The Blues

I think I've mentioned on here before that I suffer from fairly bad depression. It comes and goes, but is somehow always present. I had a bad February, and ended up back at square one. I'm officially back on the wagon though and feeling good :)

Pedal Power

So last year I was told that if I wanted to get into cycling a lot then the very VERY first thing I need to update on my cheapy Carrera bike was the pedals. Change them up for some proper clip ins and get some decent shoes with cleats.

Well, I never quite got round to it until Saturday night. It was a doddle and the first thing for me to really update on the bike and I'm telling you what a DIFFERENCE it makes to the power transfer from your legs. It took me two secs to get used to the clip in and clip out but once strapped I was flying.

Definitely a great piece of advice for the novice cyclist as the pedals and shoes don't have to be expensive. 

Shimano Cleats SPD-SL - £11.99 Amazon
dhb T1.0 Triathlon Cycling Shoe - £44.99 Wiggle
Shimano R540 SPD-SL Cycle Pedals - £17.99 eBay

Basic Swimming Techniques

Been following some super videos online to help with my stroke. Going to pick up a kickboard and a pull buoy soon as well :)

Struggling for Rhythm

I've been swimming quite solidly, but I'm struggling to get into a rhythm regarding Swim, Bike and Run. I've decided to obtain a new plan to try and kick my arse into gear. First session in first month completed!

Swimming and More Swimming

Managed to complete a 1 km swim yesterday and found it to be very hard indeed. It took me close to an hour! I also visited the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh this morning. The first 50 metre pool I've swum in and notice my endurance obviously needs some work! Anyway, I'm feeling fitter already and looking forward to weigh in tomorrow.

First Swim of The Season

So properly kicking off the season today. I decided on a slightly different plan, as I found a great one thats simple, but should be effective in sorting out my base fitness. So a 20 minute swim today at 60% intensity equalled about 400 metres. It was nice to get up before dawn and cycle down Portobello promenade and go to the old Victorian swimming pool, not busy at all and a really beautiful place to work out.

Returned

What a hell of a few weeks! Last I left you I was building up some base fitness to get me going this new year. Since then I have packed and unpacked a house, moved everything from London to Edinburgh, stored the house, moved in with the In-Laws, done Xmas, attended a wedding over three days and crashed out over Hogmanay with a chest infection which is only just getting better...... damn!

Ach well, as they say the show and all that. Got myself and my partner booked in to the gym and swimming pool and starting some serious routine training tomorrow (along with another weigh in).