Barefoot stuff!

I think I found another cool way to help strengthen my foot muscles. It's doing my weight training workouts, barefoot. I still enjoy running barefoot but have had to wear shoes while it's cold outside. I'll get some barefoot running on the treadmill during the next few months. But till then I'll enjoy my strength, yoga, pilates, and some cardio workouts barefoot.

My favorite off season workout this year is the Cyclo-Core DVD. When I first attempted the workout I was shocked at how hard the workout was. I not only could keep up the pace but I couldn't complete the repetitions. It wasn't until after about 2 to 3 days a week, for 3 weeks was I able to keep pace and complete the reps. Now, I can increase the weights and do all the exercises barefoot. And I get a good sweat going too.

I finally found a good deal on ebay for the Cyclo-Zen DVD workout and made the purchase. I'm looking forward to this workout. I'm sure it'll put me to the test but it'll also make me stronger.

A cheap workout

Did you check out any of these McDonald's promotional deals they are giving out with the new Asian Salads and bottled water? I have all except the Cardio.
The DVD's are 15 minute workouts that have some value.
When I did the Core workout I felt some burn in my abs. I modified some of the exercises by holding dumbbells which gave me more of a challenge.
The strength workout caused my Adductor Magnus to be sore the next day. The soreness came from all the pleia squats with dumbbells.
I haven't done the Yoga DVD but was able to view some of the workouts and decided that it would be a good cool down following the Core and Strength workouts.
If you are looking for a cheap workout then these easy to do 15 minute workouts are a quick fix.

I just love the Ball!

Yesterday's workout began with a hard 7 mile tempo run on the treadmill. What will I do when the weather gets nice? Go to the track. Followed by 30 minute weight routine using the exercise ball. I must be the only nut in the gym that uses that ball because of the stares I get. I use the opportunity to show (off) people how to use the ball with weights and perform other exercises. One of my favorite reps is the Alternate shoulder Press. You sit on the ball holding dumbbells at shoulder height and raise left dumbbell up while lefting right leg off the floor. I'm going to have to post some pictures of the fun things I can do with the ball. I finished with an easy steady 20 minute swim for a nice cool down.

Winter Training Update!

Core workouts include using Cylco-core and other Pilate DVD's with the exercise ball and some weights. During the workouts focus is on proper breathing. My goal is to build all around core strength before Spring race season begins. I have to admit the Cyclo-core workouts are getting a bit more comfortable to do. My son looks forward to the workouts with me. His goal is to get a 6-pack.

Swim workouts are at 3 times a week and range from 800 to 1700 yard steady endurance swims with some 50 to 100 yard pick-ups. My focus is improving technique. I wish I had someone to analyze my strokes. Maybe next year.

Bike workouts are still on the trainer 3 days a week with 1 hour sessions using the 17 week fasttandem.com schedule. I am gaining strength and confidence with these workouts.

Run workouts include a Wednesday 20-30 minute tempo treadmill workout and a Saturday 8 to 12 mile long run at about 7:30 pace indoor or outdoors. Easy run on treadmill on Monday and Friday.

2nd Winter Season for Triathlon Training!

Starting in December I have added core exercises and more indoor bike trainer workouts.


Core exercises have been self taught from books like these and others; Core performance essentials, Exercise balls for dummies, and Strength training on the ball. I have even replaced my office chair with an exercise ball. The biggest help I think I'm getting comes from the Cyclo-Core Off Season Conditioning DVD. The focus of the DVD is on Body Weight & Resistance Training workouts. It took 3 to 4 sessions before I could complete the exercises correctly.

Indoor bike trainer workouts consists of 3 days a week with 1 hour sessions using the 17 week schedule from http://fasttandem.com

I am feeling stronger and am looking forward to good race results this coming spring.