I will probably sign up for a year.

Having riden about 150 miles a week then a century I figured I was pretty trained up. This was a bit different from the road bike and the home trainer. It DID accomplish my goal of working my upper calves, lower thighs and even my core a bit. It hit my lungs hard again, like Mama, but I got around it. I had to smile when the instructor said "picture climbing a hill this steep" because I had -- more than once.

Like Brother Bob said "Pain is weakness leaving your body." Thank you ma'am, may I have another?

Spin On

Check Your Nipples

Okay, this is not what you're probably thinking... though it is health realated, I am referring to the spouts on my water bottles. After bleaching and scrubbing the nasty protien deposits out of my bottles left from Seagull, I noted a small deposit in the spout. I picked at the spec with an open paper-clip and low and behold a HUGE chunk of brown goo came out. I began probing deeper and tons more followed. It was nausiating to think that I had probably consumed better parts of that crud on various rides.

All that said, keep your nipples clean!

My best to Team R2R