January 28, 2012

cycling intervals and a little more overtime!

Today I wanted to trash my legs. I decided to do some self punishment using intervals on the bike. I started out with sets of 4 minutes hard and 4 minutes recoveries. I continued with the 4X4 until I could no longer sustain a full 4 minutes hard. Then I did 2X2 minute sets until my legs couldn't sustain the 2 minutes hard any longer. I finished with 1X1 minute sets until muscle failure. I'm trashed! Feels great!

Now I'm off for another 12 hour overtime at the old pinta! The 1st pay period of this year I worked 86 hours of regular pay and 93 hours of overtime. The next pay period I worked 86 and 72, & this pay period I'm on track for another 86 and 72. I see a lot of disgruntled employees at the State Penitentiary, I feel that most correctional officers have no idea how good we have it. There's no doubt that the Penn can be a dangerous and stressful place to work, but I couldn't imagine a job where my entire family of 5 had to live off a straight 40 hour work week with no overtime available. I'm grateful that the good Lord has blessed me with a career that I can pull extra shifts from time to time to help my family catch up on bills.

January 24, 2012

How do we know the Bible is true?

Last night I talked to a fellow co-worker. He & I had talked about God many times and up until then I thought he was a believer. Last night I shared with him what the bible says about our God being there for us, How God is in control and doesn't put anything into our lives that we cant handle, and if we ask Him for help God will help us. I realized pretty quickly that he doesn't believe that the bible is true. He disagreed and told me the leaders of his church have told him that his church's traditions is what is correct and that his church believes that most of what is written in the bible are made up stories. I learned many of the things his church is telling him are the opposite of what the bible says. I believe the bible is 100% true, & here's why.

There have been hundreds of books written on the subject of the evidences of the divine inspiration of the Bible, and these evidences are many and varied. Most people today, unfortunately, have not read any of these books. In fact, few have even read the Bible itself! Thus, many people tend to go along with the popular delusion that the Bible is full of mistakes and is no longer relevant to our modern world.

Nevertheless the Bible writers claimed repeatedly that they were transmitting the very Word of God, infallible and authoritative in the highest degree. This is an amazing thing for any writer to say, and if the forty or so men who wrote the Scriptures were wrong in these claims, then they must have been lying, or insane, or both.

But, on the other hand, if the greatest and most influential book of the ages, containing the most beautiful literature and the most perfect moral code ever devised, was written by deceiving fanatics, then what hope is there for ever finding meaning and purpose in this world?

If one will seriously investigate these Biblical evidences, he will find that their claims of divine inspiration (stated over 3,000 times, in various ways) were amply justified.

Fulfilled Prophecies

The remarkable evidence of fulfilled prophecy is just one case in point. Hundreds of Bible prophecies have been fulfilled, specifically and meticulously, often long after the prophetic writer had passed away.

For example, Daniel the prophet predicted in about 538 BC (Daniel 9:24-27) that Christ would come as Israel's promised Savior and Prince 483 years after the Persian emperor would give the Jews authority to rebuild Jerusalem, which was then in ruins. This was clearly and definitely fulfilled, hundreds of years later.

There are extensive prophecies dealing with individual nations and cities and with the course of history in general, all of which have been literally fulfilled. More than 300 prophecies were fulfilled by Christ Himself at His first coming. Other prophecies deal with the spread of Christianity, as well as various false religions, and many other subjects.

There is no other book, ancient or modern, like this. The vague, and usually erroneous, prophecies of people like Jeanne Dixon, Nostradamus, Edgar Cayce, and others like them are not in the same category at all, and neither are other religious books such as the Koran, the Confucian Analects, and similar religious writings. Only the Bible manifests this remarkable prophetic evidence, and it does so on such a tremendous scale as to render completely absurd any explanation other than divine revelation.



The historical accuracy of the Scriptures is likewise in a class by itself, far superior to the written records of Egypt, Assyria, and other early nations. Archeological confirmations of the Biblical record have been almost innumerable in the last century. Dr. Nelson Glueck, probably the greatest modern authority on Israeli archeology, has said:

"No archeological discovery has ever controverted a Biblical reference. Scores of archeological findings have been made which confirm in clear outline or in exact detail historical statements in the Bible. And, by the same token, proper evaluation of Biblical descriptions has often led to amazing discoveries."

Scientific Accuracy

Another striking evidence of divine inspiration is found in the fact that many of the principles of modern science were recorded as facts of nature in the Bible long before scientist confirmed them experimentally. A sampling of these would include:

■Roundness of the earth (Isaiah 40:22)

■Almost infinite extent of the sidereal universe (Isaiah 55:9)

■Law of conservation of mass and energy (II Peter 3:7)

■Hydrologic cycle (Ecclesiastes 1:7)

■Vast number of stars (Jeremiah 33:22)

■Law of increasing entropy (Psalm 102:25-27)

■Paramount importance of blood in life processes (Leviticus 17:11)

■Atmospheric circulation (Ecclesiastes 1:6)

■Gravitational field (Job 26:7)

■and many others.
These are not stated in the technical jargon of modern science, of course, but in terms of the basic world of man's everyday experience; nevertheless, they are completely in accord with the most modern scientific facts.

It is significant also that no real mistake has ever been demonstrated in the Bible—in science, in history, or in any other subject. Many have been claimed, of course, but conservative Bible scholars have always been able to work out reasonable solutions to all such problems.

