2011 Thoughts

Shock of all shocks, it's been two months since I've posted - again!
with some ideas this week. (related to weight loss) Here they are: I've said MANY, MANY times that I think I've found my answers, and that I expect the weight to come off. And, in fact, I've seen the weight come off in big chunks. And yet, this last week my weight was EXACTLY where it was 3 years ago. When I was challenged on that I struggled with how to answer that. I don't want to SAY anything about it, because I want the results to speak for themselves. I do think I've found some answers.

This week's big read is "The 4 Hour Body" by Timothy Ferris. Basically, the guy likes to experiment with his body and see what happens. Some of his experiments are things I've done myself. Others... not so much. I've decided to try out some of his thoughts. They all still fall within the general "lifestyles" program I'm committed to - but I've decided that enough is enough, I'm getting rid of this weight once and for all.

This month I've lost yet another friend to cancer. Her screen name is "Pansy Palmetto" - and she was a real charactor. A cyclist like no other, and one who has been fighting cancer for 7.5 years. She made a point of living every moment to it's fullest. What a great example. And so, I will try to emulate that.

Today my brother came over and weighed. I won't give his weight here, as I don't know if he'd appreciate that, but I think he was a little shocked. He's a big boy and I'm really concerned for him. So, I've invited him to join me in my experimental journey.

So, on to the experiment.

1) Nothing white. I've already started on this, but have had a couple of slip-ups. White bread has always been one of my kryptonites.
2) I'm going to try a little Thermogenex. The concept here is pretty simple: our bodies maintain a core temperature. If we make it work harder to maintain that, our metabolism has to increase. So, turn down the thermostat and turn up the metabolism. I'm sure it's going to drive my family a little crazy, and if you come into my office and feel a little cooler... well, smile and ask me if it's working!
3) TRAINING! Not exactly part of Tim's program, but I want to race this year, and I know that if I can shed 40lbs and put some miles in on the bike that I'll be very competitive. I've decided on a race schedule that I think my family can live with, and one that rewards me with some "trips" with my good friend, John.

Speaking of which - here's the schedule that I'm shooting for:
May 20-22 - Saskatoon's Bikes on Broadway. A stage race consisting of 3 stages. An Individual Time Trial, A Road Race, and a Criterium. I've done this one once before a couple of years ago, and this was the first race I ever managed to get on a podium for.

June 16-20 (or there-abouts - the 2011 dates haven't been posted yet.) Banff Bikefest. While there are many stages to this one, I'm basically interested in the Criterium in downtown Banff. It's a tough, competive race. My last trip there I didn't race, but took some photos (got some great ones, too!)

July 11 - Magrath Triathlon. I've participated in this one for years - this year I'd like to COMPETE in it. I'll be doing the Olympic distance again.

July 23 - Bob Cooke Memorial Mt Evans Hillclimb. Definitely the "peak" event for my season. I'll need to be down to weight and in top cycling shape for this one. Climbs to the top of Mt Evans at 14,264 ft. Pros and Amateur's alike struggle on this one, and it's steep and windy enough that if you have to stop, there's a good chance you won't be able to get started again.

July 30-Aug 1 Tour de Bowness - My final stage race for the year. Another stage race consisting of a Hillclimb, Road Race, and Criterium. I've competed in this one a number of times, and have yet to be able to finish the criterium. So, this year's goal will be to finish!

August 20 Fort Mcleod Triathlon. Done this one a number of times, and will be targeting a personal best here again.

That's the one's I'll definitely be going to. The two other cycling events I'm contemplating are the Hotter 'n Hell 100 (HHH) in Wichita Falls. I've done that one a few times, and it's a whole lotta fun! It's the 25th of August. I'll be going to race it, so better be fast! And the final possibility of the year will be the Tour de Tucson in November. 109 miles with 9,000 of my closest friends. I'll be trying again to Platinum (must finish in under 5 hours) - I came close 3 years ago with 5:14.

Yup, lots of events. Only 2 triathlons scheduled at this point (that's not to say I won't be able to be talked into one at some point.) and they're both Olympic distance. One open water, one in the pool.

All of it is hugely dependent on my weight getting down and I'm hoping that will give me the continued motivation to keep working hard at it. Speaking of which, my rollers are calling my name. Never seen rollers in action? Here's some pictures my buddy Steve and I took years ago - they're all hosted on the Bikejournal website, hope you enjoy the read!

Paceline Practice Canadian Style

Roller Wheelies

Hope you enjoy those as much as we did!! LOL