The Hissy Fit...

When I was a wee lass and would get ticked at something I would, the odd time, blow a hissy fit. As per my Father's description it went something like this...

First off, my lower lip would stick out then roll under in a very pronounced pout. Then a foot would stomp. Then the other foot would stomp. The pace of the stomping would slowly increase. If the hissy fit was directed at my ever patient father I would then yell 'ADDY!'. Yes, minus the 'D'. He would be unable to contain his laughter at this sight so then would start laughing. This would not amuse me in the least. He said my legs would then take on the characteristic of pistons firing very quickly. No wonder I had fully developed quads, hamstrings and calves as a kid!

As an adult, I admit, there are times when I have to concentrate very hard in order to restrain my foot from stomping. It's sad, yet rather amusing at the same time. My lip will even quiver as I restrain it too. If you ever see this happen you can choose to do one of two things. One, run away as it's possible you are about to see five foot two of fury. Two, stay and agitate me a bit more and see what kind of Lord of the Dance stomping show I put on. Then run away!

So why do I bring up my childhood history? Well, the other day I was ready to blow a hissy fit. I know, I know - so sad.

Here's the situation... I feel like I just got off the couch and can't ride anymore. Mentally, I know this to be false. Emotionally though? That's another story.

It's amazing the havoc that occurs post-Ironman! I've been out for a few rides now, but I just can't get into the groove yet. I wasn't troubled about that fact the first four weeks - I was in recovery mode. For some reason now though, I expect to be magically back to that place where I was. Alas, I am not.

I keep asking myself 'how the heck do people do IMCDA, then IMC??!!' Of course I know the answer, years of training to get to that level!

This weekend I rode for a total of 165 km in two days. In my mind, compared to the 429 km in three days I did in May, this weekends ride was piddly. Both days it was all hills and, therefore, a ton of climbing. I made it through Saturday's ride fairly well, although I was pretty slow towards the end. Sunday's ride was a lot tougher for me. One reason was my timer to tell me when to take in nutrition konked out, so I didn't get enough fuel in me. The other reason? Well, that I don't know. Still reovering? Back to the beginning?

Normally I slay the Lochend route. It is one of my favourite routes because it's challenging and gorgeous and this year I made some huge progress on it - so to feel like I couldn't ride it well was a bit of a downer.

Fear not though! I am a smart cookie and I realize that this can happen to an athlete. Especially one such as I, who is still pretty much a rookie to the Ironman distance. Last year it took me over six months to recover and my entire system was a mess. A rather scary mess.

This year I give thanks that I have the fitness I do. Granted, I'm not back up to snuff yet. That's ok! I will keep reminding myself about how many people out there can't even go for a nice ride along the river!! Just the fact that I can ride 165 km in one weekend is a very cool thing, especially when I'm only six weeks out of IMCDA.

I'm big enough to admit, too, that I almost had the hissy fit...but quickly realized how lucky I am to have my health and fitness. Therefore, I didn't. Had I done so though, it would have been a great leg workout!

Because I didn't do the hissy fit leg workout, I decided to hit the gym. Although my legs had some fatigue in them I decided to add some weights to the bar when I did squats. Not too much, just a 10lb plate on each side. I like these plates. They are skinny, but the diameter is quite long so they LOOK like I'm lifting a ton of weight. Hey, as long as you look good right?!

On my second set my legs were asking me to please stop as we did mucho hills on the weekend. Oh how I remember the days when I could squat 135 lbs for three sets of 15! I got through the three sets, then did three sets of step ups. I gave my legs a break though and skipped the lunges.

I did some upper body work that will hopefully strengthen my shoulders for swimming. Which reminds me, I really should get back in the pool some time soon! I'll look after that after my trip to Penticton where I can savour the feel of lake water rushing over me. I can't wait!

While at the gym, I got to show a fellow gym rat an exercise, which was kind of cool. I noticed he was doing chest and abs so showed him the old pushup/side plank move. Here's the drill. Get yourself a couple of free weights - not too heavy. Get into push up position with your hands on the weights, rather than the floor. Do a push up, then with one arm swing the weight out while turning into side plank. Your finishing pose will be a side plank with arm outstretched to the ceiling holding the free weight. It's a terrific exercise.

The fellow thanked me as he'd hurt his ribs a while back and thought this would be better for him to stretch things out. Gotta love it when you act on an instinct and end up helping someone out!

So a good leg workout, and no hissy fit. I will use this time as a way to learn patience, which the Universe is constantly trying to get me to master. I think this weekend I'll just go out for a wee ride around Grand Valley / Horse Creek. Things will be back to 'normal' soon enough!!

Peace out my friends!