Nice Fall Rides

Thanksgiving was last week-end in Canada. So we (hubby and me) decided to go on a mtn bike ride. Fall colors are starting to pop-up, and it was definetely gorgeous! We had the perfect weather for a ride, 20 degrees (celcius...68 in fahrenheit), and quite sunny, although the trees were closing on the trail and not letting too much light in.

The only problem? I have been slacking a bit in the last couple of weeks...I have an excuse, but sometimes I feel like I'm abusing that excuse. The thing is, I get medication every 2 months to treat Arthritis (that's on top of the regular drugs I take). This infusion leaves me exhausted. I usually sleep a lot (probably too much) in the couple of days following it, and it is really difficult to get back to a regular routine. I guess I should force myself to do a bit more, rather than relaxing totally. I go swimming here and there, and biking when I feel I can. I wonder if I'm not too lazy and should try to keep my schedule even if I feel tired. I noticed that being regular in everything I'm doing is essential to help me feel good. I know this applies to most people, but especially in my case, as every single thing I do out of the ordinary throws my balance off.

Anyway, we went to Albion Hills on Saturday, and although the trails aren't too technical (except for the single tracks that I don't attack too much), it is a very good workout. I had to restrain myself from pushing though. I really enjoy giving all I can to get on top of the hill, but I was riding anaerobic most of the time! So after only 11km (6.8 mi) I had to stop! :( I should be building my endurance right now, not pushing it so much. I don't know if it's because I lost so quickly what I gained before my infusion, or if it's because my body was not ready for a hard work out like that, but I was disappointed all the same. Anyway, we were able to stop and take a couple of nice pics, here are a couple...

Also, I went on a swim on Sunday (1300M). It was great because I got some technique drills in: Catch ups, side swim and one arm. It was bad because I swim in my condo pool , which doesn't make me feel like I optimize the drills and once I get the momentum I hit the wall. I also went later than usual (9am) and there were people swimming already. When I go around 6:30 or 7:00, I usually have to pool all for me, which is great! I will probably get into a masters swim program next year, but for now, this will do.

We went for a path ride (paved) yesterday, and it was good. We rode for about an hour and half, and I managed to keep it aerobic (zone3), except for that last climb. The cool thing is, I remember, at the start of the summer, I was not able to do that last climb! :)

I still don't have my training plan yet, I will work on it this week. I believe that once you know where you're going, and how you plan to do it, you're halfway there. The rest is just kicks in the butt! :)