I'm still Alive!

OK, it's been some time. Nothing wrong, just been kinda boring. I have not been inspired to share, and work has left me exhausted in the evenings.

On a good note, I have been biking regularly to and from work. I have only missed a few days lately. I really enjoy it, and all the kids at my school think I'm really cool! And, they like to laugh at the shorts!! Occasionally, I a school bus full of my school kids passes me, and the all cheer me on. And, at stop lights, I often get the "That's Mr. Swick!!" double take by sleepy parents and students. Last week, I did a total of about 21 miles on the bike just commuting. My avg. speed is only 15 mph, but I have lots of steep hills and lights. I think it was Thursday morning, too, when I realized that 60 degree weather is cold on a bike. Time to purchase some warmer clothes. 

Also, I have increased my running miles last week up to 18. Using the interval trainer off of podrunner on iTunes, has helped push the greater distance. I'm not terribly speedy. I'm doing mostly 10 min. miles, but I like going longer distances. However, they are starting to take a toll on my body. I strained my right groin and ankle running last week. I plan to take it easier this week. I been running on the trails in sandhills more, as well. I like the hills, and soft surface. Plus, I get to see some interesting things a treadmill just doesn't offer. I believe I scared a coyote on Friday when I was running. Just caught a glimpse, but I've heard tales he's back there!

This week so far has been a big bust. I had planned a new urban assault on Sesqui after work one day when I was talking to Amy on Sunday, and then BAM! I've been struggling with a stomache thing ever since. I won't share the details, but tailgating on Saturday, and hitting the Greekfest on Sunday caught up with me. I'm still not ready to do any real training. Yesterday, I got home from work, and had the shakes getting off the bike after riding home. I did NOT ride today, and don't have plans for tomorrow either. Also, I've done no running either. Hopefully, I will feel ready to do something on Wednesday. The pool is open at the Y again, and I have been missing my swims.

Next Goal: 12k in Oct

Current Status: Sour Stomache

Upcoming: Time will tell

Recent Stuff

Been lazy about getting up to ride into work. I have to leave on the bike before 7 am to get to work in time to cool and change, so I've been opting for the snooze button more. I only rode to work 1 time this week.

I did manage to get up to the Y for some weights and a trainer ride on Thursday. Been a long time since I've ridden the trainers, and I put in 45 minutes with a total of about 12 miles. Not very fast. My knee has been locking up. I watched the Cocks stink up the first half of the Vandy game, and lost motivation to work hard myself, as well.

Today, I headed out for a trail run at Clemson Extension near Sandhills. I've been looking for something new to run, and had a blast running the trails. A bit sandy, and slow, but lots of hills to climb. I ran for about an hour and made about 6 miles. Still doing the interval thing. I ran all over the place in many different directions, and saw a bunch of other runners getting out before any possible storms. I definitely want to do this run some more!

Next Goal: 12k in Oct.

Current Status: Sore and tired

Upcoming: Busy weekend, not sure

August Training Totals

August has been getting back into the schedule of teaching and fitting in training. 

I ran and swam more in August than in July, so that's a good sign, but my bike totals keep shrinking.

I hope to use Sept. and get back into a good solid routine. 

Swimming: 6400.00 Yd - 3h 30m 
Biking: 133.20 Mi - 8h 44m 07s 
Running: 29.85 Mi - 5h 04m 55

More Long Interval Training

Made another successful commute today! Nice way to start the day, and get home from work without bringing home any of the aggravations. It's only 7.3 miles round trip, but I get some nice hills to work with, and I'm only slightly slower than driving.

Went to the Y for my second long run with the interval training I downloaded. I made through this time, and average running around 10 minute miles. I was just under 6 miles or the whole thing. I can run 45 minutes around 9 minute mile pace, but going 15 more minutes really changes things. I am amazed at how my body struggles when I hit the 45 minute mark. I ran for more than an hour tonight, and hope that by doing this more often I can get more used to running longer distances.

Next Goal: 12k in oct

Current Status: Sore left knee

Upcoming: commute again