Tribork is trying...

Last post...with a link to new blog

2011-01-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

I have decided to change where I keep my blog. I am moving over the Wordpress. I am not really sure their is a reason for it, I just did it.
Please go over and check out my new post with regards to my jump back into training! Day 1 - Couch to 5K - Running Program. Make sure you book mark the page...and give me as much feedback as humanly possible. I can use as much assistance as I can get!
Talk to everyone soon...

January 1, 2011

2011-01-01T12:13:00.000-08:00

Episode 18 is soon to be available in iTunes and the ZUNE Marketplace.

Enjoy, and send me a note to let me know what you think!

Big things are ahead!!!

December 27, 2010

2010-12-27T23:06:00.000-08:00

Wow...so much has happened in the past few months...where should I start? Well...we will start by saying, Merry Christmas.
The holiday season was wonderful in my house...but now that the "Big" day is in the rear view, it is time to get started. Again...
Within the next day or so...my training program will start once again. Back to basics, and back to the beginning. The new program is a 9 week program from the cool running site. As well...I will get on riding the new trainer I received from my Mom and Sister/Brother-in-law for Christmas! Could not have asked for a better present.
As well, I will be editing...and uploading the newest episode on New Years morning. As a revelation for myself...this year...their will be a serious lack of booze to ring in the new year. The perfect way to start the year off the way that I hope the rest of the year goes. Now, I am not saying I have a drinking problem...I just do not need the empty calories from the drinks that I do have 1-2 times a week. Nothing major...
It really is time...and I need to do this...before it is too late...
One last thing...I will be moving the blog over to the wordpress program...at least for the Podcast information.
Talk to you soon...
Brian

Tribork is Trying - Ep 17 - Time to regroup...

2010-12-05T06:15:00.000-08:00

Here we go with a new plan for the future...

A special thanks to Brent - Canuckrunner for the time that he took to give me some advice

And to Coach Jeff - PRS Fit - for working with me and the issues that I am having...

See you all out there...real soon...

Thank you all for listening...and sending me your support!

I will get their!!

Find the Episode HERE

November 11th - 2010 - Remembrance Day

2010-11-11T15:12:00.000-08:00

They went with songs to the battle, they were young.
Straight of limb, true of eyes, steady and aglow.
They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,
They fell with their faces to the foe.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.

Lest we forget.

Today is Remembrance Day here in Canada, Veteran’s Day in the US, and it is a day that to me, seems to be forgotten by our youth. Whose fault is that? Parents, Teachers?

Since I was a little boy, I can remember my parents taking me to the ceremonies every year. It was a family event, rain or shine. My Grandpa (Mom’s Dad), fought in WW2, and was a part of the crew that swept the mines in the waters of Normandy in the days leading up to the war. As I grew up, I used to try and ask him questions about the war, and what sort of things that he saw. He would take a deep breath, and just say death. Then slowly change the subject. I never pushed the subject, as I could tell that it was still tender even after all these years had passed. He never watched war movies, as he felt they glorified what really happened out there. You can not capture that emotion he would say…

Today I remember him…and the sacrifices that he made to serve his country.

I remember those that gave their lives so that we can enjoy the freedoms that we have now. The freedom to run wherever and whenever we want.

Today I remember…and pay my respects.

If you get a chance, go to this link - http://www.terry-kelly.com/pittance.htm - and watch the video. It is a true story and inspired Terry to write the song and make the video. You can also find the video on You Tube.

Tribork is Trying - Ep16 - Still Going

2010-11-08T22:29:00.000-08:00

In this episode we talk about where we are with the training. How Power 90 is going, what is happening with the cross training and how I am sorting out my nutrition.

Remember to pay your respects and show your support on November 11th for Veterans Day and Remembrance Day.

See you out there...

November 8th

2010-11-08T22:05:00.000-08:00

This past weekend was actually a fairly nice one. Now, I am not talking about weather…or getting outside and getting exercise. Actually, not talking about anything fitness related at the moment. This weekend, my wife and I where able to head across the Border to the United States, and enjoy a date. For our anniversary back in October, I bought her and I tickets to go and see the US Tour of – So You Think You Can Dance. It was being held in the Tacoma Dome, just down the I-5, South of Seattle. My wife loves this show…and I have to admit, I did watch it this season, and really enjoyed it. Talk about athletes! Wow…these kids are in shape!

So that was our reason for heading down their…but the nice part was that…it was just us. It has not been just the two of us doing anything in a long…long time. It was nice to be able to talk to each other, with out having to spell out words. To be free to talk about our upcoming Christmas Surprise Vacation to Disneyland. Nice to go shopping…and not have to listen to – “I want this”, “I am hungry”, “Are we there yet?” Just nice to relax…the two of us.

Of course…at the end of the day…we just wanted to see our boy! A bit of a catch 22.

On Sunday morning, I got up a little early…and did the Power 90 program, and then went for a very quick ½ hour bike ride. Stayed seating in the saddle…but rode hard. A very good leg work out.

After that…got the boy…and had a very nice family afternoon!

A good weekend!

Tribork is Trying - Ep15 - 1st weeks of P90

2010-11-02T16:07:00.000-07:00

In this episode we catch up with a few things.

Progress with the Power 90 program
Other fitness training
nutrition plan? What is that?
Winter Vacation Extravaganza!!
My dream bike
Ultradad and his amazing Ep 53
My weight in...

See you all next week...if their is anyone still listening!

Day 17 - Power 90

2010-11-02T06:17:00.000-07:00

Tonight will be Day 17, of the Power 90 training program – Sculpt 1-2. Can’t wait!

Thursday during the day, my lingering sore throat evolved into a full blown cold, and knocked me off my feet. I usually get sick two times a year; once at the beginning of summer, and then like clockwork, again at the beginning of winter. I could really set my calendar to it if I chose. Oh well. Friday I was like the walking dead, Saturday spent morning in bed cursing everything that moved! Saturday afternoon was better, after the wife cursed me out for being a wuss and gave me some pills and Dr. Buckley’s medicine. By Sunday, I was on my way to recovery, and now…here we are feeling…somewhat normal. Not quite there…but getting very close!

So…that means there has been no fitness since Wed…and I am feeling really guilty! I should get home around 4pm tonight, and it will be straight to the family room and into the Power 90 program for me. As well, I have neglected to weight in, so I will do that while recording it for the podcast!

I hate being sick…and I missed working out. So very happy to hear those words leave my mouth!

Along with the not training over the weekend…it was Halloween. What a weekend it was! My son was so very excited all day…and to annoy his parents…asking…every 15 minutes…”Is it time to get my costume on yet?”…”Now is it time?” My son and I left our house around 6:30pm and by 7pm, we had a bag full of goodies! Far too much for a 4 year old at least! I would share with him…but I am trying to be good…and loose weight! (I really hate the fact…that I LOVE chocolate!) After getting home, we got in the car, and headed over to Grandma’s to trick or treat, fill the bag up again, and then head up to the in-laws for one final stop. What a night! He had so much fun…and was all wound up by time for bed! Out like a light though…which was very nice! Halloween 2010 was a great success…and my son has already informed me of what he wants to be next year! Just enjoy this year kid…live in the moment…

Power 90 - Day 11

2010-10-26T06:16:00.001-07:00

Day 11 comes up later tonight…and I can not wait! My knees are a little bit sore, but I think that is just more or less being tired. They feel nothing like the previous injuries. They feel a little bit more on the achy side, rather than the hurting side of things. I will keep an eye on it, but I am not to worried about it. I will try and roll the legs out with a foam roller tonight after I complete Day 11 Sweat 1-2.

Other than that…not much is happening with regards to fitness. The rainy season is here now in British Columbia…and the current bike that I have (my piece of crap Canadian Tire Road Bike) is not really set up for that type of weather. I make that comment on Twitter the other day, and Mel (from http://www.melanieryding.co.uk ) sent me a message asking why the rain stopped me from ridding. I replied back that I did not have the proper clothing (rain wear) and my bike did not have fenders. Her comment stuck with me over the weekend…and it really started to bother me. I could not get it out of my head. Why was the rain holding me back? I choose to live in British Columbia and the weather here is suspect at the best of time during the winter season. We get lots of rain during the winter months, and some times…some times get lots of snow. This is my decision…so why is the weather affecting my training decisions? Am I not serious about getting healthy and fit? I think that I am…so what should I do? I went out and picked up a low end (piece of crap) mountain bike with fenders. As for rain wear…do I really need that to ride? I will not melt in the rain…I think that I can survive getting out their and get fit. I have clothing that I can layer with to stay warm.

Anyways…thank you Mel for questioning me…and making me rethink what I was saying. I really…really appreciate the fact that there are people out their listening…

I have not started the running program yet, and I think that is because I am still nervous about getting hurt. Now that I have the bike for riding in the rain, I think that a little cycling cross training to get the knees moving will be a great thing.

So…here is to getting soggy…and seeing you out their!

Tribork…out…

Power 90 - Day 10 Video Blog

2010-10-25T21:45:00.000-07:00

Time to come out of the closet...and let the world see me...in the flesh...

One more kick at the can...

2010-10-20T20:45:00.000-07:00

Just like that old Whitesnake song…”Here we go again on my own…” it is time for me to take that next step and get moving towards a fitter and healthier lifestyle.

Over the past year, I have learned a lot about myself, and about my body. The biggest information gain is that I am injury prone. I am not that young and fit kid that could do anything in my teens and twenties. I am older…and far from fit and healthy. So, what can I do with that information?

The first thing that I need to do is re-evaluate my training plans to make sure that they are going to work for me. And the first step in that is to start slower. Just putting on the running shoes and getting out running…does not work for me. If I do that again, I might as well just hang up the shoes and forget it. I will be back on the sidelines again in no time.

The first step is going to be getting out walking more, first shorter distances, then work up to longer distances. Then, incorporate walking for 10 mins, and running for 1 min 3x a week. After that, evaluate how my body feels. How are my knees? How is my foot? One thing that I might try is to get some knee braces to wear when training. I have one from Zensah, so I might see about picking up one more. Just to give the knee some stability…and maybe give me some mental relief…if you can understand what I am meaning by that! Lol!

I just need to make this statement though, to let you all know…I am not at all happy with having to start slowly. I just want to wake up and go running. I feel that I should be able to do this. I want to do this…but what I want more now, is to succeed and achieve my goals. I really need this to work. It just has to work. I really need to slow my brain down…and let my body catch up. – Thanks for listening to my little rant here…

My official start date for the Power 90 training program was Saturday the 16^th of October. Day 1 was the strength portion of the program and it went off with out a hitch. Done deal! It really felt good to get started! Day 2 was Sunday and was the Cardio session. Again, it felt great to get it out of the way…but to be honest…I did not do the program at a full pace. Today is day 5 of the Power 90 program...and so far...so good. For the most part, I have been taking it light, not wanting to risk an early injury. Who am I kidding...I don't want to risk any injuries.
As for my diet, it has been relatively good over the past several weeks. I have not gained anything back, and have been consistent at a weight of 250 lbs (at least I had not gained weight back before the other nights dinner of pizza). For me, that is a good thing, not gaining my weight back. I have been eating healthier (other than last night’s pizza) but there is so much more that I can do. Many more little changes that I can make to assist me achieving my goals. The plan is to eat more fruits and veggies during the day while working, and have healthier clean eating meals at dinner time. I am not planning on going vegetarian/vegan, but I am planning on eating clean.

I have discovered that there is an organic grocery store with in a 5 min drive to my house. 2 of them in fact. One is a full grocery store – Roots Natural Organic Foods. The other one is Organic World, which is more of a butcher type of shop. Now that they have moved across the street to a bigger location, they have much more to offer. Inside they have a little bistro restaurant, a deli, a butcher shop as well as ready to cook frozen meals. The store offers so much more than they used to, and gives the public so much more to choose from.

One of the nice things about these two stores is that they are a 5 min drive from the house. Now…that means that they are a 10-15 min bike ride from the house. I need to start taking the bike out more, and using it instead of the car. That is a whole other issue that we deal with in another blog post.

