Endure It! Swim.Bike.Run

Second Round of Threshold Tests Starting Monday 1/30

2012-01-27T14:13:00.001-06:00

The next round of threshold testing will take place next week at Endure It, for most us this will be the second round and looking forward to seeing those improvements from the last couple of months of hard work everyone has put in. For those that decided to get a little later jump on their winter training well this first test will take the guess work out of what your threshold number is allowing to get the most out of each class thereafter.

Here are some tips we mapped out back in November that should help you execute the best test you can. Remember the best way to improve your cycling is to make sure you are giving the best effort you have in you, improve that number and prove to yourself the work is paying off!

If you haven't tested there is NOTHING to be nervous about!! At Endure It we threshold test in a manner where we get your average power from a 30 minute effort. There are other ways and other protocols to use, but we have found that this suits us the best for right now. Obviously things can change.

So how should you go about attacking the threshold test. Instead of writing a long narrative, if you want that I'd rather talk than type so just contact one of us at the shop, here are some tips to help you prepare and execute the test.

Be as fresh as possible with a good night sleep, some breakfast before class, and I wouldn't recommend a super hard day of training before testing.
Make sure your mind is in the right place. This is going to hurt, think about that ahead of time and know that everyone else there is suffering along right with you.
Get a good warm up in, if that means waiting at Endure It before the coach gets there so that you can set up right away and start spinning then do it. You're not going to burn yourself out with a good solid warm up. You want to make sure your heart and muscles are geared up and ready to rock.
Once you start the test stay steady! If your power is jumping around like crazy it takes more energy. There shouldn't be 20-50 watt surges, that will hurt later in the test!
Remember as time goes on it becomes more difficult to raise that average power number. BUT at the same time do not go out too hard.
It's better to see numbers increase as the time goes on than to see someone peg it from the start and then fight for dear life to keep their numbers where they are.
Stay focused, don't worry about anyone else
Stay efficient on the bike, any movement not directly related to spinning the pedals is a waste of movement...also read waste of energy. So if you're bouncing around like a kid with ADHD who hasn't taken his meds and instead ate 3 large pixie sticks and 2 cans of Mountain Dew...you're wasting a ton of energy!
Break the test down into segments...first 10 minutes, next 5, next 5, next 5 and then every minute.
With those segments set little goals for yourself depending on how you're feeling. For example, if you're working really hard then your goal might be to hold the average wattage you're at. Or if it's easy you might want to increase the average wattage by 2 watts in a 5 minute range. The key is to make small goals!! If you think you're going to blow things up by 10 or 15 watts you might be setting yourself up for a disappointment.
Remember this is hard, it's supposed to be hard and you won't regret working hard!!

Sh*t Triathletes Say

2012-01-26T10:55:00.001-06:00

Yep...pretty much spot on!

Stay tuned for our own Endure It edition of "Sh*t Endure It Athletes Say"...it's in the works.

Club Meeting Tomorrow Night - 7:00 p.m. Naperville

2012-01-17T11:14:00.000-06:00

Be there! And if you're planning on being there shoot us an email at endureitclub@gmail.com so that we can make sure we plan appropriately for food and drinks.

We're going to talk about planning a season, as well as how important it is to incorporate strength training into a training plan...it might look different than you think. We'll have some sample strength training programs and have the summer dates all in order for club activities.

Come check it out!!

Some Snowy Training Tips

2012-01-12T08:14:00.000-06:00

The way the news reports are coming in you would think we've never experienced snow before, and at the rate this winter was going I was seriously wondering if we were going to (and honestly until I have to take my shovel to the driveway I'll continue to wonder). With the snow people worry about training outdoors, though it can be super fun! Maybe not swimming as much, but running for sure, and possibly biking too. When you're planning on doing a run in the snow, consider a few things. Make sure you dress in layers, if you're a little cold when you start that's alright, you're running right...so you should heat up a little. A waterproof/windproof shell can be a huge help and if you don't have one, I would definitely invest in one. Depending on the conditions "screw shoes" or yaktrax could be super helpful. What are "screw shoes"? Simple take an old pair of running shoes, get some short hex head screws (short enough so when you screw them in they won't hit the bottom of your foot), screw in the hex screws...and go run!

