
As I do every year in early January, this year I planned out my goals for 2012. I was torn between running a full marathon and doing a triathlon. After a LOT of back and forth, I ultimately decided to change it up a bit. I registered for the Lobsterman Triathlon in Maine on September 15, 2012. This is an Olympic distance triathlon [Swim 1.5K (.93 miles), Bike 40K (24.7 Miles), Run 10K (6.2 miles)] and is like NOTHING else I’ve ever done! People have been asking me WHY in the world I’d register myself for an Olympic distance triathlon without ever having done one before, and these have been my reasons:
1) I know I can run a marathon…I am a runner, running comes easy to me and I enjoyrunning. I know that I could do 26.2 with the proper training. I also know that I would probably exacerbate the injuries I sustained while training for my half marathon by the sheer volume of running required for the race.
2) I grew up around a pool [and can do a MEAN cannonball] but have no proper swimming technique or form. I want the challenge of learning a new sport and skill while incorporating it into my training program.
3) The cross-training will be much more beneficial in the long run for my body [I have tendonitis in my left ankle and a partially torn meniscus in my right knee]. A training program that includes biking and swimming in addition to running is a well-rounded approach that will help my body.
4) Though I’m registered individually, I am doing my training with a group of friends and it makes us a “team” of sorts. I miss being part of a team, and my Tri Team motivates me, holds me accountable, and makes it SO much more fun.
5) I like challenges. Even more, I like BIG challenges. And an Olympic distance triathlon is just that!!!
There you have it. I’m registered for the September event and have already registered for 3 sprint triathlons over the summer to help prep! Sprint triathlon training has just started and I am looking forward to a fun summer with my team! I will be blogging along the way- sharing stories, successes, setbacks, silliness, photos, frustrations, accomplishments, etc. I would love to hear stories or tips from anyone who has done a triathlon, or anyone who is currently in training!