Back on track here…the main thing for me is not only get started on this journey, but to start slowly. I know that I can do this. I know that I can make this happen. I will get their…one foot in front of the other…

Tribork is Trying - Ep14 - Back to basics

2010-09-27T21:08:00.000-07:00

Join me for episode 14 as I discuss how I intend to proceed in the future. Time to take a few steps backwards, in order to proceed forward.
I spoke with Iron Brandon, Jason from Geeks in Running Shoes, Coach Jeff from PRS Fit and the Runninglam. They gave me some good advice on some steps to take.
I will be back in 1 week…with an update on week 1 of the Power 90 program.
Tribork…out…

A fresh start...and new outlook...

2010-09-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

So, here’s the thing. I need to lose weight and get healthy. In order to succeed at this, I need to stay injury free to keep going with the cardio. That means…that until I loose some (lots of) weight, I need to make some changes and cut back on running. It seems to me that running is the cause of me getting injured constantly. Being overweight and having all of the weight pounding down on my lower limbs is too much for my body to take at this point in time. I need to step back and make some changes, so that I can achieve my goals and live a healthier and fitter lifestyle.

So, what needs to be changed?

My eating habits are something to be desired.
Fitness plans
Home habits
Work habits

Basically, I need to reinvent myself. This is going to be a long road, and take a lot of hard work. Am I up for the challenge? YES! This is something that I have wanted for a long…LONG time. I want to wake up every day feeling refreshed and healthy. I want to have energy to play everyday with my son! I need to do this for me. I need to make these changes to create a better life for me. This will create a better life for those around me…and allow us to get back to enjoying life…

The podcast will be continuing, but will get back to a more frequent weekly process. The format of it will be changing though, as it is going to become more of a documentary of the process that will be changing my life. I will be recording once a day, 7 days a week and then blending it all together to make a weekly podcast. Each podcast will be labeled by the week. I will also be doing some video recording to document this training and then posting it here on the blog. This will assist me with documenting the process of change.

The plan is to continue this process for 90+ days. The main focal point of the training will be the P90 program. I will be doing some running, cycling as well as swimming though, as the main goal is to become a Triathlete. This transformation of my life will be a huge undertaking, and I am fully aware of what the process will entail. I am committed to making these changes and working hard at achieving all of the goals that I am setting for myself.

So, stay tuned…as this journey starts momentarily. It is going to be a very…very bumpy ride…but I am in it for the long haul!

Tribork…really is Trying…

It is a mad…mad world…

Back in the saddle...again?

2010-09-22T21:09:00.000-07:00

Shall we try this endeavor once again? I am thinking the time is right for another test of the old...overweight body.
The knee is feeling as well as it ever does. At the moment their is no pain to the touch or when it is flexed. So far so good...
The top of the left foot is feeling pretty good as well. For this one, I have been taking it really easy, and not doing anything to stress it out. Nothing but rest and relaxation for the past 3 weeks. And to tell you the truth, I am fu%king tired of rest and relaxation. I want to get out their and get some exercise. Time to get moving!
It feels really good to say that...after being a couch potato for the past 8 years. I just get so frustrated with trying to figure out how to get started...without getting hurt. Maybe the best thing for me to do is get on the bike for the first few weeks. Or get in the pool for some lengths. I am not sure. If anyone has some thoughts on what to do...please let me know. I am desperate to get going...and not get hurt!
So, I should mention that my weight is back at 250lbs. Not a huge gain, but up none the less. Not pleased about that, but not much good complaining will do for me.
So...here we go again...
And Tribork...is once again Trying...
See you out there...

September 18th, 2010

2010-09-18T05:54:00.000-07:00

It is Saturday morning, and I have been up since 4am listening to the sound of rain pouring down the drainpipe outside. I am fairly sure that this is not going to be a nice day. That is too bad, as today is the first game for my Under 6 soccer team. This is my son's first year playing, and my first year coaching. It should be a great season.
Now, as for my training? We are still on hiatus. My foot is still aching, so I am not running. However, I did a very...VERY short jog the other night, and have not felt any pain. My goal is to restart the program tomorrow and then every 2 days after that. Go very slowly...and take my time with it.
As well, today I will be starting my Power 90 program once again. Working both the strength and cardio programs.
All I can do, is what I can do, and try not to get injured once again.
I will let you know what happens with everything tomorrow...

September 6th, 2010

2010-09-07T21:34:00.000-07:00

Time to get a new Doctor? Maybe...mine seems to be the constant bearer of bad news.
So, I finally went to see the Dr today regarding both my knee and foot. I should have stayed away. As for my right knee, I am going for X-rays tomorrow to see if their is anything going on. Until that point I will know not much of anything. I am hopeful that I we find something, so at least I get an answer as to what the issue was.
Now, as for my foot, the Dr seems to think that it is plantar fasciitis. What the Frick is that??? And how do I get rid of it? Ok...first things first. The Dr gave me some stretches to try and fix the issue, but to tell you the truth...after I left his office, my foot felt so much worse than when I left it. I actually thought that it was starting to feel better...till I headed home. I am going to search out online more information tonight and tomorrow, but if anyone knows anything about this? Please send me an email! Let me know what to do!!! Tribork-at-gmail-dot-com.

September 5th, 2010

2010-09-05T22:45:00.000-07:00

Vacation is almost over...so it is time to get back in the saddle. Now, I am wondering...what am I going to do, seeing as my foot is still in pain, and my knee is not in top notch shape as well. Resting while I was on my last vacation was a great plan, but not going up and down the stairs of the houseboat might have been a good idea. Oh well...the pain will go away. I will be making a Dr's appointment on Tuesday to get both injuries checked out. Anyways, what am I going to be able to do while I am recovering? First thing that I will do, is get on the bike and go out riding. Get on the bike. Fun times lie ahead!

Tubing on Shuswap Lake

La Casa @ Oakanogan Lake

Let me say...that I am very happy to be home...but I am really missing vacation...

August 31, 2010

2010-08-31T06:41:00.000-07:00

Tuesday is here, and we are on the houseboat. I woke up this morning to the wind pushing and "rocking" the boat around. 3:30am is far to early to get up while on vacation. So now it is 6:30am, and I am down in the galley, all by myself. Nice and peaceful!
Not to sure what the plans are for today, but it should be somewhat peaceful. My son is just loving it out of here. Good thing I never showed him the old episodes of Gilligan`s Island! Lol!!
Talk to you all soon!

Tribork is Trying - Ep 13

2010-08-27T07:59:00.000-07:00

Episode 13 is now available and should be in iTunes and the ZUNE Marketplace shortly!
Once again, we are dealing with pain in the knee…and now to add to it…pain on the top of my left foot!
Emails, comments and audio clips from…
John - http://the45thyear.blogspot.com/
Abby - http://momsfitquest.blogspot.com/
Melanie - @nuutymel on twitter or http://www.melanieryding.co.uk/
Rob - @ultradad on twitter or http://ultradad.libsyn.com/
Geeks in Running Shoes - Jason @guttocutwl Ray @ adeyemiking or http://geeksinrunningshoes.com/
Stuart - The Quadrathon Podcast and blog - http://www.quadrathon.blogspot.com/
See you all next week…
Tribork…out…

August 25, 2010

2010-08-25T18:02:00.000-07:00

Is this the beginning of the end...or hopefully a new beginning?
Over the past few weeks, I have been dealing with a sore knee and sore foot. My right knee has been giving me issues once again, although, this time it is in a different location. Still the inside of the knee, but lower than the last time. It is still mainly tender to the touch, but not to bad when walking on it. Sometimes it is a little stiff after sitting for long periods of time such as what happens when I am working...all day while sitting at my desk.
Next is the top of my left foot. I really am not sure what the issue is here, but I seem to have narrowed it down to happening shortly after I added "Sole" inserts to my running shoes. It seems as though I needed some arch support, so I gave these a shot. If this is the cause, I am going to say this is a big...FAIL!
I have taken the last week off of doing anything, and it seems as though the pain is getting a little easier to deal with. I am going to try and get out for a bike ride this weekend to see how everything reacts. Other than that, I am going to do nothing for the time being. We are heading off for a little houseboat vacation starting on Monday, so their will not be much happening then. I will probably get out and do a little bit of swimming, but not going overboard (pardon the pun).
As for now...this is where we are sitting...and stalled...
Talk to you soon...

Tribork is Trying - Episode 12

2010-08-14T11:36:00.000-07:00

Week 12 is in the bag…and we have been out their running!! YIPPEE!

Recap of the weeks training…

Talked about LA Runner’s blog…

An audio recording of my first attempt at a green smoothie!

Discussion of what is upcoming!

Oh…and I forgot the most important part for me…the weight in! How could I forget to talk about that? Just in a rush I guess! Welll…250 lbs on the nose! Not too bad for another week of training! Very…VERY…excited!

See you next week!

Tribork is Trying - Episode 11

2010-08-08T21:04:00.000-07:00

Week 1 is in the bag, and so far so good! I got through all my scheduled training and did not come up lame.
Talked about my progress, other blogs and pod-casts!
Looking forward to getting back out their next week…and moving farther along!
Hope you enjoy this episode, and we will see you next year
Tribork out…
Find it here

August 7, 2010

2010-08-07T06:34:00.000-07:00

It is 6:30am, Saturday morning, and the wife had gone to work. Today is all about some father son time...as well as cleaning the house! How can I make this fun and entertaining? Bribery? Hmmm...might just work!
At the moment, it is pouring rain outside. According to the temp. it is still 19 degrees out, so me thinks it is going to be a little bit of a muggy one today. The plan is to go for a run/walk tonight after the wife gets home from work, and maybe get a bike ride in. If I can not get a ride in tonight, I will get up early and go first thing in the morning tomorrow.
See you out there!

Tribork is Trying - Episode 10

2010-08-03T20:14:00.000-07:00

New episode...should be listed up in iTunes shortly!

Episode 10

See you next week!

Time to get this party...RESTARTED!

2010-08-01T17:18:00.000-07:00

Well, the first major vacation is over…and now we (the wife and I) are ready to get serious and make some changes. We got back from the cabin last week, and boy…do we want to go back. The weather was great…and really…there is nothing like waking up and seeing water and mountains within your grasp! Next year, I plan on taking advantage of some of the hiking around the cabin that is within short drives. All in all, the trip was great. We have returned…well rested!Once we got back, we had to go with our son’s Daycare to the Zoo for a field trip. Seeing as I was still on vacation, I was able to go. Not an event that I would normally get to take part in, so the fact that I was available, I jumped at the opportunity. What a great day! So much fun to experience it with 26 kids, aged 3-6. What a blast.Now…we are home, and there are no more vacations planned for the next 3-4 weeks Kelowna is next, and then the houseboat at the end of August). So, that means it is time to get busy. My Dr has cleared me to resume training, and I have not felt any knee pain. I am no longer taking the prescribed Ibuprofen daily, so that is a good thing. While we where up at the cabin, the wife and I walked the lake frequently (8km) and at no time felt any knee pain during or after. That brings a nice smile to my face! No Pain!! So, for now, I am going to start my training program while mixing in some cycling just to get a little cross training and mix it up. I am going to start with the 30 minute 12 week training program. I know that I mentioned the 15 minute, 8 week program previously, but after looking at them side to side, I know that I can do the 30 minute one. Of course, if I have any issues, I have to option to step back and just swap weeks to the 8 week program. I do not think that will happen.So, this program starts off with just 3 programs per week. That will give me some extra time for at least 2 rides a week and then see if I can fit in anything else. I will also be stepping up my twice daily walks with the dog. By stepping it up, I just mean…move it along a little bit faster. Not running or jogging yet…just moving at a brisk pace. With all the heat right now, I will be going out before work (around 4am), and then just before bed time (probably 9-10pm).nyways…I should have Episode 10 up shortly reviewing the vacation, and the upcoming training. Once we get that done, we will get back with recording once a week, and see if we can’t make things a little more interesting! See you all later…Tribork…Out…

Friday July 16th

2010-07-16T09:41:00.000-07:00

Well, today is another exciting day of lounging by the lake, in 30+ degree weather. Nice to be able to go for a swim when it gets to warm!
Really, the weather has been fantastic! So peacefull and quiet here as well! Lots of time to think...and reflect on changes that need to be made!
We have been experimenting a little with some recipes, and the family with us have been our quinipigs. So far, everything has been a success! I thouroghly enjoyed the BBQ Cherries. YUMMY!
Today will be another day of heading back to Fort Steele. They have a Steam engine that Goobieman just loves going out on! We should get a few rides today. As well, we are going to take part in a geocaching experience their. Nice to have a "treasure hunt" for a 4 year old!