Speaking of shoveling...I totally need to get (or build) one of these:

Don't forget the Club Meeting next Wednesday night at Endure It Naperville at 7:00 p.m. Shoot us an email if you plan on attending (endureitclub@gmail.com)

The First TT of 2012 & Club Meeting

2012-01-10T09:30:00.000-06:00

This past Sunday Dzuibski did an excellent job of putting on the first Indoor TT of the year. We had some super fast teams, and fun (and pain) was had by all. Great work Dan! Our next indoor TT will be March 18th, grab a partner and lets make this one bigger and better!!

Our next club meeting will be next Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. in Naperville. We'll be talking about some weight training workouts (and how to set it up), as well as how to set up your season in terms of training, recovery, racing and all of that fun stuff. We will also be rolling out a summer schedule which will include some group rides, cruiser crawls and open water swim sessions. It's always nice to get together so we hope to see you there next week. If you plan on coming shoot us a quick email at endureitclub@gmail.com so that we can plan accordingly.

What's the Difference?

2012-01-05T08:41:00.000-06:00

Often times people come in looking for a bike, but they aren't sure what to get. Personally I think everyone should have a road bike, tri bike, cross bike, mountain bike, commuting bike, bar bike, and rain bike...but if you're picking between road or tri here is an excellent resource to check out.

If you are considering getting a 2nd, 3rd...whatever number bike, what the heck are you waiting for? We always think you should have "N+1" bikes, where "N" is the number you currently have.

A Super Discount for Leon's Triathlon

2012-01-04T08:32:00.000-06:00

Not sure whether you saw the "Active Schwaggle" deal of the day, but today there is 40% off of entry into the Leon's Triathlon. Leon's is a great race, close to home and one of the races where we are going to try to get as many of our club members as possible to race. If you haven't seen the deal send us an email (endureitclub@gmail.com) and we'll forward it on to you. This is for today only, so don't miss out!

Also make sure you send us your race plans for the year, we're trying to organize some pre/post race gatherings/meals/drinks...whatever you want to call it. We have received a couple so far, so thank you...keep them coming!

We also still have some places left on the team time trial, they are going quick though. We wouldn't want you to miss out on this opportunity for bragging rights.

Happy New Year

2012-01-03T09:35:00.000-06:00

I apologize for the break that the blog has taken, the holidays were busy!! But here we are in a new year. With that said let's make 2012 the best year for the Endure It Club yet! What are your goals? Your "A" Races? Training Goals? Happy thoughts? We'd love to hear from you to be able to support you in 2012. If you know you're registered for any races pass them along as we'd really like to try to coordinate pre/post race gatherings at various races, and to really support each other through this great hobby of ours. So pass along your races to us at endureitclub@gmail.com We'll put together a spreadsheet and try to coordinate some gatherings/cheering sections for races.

We hope you had a great holiday season, and are looking forward to making this year the best yet. Stay tuned, the next few days we'll list some more meeting dates, group rides/BBQ's for the summer, and don't forget about the "club" races which we're trying to get a strong showing at.

But first we have the Team Time Trial this Sunday. Don't have a partner? Let us know we'll see what we can do. This is always a ton of fun and we can assure you won't be disappointed.

Getting it Done

2011-12-21T18:40:00.000-06:00

The hustle and bustle of the holidays are here. This is the time of year where it's easy to feel overwhelmed and difficult to find time to fit in a workout. Trust me when I say you'll feel a lot better about things. Even if it's just 20 minutes, or doing a push-up/sit-up/core routine in the morning...do something you won't regret that you did!!