Unique Structure

The remarkable structure of the Bible should also be stressed. Although it is a collection of 66 books, written by 40 or more different men over a period of 2,000 years, it is clearly one Book, with perfect unity and consistency throughout.

The individual writers, at the time of writing, had no idea that their message was eventually to be incorporated into such a Book, but each nevertheless fits perfectly into place and serves its own unique purpose as a component of the whole. Anyone who diligently studies the Bible will continually find remarkable structural and mathematical patterns woven throughout its fabric, with an intricacy and symmetry incapable of explanation by chance or collusion.

The one consistent theme of the Bible, developing in grandeur from Genesis to Revelation, is God's great work in the creation and redemption of all things, through His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.



The Bible is unique also in terms of its effect on individual men and on the history of nations. It is the all-time best seller, appealing both to hearts and minds, beloved by at least some in every race or nation or tribe to which it has gone, rich or poor, scholar or simple, king or commoner, men of literally every background and walk of life. No other book has ever held such universal appeal nor produced such lasting effects.

One final evidence that the Bible is true is found in the testimony of those who have believed it. Multitudes of people, past and present, have found from personal experience that its promises are true, its counsel is sound, its commands and restrictions are wise, and its wonderful message of salvation meets every need for both time and eternity.

January 23, 2012

In n Out burgers

Anytime I go to Tempe to race my family and I always stop to eat at the In n Out burger. There aren't any In n Out burger joints in New Mexico, so it's a treat for us to eat there. They have some really delicious food!

While at Tempe's In n Out burger there are always dozens of birds swooping in for dropped or abandoned food at the outdoor patio. While there relaxing, staying off my feet preparing for my race I enjoy feeding the birds french fries. Last time I was there I saw a sign at the In n Ouyt burger saying, "Please don't feed the birds for health reasons". That made me wonder.... if In n Outs food is so unhealthy that it's bad for wild animals why am I eating it?

January 17, 2012

NMBRA 2012 New Mexico Road Series (NMRS)

I found another local series here in NM that I'm excited about. It's the NMBRA, which is a cycling specific series. I hope to do at least three races in this series in 2012. The info from thier flier and the series info is posted below, or you can find it on http://www.nmcycling.org/NMBRA/NMRS_2012.html,
or
http://www.nmcycling.org/

The NMBRA New Mexico Road Series (NMRS) awards are intended to recognize the best all-around road racers throughout the racing season in a number of categories. The NMRS is intended to encourage participation and competition among racers throughout the racing season.
2012 New Mexico Road Series events:
Date(s)


March 10-11
TriFecta Omnium

TT, Crit and RR will count separately, not Omnium.
Las Cruces NM


March 17
Oso High Lobo Classic RR

Albuquerque, NM

March 24
Tierra del Sol Road Race

Belen, NM

March 31 - April 1
Adoption Exchange Classic
TT, Crit and RR will count separately, not Omnium.
Albuquerque, NM


April 21-22
Cavern City Classic
Each RR will count separately, not Omnium.
Carlsbad, NM


May 12
Galisteo Road Race
Galisteo, NM


June 2-3
Santa Fe Stage Race
Double points for overall GC.
Santa Fe NM

June 10
Crest Race
Albuquerque, NM

June 17
Los Alamos Road Race
Las Alamos NM

August 5
Santa Fe Hill Climb
Santa Fe NM


Three (3) event minimum / All (up to 15) results count
Race Groups/Starts
The following seven race starts will be run at all 2012 NMRS events:Men Cat 1/2/3, Men Cat 4, Men Cat 5, Masters Men 50+ Cat 2-4Women Cat 1/2/3, Women Cat 4Juniors 16 and under (Juniors 17-18 will race their category)
Overall Awards
The 2012 NMRS will give overall awards in the following categories:
Men
Women
Juniors
Winners' jerseys will go to the overall winners. Prizes (cash, gift certificates and/or merchandise) may be awarded to the top three (3) overall in each category, depending on availability.
Purely for the purposes of bragging rights, overall standings corresponding to the race group starts will also be tracked.
Scoring
Each rider's results in all 15 events will be used to calculate their overall point total.
Points will be awarded based on field sizes according to the following scales:

All finishers receive one (1) point per event.
For timed stage races, points will be awarded based on final overall (GC) results only, and will be 2 times the values in the table above.
For omniums, points will be scored for each individual stage only, and not for the final overall results.
Points are awarded according to the race group you ride in. The only exception to this rule is that juniors 16 and under who race category races will be scored as 17-18. If you ride in different race groups from race to race, you will accrue points in the corresponding NMRS categories. Points will NOT be combined for the overall awards.
One-day licensees and out of state riders do not accrue NMRS points, but do displace points for eligible riders.
If pros are in the SM 1-2-3 race (at the discretion of the race directors), they do not accrue NMRS points, but do displace points for eligible riders.
The following are examples of how scoring works.
Men Cat 1-2-3 Race, 27 participants:
1st - 36 year old Cat 1 racer : 30 pts in NMRS category SM 1-2 35+2nd - 42 year old Cat 2 racer : 27 pts in NMRS category SM 1-2 35+3rd - Colorado rider : No points awarded4th - 19 year old Cat 2 racer : 22 pts in NMRS category SM 1-2 U235th - 28 year old Cat 3 racer : 20 pts in NMRS category SM 3 23-34etc. Men Cat 5 Race, 42 participants:
1st - 26 year old Cat 5 racer : 40 pts in NMRS category SM 5 23-342nd - One-day licensee : No points awarded 3rd - 45 year old Cat 5 racer : 33 pts in NMRS category SM 5 35+4th - 17 year old Cat 5 racer : 30 pts in NMRS category JM 5 17-185th - 22 year old Cat 5 racer : 28 pts in NMRS category SM 5 U23etc. Women Cat 1-2-3 Stage Race, 11 participants:
1st - 51 year old Cat 2 racer : 40 pts in NMRS category SW 1-2 50+2nd - 38 year old Cat 2 racer : 34 pts in NMRS category SW 1-2 35+ 3rd - 45 year old Cat 3 racer : 28 pts in NMRS category SW 3 35+4th - 17 year old Cat 3 racer : 24 pts in NMRS category JW 3 17-185th - 22 year old Cat 1 racer : 20 pts in NMRS category SW 3 U23etc.