Back soon!

Tuesday July 13, 2010

2010-07-13T10:15:00.000-07:00

Well, we woke up this morning...and had a great view of the mountains and some fresh snow. Not the weather that we would normally expect to have this time of year at the cabin, but...it is still nice and peacefully quiet.
Goobieman is having a blast...playing in the dirt, but is getting very antsy about wanting to go swimming. The sun should come out tomorrow, and we will get back into the normal swing of summer vacation weather!
Today though, we are going to go geocaching around the lake, and then head off to Fort Steele to ride the steam train!
Tonight, I will head off for a run with the dog around the lake. Should be fun!
Tribork out!

Tuesday July 6th

2010-07-06T06:32:00.000-07:00

It is just after 6am and I am sitting here enjoying a coffee while watching a Canadian in the "Virtual Lead" of the Tour De France. Well done Ryder Hesjedal! He rides for Garmin Transitions, and with Christen Vande Velde having to abandon the event due to injuries from Stage 2, so they send Ryder out attacking first thing! At the moment, they are just under 100km from the end, and he has a 3 second lead. I wonder if now we might see some coverage on the Canadian sports sites? It is amazing to me how little they talk about it. Oh well, a discussion for another time.
Last night I got home, and checked the mail...and low and behold...my Road ID band had arrived! Very excited about this. Now when I am out there and get hurt I will have some ID on me! Just a great product! I will have a more in-depth review later in the week as I get out their with it!
Today is Tuesday, and I have taken the day off...so that I can get some things done today with my son. We are leaving for our cabin in 5 days, and are gone for a week and a half, so I have a lot to get organized. The cabin is in the East Kooteny region of British Columbia, and will be about a 10-12 hour drive, depending on how many bathroom breaks we have to take for the dog, a 4 year old and my wife. I am so looking forward to getting up their because it will be all about relaxation. I have gone to the library and have 10 or so novels to read. I will post some pictures from when we are up their. I am going to head out and do some running when we are their so, their will be some trail runs and hikes. I just can not wait to get there!
Talk to you soon...

Tribork is Trying - Episode 9

2010-06-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

Head on over...and upload it now...here

Welcome to episode 9 of Tribork is Trying.

In this episode I discuss where I am at, and where I am heading. I recap the Golf 4 a Cure Tournament and talk about starting running next week.

Comments from the following:

* http://ultraprincess.blogspot.com/ - Stacey (Journey to an Ultramarathon and Beyond)
* http://my140point6milejourney.blogspot.com/ - KC (140 Point 5 Miles)
* http://milkthecowtriathlon.blogspot.com/ - Jon (Milk the Cow Triathlon)
* http://worldwidefestivalofraces.com/race/home - World Wide Festival of Races

See you next week…as I recap week 1 of the new program!

Time to get rolling…

2010-06-25T13:29:00.001-07:00

I woke up this morning with a renewed interest in getting out there and getting moving. My knee feels really good at the moment, and the shoulder is healing up nicely. It is the right time I think…the right time to get this process restarted! I am not sure why I am getting so motivated this morning, but for some reason…I just am. I am thinking…do not question…just get out there and get moving!
My meal for today will be a nice salad with some apple, carrots and tomatoes added in with a little bit of low fat dressing. Sounds good!
My wife and I ordered Road ID’s for each of us, mine I guess is for Father’s Day and hers is just because I love her. What ever your reason is…check out Road ID online as they are a fantastic item to have. You always have some form of ID on you, and in my case, I can add in allergy information. Just a great product. I can not wait to get it!
I am also waiting for another order to come in from ZENSAH! My wife just loves her ZENSAH bra’s and we are both getting new Arm Warmers! I have to tell you that I got some of their Compression Leg Sleeves, and they are fantastic. We just had our Golf 4 a Cure tournament this past Friday, and come Saturday morning, my legs where toast. We where on our feet from 5 am Friday till Midnight when we got home…and the sleeves worked their magic as we had a full weekend of Lacrosse games to get through on Saturday and Sunday! I am a believer! Just a great product!
Speaking of the Golf 4 a Cure tournament, it looks as though we raised just over $23,000.00 for the BC Cancer Foundation. That is not bad for our small little tournament! We do this as a family run event along with volunteers! Without the volunteers, we would be nothing! All of the golf prizes, door prizes and silent auction items are by donation. Every single item. So a big thank you to the people and companies that could donate. I know that it has been a very tough year for most people and companies out there, so we are especially thankful this year to everyone! People where telling us the night of the event, that next year, they will do more…but you know what…doing anything is something…and it is greatly appreciated! Thank you so very much!
Tribork out...for now...

Monday June 14, 2010

2010-06-14T06:12:00.000-07:00

Well, that was a very quick week, and the weekend seems to have gone by even quicker! I am not sure that we where home more then 1 hour all weekend...other than sleep time! Lacrosse games, birthday parties, 3 high school graduation ceremonies, a visit to see Thomas the Tank Engine...finally finished up with playing the intermissions at the Senior Men's Lacrosse game last night! This week will not be much better as it is the final week leading up to the Golf 4 a Cure Tournament. A full week of late nights with final prep getting fully underway! I love the tournament, I love the day, and I love the cause...but I will be so happy when I wake up Saturday morning...and there is nothing going on. Oh...wait...no...there is a lacrosse tournament that weekend...oh...and a wedding! Crap! When will this insanity end!?!?
Now...lets talk about fitness...and training.
My knee feels really good at the moment...so...we are going to see if we can't get a little bit more of some slow moving to test it out! The sutchers are finally out of my shoulder...so...maybe their is finally a light at the end of the tunnel!
I will be back soon...and hopefully with some training news!

Sunday June 6, 2010

2010-06-06T13:56:00.000-07:00

Sunday is here...and my son says that i am starving him. Hmmm...should I get him the snack or not? Guess so...
Well, I saw the Dr's on Friday regarding my knee and my shoulder and the verdict is...no more running still! CRAP!! Oh...and I still have to stay on meds for the infection in my shoulder. Double CRAP!!!
So, with regards to the knee...the Doc says to keep taking the ibuprofen for another week, and lay off the running/exercise for that time period. Why can this not heal! I am finding that I am not an overly patient guy right now! I mean...I am watching online here and watching Ironbrandon compete in the Mooseman 1/2, and now I just want to get out and for for a bike ride...but no...I must take it easy. Listen to the Dr...and wait to make sure the knee is healed!
Now...the shoulder is just not healing that fast...but it is getting better! Should not be that much longer...but it is just not quite there!
So...this week...I am going to concentrate on the diet! Lots of fruit...lots of veggies...and not a lot of bad food. No alcohol, but lots and lots of water! I think that is a good goal for the week!
Talk to you later!
Tribork

Is it about time to turn the corner?

2010-06-03T19:42:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday night, my wife (Goobiesmum), my son (Goobieman) and our Dog (Buddy) went for a very short walk. This was really my first walk since taking time off due to my knee issues. My son rode his bike, and the wife and I walked at a very leisurely pace. We only went about 1km, but distance was not the important part of the night. The fact that walking...there was no pain. I was wearing my Zensah knee support that I just received, and it seemed to help a little. I felt so good...that I actually went and jogged for about 1 minute. No pain then either. I have not done anything since then...but I can report...no knee pain what so ever!
Are we turning the corner on recovery...and heading towards starting this journey over? One step at a time...and we will get there!

Tribork is Trying - Episode 8

2010-06-03T19:36:00.000-07:00

Episode 8 is up and ready for download. Check it out if you will!
In this episode…I talk about the lack of training, an infection in my arm after surgery, being a pack rat, me being a very proud father and Golf 4 a Cure our charity tournament benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation!
Thank you for listening…and get ready for next week…cause I think we are about ready to start running…one small step at a time!
Tribork out!

When it rains...it pours...

2010-05-25T12:18:00.001-07:00

So, I had a minor surgical procedure on Friday. Nothing related to my knee issues...just a cyst on my shoulder needed to be removed. No problem...just a quick in and out procedure at the family Dr's office. I was their for about an hour in total...nothing major.
However...over the weekend...my incision, which took 2 sutchers inside and 3 outside, has now become infected. I would post a picture...but it is actually rather disgusting! My wife says that it is constantly making an angry face!
So...back to the Dr's today...and am now on antibiotics!
Just one more thing that seems to have gone wrong with me!
Oh well...what does not kill us...makes us stronger!

Tribork is Trying - Episode 7

2010-05-21T21:52:00.000-07:00

Well, it is finally up, but this is more of an explanation episode as to what is happening...and why I have disappeared!
Check it out...and I will be back with episode 8 in a weeks time!
Tribork...out...

Download the episode here...

Long over due post...

2010-05-21T21:49:00.001-07:00

Wow…how time flies when you are dealing with a slight case of depression and having a pity party!
My knee hurts…and not only when running now days…the only time that it does not hurt…is when I am sleeping (until my son decides to climb into Mummy and Daddy’s bed in the middle of the night and stands on my knee). I tried to push through it…and hope that the pain would subside so I could keep running…but no avail.
I paid my family Dr a visit…and somehow got referred to another Dr for a different totally unrelated medical procedure for which I am really…not…looking forward to. Back to the knee…the Dr seems to think that it might be just a little tendonitis in the knee and for the next 2 weeks…do nothing…and take ibuprofen 3x a day. I am not overly happy with medicating for the pain…but at this point I am willing to try anything to get back on track. I am just over a week away from the end of the 2 weeks…and at the moment…I still have pain in my knee. I am not sure what is going to happen…but we will keep going till the end of the 2 weeks.
I know that there is nothing that I can do…but wait…so no more pity party…no more depression…time to find some new motivation…

Back on the running sidelines…

2010-04-27T09:05:00.001-07:00

Ugh…back to the sidelines I go…

The Dr says that I should be taking the next 3-4 weeks off of running due to pain that I am getting on the inside of my knees, particularly the right one. There is no real inflammation there, just some tenderness to the touch. There is however…lots of pain when I am running right now…so…on to the sidelines we go. That means…I have to get out on the bike more to get some cardio! It is a good thing that I enjoy riding the bike! There Dr just figures that the pounding of running is causing the pain right now. I have to really get my weight down…so, whatever I can do cardio wise…that will not cause me pain…has to be done…and done now.
That means…

• Walking

• Cycling

• Yoga

• Power 90

• Stretching

Whatever is going to help me achieve my goals…and get me out there moving!
Who knew this was going to be so tough!
So…for now…
Tribork…out…

Back in Black - the return of Ultradad

2010-04-22T09:07:00.000-07:00

Check it out…the Ultradad is back in production! He makes his return to the podcast world after a 15 month self imposed exile. With his return…he brings a new co-host…his wife as she shares her experiences as a new runner. As well…she serenades us with her singing as she runs! Welcome back to Ultradad and a big hello to the new co-host “Bambi”!! We will see you out there running!

Great show!!

Taking a step in the right direction!

