committed to tri [training].

I wholeheartedly committed myself to triathlon training Thursday night.

After much thought – and realizing I wouldn’t be a decent triathlete if I didn’t train properly and stop beating up my body with a barbell… duh – I joined Nick‘s triathlon training team, Performance Power (or P2), and went to my first practice, a bike / run brick.

As I drove to the Macalaster track, butterflies flitted around in my stomach. I was sure my Madone and I would be left in the dust by everyone else on their tri bikes… that no other girls would be there… that I’d be on my own for the run.

But, I surprised myself (reminder: stop the self doubt!) and kept up with the boys hill for hill. You know it’s the perfect fit when, two days later, you’re still high from the workout.

The brick began with a quick ride down East River Road to the hill under Highway 5. Six climbs later, I could not stop smiling.

Next up: Hidden Falls hill. Following five ups at 18 percent grade mid-hill, I was elated.

And, after five trips to the top at Lock and Dam 1, smiling still… see?

The brick rounded out with a 3.2-mile run down and back on St. Clair to the Mississippi. All downhill, the first half was cake. The second half took all I had (thanks for sticking with me, baby!), but by the end, I was blissed out and couldn’t wait to do it all over again.

Highlights from my first night at P2:

• Cycling with a group is SO fun. While I enjoy the peacefulness of biking solo, I had forgotten just how much I love group riding and its intensity.
• Keeping up with the boys is pretty much awesome.
• I have a ways to go to get back into running shape. Three miles used to be simple and enjoyable; now, I loathe nearly every single step.
• Coach Matt Haugen rocks. He actually reminds me a lot of my former cycling coach, George Odio of Bike and Fitness Co. in Alexandria; both are crazy positive and full of inspiration and high-fives. I have George to thank for my love of cycling and for teaching me to be a cyclist (and for introducing me to espresso!).
• Stepping outside your comfort zone and trying new things is such a sweet spot – you meet great people, challenge yourself and grow so much.
• Training with my man kicks a$$.

Bike stats: 18.71 miles, 1:33:50

Run stats: 3.22 miles, about 30 minutes