Whatever "TAKE" I am on this week, we turn the lights on, point the camera, and begin shooting again until we get this film moving in the right direction. Ironman Training is very much like a movie production. Somebody researches the latest and greatest strategies for preparation, conditioning, training, nutrition, and equipment. Then the writers put together the "SCRIPT" aka training plan. The headline athlete is cast as the lead actor with her teammates as the supporting actors and other training partners stand in as EXTRAS whenever they are called upon. There are many other important people that help create this master piece including designers for the set, lighting, costumes, and sound effects. You get the picture! The director and producer are the key players who makes sure everything comes together and have to think quickly on their feet to maneuver around obstacles that pop up along the way. The actual filming of the story requires a support crew with coaches, family, triathlon club, mechanics, doctors, therapists, and nutritionist that come to the set as needed. The filming occurs in different locations. It is not a linear journey as scenes are always being edited, cut, re-written, re-shot until the images start to come together to form a finished product to show off to the world. The race will be the RED CARPET EVENT where athletes come in their most glamorous tri kit with their shiny bikes and escorted by their favorite sherpas. Reaching the finish line is just the beginning of the AFTER PARTY.
It takes a village to build an Ironman. I have heard that the second time around will never be as sweet as THE FIRST. I threw my whole being into the experience: Train, Prepare, and Perform like being ROBO TRIATHLETE. The side effects were amazing including a level of fitness that I had never achieved previously, a new group of friends that were like no others, endless fun and laughter (and maybe a few tears), self control and self discipline. It is a thrill of a life time to set a lofty goal and see it through, but the feelings do not last forever and nor does the fitness.
This time around I decided I needed to be less self absorbed in the process and more self motivated and focused. I will take what I have learned and surround myself with others and be the director, producer, and designer of the sequel. My husband is training for a big bike ride which turns out to be the same weekend as my Ironman. So we are trying to balance training, parenting, and family. Our kids are only in our homes for so many years before they leave the nest and although our son is more independent, I don't want to miss out on the time that I have.
I am still receiving PT, but my therapist is a cyclist and encouraged me to begin moving again as part of the healing process. So this week included: 2-30 min spins on the trainer and an hour ride out on the road, a 20 min and 45 min run and 90 min hike, and 2-30 min swims plus lots of neck and back exercises. Tomorrow I go back for follow up post concussion testing and I am hoping on a green light to move forward on making this movie.
35 weeks remaining for movie production! ROLL 'EM!
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