Ironman training is in FULL EFFECT! I recently moved up to Northern California from Los Angeles, and have been in hunt for a new bike for my Ironman training. A part of me was a little nervous as I am not the best cyclist and not bike Savvy. I am a runner and grew up swimming, not to mention people think I am joking every time I walk into a bike store. My spirits always seem to be a little squashed. Until one day, I stumbled across Chain Reaction in Los Altos. I was a little hesitant to walk in, but knew it had to be done in order to accomplish my dream of an Ironman. I walked in and was immediately greeted by this nice employee, and i told him what I was looking for. My eyes were immediately drawn to a Tri bike hanging from the ceiling. The employee removed the bike from the ceiling, and my heart skipped a beat. It was love at first sight, and I knew I had to take the bike home with me. Trek Speed Concept (last years model which meant better deal) Bontrager Race Lite Aero Bars, Bontrager wheels, SRAM Apex components. This baby was mine.
This is a photo of my new beauty… still have yet to find a name! Thank you Chain Reaction for helping me with my ambitious goal: IRONMAN ARIZONA!
Ironman has been on my mind for a few years. Why you may ask? It is on my bucket list. Something like accomplishing an Ironman, will allow me to believe anything is possible with the right mindset. The blood, sweat, tears, and dedication it takes to finish one of these races is absolutely amazing. Pushing your body for 140.6 miles in ONE day seems absolutely crazy… but to me it is astonishing and something I am striving to become.
I anticipate the day when I finally claim my Ironman name, but for now I have A LOT of training to do. For me, I love training and I can stay motivated on my own. The main issue I have is time and the everyday occurrences and situations called ‘Life”. I’ve learned if you have a goal or a dream, the best thing to do is surround yourself with like-minded individuals who understand what it is you are working towards. If someone doesn’t understand or agree, chances are they NEVER will. Get that negative force out of your life, and focus on the positive ones.
Sacrifice is a MAJOR part of Ironman training… or any kind of training to be exact. Whether you are training for a Marathon, 10K, or even committing yourself to a new job — it takes sacrifice to where you want to go. With Ironman I have sacrificed my social life and creation relationships. I do not drink alcohol, I stay away from foods that might hinder my performance, and I stay away from negative influences and forces. That’s why it is KEY to surround yourself with the ones to support your steps and know what it will take to get there. I am so gracious to have a supportive family, who are helping me get to that Ironman finish line. They are the ones that keep me going — my inspiration.
Finding your inspiration and motivation is another key to training. If you aren’t inspired or motivated.. chances are your training will completely flatline. Now that is NOT ok. My family inspires me, my friends inspire me, and know what I want to accomplish keeps me motivated. What motivates you? What keeps you moving?
I have my eyes on the Ironman finish. I know what it must take to make this happen. It will not be an easy road, but I have created my training plan and race calendar in order to make it happen. I will train smart, eat healthy, rest, and surround myself with positive people. I stay inspired by knowing what others are training and working towards. What are you training for? What is your goal you are sacrificing for?
raerunlove 