Here is a little motivation to get going...

Dang...That Was Fun

2011-12-16T13:39:00.000-06:00

Were you at the Endure It Holiday Party? If not you totally missed the Endure It invasion of the dancefloor at Blackfinn late night. Thanks for everyone who came out, we really do have a great group of people. I'm not going to lie though it's weird seeing people in "normal" clothes and not cycling gear! Our facebook page should have some pictures up soon, and if you're not on facebook, we'll try to get some posted here as well.

Don't forget about meeting up at Waterfall Glen this Sunday at 7:30 a.m. There are no specified groups at this time, so if you're worried about getting dropped...don't be! But at the same time, everyone should run their own pace. We don't want those 6 minute milers to feel like they have to slow down if they don't want to.

Thanks again to everyone who made it out last night.

The Motions...

2011-12-15T08:51:00.000-06:00

We are heavy into our computrainer season at Endure It, and we're pumped with the amount of people who have been coming to class to work every week! We have seen some big numbers and athletes fighting through some tough workouts, I keep hearing last Saturday was brutal. Let's keep in mind that we can't just go through the motions. You're sacrificing by getting up early, or missing time with your family, make sure you make the most of that time. Remember you'll never regret a workout.

Don't forget tonight is the Endure It Holiday Party...It's going to be Epic! Be at Blackfinn in Downtown Naperville at 7:00 p.m. Rumor has it David is already apologizing for "party rockin".

Rumor has it Fix and Bird are going to have a "Walk Off"

Club Run - Sunday December 18 @ 7:30 a.m. - Waterfall Glen

2011-12-14T08:27:00.000-06:00

After we witness Bird and Fix "Party Rockin" on Thursday night I'm guessing we'll need some time to recap the events of the evening. Let's get together for a run on Sunday morning at Waterfall Glen. The plan will be to meet in the parking lot at the trailhead on Cass at 7:30 a.m. All abilities welcome, we will have maps of the trail for you and everyone will be able to run at their own pace. The trail is a 9.4 mile loop...and by no means do you have to complete an entire loop!

If you plan on joining us please let us know by shooting an email to endureitclub@gmail.com that way we will know that we should be looking for you in the parking lot. We will meet by the firepit at the trailhead, so when you turn off of Cass Ave. take your second right (the first right will put you in the parking lot which you can see off of Cass, it will work, but you'll have to walk to us at the trailhead).

Directions to Waterfall Glen:

From Naperville - 75th street East to Cass Avenue. Right on Cass Avenue. Continue on Cass Avenue past I-55. Waterfall Glen will be on the right hand side right after I-55 (make sure you turn into Waterfall Glen or the sign for Argonne National Lab, it's the same road)

Staying Consistent & A Holiday Party Preview

2011-12-13T09:08:00.000-06:00

One of my college roommates used to always say "Kids need consistency"...I believe that goes much beyond just kids. We are in that time of year where it might be easy to put off a workout until later in the day, or shorten it, or just skip it. But the bottom line is the more consistent you are the more successful you'll be. Have you ever thought back to a workout and wished you hadn't completed it? I mean unless something catastrophic happened (which we hope didn't) I can't imagine that you would. So as the hustle and bustle of the holidays increases here make sure you try to stay as consistent as you can! Get in the water...get on your bike...keep trucking along with the running challenge!

Oh yea, and you should come to the Holiday Party on Thursday night at Blackfinn...and here is why...

Endure It Holiday Party Promo 2011
by: EndureIt

Make sure you email us at endureitclub@gmail.com to let us know if you plan on attending.