January 16, 2012

The Bicycle Coalition of New Mexico

I receive emails from the BCNM. They usually have some really good info info in their emails so I thought I'd share it here on my blog.

Hello fellow Sun Cyclers,

Thank You for you support of BCNM. The Coalition will be releasing it's Annual Report very soon. Our membership has grown to over 500 members in 2012, and we have greatly increased our presence with our state DOT policy holders and state and federal lawmakers. Some of our accomplishment highlights:

"Complete Streets" Initiative: High Road to Taos shoulder repaved so that a dangerous lip is removed; ongoing eye on the DOT to stop the partial paving of our bike ways.

"LCI Program": Tammy Shurr continues to train League Cycling Instructors around the state. These certified LCI instructors can then teach NM cyclists how to ride their bicycles safely on our roads. Annual LCI conference this weekend November 12th in ABQ. Details at www.bikenm.org

"National Bike Summit": Five delegates from around the state flew to D.C. for League of American Bicyclist, and IMBA advocacy seminars. Then met with our congressmen, and senators to discuss bicycle facilities and other bicycle issues. We also mingled with fellow coalition groups from around the country to here about what is going on in their states.

"Tour of Rio Grand Valley, REBORN!"- Over 500 riders enjoyed the ride to Belen and back in September. It was a beautiful day! This was BCNM's first big cycling event, and there were some lessons learned. Overall, it was a hit, and we expect to double attendance in 2012. Money raised from this ride goes towards our advocacy expenses, LCI program, and possibly a new paid Executive Director in 2012. Thanks to all who rode!

There were many other meetings attended by our board members through 2011, representing New Mexico's bicyclists. Please read through our President's reports, and other documents on our website.

We now ask that some of our Sun Cyclers step in and volunteer there time as board members in 2012. We have some momentum going now, and we need new blood and energy to help us keep BCNM a working organization. We will need a new President in 2012. Diane Albert has been President for four years now, and has given the Coalition a great running start. The Board thanks Diane for all her energy, intelligence, tenacity, and success!

Please self-nominate at: board@bcnm.org

There is a BCNM Board meeting Saturday November 12th, 5:30 to 6:30 pm, in ABQ after the LCI Conference. You are welcome to attend if interested. Let us know.

From our BCNM Bylaws:

The officers of the corporation shall be a President, a Vice-President, a Secretary, and a Treasurer. The corporation may also have a Chairperson of the Board, one or more Vice Presidents, Assistant Secretaries, Assistant Treasurers, and other such officers with such titles as may be determined from time to time by the Board of Directors. One person may hold more than one office in the Corporation except that no one person may hold the offices of President and Treasurer. No instrument required to be signed by more than one officer may be signed by one person in more than one capacity.


PLEASE HELP KEEP THIS ORGANIZATION GOING!

Keith Ashmore, V.P. BCNM

To unsubscribe click here. Unsubscribe

BCNM
PO Box 3326
Corrales, NM 87048
United States

January 14, 2012

albuquerque turning anti cyclist?

Below is a letter from an Alb cyclist and the response from Aziza Chavez, Policy Analyst-Councilor Alb NM.

This response reminds me of the recent crackdown on cyclists along Tramway Blvd. I'm really tired of "health and safety" being used as an excuse to strip citizens' rights. Cyclists can and do make choices with our "life, health and safety in mind." We do not need the city to do that for us. If the City wants to actually do something about protecting our "life, health and safety" I would suggest, for starters, putting up sings indicating "No Cell Phone" and enforcing the law against cell phone use while driving. Enforce the speed limit. Educate drivers and hold them accountable for their mistakes. Educating cyclists and hold them accountable for their mistakes is also part of what it will take to improve safety of all road users.

Bicycles are being pushed from one bad situation to another. Now avoiding the poor section of the MUP will require a detour on Jefferson and the Pan American Frontage road. I think Chappell is probably safer than that.

Albuquerque purports to being a bicycle friendly community and supporting multi-modal transportation options. This position completely flies in the face of that. Arbitrarily restricting access to City streets, for nothing more than the convenience of a very few commercial users, without due process or consideration for all the factors affecting all rightful road users is simply unacceptable. This sets a very bad precedent and the cycling community will not rest until the signs are removed and the City reconsiders it's position on this issue.

I strongly urge the City to reconsider its position on this matter and choose to do something that will actually make a difference.

