What is an Enduramom? Triathletes, adventure racers, cyclists, and running moms who swim-bike-run triathlons, love long runs; putting hours into training while being super moms!
Doing more in 24!
www.enduramoms.com
So, this little Brooks Running shoe ad caught my eye this weekend...
Yeah I got the theme of it...they're speaking to the paleo contingent and barefoot runners...etc. But then I stared at it for a few more minutes?
Why?
1st, because it had such uncommon (yet cool) imagery...for example, why is this girl, down on her knees, devouring a giant turkey leg? Seriously!?! 2nd, I noticed the shout out to the Enduramoms of the world, with the jogging stroller image at the top and squealed with glee!!! It's not so often I see such imagery, as in US getting a little spotlight, in running gear ads...in fact, more often than not, it's typically just the shoe being featured.
So, I say, we've arrived! Someone in the Mad Men world of ad - land - ia realizes there are thousands of Enduramoms in the world that buy their gear and put their all in their weekly workouts.
Raise a glass (or a water bottle) to YOU and your amazing efforts this weekend...we are on the map!!!
Yes... it's last minute, but better late than never. Voting closes on April 12th so let's get Enduramoms published in the nominee list so MORE moms know that yes, they CAN juggle endurance sports and mommyhood... and the 100 other hats we often wear. There isn't a TRI or Endurance sports category, so I think inspirational is a good fit for this blog. Best running blog is close 2nd, but it doesn't quite cover all things Enduramom... So, that's that. Give us some love okay? :) Thanks!
Join the Enduramoms revolution on Facebook or Google+ today!
Michelle Obama and Biggest Loser's, Bob Harper amp it up with Iowa school children.
This week in the Enduramoms Saturday Spotlight-- Battling Against Childhood Obesity. You'd have to live under a rock to have missed the media focus and talk this week about the battle against childhood obesity. The battle's been going on so long, I think we should start calling it a war. I'll refer to it as CO in the rest of this post, to avoid repetition. e
Even first lady Michelle Obama is fully engaged in the fight to keep our kids healthy with her Let's Move health and fitness initiative. Mrs. Obama states it is not just a campaign, but a "passion" to be a part of efforts to improve the health of America's children. Good for her, but I think it should be a passion for ALL mothers around the world...not just here in the USA. We're not the only country with a negative epidemic hitting our children.
As I look at the photo above, I think about how a single day of dancing and PE related fitness got these kids inspired, I can't help but wonder what type of impression could be made if Enduramoms around the world stepped into more classrooms and community groups to extend their influence. Could you handle adding one speaking engagement to your schedule to inspire kids each year? What about sponsoring a Girls on the Run group at your children's school? Or just dropping in on an existing GOTR group to speak about your accomplishments and healthy living? I bet they'd love your medals and your running shoes too :) Could you spare those 6-10 hours a year? Can you imagine the amazing return on your time investment?
So, you may be wondering.. what does CO have to do with me being being a triathlete, my daily run, weekend triathlons, and being an Enduramom? It's all about your influence baby. While the Toddlers and Tiaras moms of the world are out there handing off pixie sticks and cans of red bull to their little tap dancing "heart"...we are taking our kids with us to the pool, the YMCA, track, park and having them be a part of our healthy lifestyle. Along with that comes bringing along healthy snacks and water to the park/Y/track, etc... and there you go, it starts to become a part of their overall lifestyle. You don't often think about it at the time. Maybe you just toted the kids along because it was a nice day out or you wanted to get them out of the house to burn off some energy, right? But once you're out there, realize that it becomes more. They not only get some quality family time, but everyone gets a good workout, some fresh air, burns a few calories, and the happiness meter goes up- up - up. Regularly including the family in your workout regimen creates multiple opportunities to build character and automatically provides a platform for life lessons to be passed on. Are we perfect? Probably not, everyone could stand to do things better when it comes to launching a healthy lifestyle for not just our own, but our children's well being. Let's think a little more about influence...zoom your thinking in on the topic. Have you really stopped to think about how you influence the kids, and their friends, with your lifestyle? You exude power, you're probably glowing. Even when you don't have an "agenda" set for a particular sport outing (yea, I'm talking to you my fellow type A's...you know you plan everything to a T)? Yep, those little eyes are watching you always, storing mental images by the second of practically every move you make. The impressions go both ways. Your example shows them just what you're capable of and what determination can do...ask Heather @ RunFasterMommy. On the flip side, they feed you right back by often stating their impressions... whether you want to hear it or not. Usually it inspires you, sometimes it amuses ("mommy why are you breathing so hard? Do you need to sit down?"). When you're modeling positive health through your fitness routines and even just casual fitness like a short walk make sure the kids get in on the workout. This serves to give them more opportunities to maintain a healthy lifestyle for the long haul. Good nutrition just goes without saying and there are endless resources available to help sculpt a proper diet for all.