Challenge Update & Sunday Run @ Waterfall Glen

2011-12-12T08:50:00.000-06:00

How is everyone doing on the running challenge? Today is day 12, get out there and get your run in...the longer you put it off the harder it's going to be! We'd love to hear stories about your running challenge so far, so if you have seen something funny, lost some weight, hit a PR, are loving life, hating it...we want to know so drop us a line at endureitclub@gmail.com

Here's an idea, who wants to run at Waterfall Glen on Sunday morning? It works pretty easily, everyone meets up at the trailhead off of Cass (if you don't know where Waterfall Glen is shoot us an email, or check back and I'll post directions in an upcoming post), and we all run. All abilities welcome, with that said everyone runs at their own pace...so if you're like Beert and are a speed demon go for it, if you're like Bird and float through the air, own it, if you're like Spyder and wear sweatpants to run that's cool too. We'll start the run at 7:30 a.m. You can run as much or as little as you want. The loop there is about 9.37 miles give or take a little depending on where you start your watch. There are mile markers and it's crushed limestone which is nice. Let us know if we should look for you (endureitclub@gmail.com)

Some Cyclocross Pictures

2011-12-09T08:36:00.000-06:00

Thanks to Spyder...we're still trying to figure out his real name...we have some sweet cross pictures to post here of our small, but mighty cyclocross team.

Byers getting in the zone...

And they're off, check out the look of pain for Byers, and check out Spyder...lookin sleek in all black

White shorts to a cross race...Byers is all about fashion

Spyder make the pass already!

Byers in action over the barricades

Not going to lie, Byers makes it look easier...sorry Spyder

Craig doing work, but where is the Endure It kit?

The grimace of pleasure

Is that Jeremy Powers? Nope sorry ladies, but it is Blaine and he's available...for more information on Mr. Texas Gold Blaine Reed contact us we'll give you the real dirt

Kenny B rockin out

Powering through to the front

"When I dip, you dip, we dip"

Don't lose it

Sweet kicks Spyder, we do have cycling shoes that aren't circa 1978 at the shop...

Powering out of the turn.

Don't forget that we're meeting up tomorrow at the store in Naperville to watch Ironman Hawaii at 3:00. We hope to see you there, if you plan on coming shoot us an email (endureitclub@gmail.com)

Also the Endure It Holiday Party is less than a week away. We'd love to get a number generated on how many people plan on coming so please RSVP to endureitclub@gmail.com

Enjoy the small amount of snow...Day 9 of the Running Challenge today!!

Get in the Water!

2011-12-08T08:25:00.000-06:00

It's December, you're busy, and for many triathletes swimming is the last thing they want to do. Trust me when I say getting in the water now will definitely help you next season! We're not talking about cranking out 5,000 meter sets...but getting in what you can will be effective and helpful. Do you have 20 minutes at the end of your workout where you were thinking about grabbing Starbucks? Why not jump in the water for 15 minutes? You might be able to crack off 1000 yards and keep your feel for the water. Every time you can get in the water is going to help...and remember that you're probably never going to regret a workout.

In order to make sure you're using that time wisely here is a short 10 minute video to give you some tips on becoming a better swimmer:

Remember we're having a Kona Viewing Party on Saturday at 3:00 at the Naperville location. Come hang out and watch NBC's interpretation of our sports biggest event!

Running Challenge Update

2011-12-07T08:42:00.000-06:00

We are now on day 7 of the December Running Challenge. How has it been going for you? We'd love to hear from people about how their running challenge has started out, and maybe even post some of your success stories here. Shoot us an email at endureitclub@gmail.com to let us know how things have been going, and if we can share a story.

We have a couple of events coming up in the next week at Endure It. Saturday we will be getting together to watch the NBC coverage of Ironman Hawaii. Swing on by the store in Naperville at 3 to grab a drink and enjoy the off season, maybe gain some motivation to head out on a long run Sunday morning.

Next Thursday (December 15) we will be hosting the annual Endure It Holiday Party at 7:00 p.m. at Blackfinn in Naperville. If you plan on attending please let us know so that we have some sort of an idea as to numbers (endureitclub@gmail.com).

Do you want to be an Elite Badass? Check Kenny Powers tips...

