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Triathlon: The First Steps

Triathlon: The First Steps

Did you really say triathlon?!?

 

Yes, I did: triathlon! I did mention in on my blog 40 things before 40, but I guess it still may surprise many. And yes, that is true. As of last Sunday, I am officially crawling my way to a triathlon. It is an ambitious plan so I am giving myself enough time to get prepared. It is more than getting ready physically. There are some mental blocks I have to overcome first. 

 

One of these blocks is the bike…

 

Triathlon: The First Steps

 


Brazil is not a country with a bike culture. I only learned how to ride a bicycle at the age of 12 and sincerely, I never used it that much. It was only after years living in Belgium that I got myself one. It was on sale and they had it in XS. Yuppy!!! I used it sometimes. I (even) went to work with it 2 or 3 times, but it has spent the past years all alone in the garage.


The thing is that I have been reading so many inspiring blogs about triathlon that I thought: why not? It could be a great change of environment before I decide to go back on stage again. 


Running is not a problem for me. I love it! However, there is also the swimming and the biking. These are both hard ones.


Well, it is better to take one step at a time, so last Sunday, after a lot of thinking (and a sleepless night) I took Buddy, my bike, outside and tested my legs. For this first ride, the idea was a 30-minute ride. 

 

Beginner’s Equipment

I had a route in mind, but soon I realized that I had to adapt it because the road was closed. Even though I have been living here for so many years, there is very little I know outside downtown. Because being on a bike was already enough adventure to me, I kept it safe by riding back and taking the other side of the river.


The weather was great and I ended up doing a little more than 11km in about 45 minutes. The best part about it is that I survived it and ended up loving the experience. It was fun to see how easily other cyclists could see I was a newbie. I must look really odd in addition to the basic equipment.


I am really glad I overcome this block. I was so close to giving up. In fact, I was first going to give a try on July 21st, national holiday here, but I did not make it. I could have cancelled it this time as well, but I didn’t. Kudos for me!


In spite of being an accident-free route, I still managed to hurt my leg. My front light felt on the floor and when I stopped the bike, it happened. I am not sure how I got hurt. It was when I restarted with the riding that I felt my left knee itchy. Once I got home, I did some damage control. 

 

Intra- and post-workout and damage

I had my Regatta backpack with me, but I did not have much in it. For such a short ride, I just needed my Bobble with water. Once I got home though, I made some Egg Protein shake with water and ate 2 rice cakes with cottage cheese.


There are a lot of things that I have to learn about biking. This was just a very humble step towards losing my fear of riding a bike on the streets. You can surely count with more blogs about the theory of cycling. My geek side has a lot of research to do.



Have you already participated in a triathlon? How was it? What got you interested in it? What is your favorite discipline? And your least favorite?



And for the first time (of many, hopefully), I am joining the linkup of You Signed Up For WHAT?!The Cupcake Triathlete, and The TriGirl Chronicles for TriTalk Tuesdays! Make sure you stop by one these pages too to have a look at all the great triathlon-related blogs linked there.

 



Have a great time!

#DebbieinShape



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About The Author

Debbie Rodrigues

Debbie Rodrigues is a powerhouse Executive Assistant by day and a Planning aficionado by night. During her free time, when she is not cycling, you'll probably find her journaling.

Hello, my name is Debbie Rodrigues.

By day, I am a powerhouse Senior Executive Assistant; by night, I am a planning enthusiast. When I'm not cycling, you'll probably find me journaling in my free time.

On my website, you'll find tips to elevate your skill set, build confidence, improve productivity, and achieve success in the things that truly matter to you.