Trying too hard

ORN: Ran 3.0 miles in 34:30 on a clear, 87° day [51% humidity]. This short jog was one of the hardest runs I've had in a while. The oppressive heat is kicking my ass, and it seemed like there was a headwind no matter which way I faced. I manage my hydration and salt as well as I can, though. I had a salty bowl of yakisoba as a late breakfast an hour and a half before the run; and then after it, I chugged down a glass of Gatorade. Of course during I drank lots of water. Still, my lungs feel like I am breathing in gravy, my knees ached the whole time, and my legs felt like they were encased in carbonite.

OBN: 16 miles today, eight each way to and from work. Also, 16 yesterday. This week, I've biked or taken the bus all five working days. My eco-smugness is quite high.

I've been doing a little reading up about this whole triathlon business. And when I say "a little reading" I mean that I've been obsessing on it more than I ought. It's only led to me wanting to spend money I don't have. I've been wringing my hands over my bike, which is a commuter model rather than a speedy road bike. What about a speedometer/odometer for my bike? Pedal clips? An aerobar? A tri-bag? The temptation to go hog wild on crap is sometimes overwhelming, but I've reeled it in for the moment.

I've been staring at my calender to find spots wherein I can jam a swim workout or two. But it's tough. I mean, I couldn't even be bothered to go swimming last night. Wifey and Little One were both out of the house, and I had several hours free after work. I could have easily gone to the YMCA, done 30 minutes in the pool, basked in the sauna, showered and changed clothes, quaffed a quick pint at the pub, and watched a couple "Welcome Back Kotter" reruns before the family was all back home. Alas, I chose to skip all that, and instead rested, ate, and watched "Kotter."

If I am going to try a Tri, I am going to have to get my act together. I am going to have to be very disciplined about time management. That, by itself, is intimidating and dissuades me. Running my targets is hard enough some weeks.

1. Phoenix City - Les Miserables
2. Last Dance - Donna Summer
3. Jimmy Jazz - The Clash
4. Kitten With a Whip - Big John Bates
5. Follow My Leader - The Loafers
6. Try Me - Bob Marley
7. A Continental Touch - My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult
8. Outsmarted - The Hives
9. Jane in the Jungle - The 5.6.7.8's
10. Put It To Me Straight - Reverend Horton Heat