Newbie Question: getting started, and walking?
I am awed and inspired by all of you triathletes. I keep toying with the idea of investigating the sport, but I am intimidated, and worried about my knees, too.
I love to bike, and used to be a swimmer, so I am not worried about those (except for biking speeds...I am slow...8 hours for a flat century). But, I ran too much in college and have a game knee. I have not run since (I am 41). The knee works well for walking, swimming, and cycling, but I worry about trying running again.
Also, I really wonder how I could do the amount of training you all seem to do. I find that I require a lot of recovery time now that I am in my 40s.
A friend of mine has done an Ironman distance triathlon within the time (she is in her 50s), and she tells me that she walked all but 6 miles of the run. For me, a triathlon would be all about finishing for my own satisfaction. I am not a fast athlete.
What would you all tell me?
Oops, this got a little long...
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.