Almost. There.

The Danskin Triathlon is next weekend! After getting into great shape for it last year, I followed it up with a slow decline into the worst shape I've been in years. Without a goal, I floundered, then got bored, then got busy, and then just stopped.

So I started pre-training in Jan, and actual training in March. I modified last year's program to be harder. Frankly, it was a little too easy for me. This year, I took the training and basically doubled distances and ramped intensity faster, with time off for my travels last month.

And at this point, I can kick your ass. Well at least if you are small and exercise less than me. OK, so maybe I can kick a pre-teen girl's ass. Or that small grandmother I see at the gym, but I'm not down with grandma beatings.

I digress.

My point is not beatings. My point is that I feel really fit and healthy, and it feels great. I thought I was in the best shape ever last year, but I have definitely progressed this year. I bike faster. Swim faster and longer. And hate running less, though haven't made much headway on increasing my plodding 12 minute mile. I don't get wiped out by my work outs, and they are long.

Last week, for example.

• Tues - Ran 3 miles than swam a mile intermingled with funny dances to shake out a crippling Charlie Horse in my foot.
• Wed - Biked 16 miles home. It took too long, but I hit like 40 lights and some headwinds.
• Thurs - Swam a mile. Skipped "walking" portion cause that is boring.
• Ended up taking Friday, Sat and Sun off due to camping and camping recovery so....
• Monday - Did 15 mile hilly ride on stationary bike in 50 minutes, followed 4 mile run. It would be really nice to do a tri in the A/C. Also I would appreciate if the Texas rain would be more attentive to my training schedule.
  

Today I biked home from work again. This ride was a million times better. Longer - 18 miles - but better roads and less lights so I finished significantly faster than last time. I averaged 12 mph, which Brian tells me is really good for that route.

I'm not going to end up on the cover of any fitness magazines any time soon, but I gotta say, I look (and feel!) pretty damn good. Though I am really, really looking forward to having my evenings back. And dialing back this work out routine. Think I can keep this well sculpted ass with a a diligent routine of aimlessly trolling the Internet in the evenings?

My goal for next Sunday is to beat my time from last year - I need to swim 1/2 mile, bike 12 miles and run 3 in less than 1:58:51. I feel ready!