Bionic Barbie's Journey to Ironman CDA 2015

A Fun Training Day in Winter Wonderland

Who says that training for an IRONMAN always has to be swim, bike, run and some strength training?   I believe training is getting out there and moving.  Sure it helps to follow a plan but SHAKE THINGS UP!  Challenge your body! You will be amazed at the results.

So, today I went for a hike with a my friend, April and her Doberman, Ari.   I chose the hike knowing there was some climbing involved. (Climbing is good for strength training or so I hear).  I decided on the Blue Ridge Trail but starting at Inspiration Point following the PCT.  I knew it was going to be cold when I woke up when the thermostat read 34.  That would mean it was going to be close to 20 up where the hiking would take place.  So, I grabbed hats, scarf, thermals, vests, wool socks, boots, gloves and my backpack and off I went.

The ride up the back side of the San Gabriel Mountains is so amazing and beautiful.  I have done it 100 times and each time I see new beauty in it.  When I past Mountain High, I saw snow (not a lot but snow).  Thank goodness I grabbed my boots.   April was waiting for me right at the entrance.  Ready or not, here we come.

Inspiration Point

Frozen Pine Cones

 The Movie Star -- Diva Ari on her first hike pictured below

It has been a very long time since I have seen trees with ice like this.  It was breath taking.  Literally, I was climbing 2100', I was getting out of breath with all the layers on.  But, let's face it, I was climbing 2100' trying to keep up with Diva Ari.

We had only 3 hours so we made the best of it.  It was a fun hike that had us up on top of Mountain High Ski Resort.  If we wanted to, we could have jumped on the ski lift or in the reservoir.  I believe they will start blowing snow soon. We saw lots of tracks some of we believe were, deer or Bighorn Sheep, Bobcat, Squirrels and/or raccoons and Dog.

I have a new passion for hiking that starting last year.  I love the outdoors and love the fact I have all this in my backyard.  I can hike, bike (road or mountain) or run to this place. Sure, it will take me all day but I can do it right out of my front yard. 

And for the record, I do not have a training plan YET!  I am waiting for the shoulder surgery then will be hiring a coach.  I can't promise I will always stick to the training plan unless it allows for at least one day to play in the mountains.

 Baden Powell (above) with some snow

So today's training was 3 hours of climbing a total of 2100'. We started at 7000' and went to 8381' and back.  It was a total of 6.74 miles.  Besides the stats, it was BEAUTIFUL, MAGICAL AND WONDERFUL.  I thank God for creating this for us!

Keep Moving, Living, Loving and Tri-ing!