Starting Over

[colby]

September is plenty of time (assuming we're not talking an Ironman here). You can do it, and you'll probably lose some of that weight between now and then in the process.

Even if you change your mind in September, you'll be no worse off than you are today. No reason not to try, right? (I know, I make it sound so easy, but honestly, unless the race fees are a hardship, I would totally do it.)

[NbyNW]

Why not, if you're otherwise healthy?

I did my first sprint tri last September and only signed up for it 5-6 weeks in advance. I had a serious back injury in '06 that really undermined my confidence in my ability to participate in sports, especially anything to do with running. My first post-injury run was at an "intro to tri" weekend hosted by Wahine, last July. It was a light run, maybe 2 miles, on a squishy, forgiving track. Lots of tips and encouragement that weekend, and next thing I knew, I was convinced that I could be ready for a tri six weeks out!

I ended up alternating running and walking for the last leg of the race, but for me the important thing was to increase my cardio fitness, which had suffered a great deal after my injury, and to just finish!

If your body isn't the same as it was five years ago, it's probably a good idea to take that into account so as to avoid any training injuries. Know when to push, when to ease off . . .

Good luck!