Consider expanding your Enduramoms Circle of Influence
*I bet the influencer will be the recipient of lots of hugs...
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Doing More in 24...it's how enduramoms function. In 2012, our overall theme will focus on the journey we take in reaching our goals and dreams through the practice of triathlon training and racing. The cherry on the proverbial sundae might be crossing the finish line and receiving a shiny medal, but I challenge your train of thought if you think that's what our sport is all about. When you look back, you begin to realize you've had several mini finish lines to cross in order to reach the big one on your "A" race day. Maybe your mini-finish line involved fitting into a smaller size, the day your little one said "my mommy is really fast", being able to tackle that hill that winded you in week one, or achieving a PR during a training run when you didn't even realize it until you checked your watch or runkeeper stats at the end. The little steps and small victories made are bricks which build your personal empire. Make them count, recognize them when you achieve them, and do a little something special for yourself or with your family to celebrate each achievement. Without the journey, we are simply showing up.
It's all about the journey...
I found a story online today about an athlete names Marianna. She knows it's about the journey.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Introducing #enduramomschat on Twitter. Put the kids in bed by 9 eastern time and log on to twitter. Starting this Tuesday, Jan. 17th, 2012, from 9:00 - 9:30PM EST, once weekly. "Topic of the day" will be announced each Tuesday morning via our Facebook page. Discussion will be fun and light...juggling mommyhood with multisport, funny stories, training updates, goal races, lessons learned, questions, struggles, achievements, journey comments, and sometimes I will do my best to feature an expert to answer expert related questions for future chats. SO... if you aren't already following @Enduramoms on twitter...get on it today. If you are ... tell a friend.
INTRODUCING DAILY THEMES Super Sunday Long Runs & Rides: Let's talk insights and skills gained on the long roads & trails. I bet you picked up more than dirt and sweat. Of course, tales are welcome too! MMMonday - Mommy Moments: discussing how mommy life enhanced your training, made you laugh, or rail-roaded your training plans for the week. It happens! 2 for Tuesday -Brick it up: Featuring weekly ideas for brick sessions and crosstraining Spincycle Wednesday: Weekly focus on the swimand all things aquatic! Technique Thursday - Tempo Runs to cycling posture...tips to focus on our technique Fun-Socks-Friday - Share a pic of your crazy running/cycling/everyday socks. Post it on FB and twitter including the hashtag #FunSocksFriday to be eligible to win a prize each week! Those sparkly skirt folks don't get to have all the fun. Saturday Spotlight -- reserved for amazing Enduramom athletes, hardworking coaches that don't get enough praise, and/or non-profit charities inspiring us to TRI and Run. Nominate and let me know who needs that spotlight!
WE'RE ALL ONE BIG FAMILY
If you're documenting your triathlon, multisport, or running journey through a blog, site, facebook page, pinterest, forum, google+, or wordpress...I'd really like to know. Please give me a shout through the comments below or on the contact page. I'll add you to the blogs being followed, provide a mention on the facebook fanpage, and maybe write a blog post about you!
So, I figure I had better create a current blog post before 2012 rolls around or you assume I've met my maker (insert spooky Halloween howling ghost sound here). It's October, the US heatwave is OVER, and yes, I've been more into tweeting and tending the Enduramoms Facebook page, than this poor old neglected blog. I intend to get better about this. Let's just say, Summer 2011 did not go exactly as planned (car accidents bite!)... more on that later. So back to October... two HUGE things are in the swing this month that we should all take note of and get behind, as ALL endurance athletes should.
