My main focus over the off season was to get as many base miles in running as I could, doing as much strength training in the gym as I could handle and enjoying as much skiing as I could afford.
In the process I fell in love with running. I never used to like it but somehow over the off season it just clicked. I think it was most likely a combination of several things. First the pool closed for the winter, and it was getting cold and wet for biking so I was a little forced into it as my only means of exercise. Second, running used to hurt my feet, but about 6 months ago I switched to low drop racing flats and by the time I wore out my first pair my foot pain was gone. To add to the fun I joined a running club, AREC-LB, so that I actually had some other people to run with. I also discovered Strava which is a great motivational tool to track your workouts and compete against yourself and others. So with lots of time, no foot pain, a great motivational tool, and people to run with I started racking up some major miles and having a great time doing it.
For strength training I came up my own military style gym workouts to do two days a week at my local gym, and if i really wanted to push myself I went to Crossfit 5150.
Unfortunately this years budget only included two ski trips, but I had a great time during both. Mammoth for New Years, and an impromptu trip to Whistler, BC in february.
Now for the upcoming 2012 triathlon season. This year I will be riding for Mix1 All-Natural Protein Shakes. They make a great product, and it has really been helping me recover quickly as I start my training for the 2012 season. I definitely recommend everyone to check them out. Mix1 can be found at Whole Foods and most grocery stores.
Last of all, my current planned 2012 race schedule is the following:
| 2012 |
DATE
|
| Superseal International Triathlon |
18-Mar
|
| Hollywood Half Marathon |
7-Apr
|
| Seal Beach 10K |
21-Apr
|
| Avia Wildflower |
6-May
|
| Dipsea Race |
10-Jun
|
| San Diego International Triathlon |
24-Jun
|
| Vineman 70.3 |
15-Jul
|
| AG National Championships |
18-Aug
|
| Long Beach Triathlon |
16-Sep
|
| Los Angeles Triathlon |
30-Sep
|
| Newport Beach Triathlon |
21-Oct
|