The letter starts here:
Mayor Berry, Councilor Jones,

I am writing to you due to my concerns about the installation of "no bicycles" signage on Chappell between Singer and Osuna. There are several problems with this situation not the least of which is that it is contrary to ordinance stating bicycles are legal vehicles on the road:
§ 8-3-3-4 TRAFFIC REGULATIONS APPLY.
(A) Operators of bicycles have the same rights as operators of automobiles in the use of streets, highways and roadways within the city, except as otherwise specifically provided herein.

(B) Every person riding a bicycle upon a roadway shall be subject to all the duties applicable to the drivers of motor vehicles, except as otherwise expressly provided in this Traffic Code and except as to those provisions of laws and ordinances which by their nature can have no applications; and each such person shall be subject to the same provisions and sections of this Traffic Code to which a motorist is subject.('74 Code, § 9-5-16.5) (Ord. 65-1974; Am. Ord. 19-2007; Am. Ord. 37-2008)

Further, there is no indication that a meaningful "engineering traffic investigation" as called for in the ordinance governing the placement of such restrictions actually occurred. Banning bicycles from this public street was undertaken as the first course of action. What about education? What about enforcement? There are other ways to address the issue that were not utilized. No input from the cycling community was taken, and GABAC, a long standing City committee that deals with bicycle issues was not consulted. The MUP that parallels Chappell is far from ideal. There is no controlled crossing at Singer, forcing cyclists to dodge traffic to cross as best they can. Even worse, the crossing at Osuna requires navigating a crosswalk that puts cyclists in the path of oncoming vehicles turning left as well as vehicles from the rear turning right. As highlighted by the unfortunate death of Scott Lane this week only 1/4 mile east of the Osuna/Chappell intersection getting across Osuna, and bike access in general in that area, requires significant improvement.

Most simply it appears this signage was placed at the request of the industrial business along Chappell with complete disregard for the rights and needs of other road users - the streets of Albuquerque to do not exist simply for the convenience and at the control of commercial users. The businesses along Chappell need to learn to "Share the Road", it is not their private domain.


This was the response to the letter:
Ms. Chavez: I have reviewed the ordinance (§8-1-2-15) and confirmed that DMD complied with its requirement. In accordance with §8-1-2-15, a competent registered engineer from DMD went to investigate the location and determined that the road was unsafe for both uses. While I am sympathetic to the inconvenience of the bicyclists, I believe life, health and safety trumps convenience. In light of the tragedies involving motor vehicles and bicyclists in the last two years, it was appropriate for DMD to take this action. Please let me know if there are any questions. David Tourek

Aziza Chavez
Policy Analyst-Councilor Trudy Jones Albuquerque City Council District 8 Phone: 768-3106 E-mail:
azizachavez@cabq.gov

Response of the cyclist:
Thank you for getting back to me, does this "investigation" meet the requirements of a "traffic engineering investigation" and if so where can the public acquire a copy of the details and documentation? Where was this investigation reviewed and ratified? Why was GABAC not consulted or involved? This is simply someone taking unilateral action without due process or consideration for all the factors affecting all rightful users. I agree that life, health, and safety are the critical factors, but what you are saying is that the convenience of commercial users trumps the rights of other road users. If life and safety truly were a priority the intersections at Singer and Osuna would be addressed to make them safer and more viable for cyclists. The individual(s) responsible for this action are simply taking the easy way out by denying access to legal road users without investing any effort on their behalf. Claiming life, health, and safety does not absolve the investigator from performing due diligence and finding solutions that accommodate all users. What is the plan to address the issues with that area that results in Chappell being the most desirable route? It is unacceptable to consider placing "no bicycle" signage the final answer, it is NOT a solution and only serves the agenda of a single user.

January 12, 2012

The New Mexico tri series 2012 schedule

2012 RACES:Billy the Kid Sprint and OLY – June 9, 2012
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?Chasing3RaceProducti/02eb188577/bd78afdaa7/17ef01932f

Storrie Lake Tri Sprint and OLY – June 24, 2012 (Register NOW)
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?Chasing3RaceProducti/02eb188577/bd78afdaa7/dba0851a11/utm_content=o.c.tri%40comcast.net&utm_source=VerticalResponse&utm_medium=Email&utm_term=www%2Echasing3%2Ecom&utm_campaign=2012%20Tri%20Season%20begins%20now%21

Dread Mon Xterra Tri and Dam It Man Sprint - July 21 & 22, 2012
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?Chasing3RaceProducti/02eb188577/bd78afdaa7/47b21e58f9



Cochiti Lake Tri Sprint and OLY – July 28, 2012
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?Chasing3RaceProducti/02eb188577/bd78afdaa7/a8dbc55dfb/utm_content=o.c.tri%40comcast.net&utm_source=VerticalResponse&utm_medium=Email&utm_term=www%2Echasing3%2Ecom&utm_campaign=2012%20Tri%20Season%20begins%20now%21

Elephant Man OLY and Long Course – September 30, 2012
http://cts.vresp.com/c/?Chasing3RaceProducti/02eb188577/bd78afdaa7/1ed6e436ee

The New Mexico tri series 2012 schedule

2012 RACES:Billy the Kid Sprint and OLY – June 9, 2012
www.nmsportsonline.com

Storrie Lake Tri Sprint and OLY – June 24, 2012 (Register NOW)
www.chasing3.com

Dread Mon Xterra Tri and Dam It Man Sprint - July 21 & 22, 2012
www.damitmantriathlon.com

Cochiti Lake Tri Sprint and OLY – July 28, 2012
www.chasing3.com

Elephant Man OLY and Long Course – September 30, 2012
www.elephantmantriathlon.com

January 11, 2012

update on liver tests

I finally got the tests back from the tests I had to have because because my liver enzymes were 11 times higher than what is considered high. The tests came back as negative for hepatitis and liver tumors. The next step is more blood work, which I got done yesterday. I'll let you guys know how the tests come back as soon as I get them.

