I think I work much better under a deadline. Even my fortune cookie tonight said, “You’re transforming yourself to succeed.” Here’s what I’ve done since the last and a little before the last blog post.

I’ve biked 44 miles. (All in the last week because of good weather)

8x (6 1/2 hours) in the gym. Running/cycling 28 miles.

1 hour in the pool.

I really need to put some more time in the pool. I knew the numbers would be lopsided. It is human nature to gravitate to the things we’re better at. Mine are of course biking, running, then…. swimming. I have though met up with my coworker who is an excellent swimmer. She’s given me tips about push offs, since the swimming will be in an indoor pool, and breathing. The breathing part has helped tremendously. I just need to build up my endurance. Unfortunately, hot tub time doesn’t count on dailymile.com.

I haven’t been running outside yet, but if the weather holds out this week, I plan to put some foot to the pavement this week. Biking has superseded running this week, because I just put on new tires and handlebar tape.

One of the great things about a treadmill is that most come with a heart monitor. Last time I was on, I noticed a huge difference in how my heart rate decreased after going from a running pace to walking. My endurance is also up. When I first started, I could barely keep a running pace for 10 minutes. Now I can run at a consistent speed for about 25~30 minutes. Ailments that have hurt me in the past like sore shins and feet haven’t been a problem so far.

Huge improvements in my… blog. Still room for more, but a great start.

One more good omen, one of my lucky numbers on my fortune cookie was 24, the day of the race.