First and foremost, unless you've been living under a rock or are having trouble figuring out why the globe is suddenly draped in pink ... it's Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For survivors and/or those of you fighting the Big C as I type this message...I am (and think it's safe to say...we're) behind you 110%. We stand together in the fight. So, here's my two cents for the general public. If you've been putting off an exam with your doctor or are just not so thrilled to get a mammogram ... DO IT. If you're reading this, you're probably already an Enduramom, and in that, you can handle an exam if you can haul @ss in mud, rain, or "out kick" Sally Sue in the pool on a weekly basis. We own discomfort, it doesn't own us. If you've been on top of things and my reminders don't apply to you, GOOD - FOR - YOU! Proceed directly to Starbucks and buy yourself one of those highly addictive (read as: evil addiction...) cakepops to celebrate...after your daily run of course :) ... curse me later. So anyway, back to Breast Cancer Awareness Month, or #BCAM for my tweeps, one can never tell when cancer might rear it's ugly head, it's far better to be on the safe side of early detection than wondering what will I do if..., etc. If this tiny blog serves to remind just one woman to get checked out and stops the Big C in it's tracks, HOORAY! For official information on cancer, you'll want to start here: http://www.cancer.gov/. %20n. Thanks to the Susan G. Komen Foundation, there are many many ways you can get involved EVERY single day this month, just check out the 31 Days of Action Calendar from the Komen Foundation website for ideas. Is your race calendar empty this month? Put your soul and soles into the fight by participating in one of many walks, runs, swims, or cycling events to raise funds in the fight against cancer. My family will participate in a Light the Night event this month. I've known too many people affected by this disease, and well... I'll take any opportunity I can to kick it in the shins... so to speak. Perhaps you can only donate a bit, but every bit counts in this tough economy, as every charity is fighting to raise funds. Do your part (but dear sweet NFL, if the players could skip the pink sunblock stuff under the eyes next time... it was just.... weird. Just my honest opinion there) :) hee hee.
I did say there were TWO huge matters this month, right? Well....matter #2 on the agenda... is this little race on a big island in Hawaii...where the world will be watching!!! Merry Christmas fellow triathletes, it's here, our annual holiday! The2011 Ford Ironman World Championshipis THIS Saturday, October 8th, 2011. Yes, I get a little giddy in the lead up to this annual event... it's my equivalent of Ralphie dreaming about his Red Rider gun in A Christmas Story. Someday I'll shift from race observer and well wisher, to Kona participant, but for now I am content to watch with glee all of the hard work and determination that the racers will be putting out there for all the world to see from the swim, to the bike, to the run on the Queen K. Some people work for years just for a shot at this life changing event.
Me, in the form of Ralphie on the night before Kona
If you've ever read back through my posts, I've been watching this event since I was a kid and happened upon a broadcast one Saturday afternoon by chance. It's nothing short of amazing, it can make one laugh, cry, and cheer, all in one day. Don't even get me started on the motivation factor. And then there's the moment when a race participant stops running, to roll over the finish line in memory of the Warrior Poet. Pure bliss. Better than any blockbuster Hollywood could ever put out there on the silver screen. With that being said, some of the most inspiring Enduramoms are already in Kona and you (too) can follow their journey this week and on race day by following their blog and/or tweets. Oh how I wish I could bring you "live from Kona" tweets, pics, and reports, but... the Enduramoms budget isn't at that level, yet (sponsors welcome!). Someday... someday. Someday, we'll sponsor a participant in "the big race", dressed in pink + green, with the Enduramoms logo on the front of her tri suit and "Doing More in 24" on the back... Mark my words! No pink sunblock below the eyes either... again weird! In the meantime, we can all live vicariously through the words and images of those who ARE there.
Here are a few Enduramoms to watch this weekend (I'll be adding to this through the week ---if you are racing Kona or know someone racing that we need to list here, shoot me a note ASAP! We promise to send lots of good vibes and prayers their way.)
p.s. if you like this blog... please follow & subscribe. If you're on Facebook, like our Facebook page. If you're on twitter, we are there! Follow @Enduramoms...we will follow you back.
Our clocks have now "sprung" forward and the official first day of spring is only one week away. There’s something about SPRING being in the air that gives me BIKE FEVER every year...especially after this wicked winter! Every year it's the same for me. I don't know about you, but when the fresh spring air starts to kick-in along with blissfully sunny, cloud free, 60 degree days, I start thinking back to playing outdoors for hours during my childhood in the Midwest. The first memory that surfaces is the childlike realization that spring had officially arrived because I was finally allowed to wear a windbreaker to school instead of a winter coat. I then recall how each spring, my lips became constantly chapped due to the playing outside so much in the spring winds (oh -- and how cool it was to have a stick of Cherry Chapstick in my jacket pocket!) and swinging on the playground until the teachers had to force us back inside the school building. Ultimately, I end up thinking about how much fun I had simply biking around the neighborhood as a child. I started out with one of the coolest modes of transportation ever... a red, gold, and black Big Wheel. If you're too young to know what a Big Wheel is or you DO know and want to reminisce... check out this original commercial for the Big Wheel: (author update -- 3/16/11 hmmm...the use of the word WINNING in this commercial seems oh so familiar... could Charlie Sheen have borrowed his now famous phrase from the classic 70's Big Wheel commercial? I'm just sayin' ...)