A Brick Twist & Upcoming Events

2011-12-06T08:39:00.000-06:00

It seems as if winter is starting to take hold of Chicago and with that means indoor training sessions...they don't have to be boring though! Riding on a trainer, or running on a treadmill can suck...but it doesn't have to! And why do you have to be restricted to a trainer? Riding on rollers can help pass the time faster, improve your pedaling stroke, and add an element of danger to riding indoors.

Here are a few ideas to think about when training indoors:

Bike/run/bike/run/bike brick...yes you read that right. Ride for an alotted period of time, followed by running on the treadmill for an alotted period of time...and repeat. Something that is fun to do as well is to increase the effort of the workout as time goes on.
Track workouts on the treadmill. This is great because you set the pace, run for the distance and boom...you're done. No cheating, no thinking...sounds good to me.
Tabata Sprints on your trainer...after a nice warm up go 20 seconds all out, 40 seconds off...and repeat 6-10 times. Crazy hard, but a great use of a short period of time.
When you're training indoors it's a great time to work on your efficiency, so don't forget to hit up those pedaling drills!

If you're trying to ride rollers...here's a hint...keep pedaling and don't blame the bike...and don't be this guy...

UPCOMING EVENTS

Saturday December 10 - 3:00 p.m. - Endure It Naperville - Ironman Hawaii Viewing Party
Thursday December 15 - 7:00 p.m. - Blackfinn Naerville - Endure It Holiday Party
Sunday January 8 - Various Times - Endure It Willowbrook - 2 Person Team Time Trial

Ironman Hawaii Viewing Party - Saturday @ 3:00

2011-12-05T14:59:00.000-06:00

Come check out the NBC coverage of Ironman Hawaii this Saturday at 3:00 p.m. at Endure It Sports-Naperville. Who knows maybe you'll catch a glimpse of an Endure It athlete out on the course...

Cold Weather Running Tips

2011-12-02T08:25:00.000-06:00

Yesterday the December Running Challenge officially started, if you're joining us awesome!!! We have been pretty fortunate in regards to the weather we've had this fall, and if you've watched the weather forecast lately that's going to come to a close quickly. Just because the temperatures decline doesn't mean that you have to hibernate indoors. All it takes is a little extra preparation and you might find that your winter runs are the most enjoyable ones. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for those chilly runs:

Dress in layers - yes you've heard it before, but it's the best way to stay warm while running. Sometimes it's difficult to figure out just what to wear because you do warm up when you run. So if you dress in layers you can shed them as the run progresses.
Wear a shell - Dealing with cold temperatures is one thing...when you add the Chicago wind to it that's a totally different story. Rocking a lightweight shell as your top layer can help keep that wind out, and keep you warm.
Reflective Gear - we aren't left with too much daylight now and so as a result make sure you're visible to as many people possible. Sure you might not be the most fashionable...but would you rather have fashion or be laying in a ditch with a broken femur because the lady texting in her Range Rover didn't see you and then didn't even realize she hit you either.
Identification - whenever you're out training you should make sure you have some sort of identification. You never know what's going to happen, so it's a good idea to be as prepared as possible. We have some cool bracelets at the store which have USB connections to upload personal information, we really hope you never have to use that, but it's a great resource!
Run Loops - if you're not sure about how the weather might play out just go ahead and run short loops, that way if you wanted to drop off some layers you can do so.
Watch your footing - as the snow starts to fall and the ice starts to pile up make sure you are aware of the surface you're running on. If it's super icy and you want to make a pair of "screw shoes" go for it, super easy and kind of cool too! More on screw shoes in another post.
Have Fun - exercising outside is always fun, no matter the weather, you'll never regret a workout. So get out there and enjoy it. Running on a Sunday morning after a fresh snowfall could be one of the most peaceful experiences out there!