2010-04-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

So, the other day, I was just sitting around, and decided to go on and check out twitter. Log on in, and the first post that I see…was from Holisticguru (Live and Eat Better is her website). She was asking if anyone would like a free phone analysis so that she could mentor another person. I sent her a message via twitter telling her that I was interested. She messaged me back yesterday and let me know that I was the first person (of many) to message her, so she chose me to do this! What a lucky break! Food choices and my diet are causing me nothing but grief! There is so much to learn…and sometimes I am just not so patient! I want results now! I know…I have to learn that I need to put in the time and I will see the results! It did of course…take me a long time and quite a bit of work to get to this spot that I am in now! Overweight and out of shape! Patience young grasshopper…

We have booked our phone meeting for this Friday and I am really looking forward to learning something that will help me achieve my goals. I have been following Christine Lynch (Holisticguru) for a while now. She is a regular on the “Zen and the Art of Triathlon” podcast with Texafornia and was the nutritional expert at the first “Zentri Base Camp” that was held in January of this year. I have been reading her blog as well as visiting the Live and Eat Better site looking for assistance. Needless to say…I am excited.
For now…
Tribork…out…

Canucks vs. Kings – Game 1

2010-04-15T10:59:00.001-07:00

Here we go again on my own…
So…tonight…I will be heading out to see if I can get my feet moving…and back in the running game! I can still feel a little twinge of pain in my knee at time…so maybe this will be with me forever. I hope not…but I am no Dr. So…tonight will just be a very light jog…and I will see what sort of distance I do. I really am not expecting much…so at least I will not be disappointed!
This weekend is going to be tough for training…as my wife is working both Saturday and Sunday. She leaves at 5am and will get home just after 7pm…so…there is not really a lot of time to get out and do anything. I was hoping to get out for an hour bike ride at least…but we will have to play it by ear. See what the weather is like…and what time she gets home from work.
The bonus of the wife working though…is the quality time with my son! Hmmm…how can I make cleaning the office and the garage fun? Better yet…how can I make him do the work…and me just enjoy a beverage with my feet up? That is why we have kids is it not? I guess…he is only 4…so I will have to wait for a few years to get to that point!
Oh well…as well on the schedule for tonight…is to catch GAME 1 of the Canucks vs. Kings Series! Can’t wait! GO CANUCKS GO!!
For now…
Tribork…out…

Self imposed hiatus from running...

2010-04-12T09:47:00.000-07:00

So, I have been taking a break from running…well…really taking a break from all physical activity due to the shin splints…but mainly the knee pain that I have been facing.
Coming up this Friday…it will have been 12 days since my last run (or any physical activity for that mater) and the self imposed rest seems to have worked so far. However…there has been one real downside here…I just weighed myself on the big digital scale here in the warehouse. Yikes…I have gained weight. Now…I was wearing clothing…and my steel toe boots…but I have gained weight. An embarrassing and scary amount of weight. The past week and a bit I have not done anything…or really followed a particular plan, other than just not doing anything to irritate my knees. So…my knees seem to be doing just fine…but my gut is expanding. The number on the scale just seemed to keep going…up…and up…and UP! 257 lbs.
So…I think that I am going to have to start something…other than running…to get moving once again. I will get back with running this weekend. I think that my plan might be to walk to the local soccer field, and then start my run/walk intervals there, then walk back home as my cool down. Running on the grass…might be a little bit easier on the knees to start back.
Now…for the rest of this week, I will get back into the Power 90 program and work on the Cardio and Strength programs. Just work at it lightly…and listen to my body as usual.
However…at anytime…I feel some knee pain…I will step back…and figure out a different plan!
Anyways…thanks for listening…
Tribork…out…

Easter Monday ~ 2010

2010-04-05T13:14:00.000-07:00

Well...here it is...the awful truth! I am in a funk! A training funk! And I have barely gotten started!
I think that I am going to have to make an appointment with the Dr. My shins seem to be getting better...but my knee's...are giving me more issues! I can not seem to find any stride...that does not give me pain.
I am at a loss...and a little bit depressed over this...let me tell you!
I guess at the moment...seeing the Dr is going to be the best step right now...and we will have to go from their!
Thanks for listening...depressing pity party now over...
Tribork...out...

Fitting in the fitness plans for Easter Weekend!

2010-04-01T08:53:00.000-07:00

The Easter weekend is here…and today is my last day at work (like many other people out there) till Monday! Very excited…as I do not have much planned other than dinner Sunday night at the out-laws, and then dinner with my family on Monday at my Mom’s! My sister and her family are just getting back from a week in Hawaii, so it will be very nice to get over and visit with them! Goobieman loves visiting with his little cousins!

So…what are your plans for the weekend? I am hoping mine brings lots of running…and a few bike rides…as well as trip or 2 to the pool! Let’s see if we can some up with a plan here to get some fitness in…

• FRIDAY – get up before family and get a quick spin bike ride (30-60 mins), then head to the pool with the family so the wife and use the gym, and I can play in the pool working on swimming with Goobieman. Get in a short run before bed with the dog.

• SATURDAY – Get up and out for a quick spin again before the family, then head to the pool again. This time, after the wife finishes at the gym, she gets to play, while I head over to do some lengths, then jog home.

• SUNDAY - Get up and out for a 30 min run and see about working out some of the shin splints. Run walk intervals depending on the severity of the shin pain.

As well, this afternoon when I get home, I am going to try and get some work done on the bike so that I can get out for a quick ride before the wife gets home…if all works out well. We will have to see if I have to pick up my son from daycare today.

Tribork…out…

It's Garmin Time!!

2010-03-29T13:36:00.001-07:00

I did it! I jumped in feet first and bought myself a Garmin Forerunner 305! I must admit…it is pretty cool! There are so many different features to check out. I am like a giddy little school kid!

Now…how do I figure this out? Manual…must read the manual!

Ok…so now what programs do I need on the computer to make this thing work? I know that everyone has their favorites…but which ones give you the best bang for your buck without having to pay for all the features? I hear about Sport Tracks…but really know nothing about it? Is this just a program that you download for tracking on your home computer? What about the other site programs that are out there? It seems to me, that you can spend more time loading data into various sites than you will spend out there training. How many sites should one person load into? Is this kind of like a popularity contest like the Facebook Groups?

Come on Brian…concentrate on getting fit…and getting out there to learn something about yourself!

Ok…now…onto some other business…Goobieman finished the evaluation camps for mini-tyke lacrosse on Saturday…and at the end, Coach Ron announced that parents would be getting calls from their child’s coaches in the next couple of days to talk about practice times. However…if you do not receive a phone call, do not fret, it just means your child still needs to be evaluated. My wife and I both looked at each other and laughed…that will be us we both agreed! Goobieman is 4 years old…and will be one of the youngest kids playing in the 4-5 year old Mini Tyke division. This is his first year…and he has no clue as to the rules! He can not pick up the ball with the stick yet! Not that there is anything wrong with that…as he just wants to get out there and have some fun. To our surprise…we got a phone call last night…and he was picked to a team! Coach Curt called to let us know we have practice Monday and Wed! Wait a minute…2 practices a week…for a 4 year old? This is going to have to take some getting used to! So…tonight when I get home…we are going out front, before we leave for practice, and are going to start practicing picking up the ball.
Playing organized sports…this is new and exciting for me! I just hope he has fun with this!

Anyways…Tribork…out!

Tribork is Trying...still down...

2010-03-28T07:39:00.000-07:00

I am hopeful to have some of the computor issues sorted out in the next day or so...but in the mean time there is no downloading of podcasts!
I will either have my computor repaired...or just find a new laptop to download through!
Sorry for this delay...
Tribork...out...

Computer Issues!!!

2010-03-23T07:49:00.000-07:00

I am going to be delayed on getting out the latest "Tribork is Trying" podcast this week...due to a massive failure with my home computor tower. For some reason...it just shuts down about 30 seconds after starting in regular mode. I can get it to stay open in Safe Mode for an extended period of time...but this only gives you limited access to what you can do.
So...I have to work at getting off all of the valuble information (before my wife figures out that I did not do this earlier) and putting it on the portable hard drive.
The audio that I had recorded and was in the process of editing, is a part of this recovery effort...but a little bit down on the list of priority.
I will probably just try to record some new stuff and get that out from using the lap top.
Anyways...just an FYI to anyone that was listening...
Tribork...Out...

Friday is here...

2010-03-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

So, last night was the Pacific Rim Multisport event @ the Runners Den in Port Moody. What a great time! I got to meet with Coach Shaun as well as a few of the other Pacific Rim Multisport athletes. We started off with the owner of the Runners Den, Paul Slaymaker, talking to us about compression wear and the benefits of wearing these items for recovery. It seems that there are many different thoughts on using them for races…but recovery seems to be where it is at. It was also mentioned that they can be worn on long trips in the car as well as air travel. This was some good information as I am always traveling for work! As well…Paul pointed out, that you can get very good results for muscle recovery with an ice bath…but why would you do that when you can get the same results with quality compression wear.

Also discussed was the fore foot running phenomenon that is happening right now. It was mentioned that although running fore foot is a good things…it must be approached with caution. You can not just jump into these things. Changing your running gait quickly can really cause injury, so take things slowly.

After the information session…most of us just wandered around the store and looked at all the different items that where in stock. Coach Shaun tracked me down, and as a new member…gave me a lecture! “Time for you to come out with the group for some of the weekend rides.” It was not really a lecture; he just wanted to make sure that I understood that no one gets left behind. He had the feeling that I was a little pensive about being a new rider, and joining up with more advanced riders. Everyone has to start out somewhere to become more experienced. It was a really good conversation, and I was happy that we got to talk in person.

All in all…it was a really good night for me. It was nice to see some of the other members of the group and to learn some new information.

Now…it is time to put that information to good use…and get out there and start moving!

That is all…

Tribork…out…

Pacific Rim Multisport Event night...

2010-03-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

I am getting very excited about heading out to my first club event tonight. I joined a while ago…but timing with previous events has not really worked out. The club gets together for weekend rides and then other events during the week. For almost every ride…my wife has been working…so it has been tough to try and get out there. Soon it will happen though. I am a bit nervous as well…as I have never…ever ridden as a group before. I have ridden with friends…but that is different. Plus the fact that was many…many years ago. I am just a little worried about the experience level that I have…and other have, but I guess…the only way to get experience is to get out there. I just have to get out of my head!

Anyways…tonight’s event is at The Runners Den in Port Moody. We are going to have a discussion about compression wear as well as a talk about fore foot running. Both are things I have limited knowledge of…so this will be exciting for me to get out to! I am very much looking forward to this!

Depending on what time I get home after work…and what time I have to leave to get to the Runners Den for the event, I am going to try and get a run in. It is supposed to run from 6:30 – 8pm tonight, so I guess that I could go when I get home as well. I am sure my son will be in bed already when I get home…and the wife might be as well. We will just have to see what tonight brings.

That is all for now…so we will catch you all later…

Tribork…out…

Stretching out your shins...by KC

2010-03-17T13:49:00.000-07:00

Finally I am getting around to posting what KC sent me regarding shin splints and stretching them out.
Here we go...

Ok, i found pictures to show the stretches. this is the main one i do when i'm running and i start to feel the shins tighten up:

basically, the front leg is the one stretching and you are pushing it with the back leg. make sure your toes on the leg stretching are pointed back. i know kind of hard to visualize but you will know when you are doing it right b/c you will feel the anterior tib muscle stretching. a lot of times, really keeping the calves loose is a huge plus. when i have to stop and stretch the shins, i always follow it by stretching the calves. the pain or tightness goes away almost instantly and i can run forever. i find that my shins tighten up when i've done lots of miles on the bike particularly over the weekend and no running and then try to run on monday morning...TIGHT! but like i said, once i stop and stretch out, it goes away.

The other stretch:

again, notice her toes are pointing back and that is the best way to make those anterior tib muscles stretch. you can also do it like this:
I hope you can see the pictures b/c it's easier to understand by seeing it rather than written explanation. I hope it helps you!

Thank yous so much KC for sending this off to me. I have been doing these stretches on a regular basis, and I think that they are helping me! The shin pain is getting better...

You can find KC's blog at --> http://my140point6milejourney.blogspot.com/

Thanks again KC! Much appreciated!

Tribork is Trying - Episode 6

2010-03-16T23:08:00.001-07:00

We are now up and live in Podbean, and should be in iTunes shortly with the latest installment of the Tribork story.
I decided that it was time to fill in the void, of how I really got to this point. It was not meant to be a sob story...just to give a little background on me and who I am now.
Anyways...hope you like it...
You can find it here if you like!
Tribork...out...

Monday morning madness...