I loved my Big Wheel so much that I actually wore the tires out and had to get yes, a 2nd Big Wheel -- no joking... my parents can back this up! Once I outgrew the 2nd Big Wheel, I moved on to a faster set of wheels...a beautiful little cinnamon red bike with training wheels, an electric blue sparkle seat with white trim, glittery vinyl accents, and the ultimate red, white, & blue streamers flowing from the handlebars. I loved that bicycle, and yes, in case you're wondering I wore the tread on it’s tires out too... twice. We lived in a somewhat small town of a rather rural community, so, those bicycle tires got a lot of wear on the sidewalk cement by my going around the block, literally, hundreds of times. It's safe to say I started my personal career in endurance sports at a young age, long before I even knew what a triathlon event was. Whether it’s been cycling for fun, racing the neighborhood kids, or the ultimate of biking to the local park with my Dad (when he wasn’t replacing tires), I've always loved the immediate feeling of freedom that bicycling provides. If you feel a need to truly "get away from it all"... this IS it. You can't buy this feeling. Each year when I get on my bike for the first springtime ride, all the fun memories and the rush of excitement of biking through the years comes flooding back. The next time you go out for a triathlon training ride, a group ride, or even just a fun family ride with the kids, don't forget to take a few minutes to think back to those carefree childhood days. Embrace the sun shining down on your face and the feeling of the wind blowing through your hair. You’re not alone if those memories includes a K-tel AM/FM radio mounted on the handlebars of your 10-speed back in the day or the all important custom name plate from the Honey Comb cereal box, hee hee.
And so with seasonal related memories like this... it seems that spring prompts us to start poking around the local bike shop, the REI store, or various cycling websites for THE super fast TRI bike to get you through our next couple of triathlon seasons. Whether you're a veteran Enduramom, intermediate triathlete, or a TRI "newbie", it can be an overwhelming decision to select a triathlon bike. In order to remove some of your shopping anxiety, I've provided some basic tips and helpful article references that will hopefully ease your buying decisions if you're in the market for a new bike this season. While some of us relish bike shopping time, it is a big purchase -- financially and mentally. As spring rolls around each year…so do some excellent retail programs that allow you to trade-up or in for a better ride.
Don't forget to follow some common sense advice when making a selection:
• Set a budget ... abide by the budget. Yes... some bikes actually cost more than a mid-size car. If it’s totally out of your budget to get a new model, look into a used bike, a loaner from a friend, or even a rental.
• Research various bicycle models from multiple manufacturer websites and/or manuals before you go shopping. Knowing all the ins and outs before you go to the store will prevent an impulse buy and keep you from overpaying for features you may not even need or want.
• Soak up the knowledge of the cycling shop gear-head .
Every store has at least one… okay 3…and you will almost always learn something new from him/her every time you go. If you don't understand a particular bike feature-- ASK...it's their job to know their wares. If a rep doesn't know their bike lines and how to do proper bike fitting... move on.
• Shop LOCAL if you can...local businesses can really use your business during these tough times. BONUS --> they are usually the local hub of all things cycling in your community.
• Ask the old pros in your local TRI club or training buddies for their favorite bike models and store picks ... chances are they will gleefully go along with you to the store, as well as, throw in a proper bike fitting for free! We triathletes have been known to talk about our bikes for … um ... hours.
• TAKE ADVANTAGE of bike fit services. You don't want to find out that your bike fit is wrong once you reach longer training rides, weeks or days before your race day. Some bike parts are adjustable, but some features are fixed. Don’t let your body pay the price for cutting corners here.
• If you're buying a used bike, insist on a test ride, measure the frame yourself, and inspect the bike closely for damage--especially the expensive parts like the shifters & aero bars. Test all the gears. Don't buy sight-unseen unless you're buying a through a business that insures the transaction 100%. Watch out for fraudsters! Never go alone to purchase a bike listed on a forum or in a classified ad.
• Don't buy a bike on impulse! This is all about function and the long run baby.
• Safety first --don't forget about picking up a sound helmet.
I'm ALWAYS inspired by the "elder" age group of competitors in endurance and Ironman events. So... on that note... I just stumbled across yet another amazing story in the Health Blog section of the Wall Street Journal. This article/video interview is about a 70 year old neurosurgeon/Ironman competitor! .... and no... he's not a she ...and definitely not an enduramom, but hey... we're a diversified kind of blog and inspiration can be derived from a number of sources. You just have to know where to look...and of course realize it when it crosses your path. http://blogs.wsj.com/health/2010/11/09/health-blog-video-70-year-old-neurosurgeon-talks-ironman-training/