I'd be very grateful for any prayers.

January 09, 2012

Ironman cut off times

Ironman cut off tmes

The Ironman start is 7 AM.

SWIM:You have 2 hours 20 minutes to complete the swim. All athletes must be out of the water by 9:20 AM.

Bike:All athletes must be off the bike course by 5:30 PM. If an athlete maxes out the swim time then they have 8 hours 10 minutes to finish the bike. That's a 13.71 mph pace

Run:You must finish the marathon by midnight. If you maxed out the swim and bike you'll have 6 hours 30 minutes to complete the Iron run. That's a 14:53 minute per mile average run pace.

January 06, 2012

productive 2 weeks

I've been very productive. In the last 14 days I've worked 179 hours at the prison, biked 152.1 miles, and ran 40.5 miles.

January 02, 2012

UNM bike test results
I went to the UNM exercise physiology lab in Oct and got a battery of tests done on the bike. The results are below:

power to weight ratio:
This is the results I was most excited and surprised about. This was the highest power to weight ratio I'd ever recorded.
October 2011: 414 watts at 181.2 pounds= 2.28 watts per lb.
July 2010: 428 watts @ 189.1 pounds= 2.25 watts per lb
Jan 2010: 410 watts @ 208 pounds= 1.98 watts per pound

Maximal VO2 (ml/Kg/min):Your VO2 max measured on the cycle was 52.9 ml/kg/min at a maximum power output of 414 Watts. This ranks you in the excellent to superior category (between the 90th and 95th percentile) for your age and gender.

Maximal Heart Rate (beats/min)Maximal heart rate is often used as a tool for setting the exercise intensity by setting a target zone. Your maximal heart rate was measured at 167 beats per minute (bpm). This is the maximal value that your heart can work during cycling, so your regular exercise intensity should not often be at your maximal effort. Your recommended cycling intensity based on your thresholds determined from your test is 83-90% of your max HR max. For you, this would be between 138-150 bpm.

Ventilatory ThresholdYour test results indicated that you have two ventilatory thresholds. The first ventilatory threshold is termed the “aerobic” threshold, and it is the point during exercise where there is an abrupt increase in Ventilation (VE)/Volume of Oxygen Consumption (VO2) without an increase in VE/Volume of Carbon Dioxide Production (VCO2). In other words, you should exercise at an intensity above this threshold to maintain your aerobic fitness. The second threshold is termed the “anaerobic” threshold, and it is the point during exercise where there is an abrupt increase in VE/VO2 and VE/VCO2. In other words, you should exercise above this threshold to improve your aerobic fitness. You should be able to exercise at an intensity between the first and second threshold for an extended period of time. However, you will not be able to exercise for an extended period of time above your second threshold. Therefore, it is best to perform interval training above this threshold. Knowing the ventilatory threshold aids in setting the level of exercise intensity and designing a training plan.Your first ventilatory threshold (the first arrow on the left in the graph below) was achieved at a heart rate of approximately 138 bpm (83% of max HR) and a VO2 of approximately 39 ml/kg/min (74% of VO2max). Your second ventilatory threshold (the second arrow on the right in the graph below) was achieved at a heart rate of approximately 150 bpm (90% of max HR) and a VO2 of approximately 47 ml/kg/min (89% of VO2max).

Since your second threshold was achieved at a heart rate of approximately of 150 bpm, you could potentially exercise for an extended period below this heart rate (though keep in mind that this value can be higher in outside conditions due to heart rate drift and dehydration). A heart rate significantly above 150 bpm will cause you to fatigue at a quicker rate than if you exercised at a lower heart rate.

January 01, 2012

2011 year end miles

2011 milage
bike miles: 4,410.6
Averaged 367.5 miles a month, 84.8 miles a week.
run miles 1057.8
averaged 88.15 miles a month, 20.3 miles a week.
swim yards: 48,040.4

2010 milage
Bike 4,505.6 miles
averaged 375 miles a month, 86 miles a week
run 775.7 miles
64.5 miles a month, 14.9 miles a week
swim 5,258.3 yards

2009
total bike miles 3915.3
averaged 326 miles a month, 75 miles a week
total run miles 705.1
58.75 miles a month, 13.5 miles a week
toatal swim miles 102,960 yards

December 26, 2011

My Garmin 305 won't turn on or power up

My heart just about stopped today when I went to use my Garmin 305 and it was completely dead. I depend a lot on my heart rate monitors while I train. I tried a couple of different chargers and it wouldn't come to life. I left it on the charger for awhile hoping it just needed to charge. It still wasn't working an hour later. Luckily I found this tip on the gamin website:
http://www8.garmin.com/products/faq.jsp?product=010-00467-00

You have to hold down the "reset" and "mode" buttons simultaneously then push the on/off button while holding them. It powered right up and all is right in the world again!

December 24, 2011

free style fitness

By Selene Yeager
Prevention

There's no kinder, gentler place to work out than in the gravity-defying embrace of a pool of water. Swimming is easy on your joints, burns tons of calories, and makes you feel like a kid on summer vacation, all while giving you grown-up fitness and muscle tone.