Upcoming Events

December 10 - Ironman Hawaii Viewing Party - This years Ironman Hawaii will air on NBC at 3:00 (we're pretty sure about that time) so come to the Endure It Sports in Naperville to hang out and watch the race. Who knows maybe there will be some coverage of one of the Endure It athletes competing...and no that's not a hint because we honestly have no idea.

December 15 - Endure It Holiday Party - 7:00 p.m. - Blackfinn Naperville...be there

The December Running Challenge Starts Today!!

2011-12-01T08:40:00.000-06:00

Finally! It's December 1st and that marks the official start to the December Running Challenge. Hopefully if you're reading this you're in...if not, why the heck aren't you? I can find no better way to lay down some great base mileage and to help fight off those winter/holiday pounds by partaking in a little challenge.

Today's run is only 20 minutes...come on you can find 20 minutes to get a run in can't you? If not, you're just making excuses...so get out there and get the work done! Don't give me this excuse of "I rode computrainer today"...so did we, or "I have masters swimming tonight"...so do we. And besides if you're not in we will make fun of you endlessly at the holiday party on December 15th at Blackfinn in Naperville. Or we'll make fun of you at the Ironman Hawaii Viewing Party on December 10th at 2:30 at the Naperville Store. So basically if you're out you should be expecting some smart ass remarks.

I mean if this guy is in...

...shouldn't you be?

What Do You Want to Accomplish?

2011-11-30T08:30:00.000-06:00

You hear about "goal setting" all of the time in some form, whether that be goal times, life goals, field goals...just goals. Different things motivate different people. Many people (especially athletes) are goal driven...so with that said what are your goals? You don't have to share them with us, or share them with anyone, but it's not a bad idea to write them down and to take a look a them every once in a while.

Writing the goals down is one step, but having a plan to accomplish them is an even bigger piece to the puzzle. Basically within large goals, there are smaller ones to hit along the way. If you're not a runner and want to eventually run a marathon shouldn't you probably run a half marathon first?

Before the December Running Challenge starts tomorrow take a step back and think about what it's going to take to accomplish this goal. Are you going to have to set your alarm clock 30 minutes earlier, go to bed 30 minutes later, run during lunch, run to the grocery store to get something and then run home...it all counts. Everyone has a little time in their day to get that run in...are you up for it?

The breakdown of the challenge is in yesterday's post, if you want more details let us know (endureitclub@gmail.com) and we'd be happy to share with you.

If you need a little pick me up, or reason to get out the door...this usually seems to help. Warning if you're offended easily I might not watch it...

The Running Challenge Awaits!

2011-11-29T08:25:00.000-06:00

We are officially two days away from the start of the Endure It December Running Challenge. The running challenge is rather straight forward, you run every day for the month of December. Sound crazy? The crazy thing to me is people trying to say they don't have 20-50 minutes a day to get a run in. The beautiful thing about running is that you can do it right out of your back door, or front door, or on a treadmill...you get the point. This is a great way to stay active during the holiday season when we all tend to indulge a bit too much in the holiday festivities.

If you want to get involved with the running challenge send an email to endureitclub@gmail.com and we'll make sure to forward you the schedule or you can click here to view it. If you're too lazy to send us an email here it is...

12/1 - 20 minutes            12/2 - 30 minutes          12/3 - 25 minutes
12/4 - 35 minutes            12/5 - 20 minutes          12/6 - 25 minutes
12/7 - 20 minutes            12/8 - 30 minutes          12/9 - 25 minutes
12/10 - 25 minutes          12/11 - 40 minutes        12/12 - 20 minutes
12/13 - 30 minutes          12/14 - 25 minutes        12/15 - 30 minutes
12/16 - 30 minutes          12/17 - 25 minutes        12/18 - 45 minutes
12/19 - 25 minutes          12/20 - 30 minutes        12/21 - 25 minutes
12/22 - 35 minutes          12/23 - 30 minutes        12/24 - 50 minutes
12/25 - 30 minutes          12/26 - 25 minutes        12/27 - 35 minutes
12/28 - 25 minutes          12/29 - 35 minutes        12/30 - 25 minutes
12/31 - 35 minutes

That's it...pretty straight forward. We'd love to know how many people are participating so let us know (endureitclub@gmail.com). Also let us know if there are other things you'd like to see up here on the blog.

