Sympathy Pains...

In my all-out attempt to get a qualifying slot to Kona, I have taken on perhaps my most difficult challenge: my belly. I know, I know...you're probably thinking what the hell - the dude is skinny enough! The reality is, however, that my optimal race weight is about 185. I am usually about 190-195, depending on the day. And depending on how much I have indulged the night before! My sweet tooth is my achilles heel. My achilles belly if you will. :-)

So, the last three weeks have seen me cut my morning weight from 192 t0 184 (as of this morning). Definitely some of this is water weight, but I have been pretty diligent about my eating.

Changes I Have Made:

1. I cut most complex carbs (bread, rice, pasta, etc.) I have toast w/ peanut butter and honey in the AM before a workout, but that's it.
2. Food throughout the day, more as grazing than as meals. Lots of fruit, veggies, some nuts and raisins. Lots of H2O. Often a can of tuna or some milk for some protein.
3. Dinner is either a salad with grilled chicken (LARGE salad), or some lean meat w/ two veggies. Dessert is, you guessed it, more fruit!
   
4. I have continued my solid coffee consumption (2-3 cups a day), but mainly b/c it keeps me going (not as an appetite suppressant).
   

What I Have Noticed:

1. I am no longer "craving" foods like I used to. I call it the "chip syndrome", where you have one and then want more. My personal addiction is Peppermint Patties. I swear some junk food must have the equivalent of nicotine in it!!!
   
2. My energy levels are just that, more level. No more spiking of the blook sugar during the day...sure, I am fatigued from 20+ hours of training, but aside from that, I am on Easy St.
3. Energy food has taken on a whole new meaning. By "running" lean, I am keenly aware of how gels and bars really affect my performance. I have made it a priority to learn my "energy pattern" so I can keep the food intake as steady as possible.
   
4. I really need water. More water than I think...when I run out now, whether on a ride or just in the office, I feel it. It is almost as important as the food I need for energy.

I have also seen how easy it would be to spiral out of control with this weight thing. Watching what I eat is NOT FUN, and I have no idea how women who are concerned with their figures do this every single day! I am literally looking forward to IM USA b/c I get to race, but also b/c I will finally get to sit down after race day at the breakfast table at thet Black Bear and have a big serving of French Toast! Remember: FIT is healthy, not just skinny. Man, I dream of food these days! Okay...time for another cup of coffee and then the last long ride...

Train SMART!

Patrick