Back in the Water

(from Jenn)

Well, I didn't swim after teaching on Friday.  I was really hungry and tired, so I figured I'd go home first for lunch and a nap, then go out to the gym later.  Of course, that never works as planned...  And actually, when I was contemplating whether I'd go or not, around 5:00, a crazy storm blew through.  So I wouldn't have been able to swim at that time anyway.  Oh, well.  A day off never hurt anyone.

Yesterday morning, I met a friend for a bike ride.  We planned to ride early to avoid the scorching temperatures, and I also wanted to be finished in time to hit the gym for an 11:00 yoga/pilates class.  We only rode 27-28 miles, but we actually sought out hills, which I never do, so it was still a good workout.  We rode on the bike trail for a bit, and it was crazy.  There were so many branches and even whole trees across the path from the storm the night before.  We had to stop and get off and pick up our bikes to step over the obstacles probably 5 or 6 times over 4 miles each direction.  Felt like I was in cyclocross!

I did make it to the gym in time for the class, and it was good.  I know I need to keep doing these classes because my core is SO weak and I really need to increase my flexibility.  But it's so humbling!  Oh, well.  I'm going to aim for 2-3 yoga and/or pilates classes/DVD workouts each week, so hopefully I'll start seeing improvement soon.

After that, I had thought about trying that swim again, but I was tired and relaxed after yoga, so I just went home.  I did, however, make myself go back to the gym later last night.  I only had about 40-45 minutes before the outdoor pool closed, so I only swam just over a mile, but it felt really good!  AND... I didn't feel sick afterward!!!  My nose ran a little, but nothing like last time.  I'm not sure why, what was different...  Maybe because I'd pushed harder last time for my speed workout?  I don't know.  I think I'll keep it slower a few more times before trying more sprints and stuff, but at least I'm not afraid to get in the water anymore!  That was a great time to swim, too; it was really quiet since it was only adult lap swimming at that hour.  Nice!  Just wish I'd had a little more time to chill in the hot tub or sauna afterward, but I had to get to Whole Foods before they closed...

This morning, I thought about taking a walk before our church's picnic, but I slept in a little more instead.  So, probably another day off today, though I don't feel too bad about it since I did three workouts yesterday. :-)