2010-03-15T10:04:00.000-07:00

Oh god...where do I start? Have I ever mentioned how much fun it is to take your children out to other kids birthday's? Wow!! 16 kids...for 5yr old twins at the local bowling alley! I so should have brought my mp3 player...and had it in one ear...just as a distraction! All in all...Goobieman had a great time...and as a 4 year old...got his first strike! It was a little unorthadox...but it was a strike!
I did not get out for much in the way of training this weekend though. My knees hurt...my shin's hurt...and I was really just plain lazy! I know that I should have done more...but I just needed to rest, and get ready for today's work out in the pool! The wife and son are home today...so we will be heading out as soon as I can get home from the office.
Oh...and I was so lazy...I forgot to put out episode 6 of the podcast. I guess...I am going to have to get that done tonight! Maybe talk a little about being legally blind in one eye and how that all came about.
Anyways...till later!
Tribork...out...

Dean Karnazes – Ultra Marathon Man

2010-03-10T10:19:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading Dean’s book, “Confessions of an all-night runner”, and let me tell you…I could not put it down. What an amazing story. If you have not read it…do so. I heard about it through Ultradad’s review of it, so I thought that I would request it at the library and see what all the fuss was about.
The story was incredible…and very inspirational…although…I can see how some people find him a little egocentric. That said…are you not supposed to be proud of what you have accomplished?
Regardless of what others think about him, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will probably read it again in a few years. I am constantly inspired by the Ultra Distance runners.
Give your head a shake Tribork…first things first…learn to run

Tribork is Trying - Episode 5

2010-03-08T20:07:00.001-08:00

We are up and live in podbean...

Should be up in itunes shortly...

Thanks for listening!

New week…new log?

2010-03-08T07:49:00.001-08:00

It is the start of a new week…and now a new training log site. Coach Jeff from PRSFit.com emailed me to sign up with Training Peaks. I was a little confused about this, seeing as I signed up for his beginner program and got that through Work Out Log. Now…I do enjoy Training Peaks as it is easier to use that Work Out Log, and what you get for free is so much better! I am not at the point of wanting to pay for the premium information, but as time goes on, I am sure that I will. I am hoping that Coach gets back to me regards to the reason for the change, as well as if I am going to be able to import my training plan into the Training Peaks site.
Now…there are so many program logs that are out there. It is confusing as to which one you should use? Each one has its pro’s and con’s…so I guess that it is each to his/her own. Once I figure out what is happening with the PRSFit training plan, I will select 2 to use. I am thinking that it will be one of the above to follow my training program, and then probably the Daily Mile. The Daily Mile just seems like Facebook for training. We will just have to see.
Tonight we are heading as a family to the pool…and then I will get a run in before bedtime. Maybe…depending on how much time I have before the wife and son get home tonight after work and preschool…I will try to get a Power 90 session in. I should have time…but the wife has also given me a few things that she would like me to have done as well. Hmmm…make Goobiesmum happy…or try to get a 45 min cardio session in? I am sure that I will make the right decision. Care to guess what that decision will be?
Tribork…out…
Update ~ Wow...I just signed up with the Daily Mile...and already my friend list is growing...up to 7 in a matter of minutes! Very excited...as these people are my Amateur...Fitness HEROS!! You guy’s all rock!

Swim time!

2010-03-06T09:08:00.000-08:00

So, last night the family and I decided that we would go swimming. Goobieman just graduated from Minos 1 up to Minos 2 this past Tuesday...so he has been very excited to get back in the water. Normally...my wife and I just sit pool side to watch him with his lessons...as I am not that comfortable with him out there until I know that he can swim. For instance...him and I went swimming a few months ago...and where playing in the pool. He was climbing out...and then jumping in to me. Well...the one time that he climbed out...he saw a ball about 15-20ft farther down the side towards the deep end. He ran over to get it...and then just jumped in with it. I was still in my original spot...waiting for him to come back. He sank to the bottom. Granted, it was only about 4ft deep...and he was only under water for about 2 seconds...but it seemed like an eternity to me. There he was...SITTING on the bottom of the pool...waving at me holding his breath! I was shaking...he was laughing and wanting to do it again. We had a short conversation...and I won the argument. No more jumping in the pool...away from Mummy or Daddy.
Anyways...back to what I was getting at. My wife and I had gotten a family pass 3 years ago...with 10 passes attached to it. When we went last night, there was still 7 passes left on it. Not a good thing. So, we upgraded it to a full family pass. Now, we can all go, and we do not have to be together when we go. For instance, I went this morning...while the rest of the family still slept. Much better!
So, last night, I did my first swim sticking with Coach Jeff (PRSFit) program. It was 40 mins...and I did most of it...and felt great! Loved it!
Loved it so much, like I said, I went back this morning and did the second swim program. Again...felt great! Revitalized!
I still have to get in a run today...but I might have to get that in after dinner tonight as we have my Mom and the wife's parents coming over for dinner!
Anyways...enough of my rambling...
Tribork...out...

Friday once again...

2010-03-05T09:49:00.000-08:00

It has been way to long since my last post…but once again…life has gotten in the way. When will the excuses end?
I have gotten a few runs in over the last few days, which has been very nice. A little alone time with my dog is just what the Dr ordered. However…I am not moving as fast as I would like, due to these pesky shin splints! I am icing right after my run, but they do not seem like they are getting better. The pain is not getting worse…so I guess the glass is ½ full! If anyone has any suggestions regarding this…please…feel free to spout off and teach me something.
I was supposed to hit the pool last night for a swim…but by time the wife and kid got home…we had some dinner, it was late…and I was tired. Unfortunately, the wife and I have a family pass, and we have to go together, otherwise we have to pay. So…we decided to bump our swim till tonight. Now we are going to be prepared for tonight…I will be getting home early…and get all of our swim stuff ready, and once the wife and kid get home…they will just pick me up and we will head right out. I will make a nice light dinner for us to eat after swimming. I will be heading straight to the lengths pool and the wife and kid will play in the other side till I am done. That reminds me…I need to write out what my sets are supposed to be for my training swim tonight! Very excited to get in the water again!
Oh…on a side note…I found my wedding ring the other day! It has only been missing for…7 months. Needless to say…my wife was pleased…and mad at me once again for losing it in the first place! I just can not win! Oh well…
Tribork...out...

Tribork is Trying - Episode 4

2010-02-28T09:58:00.000-08:00

Now uploaded and ready to go.
It should be up on iTunes shortly.
Thanks for listening...

Tribork is Trying

Gold Medal Game Day - Canada vs. USA

2010-02-28T09:24:00.000-08:00

Today it the Gold Medal game between Canada and the United States! Should be a great game. Two teams that have worked incredibly hard to get to this point, and both really deserve to come out on top. However…I will be cheering for Canada!!

Go Canada Go!!!

Shaunavon and I are practicing his writing and letters today. It is a work in progress…but we are having fun, and that is most important!
Well, I guess, I should get back to cleaning…as the wife has left me a list…and I must get it done…or no game watching for me!
Tribork out…

Go Canada Go!

2010-02-25T09:24:00.001-08:00

Last night was the Canada vs. Russia hockey game! All Canadians where riveted to their televisions! Watching…praying…and then celebrating a win! Now on to the Semi-finals this Friday (tomorrow) vs. Slovakia. A win will put us into the Gold Medal game, and a lose will put us into the Bronze Medal game. Let’s hope and pray for gold, and a rematch with the good old USA!!
Now…lets talk training plans…I messed up. I screwed up the dates of when I was supposed to start my training plan…and now I have myself finishing a week prior to the start of my race. Oh…what a bonehead! I told my self to check, and I think I even mentioned that I hoped that I got it right on episode 2 of the pod cast. Well…that sucks. I am trying to figure out the best way to get it sorted out…so that I am tapering at the proper time! Hopefully I will figure something out!
Ok…so what about the training that is supposed to go with the training plans? Pretty much non existent! OK, let’s start the excuses flowing! Well, in all honesty…I have been away. I had to do some work for some people…and it came up rather quickly…so I was unprepared to have to leave. I was able to buy and expense clothing and other items, but getting new running shoes was not going to be covered, and I have just got new ones for home. It is really hard to go running in steel toe boots! Plus the fact that I was working in a mud pit and pretty much around the clock! Ok…that is enough of my whining…and complaining…and excuses! No more! Time to get serious!
On a work side…I will be glad when the Olympics are over, so my life can get back to normal…and I can concentrate on family and fitness!
I need to get out and start training! I need to get my feet moving!
Tribork…out…

Olympic Day in Vancouver

2010-02-23T06:41:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a great day! My son loves trains...so we took him on the West Coast Express, which is a comutor train into Vancouver. He was just shaking as he stared out the window, watching the water and the trees pass by. Some much fun with youth...
We headed downtown to soak up some the Olympic atmosphere...and see what was happening! What a zoo!! So many people wandering the streets. So many athletes, just out walking around. Watching people zip line through the air over Robson Street was quite enjoyable. However, the lines for most of the venues where enormous. We where lucky enough to get to sneak into the Canada Venue...which I found rather diapointing. Not much to see there. We did get a great family picture of my wife and I with our son holding up the torch though...so I guess it was all worth it.
At the end of the day, it was just nice to get out there and experience the scenes of the city.
Dinner at Montana's was a nice finish after returning on the train...then it was home to bed for all of us!
Fun times!

Triathlon BC Number...

2010-02-19T09:20:00.000-08:00

So, I had sent off my registration to join up with Triathlon BC about 3 weeks ago...and heard nothing. They cashed my check...but I never received anything in the mail or notification at all. So, I decided to email them and find out what was happening. I got a reply back late last night, that my card should be mailed out next week with their next batch. I got my number! So excited! Things are taking shape...and I am getting on my way. With my race being still being 4 months away, it seems so far off, so gtting these little things done...I get excited!
Tonight, we are having dinner at my Mom's, and then heading home. The wife will put Goobie (our son's nick name; don't ask where it comes from - the wife created it the day he was born) to bed, and I will get out for a run!! The dog and I will go for 5km tonight! Timed and everything...other than pee and poop breaks. Not mine of course...I will wait for the house! I have issues with the outdoors! :)
See you all outside...
Tribork...out...

Happy Birthday to my wife!

2010-02-17T08:31:00.000-08:00

Wow...you caught up to me! 38 today baby...and it only took 8 days to join me here! :)
Last night, we went out to dinner to the Roast Bistro in Maple Ridge, and it was wonderful! Just an amazing meal! It is just a small little restaurant, but wonderful meals! If you are out this way...stop by and say hello to the owner Dean. Great guy...and fabulous chef!
I am hopefully going to check out of the office early today, so I can get home and spend some time with my wife, before she has to head out for work. She is at home today with my son...enjoying some rest and quality family time! I really wish I was there as well!
Hopefully I will get some time in for a run before she is heading off to work...but even if I don't, I will be doing the Power 90 before bedtime as well, then once more in the morning. Can't wait for that!

Tribork is Trying - Episode 3

2010-02-16T13:09:00.000-08:00

Here we go again...
Episode 3 is up and running...and should be up on itunes shortly.
check it here as I recap my training and nutrition for the week of Feb 7-13, 2010.
Tribork...out...

Friday already? Wow!

2010-02-12T08:13:00.001-08:00

Tonight are the opening ceremonies for the Vancouver 2010 Olympics, and you can just smell the excitement in the air. Unfortunately…you can also see the rain in the air. Just to give you an idea of what is going on weather wise here…this morning on my way to work, the temperature was 7˚C (44˚F). This was at 4:30am PST. Just a tad bit warm for the “Winter Games”. Oh well…we have zero control over that.
Please forgive me Blogging Gods, it has been 5 days since my last post. Let’s review how this week has gone for me from a fitness and nutrition stand point!
TERRIBLE!!!
Ok, that is enough about that. Actually, nutrition wise, it has been fairly good. I still have not eaten any fast food. I have been diligent in making my meals and packing my lunches for work. I have not eaten that many fruits and veggies with my lunches, but I have made sure to have lots of veggies with my dinner meals. As well, every 2nd day, I have been having my morning shake for breakfast. This shake consists of 5 frozen strawberries, ½ a banana, ½ cup of orange juice and ½ a cup of skim milk. Blend this all up, and have a nutritious drink for my drive to work. The last couple of them, I have subbed out the banana with some frozen mango and that has been a nice change! So, all in all, my meals and nutrition have been fairly good this week. Not to disappointed with that. Now, my fitness however, has been a disaster. Unfortunately, I have been spending far too much time working, and then commuting, and then working, and then commuting. Sleep has been minimal; kind of catch it where you can. A lot of things just came up this week with work, and unfortunately being management, I have had to step in and direct things hands on for the next couple of weeks. I can’t say much more than that…but hopefully, there will be some time to get a run in, or take an hour to get in some Power 90. At the moment though, any free time I am getting, I just want to spend with my wife and son. Can you really blame me.
As long as I can keep my nutrition going, and keep drinking lots of water (which I am doing daily) I think that I should be alright, and hopefully will keep losing a little bit of weight, pound by pound.
Anyways…for now…Tribork…out…

Tribork is Trying - Episode 2

2010-02-07T23:06:00.000-08:00

Episode 2 is up and ready to be heard...
Tribork is Trying - Episode 2
Have a listen...and hope you enjoy.
You can also find it on itunes...so check it out there...and if would be so kind as to throw down a quick review...that would be great!
Thanks...and remember...always be inspired...
Tribork...out

Fire Fighter Medals?

