Life is Good.

Life is Good.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

And So it Begins...




Yesterday marked day one of my sixteen week training for Boise Ironman 70.3.

There's still snow on the ground so for now my bike workouts will consist of spinning on my trainer and I have yet to get myself in the pool. I was supposed to swim yesterday but I just got my hair colored and want to wait a few more days before I expose it to chlorine. So, I'm a vain triathlete. Today's run workout was 5 mile interval training on the treadmill. Nothing too exciting.

My big goal this year is to enjoy myself. There is a reason why I do this. I love the way I feel after a great swim, bike, or run. Also, I enjoy the mental toughness required for a long race. Your body will only carry you so far. When it gets tough, it's your mind that carries you the rest of the way. And then there's that feeling of extreme joy when you've completed your training and finished your race. That's me here after my last 70.3. I'm preeetty happy.

I also want to smile. It really helps you get through the tough times. Chrissie Wellington is one of my idols. Not because she is a three time Ironman World Champion, but because she has an amazing attitude and is a class act. She regularly smiles during competition. It is her secret weapon.
I may not crush the competition, but at least I can smile like Chrissie.

8 comments:

Amy Nielson said...

oh i'm so excited for you to do this again!! i really really hope we can come watch again, it was so much fun last year!

love you guys & miss you :)

Shawn said...

You are incredible! I can't wait to hear all about race day, and see pics! I laughed at your "vain triathlete" comment. Girly girls can make some of the best athletes!!

Unknown said...

Love this! I think the smile part is the best! Love ya - xoxox

Jessica Kasteler said...

I hope I can come watch this year - I was super jealous of everyone's stories! You rock, Shelley! And I totally love the part about Chrissie smiling. Love it!

Unknown said...

Amazing, Shelli! I'm ok running the marathon, but adding a bike and swim leg to it scares the pants off me. Enjoy your training!

Diana Smith said...

WOW you are awesome!! You can tell in your pictures that you LOVE doing that, love the passion that you have!


The Smith Circle

Brian said...

Excited to hear about your progress. I have some swim questions next time we see each other. : )

Amy @ Run Mom Run said...

You are a rock star! Anyone who finishes an ironman is a tough cookie in my book!