Newbie Question: getting started, and walking?

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Originally Posted by Offthegrid

Don't think that just because you may not be able to run you can't do a tri.

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OTG, thanks! I have to admit the whole fast-walk thing did not occur to me...I have never investigated speed walking techniques, but that makes a lot of sense. I SO appreciate this forum...sometimes I sure get stuck in my thinking-ruts!

Also, my competitive nature sure disappeared with my 20s and 30s. Now I just like to see what I can complete, and I find that motivating and relaxing. I care about the times of events mainly to make sure I can finish within the allotted times.

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Originally Posted by rocknrollgirl

Starfish...I am 45, and have a bum knee also, and I am fully training for Xterra right now.


Now recovery from training is a whole different ballgame at this age. I can go hard, and I can go fast...but I need time to recover between. My schedule is set up to cluster my hard training together, and to have rest days and active recovery days in between.

It is working well. Also I do two hard weeks and have an easy week.

Ruth

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:D :D :D :D :D :D :D :D

Starfish, I love the little story about how it mattered to this one. It makes me smile everytime I see your handle.

I'm with the other girls. You can do this. It does not matter if you walk. I would also recommend trying a walk/run schedule. Start at 2 min:1 min one week then 2:2 the next, then 2:3 and so on. Until you get to 2:10 then I would go to 1:10 and stay there if you have a history of injuries.

Sprint tris aren't long and you can easily complete one walking the whole way or doing a walk:run of 2:1 or 2:2.

It would be worth while to have the knee issue diagnosed by an MD or PT. They might be able to give you specific stretches/strengthening exs and suggest a brace if appropriate.

The rule of thumb on running shoes is to use them for 6 months or 600 miles which ever comes first. I'd say that true for most but I would also recommend changing them sooner if you suddenly start getting more knee pain and nothing else has changed.

There are plenty of great running stores out there. I noticed that you are from WA. If you live close to the Gorge or travel to Hood River, I would recommend Shortt Supply. They will properly fit you and give great service. Here's their link:

http://www.shorttsupply.com/

Happy Tri-ing.

Wahine, Yay!! You got my handle! I like that story...I have both been a *starfish* and a *starfish thrower.* I am glad it gives you a smile.

I also appreciate the encouragement. I think some of the hesitation I have is more about fear of trying new things. I am committed to staying out of my comfort zone and I *do* do new things. But, I never seem to lose that fringe of fear when contemplating a new performance arena. I know I will try a tri...we will see when.

I am up in the NW of WA, so Hood River is not my area, generally. I can get to Seattle now and then, so I will find something for shoes.

A real diagnosis would help. Years ago, when the pain really knocked me out of running and off my feet, they did an artherogram (sp?), but it was inconclusive, and we decided against artheroscopic exploratory surgery.

I think when this cycling season is ending, I will start the walk/run in the fall and shoot for a tri next year.

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Originally Posted by Starfish

I think some of the hesitation I have is more about fear of trying new things. I am committed to staying out of my comfort zone and I *do* do new things. But, I never seem to lose that fringe of fear when contemplating a new performance arena. I know I will try a tri...we will see when.

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One of the lessons I learned from rock climbing is that it's OK to get scared but that you can't let the fear control you and stop you from reaching your goals. :)

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Originally Posted by MDHillSlug

One of the lessons I learned from rock climbing is that it's OK to get scared but that you can't let the fear control you and stop you from reaching your goals. :)

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I couldn't agree more. I currently have a small coaching & workshop practice, and it is called Do What You Fear! On my cards, along with that title and logo, is the tagline: Do What You Fear! Just don't do it alone.

That is why I love you women on these forums. Such great community for support. Thanks to you all!

In Seattle, there's a Roadrunner Sports now, it's by Greenlake. I haven't gone inside the store but it looks fairly comprehensive. I used to go to the one in San Diego, Calif (they also have a website) and the people were so great! The selection is incredible, the salespeople know a lot about foot problems and running, and you try out the shoes outside and on treadmills. I went from having very challenged feet to being able to run again. Anyway, I can't guarantee the one up here is as great as the one in California but it's worth a try.

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Originally Posted by teigyr

In Seattle, there's a Roadrunner Sports now, it's by Greenlake.

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Thanks...I think I know where that is...used to be called something else.