Day 8, 01/14/2025 (Triathlon Training): Interval Bike: 40 min. w/ 8 x 20 sec. sprints interval Swim: MS: 10 x 25m (1,100m total)

Day 8: Back in the Saddle and the Pool

After yesterday’s rest day, I was ready to hit the ground running - well, biking and swimming, actually. Day 8 of triathlon training was all about intervals, and let me tell you, the intensity came back with a vengeance (my arm muscles are still sore from Sunday).

Interval Bike: 40 Minutes, 8 x 20-Second Sprints

This morning, I hopped back on the bike for a 40-minute interval session. The structure was simple and surprisingly not too challenging: 8 bursts of 20-second sprints, spaced throughout the ride (I tried going every 5 min).

Those sprints? Pure adrenaline. Each one felt like a mini-battle against the clock, pushing myself to go just a little harder than the last. By the time the sprints were done, my legs were nicely tingling, but it was that good kind of burn that reminds you you’re getting stronger.

Between sprints, I settled into a steady pace, letting my heart rate recover and focusing on staying in the zone. The balance of effort and recovery felt like a metaphor for life - push hard when it counts, but don’t forget to breathe.

Interval Swim: 10 x 25m (1,100m Total)

After the bike, it was straight to the pool for a swim session. THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THE POOL WAS COMPLETELY EMPTY!!! I even asked the ladies working downstairs whether the pool was open. Yep, it was! What a treat! The entire thing to myself. Trust me, after being crammed - 3 people to a single lane. It is a treat to have a lane all to myself. I told myself - it is going to be a joy. And it was! Yes, my arms were sore, but after a while, once I got into the rhythm of things I kind of forgot about that.

I was supposed to do the main set was 10 intervals of 25 meters, but I've pushed it for 2 intervals of each being 12 laps. I did not want to lose the momentum, plus needed to be all done before the 9AM scrum thingy-dingy.

I focused on form during each interval, trying to make every stroke count. The water felt surprisingly calming and warm (I mean the first half of the pool was like a jacuzzi - it felt that warm), even as I pushed myself through each lap. By the time I hit the 1,100-meter mark, I was tired, but I couldn’t help but smile - it’s amazing how much progress you can feel after just one week of consistent training. Then shower and like being born again..

Reflections from Day 8

Today reminded me why I love this journey. It’s not just about the physical gains (though those are awesome); it’s about showing up, pushing through, and feeling that sense of accomplishment for doing what you set your mind to.

The sprints on the bike tested my power, and the swim tested my endurance, but together, they built something even greater: confidence.

Onward to Tomorrow

Day 8 is in the books, and I’m feeling the momentum building. Each workout is a small step toward race day, and I’m learning to embrace every moment.

Will keep this train rolling. Bring on Day 9! 🚴‍♂️🏊‍♂️💪