Water is about 12 times as dense as air, so each stroke and kick through it is a mini strength-training exercise. When you swim, every muscle in your body is called into action as you push against the water's resistance. What's more, regular swimming can make you more flexible, something active women struggle with as they get older. Since you weigh only 10 to 15 percent of your land weight in the water, your arms and legs feel lighter and your range of motion increases as you move. Swimming also lengthens your body to its fullest potential, strengthening and stretching otherwise tight, shortened muscles.

The old myth that swimming doesn't burn off fat because your heart doesn't work as hard and your body hangs on to your excess "insulation" in the cool water is just that—a myth. True, your working heart rate can be reduced by as many as 17 beats—or by 10 to 15 percent of your normal working rate on land. But that's because the force of the water actually assists your circulation in helping your heart do its job, and your body temperature is lower in the water, which automatically lowers your heart rate.But that doesn't mean you're not getting a workout. Your lungs actually work harder against the pressure of the water, and your muscles put in overtime keeping you afloat. As a result, you're burning as many calories and conditioning your heart just as well as you would if you were doing most dry land exercises. Your lungs are getting an even better workout.

Swimming is the best way to boost a sagging butt. You see those tight buns in the tank suits of pro swimmers because every kick is powered by the glutes; every lap firms and lifts those muscles. Keep up this butt-building and fat-burning exercise, and you just might find yourself breaking out that thong...at least for private viewings!

* Excerpted from Perfectly Fit by Selene Yeager (Rodale Inc., 2001).

Getting Started
The first thing you need is a place to swim. For most women, the easiest solution is the local YWCA. For a minimal membership fee, most health clubs will allow you access to their pools. And general lap-swimming times are plentiful.

You'll also need a suit. This is the point where many women say, "Thanks, but no thanks." Relax; we're not talking about a flesh-flashing, butt-baring bikini. We're talking about an athletic, supportive swimsuit. You can even find boy-cut styles that look like shorts. Still feeling body-conscious? One trip to the pool will cure you. You won't see a bunch of bathing beauties; you'll see adult women who look just like you, who are there to get in some laps and get on with their lives.

In addition to a swimsuit, you'll need some other accessories, including:

Goggles
Because they're cheap and they save your eyes from the irritating effects of chlorine, swimming goggles are a must. You'll also see better while you're doing your laps.

Swim Cap
Although it's not a necessity (though some public pools request it), a swimming cap is a definite nicety. If your hair is long, a cap will keep it from tangling. No matter what the length, it'll protect your tresses from the chemicals in the water, which can dry or discolor hair. It's a good idea to look for a silicone cap. It won't pull your hair like a plain rubber one would.

The Usuals
Don't forget a towel for drying off and a water bottle for keeping yourself hydrated (yes, you can get dehydrated in the water).


If swimming becomes your sport, aim to get to the pool at least 3 days a week. Beginners should try to swim 4 to 6 laps in a 25-yard pool. More experienced swimmers can float into the 8- to 10-lap range. And the female fishes in the crowd can shoot for 20 laps.

Tips and Techniques
Swimming used to be the sport that kept me out of triathlons because I sank like a stone and struggled just to stay afloat. One day, I got a few pointers from a pro, and my life has never been the same. By using the right technique, you'll go faster, feel lighter, swim more efficiently, and have more fun.

Roll Like an Otter
The more efficient your stroke, the longer you'll be able to swim. The secret is reducing your number of strokes while making maximum progress with every pull. Learn from the aquatic animals, and roll through the water. Contrary to appearances, swimming is not about twirling your arms and kicking your legs as fast and hard as you can. In reality, your power comes from your hips. As you move through the water, instead of just turning your head for air, roll your whole body, keeping your head in line with your spine, so that your mouth comes out of the water. Breathe, then roll back to the other side with the next stroke.

Streamline Yourself
Your head should be mostly down, with the top of your forehead leading the way. This position helps keep your hips up and is less fatiguing to your neck than holding your head high and looking ahead.

Stay to the Right
If you swim during prime hours, like morning and evening, there's a good chance that you'll have to share a lane with other people. Swim on the right-hand side of the lane, just like you would drive. If someone behind you is swimming faster and making you nervous, stop at the end of the lane and let her through.

Rinse Before and After
Pool chemicals can leave your skin as dry as the Sahara. Avoid this irritation by rinsing off in the facility's shower right before you get in the pool and then soaping up with a moisturizing cleanser and applying a body lotion after you're done. If you're afraid that chlorine will turn your hair to straw, use a chlorine-removing shampoo such as Nexxus Clarifying Shampoo after every swim.

Switch Strokes
Most swimmers do their laps freestyle, because that's the classic swimming stroke we learn as kids and it's the easiest to pick up. But you can work your muscles in new ways and improve your overall conditioning by playing around with a variety of strokes. Flip over and try the backstroke for a few laps. Learn the breaststroke or sidestroke. Your body will appreciate the new movements, and you'll be less likely to get bored.

Swimming Stats
Here's what you can expect from 30 minutes of a water workout.

Calories Burned
255 (based on a 140-pound woman)

Muscles Worked
Trapezius, rhomboids, pectorals, deltoids, glutes, and hip flexors

Psychological Benefits
Cutting through the water is sensual, stress relieving, and a welcome silencing of the usual workday noise.