2010-02-05T17:51:00.000-08:00

So...I pick my son up from school today...and he decides that we need to have a contest to pass the time away. "We are going to count fire hydrants Daddy." OK...I will play along...
The kid is good...picking them off miles down the road...down side streets..."Fire Hydrant...There's one...Got another one...".
By time we got home...I was soundly defeated...16-3 by the short little 4 year old in the booster seat.
"Ok Daddy...now you have to take me to the fire hall...because they are going to give me a medal for being the fire hydrant counting champion!!!"
It just made me smile...and put everything that stressed me out at work behind me! It is going to be a great weekend!
Although...now...I have to find a fire fighting medal...and try to get the fire hall to give it to him! LOL! Guess I could have worse problems!
Tribork...out...

Canucks vs. Senators

2010-02-04T09:32:00.000-08:00

Game night tonight…and as I left the house this morning…my son looked up at me and said…”Daddy…we have to play some street hockey tonight before the Nucks go beat the Sens!”. That’s my boy! A fan at age 4!
I whipped off another episode of Power 90 last night…and it seems to be getting tougher…not easier! I expected that! If anyone is looking for a great ab work out…Tony Horton has one that will make you abs burn! In 10 minutes! Wow!!! Insane feeling!
For dinner last night…I created a homemade donair type meal. A low fat Greek pita shell (grilled it on the Panini press to soften it up for 5 mins), iceberg lettuce, 4 strips of BBQ steak (left over from the previous nights dinner), topped with a little bit of low fat feta and then a drizzle of a fat free chipotle dressing. Rolled it up, and wrapped it in foil to prevent dripping, and ready for eating! I must say…it was quite delicious! Not to bad for leftover’s!
After the wife ate here dinner, and we put Bork Jr. to bed…I took off for a quick jog with the dog. No timing…no measuring…just got out and ran for a little while. It felt great!
Back later…
Tribork…out…

Oh dear...what have I done??

2010-02-02T22:49:00.000-08:00

Well...I decided to do it...and finally published a podcast. This is a big step for me...so we will see how it goes! Please be gentle!
You can find it here...Trybork is Trying.
Remember...this is episode 1...so we will see what happens!
Tribork out...

Power 90 – JUST BRING IT!!

2010-02-02T09:44:00.000-08:00

Did my first day of the Power 90 program last night…and even just doing it more on the light side…it was still a physical work out! Wow!! This is going to be fun!! No offence Tony…but I know that is a week or so…your verbal barrage will begin to get tiresome! I think that I will be listening to podcast or music at that point! I can not wait to get home for tonight!! Now maybe I will start to see more movement on the scale…going down!
As well, I went for a light jog with the dog. Only covered a couple of KM’s, but at least I got out there! It is a step in the positive direction.
Tribork out!

Feb is here…and no snow for the Olympics!

2010-02-01T07:53:00.001-08:00

It is February 1, 2010 today and we are 11 days away from the start of the games. Excitement is in the air…and things are starting to take shape. My son and I dropped my wife off at work Saturday morning, and we decided to go visit my Sister and her family in North Van. The wife works in Vancouver, so we thought we would go through downtown to get over there, and see what was happening with preparations! Unfortunately, there really was not much to see. Everything is still fenced off and covered up waiting for the big unveil!
There are lots of road closures as you would expect so you can not get to close, but there is an increasing visual of security at the moment. The barricades are becoming manned as the various venues are being swept for security. I guess that means we are getting real close now! Time is just ticking away…
Of course my son had a great visit with his younger cousins in the North Van Palatial manor! My Brother in law had to take off to go to school, but I got in a nice visit with my sister, trying to plan out a family vacation with my side of the family. We might head up to Kelowna…but we will see!
Sunday was brunch with the wife’s family at my Mother and Father in-laws as we needed to have a meeting regarding the family business and the direction we want to take it in. No one has really but much work into it, although everyone wants a piece of it! It just seems to be a money pit at the moment, and the only ones putting any money in are my wife and I. Oh well, that is another story…for another day. So…we where all in agreement, that more effort needs to be put in by all members of the family…otherwise I will be pulling the plug on this myself! Or just taking all ownership over in a fully hostile takeover!
Sunday night…involved having a sleepover with one of the wife’s co-workers children who is 3 years old. My son is 4, and they get along great, playing very well together. However, the noise level in the house was raised a few decibels…and I figured it was a good time to get out for a run.
I went out and did my usual 5km route. It is just a straight out and back through the neighborhood, that is fairly level. Felt good, and am trying to up the run to walk ratio. I am not quite at the point of running the full amount as of yet, but it is getting closer.
As well, Sunday was my weigh in day for the weightless challenge. Again, I am not happy with the loss this week. 246lbs. Down 1 pound? WTF?!?!?!?!?! I feel myself getting a little frustrated. This week, I am really going to document what I eat, how I sleep and how I am exercising. I really need to find out what I am doing wrong, so I can make adjustments and start losing weight. At the moment, this is not about winning money…it is about losing weight!
Tribork out for now…

Thank you Friday...

2010-01-29T09:34:00.001-08:00

So, this training program is really not going the way that it should. At least…not the direction that I would like to be going.
I have not been able to get out and do everything that I have wanted…and there are many excuses for this. Most of them are just me procrastinating…but the others are valid.
The wife has been working very long hours getting the paramedics ready for the Winter Olympics up here, so that means that I have become the primary care giver for our son. No issue what so ever with that…but…he is really into street hockey right now…and to make up for missing his Mummy…I have been spending lots of time outside playing pass! I really do not feel guilty about that…at all! He is 4...and just wants to play!
However…there are things that I need to get done…and I have be neglecting doing them. I really need to cut back on the TV shows that I PVR and watch. It is taking up too much time.
Secondly…I really need to get to bed earlier! I keep saying this…just make it happen.
Now…I have to weight in this weekend for the weight loss challenge…and once again I fear that I will not have done enough to make a change.
I really am going to have to get this diet thing sorted out. What are good foods to eat? What should I stay away from? Should I become a vegetarian? Will that help loose some weight? Who can answer this for me??
Anyways…I will be back on Sunday after my weight in…
Oh…one more thing…I am really thinking about doing a weekly podcast to track my weight loss and becoming a fitter person. I have actually recorded 7 episodes…but just can not figure out if I like the sound of them. I think I have done about 4 introduction episodes! LOL!! Oh well…one of these days, I will figure out what is going haywire with Podbean. I did try to load them in twice…but had no success on getting them live.
On day…maybe…
Tribork out!

Some things never change...

2010-01-25T08:24:00.000-08:00

Now…I had a feeling this would happen. It seems to always happen. Why does it happen is the question that I needs to get answered!
This was the first week of the weight loss challenge that Stuart from the Quadrathon podcast started up…and on Sunday, I went to weight myself. Step on the scale…and to my dismay…no change. 247 lbs! Not happy…but whose fault is this? Mine of course! No one to blame here but myself. I think that it is time to take a look in the mirror…and really have a honest conversation with myself? Does that make me need therapy? Hmmm…we will answer that one later!
So…did I meet my goals that I put forth for me last week? Nope! Not one! Oh crap…this really is going to be harder that I thought!
I did actually pack my shoes and some running things for today…but the weather is not really that great, so we will have to see how warm it is around lunch time. If it is not too bad…I will go out for a run/walk and get some fresh air. Tonight, I will repack the bag, and make sure that I have cloths that I can go out no mater what the weather is.
I got a book yesterday from the library titled, Running for my Life;
On the extreme road with adventure runner Ray Zahab. What an amazing read. Check out Ray here and you can also find him on Twitter. I could not put it down. I started reading it yesterday morning…and actually finished it this morning as I had breakfast, before heading off to work. If you get a chance, check out this amazing Canadian adventure runner! He is also 1/3rd of the Running the Sahara trio. Just an amazing man!
Goals for this week…are going to be the same as last week…and I will really work at achieving them. Diet is key…and I need to follow the plan!
Tribork…out

Update on first week of the Quadrathon weight challenge…

2010-01-20T09:46:00.001-08:00

Wednesday is here already, so that means we are 3 days into the first week of the challenge.
Have I noticed any changes? No…nothing noticeable as of yet. Have I really done anything to get started? No…nothing as of yet.
I am eating better…and watching what I eat! If I could tell you how long I stared at that burger before I ate it…you would not believe me! It never moved…not once. I was shocked!
So…Lindsay…Stuart??? You guys in for a wings and beer night this Saturday? Hmmm…might taste good!
All kidding aside…I am trying to get more into eating smaller portions this week, as well as making sure that I am drinking lots of water each and everyday.
I think that Stuart said that there was 12 of us in this challenge…so that means 12 weeks. We must remember…to lose the weight slowly…and it will stay off forever!

Quadrathon weight loss challenge…

2010-01-18T08:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday just before 5pm Pacific Standard time…I did it. I stepped on the scale…took note of the dismal sight…and emailed Quadrathon with my starting weight for the weight loss challenge.
I am very excited about this challenge, and I am quite hopeful that this will get me moving, keep me motivated and win me some gift cards! Not only am I wanting to become a triathlete, I want to get healthy. I want to fall in love with running…and between working out and getting out running at least once daily…I know that I will get to the “promise land.”
In speaking with Stuart this morning via twitter, it appears as though there are about 12 of us, which means this contest will run for 12 weeks and a chance at $240 worth of gift cards. Not to shabby!
Now, my starting weight is 247lbs. (I have gained…and not happy about it. It must have been the Chinese food from Friday! Hmmm…let’s skip meeting this week.) I want to lose about 60 lbs…and have 12 weeks to do it…so that would be…5lbs per week. That is probably a little more that I can afford to lose in a healthy manner per week, so let’s set a goal of 3lbs per week. That will get me to 36lbs lost and put me at 211lbs. I will be very…VERY happy with that. Truth be told…that really would be amazing! After the contest…I will just keep working hard and chiseling away at getting to my final goal weight…and keep doing it the healthy way!
So…Stuart…see you at the finish line…each and every week!

Sunday already??

