Started out pretty good for a Saturday. Up at 5:00 so I could make it to the gym parking lot by 6:00 for a run. Karen and I ran for 1:20 -- not sure how far we got, 9-10 miles or so. It was colder than I'd like for a run but didn't really notice until the end when I pulled the headband off and saw the ice/frost all over it.
After the run it was off to the pool for the JAM (Jersey Area Masters) workout. Had to miss some of it to talk with the coach about team stuff, but I did manage to get in around 3,500 of the 5,000 in the workout. Since I got an extra swim in on Thurday I think I'll let the extra 1,500 go.
For the swim I used a pair of new TYR goggles -- the Aqua Shift™ Rockets. While they are for "racing", the are plenty comfortable for the daily workout. The only problem I had was getting them off inbetween sets. It was hard to get a grip in lens to pull it away from my eye. Since I didn't even notice them on my face in the water, I guess they were just tight enough. After one practice, so far, so good. As I wear them more, I'll keep you updated on their performace.
Overall, it was good Saturday.
Sunday was the bike day. Late start for a ride -- 11:30 -- but at least it allowed the temperature to eek into the 40° range. No cold toes for me! Zipped along for 2 hours thru some slightly more than moderate hills in the Sourlands. I think the final total was only in the 25-26 mile range. This ride wasn't about distance, it was about getting my ass used to hitting that bike seat for 4-5 hours.
I did get a chance to try an electrolyte replacement drink on the bike. Using this stuff called Perpetuem. They claim it has a "mellow-orange 'Dreamsicle' flavor" and it sort of does. Wasn't the best. I think it would be better if was just "orange" flavor, but maybe there is a reason the vanilla needs to be there? The taste was a tad too sweet, but practically nothing in terms of an after-taste. Thanks the Gods for small favors. The most important part is that it works! While it wasn't the hardest workout I've ever done on a bike, slurping down a bottle with 2-scoups in 16-oz of water left me feeling pretty good. We'll see how it goes as I use the product on some harder ride as the temperature creeps up past 50°.