I took this article from active.com

December 19, 2011

2012 triathlon season game plan

This year 2 guys came out of no where and won just about every local triathlon in my age group of 35-39. Having seen them dominate so thoroughly I've realized next year I need to have my best season ever to be compete. They were so dominant that if you compared the 2 best races I've EVER had to what Marty & Brooks accomplished this year, those 2 great races of mine were about the equivalent to their average this season.

To try and compete with Marty & Brooks next year I've come up with a 5 part plan.
1) Most importantly I'll pray! God blesses those who keep Him 1st and foremost in their heart. Philippians 4:13- I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
2) I'm going to start doing more group rides with pure cyclists. If I can hang with roadies on the bike I can hang with anyone!
3) I'll be implementing more strength and core training to build more block busting speed!
4) I need to drop more weight. My goal weight for next season is 175 pounds.

In 2011 I had a good season. But honestly the only reason I've had decent races is because of my lower body weight. I've maintained 182 since June. 182 is 30-45 pounds less than my normal racing weight, this is the 1st time I've maintained 182 pounds since 1992 or 1993! I've probably said it a thousand times in my blog, "light is fast", but it wasn't until this year that I've been able to drop and maintain around my ideal race weight. I'm currently at 6.8% body fat. For me to drop another 7 pounds and get the kind of speed I'll be needing I'll have to get to 5% body fat, drop a little extra muscle from my upper body, and build a little more leg and core muscle.

I've decided to start my new diet regimen on the 1st day after Thanksgiving! That should give me plenty of time to drop the weight and build as much strength and speed as I can by my 1st A race in 2012. What that race may be, I have no idea. I've decided I wont race again until I'm able to replace my time trial bike that was totaled in September of this year.


December 18, 2011

yearly physical.....

I went in for my yearly physical last week. The blood test came back with two liver enzymes being very high. One of the tests would be high if it was in the mid 40’s, my results from that test came back in the high 40’s. The other test would be high if it was in the mid 30’s; my results were in the 460’s. I’m being sent for more specialized blood tests and an ultra sound of my liver this Tuesday.

I googled the results and found that the liver enzyme results can be high if:

-The test is a false positive. With how high my enzymes were the nurse who I scheduled a follow up test with claimed a false negative is highly unlikely.

Muscle damage. My liver enzyme tests may have been high if I had severe muscle damage. I had competed in an Ironman 3 weeks before my yearly physical. I’m hoping that the test results were high because my muscles hadn’t healed from a 15 hour Iron distance triathlon. The nurse who scheduled my follow up testing said it’s doubtful exercise caused the high results, but I’m hoping this was the reason.

Lung damage. I don’t know of any reason at all that my lungs had been damaged recently, so this one is doubtful.

Kidney damage. I had a couple days of over-eating before my yearly physical. I doubt binge eating could have caused high liver enzyme results, but my eating disorder causing health problems is always a fear of mine.

The most likely reason for high liver enzyme levels would be liver damage. I haven’t drank more than a couple drinks at a time since 2003, so drinking couldn’t have been a reason.

I’ve never done any drugs. I’m not on any medications.

One of the tests they will be doing on Tuesday is a hepatitis test. I seriously doubt I have hepatitis. I’ve never done a drug in my life, and I’ve been faithfully married to my wife since 2003. I was hospitalized in September for a cycling crash. I know it’s unlikely to get hepatitis from needles or other mistakes in a hospital, so I doubt I have hepatitis.

I go in for more tests on Tuesday to see what is up with my liver enzyme's. I’ll post here what the blood tests and ultra sound of my liver reveal.

If any of my blog readers out there of followers of Christ, I’d be forever grateful if you’d be willing to pray for me and my family. Thank you for all your support.

December 12, 2011

2012 season race schedule

These are the 2012 races I'm interested in. By no means will I do all of them. These are the ones that interest me. As long as I get a time trial bike by the time I need to start training the 2 big races of the year will be the Bozeman Triton half and The Redman Full Iron.

Dec
Nut Cracker triathlon

March 31st & April 1st
Adoption Exchange classic

April
Spring Fling tri

May
Atomic Man Duathlon
Dog House tri
or Galisteo road race

June
Crest Race RR
Tri Raider sprint tri
Grady Williams tri

July
Dam it man tri
Cochiti triathlon
Santa Fe Hill climb RR

Aug
Oak Flats RR

Sept
Eagle in the sun
Redman full tri

Oct
Warrior tri
Southwest Grappling Championship

December 10, 2011

The New Mexico mountain bike, cyclocross, time trial, criterium, and road cycling schedule

The New Mexico mountain bike, cyclocross, time trial, criterium, and road cycling schedule

January
January 15, 2012
NM Regional Cyclocross Championship
USAC Cross
Albuquerque, NM
Rio Bravo - Promoted by DASH


February
February 10, 2012 - February 12, 2012
Valley of the Sun
USAC Road
Pheonix, AZ
website

February 18, 2012
Mount Taylor Quadrathlon
Multisport
Grants, NM
website


March
March 10, 2012

Las Cruces Time Trial
USAC Road
Las Cruces, NM
NMRS

March 11, 2012
Hillsboro Road Race
USAC Road
Hillsboro, NM
NMRS

March 18, 2012
Coyote Classic
USAC Mtn
El Paso, TX
NMORS

March 24, 2012
Tierra del Sol Road Race
USAC Road
Belen, NM
NMRS

March 31, 2012 - April 1, 2012
Adoption Exchange Classic
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM
NMRS