Some Turkey Trot Pics

2011-11-28T10:06:00.000-06:00

We hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving weekend and that you've started to work off some of that extra food you've been eating all weekend. We had a great turn out for the Turkey Trot in Naperville as is evidenced through some pics from our Post Trot Party. Thanks Dean for the Bloody Mary's, Beert for the bagels and coffee...and Bird for the visual stimulation.

Bloody Mary's By Dean

Bird and Blaine

A meeting of the minds

Turney that hat is ugly

Bird in a seductive pose

Not sure if he's a bike mechanic or an 80's porn star...

Awesome Weather Awaits

2011-11-23T08:23:00.000-06:00

If you haven't checked the weather forecast for the next couple of days you might want to take a look. It looks like today, tomorrow, and Friday are going to be amazing!! We all hope you get out and enjoy it by doing something active. Whether that's breaking yourself in a "Turkey Bowl" football game with friends/family, getting dropped by your kids on their bikes, or getting in trouble from your significant other because you were out training when you were supposed to be cleaning the house make sure you enjoy this. It's probably pretty safe to say we're not going to have weather like this for quite a few months.

Don't forget that a group of us is meeting at the Naperville Endure It Sports store tomorrow morning at 6:45 a.m. to head down to the turkey trot. We have a nice group of people meeting up already, and there is always room for more, so shoot us an email (endureitclub@gmail.com) to let us know if you're going to join us. We'll have some coffee and juice afterwords as well.

Our computrainer classes are in full swing and it's great to see the hard work everyone is putting in. The work will pay off, so make sure you stay the course. We are always looking for suggestions on things you would like posted to this blog, nutrition information, training information, more pictures, interviews with Bird...let us know at endureitclub@gmail.com .

To change up the triathlon videos a bit here is one to get you primed and ready for the Tour de France...oh wait it's not until July...still fun to watch!

It's Almost Turkey Time

2011-11-22T09:32:00.000-06:00

Often times we hear questions like "why do you get up so early?" and I'm not sure about you, but if I don't get the workout done in the morning odds are it doesn't get done. Life happens, you get busy and your motivation falls off...so with that said, who's joining us for the Turkey Trot on Thursday?

We're meeting at the Naperville Endure It Sports store at 6:45 a.m. We'll chat it up a bit and then head down to the start. We are all super busy later in the day, so get up early and get a workout in...you won't regret it! If you're planning on joining us please shoot us an email at endureitclub@gmail.com so that we can make sure we have enough coffee/juice/bagels/EPO/tequila/worms/sport taps. We hope to see you there!

Here's Meb to give you a little motivation to get out and run...

Congrats IMAZ Finishers

2011-11-21T08:11:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was the final Ironman of the season in the U.S. (next weekend there is one in Cozumel, Mexico) We had a couple of Endure It athletes which raced yesterday in Arizona and of those that I'm aware raced they all posted personal bests. I'm sure it was the "sport taps" provided prior to leaving which helped them.

If you're interested in racing there next year, you're going to want to make sure you're on the computer stalking the Ironman website today when registration opens.

As the weather here continues to be it's dreary self, motivation may start to dwindle. Just remember something is better than nothing. If that means you can get 20 minutes on your bike at home on the trainer than go for it!

The Naperville Turkey Trot is this Thursday, come and avoid the crazy parking mess in downtown Naperville and meet us at Endure It at 6:45 a.m. We will leave from the store together to head down to the turkey trot. If you plan on joining us please shoot us an email at endureitclub@gmail.com .

I stumbled upon this last week (well maybe Bird wanted me to search Linsey Corbin on the internet) but it's always fun to see how the pro's train...enjoy.

