Tri Challenge: Team Kendrick takes a cruise

Since January, six iReporters have been training in the Fit Nation Triathlon Challenge. We’re following along as they prepare to compete alongside Dr. Sanjay Gupta in the August 7 Nautica NYC Triathlon.

Two weeks ago, I went on a family reunion Caribbean cruise. My major concern was being out of my normal environment. However, I was able to manage better than I expected. I did not work out as often as I normally do, but I didn’t beat myself up. (It was a vacation.)

I made little changes that I think worked. I took the stairs whenever I could. I also made sure that my shore excursions were active ones,  such as scuba diving and snorkeling. In terms of nutrition, some days were better than others. A good day would include a breakfast of oatmeal, lunch of chicken and vegetables, and broiled fish and vegetables at dinner. A bad day would include pancakes for breakfast, a hamburger for lunch, and steak for dinner, but I still tried to watch my portion size.

During the whole cruise, I kept reminding myself about the progress I had made, and I did not want to go back. The most memorable part of the cruise is when my family surprised me at dinner with “Team Kendrick” shirts; it really meant a lot to have their support.

I was concerned that I may have lost some fitness on vacation, but my first workout with my trainer afterward was one of the best ever. I swam farther than I had done in the past and really did an excellent job during the run and strength portion of my workouts. We have about 5 weeks to go and I see the end in sight.

From now until the Tri, most of my swim workouts will be in Lake Michigan. I am learning about how to make sure I eat enough calories to ensure I do not bonk - hit the wall –  during the race. This includes energy bars and electrolyte powders. On Saturday we did a mini tri. Although, it was a very hot and humid day we got the workout done and I am feeling more confident about being able to complete the New York City Tri.