April

April 9, 2012
Dawn to Dusk
USAC Mtn
Gallup, NM
website

April 21, 2012 - April 22, 2012
Cavern City Classic
USAC Road
Carlsbad, NM
NMRS Omnium

April 28, 2012 - April 29, 2012
Ft. Davis Hammerfest
USAC Road
Ft. Davis, TX

May

May 2, 2012 - May 6, 2012
Tour of the Gila
USAC Road
Silver City, NM
website

May 5, 2012 - May 6, 2012
La Tierra Torture
USAC Mtn
Santa Fe, NM
NMORS

May 12, 2012
Oak Flats
USAC Mtn
Albuquerque, NM
NMORS

May 12, 2012
Galisteo Road Race
USAC Road
Galisteo, NM
NMRS

May 19, 2012
12 Hours in the Wild West
USAC Mtn
Ruidoso, NM
website

May 20, 2012
Sante Fe Century
Road
Santa Fe, NM

May 26, 2012 - May 28, 2012
Iron Horse Bicycle Classic
USAC Road
Durango, CO
website

June

June 3, 2012 - June 4, 2012
Santa Fe Stage Race
USAC Road
Santa Fe, NM
NMRS

June 9, 2012
Pajarito Punishment
USAC Mtn
Los Alamos, NM
NMORS

June 10, 2012
Crest Race
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM
NMRS

June 16, 2012 - June 17, 2012
24 Hours in the Enchanted Forrest
Mtn
Gallup, NM
website

June 17, 2012
Los Alamos Road Race
USAC Road
Los Alamos, NM
NMRS
June 23, 2012
Olev Rapido Road Race
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM

June 24, 2012
Olev Rapido Criterium
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM

July

July 7, 2012
Event Lab Gran Fondo
USAC Road
TBD
website

July 14, 2012
Volcan Time Trial Series #1
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM

July 21, 2012
Volcan Time Trial Series #2
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM

July 21, 2012 - July 22, 2012
Frazer Mountain Madness
USAC Mtn
Taos, NM
NMORS

July 28, 2012
Event Lab Criterium Series #1
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM
website

August

August 4, 2012
Volcan Time Trial Series #3
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM

August 4, 2012 - August 5, 2012
Cedro/Sandia Peak
USAC Mtn
Albuquerque, NM
NMORS

August 5, 2012
Santa Fe Hill Climb
USAC Road
Santa Fe, NM
NMRS

August 6, 2012 - August 7, 2012
Cedro Peak Challenge
USAC Mtn
Albuquerque, NM
NMORS

August 8, 2012
Lobo Back to School Special
USAC Mtn
Albuquerque, NM
NMORS

August 11, 2012
Volcan Time Trial Series #4
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM

August 12, 2012
Signal Peak Challenge
USAC Mtn
Silver City, NM
NMORS

August 18, 2012
Event Lab Criterium Series #2
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM
website

August 25, 2012
Event Lab Criterium Series #3
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM
website

August 26, 2012
RGRT Time Trial
USAC Road
Belen, NM

September

September 2, 2012 - September 3, 2012
Record Challenge
USAC Road
Moriarty, NM

September 9, 2012
Enchanted Circle Century
Road
Red River, NM

September 16, 2012
Horny Toad Hustle
USAC Mtn
Las Cruces, NM
NMORS

September 22, 2012
High Desert Screamer
USAC Mtn
Gallup, NM
NMORS

September 22, 2012
Event Lab Road Race
USAC Road
TBD
website

September 29, 2012
Event Lab Criterium Series Final
USAC Road
Albuquerque, NM
website

September 30, 2012
Can You See Us NOW? ride and rally
Advocacy Event
Albuquerque, NM

October

October 6, 2012
Road Apple Rally
USAC Mtn
Farmington, NM
NMORS

November

December 09, 2011

2012 WSMR race schedule

One of my favorite times of the year is when next years triathlon and cycling schedule come out. I'll spend weeks dreaming of which races I'll do and what season goals I want to accomplish. I got an email from the WSMR RD with the 2012 WSMR races and I thought I'd share. I'll post the NM cycling schedule tomorrow.

2012 White Sands Missile Range

18 Feb 2012 Presidents Day Duathlon
7K Run/30K Bike
Start time: 0730
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

3 Mar 2012 Wind Triathlon
7K Run/35K Bike/400m Swim
Start time: 0730
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

14 April 2012 Tax Day Triathlon
7K Run/40K Bike/400m Swim
Start time: 0700
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

28 April 2012 WSMR Triathlon Sprint
5K Run/25K Bike/200m Swim
Start time: 0730
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

19 May 2012 Armed Forces Day Duathlon
5K Run/35K Bike/5K Run
Start time: 0730
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

9 June 2012 Beat the Heat Triathlon
5K Run/30K Bike/400m Swim
Start time: 0730
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

7 July 2012 Missileman Duathlon
10K Run/56 Bike
Start time: 0730
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

25 Aug 2012 Roadrunner Triathlon
5K Run/30K Bike/400m Swim
Start time: 0700
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)

8 Sep 2012 Yucca Triathlon
8K Run/45K Bike/400m Swim
Start time: 0730
Email: brent.k.jones@us.army.mil
Website: www.wsmrmwr.com (click on Bell Gymnasium)