Back in the zone. I think.

I am back in the zone. For now at least.

In the last two weeks I have managed five swims, have also struggled out on the bike twice and huffed and puffed for a thirty minute run.   Now nothing will be put down in the records for the distances covered but at least it's a start and it’s great to be back.  But fitting training in as a new Dad is going to take some getting used to.

After Fingal tri at the end of May, and the arrival of my gorgeous daughter, Eve, I had given myself June 'off' with the idea of getting back training in July, and no races booked in until the club championship race at Caroline Kearney in August.

I got back into training a bit sooner than expected at the end of June, but it was definitely a struggle. While I was getting more sleep than expected, the increased tempo of the mid-season swimming sessions took their toll. 

Having said that, the swimming sessions has been the easier part of training. The early mornings, when Alice and Eve are both asleep, provide the ideal time to sneak out to the pool.  The running and cycling conundrums have yet to be resolved.  Evenings of nappies, feeds and cuddles don’t allow much time for either. Not that I’m complaining.

So timing is of the essence.  The lunch time run is being explored.  Commuting to work on the bike and extended routes on the way home are being mapped out (but in this weather, seriously?).

So a few weeks back into training and I’m feeling much the better for it. So while I try to get training done before and during work, the next focus will be on races to up my fitness levels.  Time to up the ante, identify a few races between now and Caroline Kearney.

In the meantime I’m back in the zone. For now at least. Or until my daughter Eve lets me know otherwise.