2010-01-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

OK, juggling family time and getting runs in is starting to take a toll on me! I did not realize that it was going to be this tough. I do know one thing that will help me fix this though...and that is going to bed earlier. I might take a page out of Texafornia's (Zen and the Art of Triathlon) book, and start setting the alarm on my watch. Set it for when you ask? For the time at night that I really need to start getting ready for bed.
That is part of the problem that I am finding is that I am so tired. I need to get to bed earlier...seeing as I get up so early for work. I start work between 6 and 6:30am Monday to Friday, so that means that I have to leave the house no later than 5am to get there on time.
Going to be earlier, will enable me to get up a little earlier...get a quick run in, hit the shower...grab my lunch, and get out the door!
That brings me to one other item...I need to get all of my things ready for the following day...before I go to sleep. Make my lunch as well as my son's and wife's if she is working, then make sure that my cloths are pulled out and hung over the railing (so I do not wake up the wife while getting ready), then get off to get some good sleep.
Can I do it? Yes. Will I do it? I certainly hope so!!
Now...one other thing to start this week. Running (or just walking) during my lunch hour. Most days I just take my lunch at my desk, and keep on working. I want to start getting out and getting some fresh air during my lunch. I feel that this will not only help me clear my head, but help me get closer to my goals. So, the short term goal for this week, is to get out and to this 3 out of the 5 working days this week.
Can I do this? Yes. Will I do this? Yes...I will get this done!
Thanks for reading...and see you all later

Taking steps to succeed…

2010-01-13T10:43:00.000-08:00

This morning I did a little searching, and with the assistance from some new online friends and web forums, located a Triathlon Club in my area. This is a major step for me to start to get training and ready for my first event in June. I have taken the first steps here and sent an email out to get some more information regarding costs and what is included with joining this club. The club I am looking at also offers coaching, but at the moment, I do not have any extra cash that I would be able to spend per month on this.
I am a little nervous about this, as I am very new to this, and really out of shape. I am not sure how this would work for me on joining them for rides, as they do 2+ hour rides almost every weekend, and I have not even really started riding. As well, I am sure that they all have top end or at least brand name bikes. Me, I am stuck with a cheap Canadian Tire Road bike. What am I getting myself into here?
Now one more thing is bothering me right now, and I could use some assistance with sorting this out. I am debating with the wife on what my first event should be in June? I will be entering the Iron Mountain Triathlon, but we are arguing as to which one I should do. The Sprint or the Olympic distance? The wife is telling me she is putting her foot down, and my first event should be the sprint event. I am holding out for the Olympic, but I think that I am fighting a losing battle. I am not sure if anyone out there has any thoughts on this? Keep in mind…I do have to lose about 60 lbs to get to my goal weight. Does anyone out there have any insight on what I should really be aiming for as my first event? Keeo in mind, I am also entering an Olympic event 30 days after the first one.
Anyways…thanks for reading…
Later…

New Name…New Day!

2010-01-12T10:27:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke up…and decided that Triathlon on a Budget really did not suit me. I am new to this (really I have not even gotten there), and who is really going to listen to me and my advice? I am a newbie…and just really learning things on my own. The training plans are new to me…the diet is new to me…there are so many things that I need to get sorted out…before I start giving advice on things out there. FYI…I have also changed my twitter name to @tribork. Something simple, but reflects me and who I am.
Anyways…enough about that for now…
I am trying to figure out the best way to log my workouts and what the best site is to do this? There are so many out there, and all of them have pro’s and con’s. I signed up on Beginner Triathlete when I first got interested in triathlon, but I have not really added any information to it. I think that is the one that I will use, but there so many others out there, so if anyone has any suggestions, feel free to give me a shout.
Just checked out The Chic Runner’s new blog post, and everyone should head over there and see what she is up to. Enter her contest for the Moji Ice Pack. It looks very cool!!
After work tonight I have to take my son to swimming lessons, and then will try to get in a run later with the dog. Hopefully everything will work out the way that I want…
Later…

Rain, Rain, Go Away…

2010-01-11T11:04:00.001-08:00

I love the rain…really I do. I love watching the rain fall off leaves…and my son running around playing in puddles…but…enough is enough. It seems to me that it has been raining since last year!
Tonight, I will try and get home quickly and get a quick run in before going back out and picking up my son from school. We have a lot to do tonight…before the wife and I start the Power 90 program. We have to get our measurements done, and also make our introduction video diary for Beachbody. Yup…we are going to do it! Track our progress via video blog for the people of Beachbody, so, if they see fit, produce it and turn it into a DVD. I am not holding my breath on that…seeing as there are lots of people doing this, but I am hoping that it will help at keeping us honest and on task. The wife works weird hours, so making the time is the key to doing this. I have faith…and we will succeed!
This past weekend…I got nothing done fitness wise, and I am just a little bit disappointed. We had to make a quick trip up to Kelowna to see my wife’s Grandfather. He is 92 years young…and sharp as a tack! A great visit! My son just loves him! It was just an overnight trip…so…there was not a lot of time to go for a run, as I could not get away from family. I could have gone for a run last night, after we got home and got my son to bed…but decided to have a nice quiet night with my wife and watch a movie.
So, tonight…run…dinner…Power 90!
Just Bring It!

Day 4

2010-01-06T20:25:00.000-08:00

Nothing happening tonight, as my right knee is a little sore...so we will just rest it, and get back in the saddle first thing tomorrow morning.
Other than that...not to much to report...just very happy and still excited about what I am doing. One foot in front of the other.
I will check in tomorrow...

Day 3

2010-01-05T10:43:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it, I actually got up in the morning, and went out for a run. This is shocking for me, as it was at 4 in the morning. Early! Normally I am getting ready to leave for work at this time…but…I made sure that I got ready and took the dog for a nice leisurely 25 minute walk run. I am still working on the run walk basis for the next week or so.

• 5 min walk warm up

• 1 min run

• 3 min walk

• 1 min run

• 3 min walk

• 1 min run

• 3 min walk

• 1 min run

• 3 min walk

• 1 min run

• 5 min walk cool down

For me to start, this works perfect. Being so overweight, I do not want to put to much pressure on my knees. I have had knee issues when I was younger, so just taking it easy and listening to my body is the way to go. I see no reason to create an issue so early in training...and give myself a reason to stop.

Being so early in the morning, I had my headlamp from Princess Auto attached to the bill of a baseball cap with it set on flashing. As well, I carried a small flashlight and had it shining behind me to alert any traffic to me. As well, I was wearing an old CCM reflective running jacket. No way do I want to get hit while running!

As well, Buddy and I got out last night to get in my day 2 run. This one was a little shorter as my right knee was a little tight, so I mainly walked…but at least I was out there…one foot in front of the other!

~Today if you become frightened, instead become inspired – So many other bloggers out there are inspiring me to do this…and what frightens me is not seeing my son grow up due to me being obese. I can do this…I will do this…one step at a time!

Day 2

2010-01-04T10:16:00.000-08:00

Yikes...back in the office for the first day of 2010...and not overly happy about it! Far too many phone messages...and emails to get caught up on. I guess that everyone is in the same boat though...and complaining with not make it go away.
First things first. I did not get up in time this morning to get my morning run in, and the weather today is very wet...so running at work is out. Tonight I will get my run in after I put my son to bed. My wife and I have worked out a program that on nights that I run at night, she will do the Power 90 program and vice versa. On the nights that I do the Power 90 program, I will either get my run in first thing in the morning, or get it in durning my lunch hour at the office
The wife works 4 on and 6 off (2 day shifts and 2 night shifts) so this is a little precarious to make sure that we are able to get our training in, but one way or another, I will make sure that I get my program working.
The main thing for me, is that I do not take time away from my son or my family.
It will all work out. Later...

First steps towards goals...

2010-01-03T10:26:00.000-08:00

I made sure that I got up early this morning...so that I could get ready and take the dog for a run this morning. Actually, it was more like the dog took me for a run. This was the first one of the year for me, and it felt great.
Being a newbie, it is just my goal...to get out there, and as Iron Brandon says...just put one foot in front of the other. Today, I did not measure distance, I just went with time. 3 minutes of walking with 1 minute of running. I did that for 30 minutes, and could not be prouder of myself! Step number 1 in the right direction.
I also weighed my self on the Wii Fit this morning...and was not shocked...just a little embarrassed.
Now, my starting weight on this journey is 243.5 lbs. My goal weight, is 185 lbs...so I have a little bit of distance to cover. With some hard work...I will get there.
Later today, my wife and I will take our measurements, and create an introduction video diary for our Power 90 program that we are going to be doing for 90 days.
And...I will be going out for one more 30 min walk run tonight!
And...I am already looking forward to it!

New Years Day - 2010

2010-01-01T10:16:00.000-08:00

It is just after 10 in the morning on New Years day, and I sit here and reflect on where I am, and where I am going!
I| am supposed to be starting my Power 90 training program today, but have come up with a situation. Our home computer tower has decided to pack it in. Now there is no way to create the video blog that we wanted to do for Beachbody. I can tape it, but have no way to get the tape to digital files! Ugh! Will I let this stop me?
Not likely!
Later this afternoon, I will weigh in on the Wii Fitt, and the stupid machine will tell me my weight, and also inform me that I am obese. Well, lets be honest here...it is going to tell me that I am SEVERLY OBESE! OK, blunt honesty is what I need.
Once I get my weigh in done, I will get some recording done of my goals and where I want to see myself, and then, get it done!
I have created a spreadsheet to track my progress (I love spreadsheets for some reason). My plan is to do Power 90 everyday for 90 days (I lost the actual program sheet, so I am kind of just winging it in the beginning till I find out more information), and then also following the beginner training program from Dan Empfield (of Slowtwitch.com). This is a 20 week program that goes from fat slob (my words, not his), ME, to hopefully in the end...a triathlete capable of entering an Olympic distance triathlete.
Tomorrow the training sessions start.
Of course...the biggest aspect to losing weight, is going to be my diet. I have chosen to follow the Weight Watchers program. I am not atually going to meetings or anything, but I do have a spreadsheet (big surprize eh?) to track all of my points and point intake.
I know that this is going to be a long haul...and in order to make this work, I am going to have to make various sacrifices.
In the end...it will all be worth it! I will be back...

Is Christmas really 3 days away?

2009-12-22T08:03:00.000-08:00

I am sitting here, in the office, listening to Brandon’s Marathon Podcast episode 48 (great episode for newbie swimmers by the way) thinking about how close we are to Christmas…and how far I am from being ready!

Today is my last day of work, unless there are any emergencies that happen to come up while we are closed. I work in the hazardous waste sector, collecting various waste streams. Mainly automotive (oils, filters, antifreezes), but we collect chemicals and acids as well. The only things we really do not collect are bio-hazard materials, explosives and radioactive materials. So…here is to hoping that everyone has a safe holiday…we my guys can rest and recoup!

Back to Christmas and not being ready for it…

Oh boy…I am hoping that I have gotten some things that the wife will like! She never really gives me a list…so I have to go by memory. One thing that I do know…is that she really loves stockings…and that is most important to her! I know this…and yet…just like every other year…I have done nothing. I might be in trouble once again! I tend to leave everything to the last minute (like most men out there), and do my best under pressure…but I might be in trouble this year. I have a lot of ground to cover…and not much time to get it done! We have something going on every night from now till boxing day…so time is at a premium! I might be going shopping while the family is sleeping! Actually…I think that is the best bet for me! I will be shopping in the middle of the night…with the rest of the male population! Fun times!!

I really do love Christmas!

The one thing that really keeps me going…is the look on my son’s face…and he starts to smile and shake…when he gets excited about something. It is a priceless moment…and something that I will cherish for ever!

Gone for now…but back later…

November 16, 2009

2009-12-16T12:58:00.000-08:00

Just getting ready to go do some shopping, and hopefully get it all finished! Christmas is coming fast, and I am running out of time.
I am really getting tired of the travel to and from work...but that is another story! It is taking a lot out of me right now. Very early mornings...and late nights trying to get in some family time!! I think after the new year...it is time to figure some things out...
So, I took the day off to get the shopping done...but I can not seem to get away from work. Someone is always calling me...and I am on the laptop trying to get things done! Oh well...such is life.
Tonight...get home from shopping...get in a quick 5K run...then get some dinner and watch a few Christmas movies with the wife!!!
Later all!

The 4th Birthday!!

2009-12-15T09:37:00.001-08:00

Wow…how time flies!! My son turned 4 yesterday…and it seems like just yesterday that I was holding him for the first time. I am not sure what it is…but I am having a bit of an issue with him getting older. I know that it is inevitable…but he could just slow down a little bit! At this age, they seem to pick things up so fast! We had his party a couple of weeks ago at a gymnastics gym with 16 kids between the ages of 3 – 7 years old. What a handful…but better to have the party there…than at my house! The nice thing was once the party was over…we just got to go home and put our feet up! NO CLEAN UP!! Especially with…16 kids!

