Week 35 training log

I am 2 weeks into the build period of training, and this week I have mostly been building my cycling.
Monday and Friday were dedicated to endurance rides 5.15 hours between them, over some pretty hilly terain as well. I seem to be learning a lot from my rides at the moment. I think it's because I'm always looking for improvements in all areas. Thus my mind is occupied and the miles fly by.

As running is off the menu for the moment I decided to try my hand at speed walking.
Apparently a combination of running and speed walking have produced sub 2.30 open marathon times, pretty impresive. Either way be it running or walking I have to get round a marathon course, so the sooner I learn about speed walking the better.
Because of the possibility of not running the marathon, I have had to put any ideas of finishing times firmly behind me and just focus on getting round. I may be able to put in a stirling bike leg and walk the marathon but I'm still going to be looking at a 7 hour marathon. Ouch!!

Worked on skills and strength in the pool this week and did some strength training on the bike in the wood up in the mountains.

Sunday March 11th 2012 saw me get in the sea for the first time this year. First time with the wet suit and probably first time in the sea before June. Ever!
I only swam for about ten minutes but it was more a suck it and see exercise. For all I new I may of hit the water and bounced straight back out again. It wasn't as unpleasant as I had expected. Yes it was cold but the suit kept my body nice and warm. Only my hands, feet and face were cold. My feet went numb so I didn't have to worry about those any more and my hands were coping just fine. There was a point on my forehead, just between the eyebrows that felt like someone was pushing an ice cube into my head, that was painful. Next time I'll try Vasaline on my face.
The other issue I had came when I stood up to come back into shore. Oh my God, I've never felt so dizzy, and a bit sick. Quite a common thing apparently, something to do with the ears and your hearing. By all accounts ear plugs will sort it out, but wow that was not nice.
I have lots of work to do with regards to sea swimming but I'm pleased that I've made quite an early start.