Trying to Build

We had a major snowstorm last week but I've been able to keep the training streak alive. Monday, regular Jones Beach morning ride. Back-to-back runs, Tuesday and Wednesday (in the snow, beginning of the storm). Thursday, too much snow to ride or run outside, so did a trainer workout. Another run on Friday to cap-off the work week.

Really itching to do some 2+ hour training this weekend to start building back some endurance. Was worried about snow and ice on the roads for cycling but roads looked pretty clear and I went out for 41 miles on the bike on a cold Saturday morning. It was cloudy and sort of bleak, but mission accomplished. My bike is a few years old, not top-shelf, so I'm not really squeamish about taking it out for a ride in messy conditions. I've got a nice box of parts in the basement to give it a little tune-up once we get into the nice spring weather (new chainrings, brake pads, chain, and cassette).

Sunday, I did a long run, 13.4 miles. Again, cold and windy, but this time the sun was out. Put the iPod on and got into a nice rhythm for for the first 6.5 miles. Ran up to Bethpage Park on the same route that I would normally ride on the bike. A little too much car traffic for my taste but I'm sure the Jones Beach path is still probably choked with a foot of snow, so I had to make due. Fighting a headwind on the way back. I think this is about as far as I can go comfortably without additional food and water, so I might try and carry some sports drink as I move to longer runs. Or, possibly loop back home in the middle of a long run to grab a drink and some fuel.

Off tomorrow for President's day. Hoping to get on the bike again if the weather is decent.