Now…the down side of kids growing up…is they pick up things…that we might not find…enjoyable to hear. Just yesterday…my son comes up to me…looks me in the eye…”WAIT FOR IT…WAIT FOR IT” he says…then proceeds to fart. “SWEET!!!” he yells as he runs away giggling and laughing like a hyena! Ugh!!! The wife blamed me for that…and I swear…I had nothing to do with that! I found it funny of course…

The last couple of days have been filled with snow and freezing rain here, so out door training…has not been the easiest! The weather should be turning soon, to rain for the next week or so, so I will be able to get back out into the cold and get some running in.

One last thing…I have not started the Power 90 program yet, but I will be getting going between Christmas and New Years. I think that there is just going to be too much happening before that to devote the time that I need to it to make sure that I succeed with it.

I am out of here for now…

Later…

No more delays please...

2009-12-09T09:58:00.000-08:00

Well…as you can tell here, there have been no weigh ins…and no postings of workouts. We had some family issues that we needed to take care of, and therefore…our start date has been delayed. Not a good thing right? Maybe it was…stay tuned for more information…

So, I weighed in this past Sunday morning…and it is not good. 240+lbs. Yikes. I have gained a few here…and am not really happy with that! It’s ok though…I just need to focus and get down to work here. In the words of that famous Nike catch phrase…JUST DO IT!

So, what is my plan (other than praying for the magic lantern genie to show up and make me magically fit)? The web is full of interesting information, and with this social media now days…there are lots of “Twitter” friends that are always giving support and advice!

As for the training for Triathlon/Marathon, this first week is 4 walk runs and that is all that I need to do. Can I do it?? You bet. I will keep you posted on that!

As well, I also have the Power 90 program with Tony Horton, so I am going to add this to my training see what happens. If you have not heard of this, it is a 90 day program filled with muscle confusion training. Basically it is a boot camp program on DVD that you do at home. There are 3 parts to it, Cardio, Strength and Abs. Do not confuse this with the P90X program, they are both by Tony Horton, but Power 90 was the first one, and is not as tough. First things first…and we will go from there.

I actually started this program years ago, and loved it…but then I think a week or so into it, was when I found out that I had a detached retina…and the training had to stop. Then I got really fat…and this is where we are now. I am tentatively looking at starting this program on this Sunday, but that might get delayed, depending on some information that I get back from Beachbody (they are the company that distributes Power 90, P90X, etc…) I will let you know what happens.

Hmmm…maybe I should work at posting a 90 day challenge for the P90 program and post every day after I work out??? Let me think about that!

And if I can ever figure out how to post some of these recordings that I have been making as a podcast…I will do that as well, at least all the way up to my first Triathlon in June. I am using Podbean, and get it as far as getting loaded into the system…but no farther. Not sure what I am doing wrong though. I might have to break down and ask for assistance from someone that is out there podcasting already (Erin337? Kelownagurl Tris?? Anybody??)

Well, I am gone for now…but will be back once I have more information regarding the Power 90 program as well as letting you now how my first week of running goes. Next blog, I will also give you more information regarding what training program I am following for the triathlon.

Later…

Party time!!

2009-11-30T10:39:00.001-08:00

Last night was a great night for me. It had nothing to do with running…or riding…or any sort of working out. It has to do with the family! I got to spend a wonderful night with my lovely wife and my handsome young son at…Disney on Ice! We had a lot of fun at the PNE! The trip was an early birthday present for Shaunavon…and he really enjoyed himself!! Filled up on popcorn…and tried to spend every last penny that Mummy and Daddy had! GREAT NIGHT!!!

Saturday we had to finish last minute details of the birthday party at a local gymnastics gymnasium. 16 kids…for 2 hours! Running jumping…throwing foam cushions at each other…and then me!!! What a night!! Shaunavon loved the party and loved his presents from his friends!

Sunday was spent together as a family with a lazy morning…and then up to clean up the house! Who would have though that we have so much fall and Halloween decorations to put away! Oh well, got it all into Rubbermaid’s and ready for storage…then it was time to get out the winter and Christmas decorations! Box after box…after box…and then came the movies. 1 extra large Rubbermaid filled with Christmas theme or related movies. Wow!!! We have to watch about 3 a night…till Christmas…and we still will have a few left over! My favorites are the Bass and Rankin ones! I loved those ones when I was growing up! On a side note…has anyone ever seen the Bass and Rankin Halloween movie? It is too funny! A bunch of stop motion characters getting drunk at a party! Not bad for 1972!!

Anyways…most of the up coming week will be spent getting the house decorated, my mom’s house decorated…and getting into the Christmas cheer!!!

Catch you all later…

Back to the Beginning…

2009-11-24T08:14:00.000-08:00

Today is day one of the rest of my life! Is it really? No. Do I need to treat it like it is? Yes. Today is the day that my fitness journey begins! The day that will start to act like a triathlete! Will it work? With your assistance, it just might!

I am going to start recording a mini podcast, in which, I will cover my weigh ins, the ups and downs that I encounter and issues that I will be dealing with. As well, I will be asking you via this blog and the podcast for help in gearing up to be a triathlete and compete in my first Triathlon.

My goal is to complete the Iron Mountain Triathlon in Maple Ridge on June 20th, 2010. They are offering 2 categories, the Sprint and the Olympic. I have chosen to partake in the Olympic. I want to challenge myself, and force myself to work hard at both the mental aspects of doing this, as well as working hard at the physical aspects through training! After this Tri in June, I will also be entered in the “Heart of the Rockies” triathlon in Invermere, BC. This is another Olympic Triathlon, and Invermere is about 60 minutes from our Cabin at Wasa Lake. I am very much looking forward to this one…as it will be a road trip event, which I think will be very exciting…but I am a bit of a geek… Wasa Lake also has a Triathlon every year in June, but it is the week before we host our yearly Charity Golf Tournament – Golf 4 a Cure – benefiting the BC Cancer Foundation. This is our 8th year I think, and it is just too difficult to do both events within a week of each other. And then after that…look at doing some fun runs and maybe a half marathon or something later in the year. I would love to do the Haney to Harrison event…but I would have to find a team or something like that…

Now…as for the “new” title of the blog. This is to reflect the everyday person that can not afford the high tech gadgets that are out there, but really want to take part in this sport. We are looking for ways to save money, but still be able to get competitive items to train with, as well as race with. As much as everyone would love to have that Money Tree in their back yard, it just is not there. With the world in a recession now, and money being tighter than ever for most people, we all need to work together at finding the best places to find the best deals. Everything needs to be prioritized as to what should we get first…and then what should come later.

So…if you have any comments or questions…do not hesitate to send me an email at bigbork21@gmail.com or call the voicemail line at 206-666-5898

Nothing good can happen here!!!

2009-11-17T12:12:00.000-08:00

Well, last night we fell off the health wagon…and dropped right back into our previous paths of convenience eating. McD’s!!! Not a good thing. It was a long day for both Kelli and I, and we where both REALLY tired…so in a moment of weakness…we ate McDonalds for dinner. It tasted great…but that has to be the last time!

Needless to say…we both regretted out decision later that evening…as we sat curled up on the couch with our son watching TV. No fitness activities following McDonalds. BLAH!!

No more fast food!!! Can not happen!!! Must get healthy!! Must get on track!!! Must program voices in head to keep repeating these phrases!!!

Up at 4am on Friday as I had and extremely busy day in the office, and it takes me an hour to get there. For those of you that are not familiar with the Lower Mainland in BC, everything is connected by rivers and bridges. I am only 44 km from the office…but most days it take over an hour to get to and from. That is what podcasts are for now…as what is on the radio really sucks!! Thank goodness for Zen and the Art of Triathlon, Tri N Reality, Kelownagurl and Disney Runner! Catching up on all of their old episodes really makes the drive easier…and more calm…so thank you all for that! Not sure what I am going to do once I get caught up to their current episodes…but we’ll deal with that when that issue presents itself!

It was a long day at work…and then get home to discover that the dishwasher is spitting water out the bottom of the door…and all over the floor. Once I get that cleaned up…I discover that…we need a new dishwasher! Hmmm…new dishwasher…or new aerobars??? I know what my choice would be…but…I would be informed that it would be the wrong choice.

Sunday…we bought a new dishwasher…and for the money that the wife spent this thing better fricken load itself, and then but away the clean dishes afterwords.

Monday…now I have to install this new machine…which should be really interesting…seeing as how I am not mechanically inclined! The Kelli is going to assist me…and I am thinking that I should record part of this…but it might be too much work to edit the material for a podcast.

Wish me luck!!!

~OUT

Oh what a night...

2009-11-03T22:19:00.000-08:00

Spent the afternoon trying to find my son an H1N1 shot with no success!!! It is strange...according to everyone that I speak with...he is a priority case due to just getting over pneumonia!! Oh well...try again tomorrow!!

Now...did my nightly walk run with the dog...and I am going to start doing this in the am...seeing as I am usually awake before most humans!!

Anyways...I will see how that works out for me!

Night all!

Sunday Night once again...

2009-10-25T21:52:00.000-07:00

Alright...it is another Sunday evening and this week has sucked for fitness...diet...everything that I have set my goals for! That about covers it in a nut shell!

Ok... so what can I do? I need to look for some inspiration to try and get back on track here before these losses start to really affect me!!

Let's try for a short goal tomorrow.

take the dog for a walk - he deserves it!

Alright...that is the goal for tomorrow! let's make it a good power walk! I know that it probably will be raining...but we need to make this happen!

Back to see you tomorrow!

Late!

Wow...Sunday is here already???

2009-10-18T07:36:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone this week?? It is Sunday morning already!

OK...so admittedly...this week has not gone as expected! I did not get much done with regards to getting any fitness in. As well...the dieting took a hit this week.

Where is the discipline?!???! OK...we have a lot to work on!!! No time like the present!!

Today...have to go to nephews 3rd and nieces 1st birthday today!! The Goobieman is so looking forward to getting over there and having some fun with his cousins!!

Ok...run tonight with the dog??? I think that is the plan!

2009-10-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

Well...not much time to get things done today!! Getting really busy with Turkey dinner for tonight!

Last night...was dinner over at the in-laws with 30 others! Lots of cheer and reason for thanks! Dinner was great...as was the deserts!! Yummy!!

Now we are about to head over to my Mom's...for another night of turkey and all the fixins!!! Can not wait!

Well...probably not going to get a chance for a run tonight...but will for for a power walk tomorrow at work...and then a run after work with the family!

See you all later!!

Trip to the park

2009-10-09T17:25:00.000-07:00

Well, Goobie (my wife's nick name for our son) and I packed up after work and school and headed to the park!

We hooked up the bike trailer to my road bike...got our helmets on, buckled into the trailer and we where ready to go!

"Wait!!! Daddy!!! I need a drink box and some goldfish to eat on the way!!!"

OK...grabbed a snack and off we went.

Just a nice leisurely 25 minute ride there, down at the local school. It has a nice park for a 3 year old to run around in!! Of course...we had to play tag for a little bit as well.

Running around the park has made we realize why I am doing this. I am out of breath after 5 minutes of friendly running around. The kid is 3...so he is not that quick!! (we will get there!!!)

We spent an hour in the park...and then took a nice ride home! Did not realize that it was that much of an uphill grade!!!

Talk to you soon...

2009-10-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

Good walk/run tonight...although it was mainly a walk with the dog! Nice brisk fall air!! Getting ready for winter early this year it feels like!!

Another walk run tomorrow night!!

October 4th

2009-10-04T15:16:00.000-07:00

So, tomorrow is week two of this training program that I am starting! I found a beginer to Oly Triathlete from Slowtwich that is great!!! Looking forward to every workout...that will lead me to the promise land!! What a roller coaster this is going to be!!

I am listening to my podcasts looking for inspiration as well as further direction, so let me give a massive shoutout to Brett, with The Art of Triathlon Podcast. Check it out...and you will see what I am taking about!!

So, tonight is just a 20 minute run/walk. I will try to get back in later to post how that went!

Anyways...got to get back to the laundry...before the Mum's gets home and sees me and junior not doing anything productive to clean the house!!

Peace out and stay inspired!!

Hornet Juice giveaway!!!

2009-10-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

Check out this link for a wicked giveaway!!!! http://thetrirunner.blogspot.com/2009/10/hornet-juice-giveaway.html