Working Out the Kinks

by Beth on June 11, 2009

My triathlon last weekend pointed out some things I need to work on. My number one problem during the race was my wetsuit. As I complained about at length, I couldn’t get the wetsuit off over my calves. The wetsuit that I rented was a couple years old and had reinforced knees. This area wasn’t very stretchy and resulted in me being frustrated during T1. In my own defense, I don’t think my calves are extra large. I thought that the numbers on my arms and legs were cool, so Mike took a picture of my calves. Here’s a picture so you can judge for yourself:

See? I think my calves are a pretty normal size. If you think they are big, I would appreciate your keeping your thoughts to yourself, thank you.

Living in Minnesota, the temps are still dropping into the 40’s at night. It’s going to be quite a while before the lakes warm up enough that I’m going to be happy swimming without a wetsuit. During the race, I noticed how much easier it is to swim with one. I like the extra safety that the buoyancy adds, too.When I returned the rental on Monday, it also happened to be my birthday. I decided that it was time to buy my own, proper fitting wetsuit. So here it is, my new swimming partner:

This Blue Seventy is not only girlie and cute, but it is super flexible. I was able to get it off in the changing room in 30 seconds. Yeah! For my birthday, my parents gave me a super cool Blue Seventy triathlon bag. Us girls love it when our accessories are coordinated!

I’m going to try it out for the first time tomorrow with a lake swim with a friend. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that it will keep me warm and afloat. This will be my first real open water workout, so I’m a little excited and a little more nervous. I’ll let you know how it goes!

{ 7 comments }

Mel-2nd Chances June 11, 2009 at 8:17 pm

Ooooh! Happy birthday and congrats on having your own wetsuit — you're a triathlete for sure! :D Well done! I think your calves are normal :)

Mark June 12, 2009 at 4:34 am

Happy birthday!! Nice looking wet suit! Have a great swim!

Lora June 12, 2009 at 5:51 am

Congratulations on finishing your first tri, Beth!!!! Woo hoo! Your S B and R times are terrific, by the way. That completely bites about the wetsuit, though, and I'm glad that you got one that fits. Congratulations again!

I Run for Fun June 12, 2009 at 10:17 am

I think your calves are just fine. Love the sexy new wetsuit. Nothing like new gear to make a girl happy!

Sunshine June 14, 2009 at 9:06 am

Good looking strong thighs.. old wet suit doesn't get to be the judge of them.

Ah yes, weather in Deadwood was super ideal for running.. if only we had had a way to insure not being soaked in 39 degree rain by the time of the start. Another tough disappointment related to the injured knee slowing me down.

Sunshine June 14, 2009 at 12:25 pm

PS.. Being responsible for Sweet Pea.. with the possibility of hypothermia.. out on that trail.. I had a tough choice, but if I errored, it had to be on the side of caution and safety.

Nat June 14, 2009 at 7:38 pm

Awesome wetsuit! A bunch of us are gong to Little Long Lake on Tuesday to check out the water and do a little swimming. If you're interested let me or Amy know. Nothing serious at all, mostly just to get in the water!

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