Back swimming

With the temperature hitting 36 degrees yesterday, there was only one thing I could think of to cool off... jump into a pool. The closest to home happens to be the Pandamaran pool which does not have the best reputation for being the cleanest, however I was pleasantly surprised as the water was absolutely clean and the pool floors were also clean with no slime that you normally find.

I managed 30 continuous laps (1.5k) indicating that my general fitness is still ok. After speaking to one of my friends who is training for the PD Triathlon, he encouraged me to learn and master the freestyle stroke. I just have never been able to get it right. Well its definitely something to consider, but at the moment let that thought linger for a bit.

Breaking in the bike

After a couple of short test rides, yesterday was my first real training ride. One loop around my housing area is about 1.55km. I rode for 36mins and covered 10 loops (15.5km) at an average pace of 26km/h. Really need to get some cycling shorts with padding!

After the bike ride I continued with a 5k run. Overall I can feel that my fitness level is really low at the moment, but I think its a matter of time with some consistent training I will be back in decent shape. Thinking of getting a good cycling guide book, just like the handbook I have on running by Bob Glover.

Merida 903-18

I decided to purchase the Merida 903-18 which happens to be an entry level fully aluminum frame bike with a light carbon fork and Shimano Tiagra components. The bike is a size L and comes with Shimano R500 set of wheels. With the L sized frame, pedals, bottles etc it weighs approximately 9.5kg.

With two events in mind this year... the PD triathlon relay in July which I plan to take part in with Peter and Lee... and the Powerman long distance Individual in November, I shall need to fit in some time for training in between my busy schedule.

SCKLM - 21km for me

I've signed up for the half marathon. Two more months to get into shape. It's been awhile since I've put in any consistent mileage, so it will take some discipline to fall into routine again. My pants are starting to feel tight already... haha so its probably about time. On a separate note, I'm considering getting a road bike and picking up cycling. Maybe even give the Powerman a shot in November.