Great Work This Week

2011-11-18T11:00:00.000-06:00

Our first round of threshold tests are done. I know they aren't easy, and believe me the hard work will pay off. The next couple weeks might not feel the best...remember you're using new numbers so it may be difficult, or it might feel easy. The important thing to remember is that we need to stick with the numbers we tested at. Don't go off of numbers you would like to have tested at...or you think you should have tested at...use the numbers you tested at!

Though we aren't Lance...

...we had some great results!

Upcoming Endure It Club Events

November 24 - Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet at Endure It Naperville - 6:45 a.m.

December 10 - Kona Viewing Party @ Endure It Naperville - Time TBD

December 15 - Endure It Holiday Party @ Blackfinn - 7:00 p.m.

Running Drills & December Running Challenge

2011-11-17T08:48:00.001-06:00

Thanks to those of you who made it out last night for the running clinic. I do think it was extremely beneficial, and something we could all use to help us improve our running efficiency! We'll try to get another clinic set up at the Willowbrook store in the spring. If you did miss it, unfortunately we didn't have any video cameras rolling because it was quite humorous at times watching us try to complete these drills. I have found a short video which helps to demonstrate some of the drills we incorporated last night.

We also talked briefly about the December Running Challenge. If you're interested in joining us with the running challenge please email us (endureitclub@gmail.com) and we'll get you set up with all of the information that you need. It is a great way to help stay motivated through the start of the winter and to help fight off those holiday pounds before they appear.

Some of us are swimming with a masters group tonight...are you? Why not? All levels are welcome!! For more information shoot us an email (endureitclub@gmail.com) and there is even a discount...why wouldn't you?

Upcoming Events

November 24th - Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet @ Endure It Naperville at 6:45 a.m. (sign up for the race on your own though...sorry)

December 10th - Kona Viewing Party - Come join us to watch this years NBC broadcast of Ironman Hawaii...who knows maybe we'll catch a glimpse of one of our amazing athletes that raced there.

December 15th - Endure It Holiday Party @ Blackfinn - 7:00 pm...be there!

CLUB MEETING TONIGHT & Masters Swimming Information

2011-11-16T08:32:00.001-06:00

The Endure It Club will be hosting it's monthly meeting tonight at 7:00 p.m. at the Naperville store. We are hosting a Natural Running Clinic with Newton Running. Do you want to become a better triathlete, a better runner, or improve your "sport taps", or hang out with the coolest people wearing spandex and lycra on 5th Avenue in Naperville tonight? Then you should come check out Endure It. We can't guarantee you'll run like this...

...but we think you'll better than this guy...

...and if you don't look better than that guy at least you can say you met...

The One and Only David Fix...doing his best "Blue Steel" in Hawaii

Also there is a great masters swim group that meets at Naperville North High School for 4 practices a week (Tues/Thurs @ 7:30-9:00 p.m. & Sat. @ 6:30-7:45 a.m. & Sun @ 3:00-4:30 p.m.) which still has space and is open to Endure It athletes at a 10% discount. For more information on the masters group email us at endureitclub@gmail.com we have quite a few athletes there already and would love to have more of you join us.

We Have Speedo

2011-11-15T11:40:00.000-06:00

Did you know Endure It now carries Speedo? There's no excuse for skipping swim workouts because you don't have enough gear. We have it, so stop in and check out our selection of suits and goggles!

This is definitely a time of the year where our swim training suffers. I mean who wants to jump into a cold pool when it's cold outside...and probably dark outside too? To try to combat this something that helps is to set small goals for yourself. Something as simple as I'm going to swim at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7...how ever many times you want to...can be very effective. We're going to hit up a swim challenge in January, so stay tuned.

In the mean time check out a short clip of Kona runner-up Pete Jacobs getting his work done.

Event Reminders

2011-11-14T11:12:00.001-06:00

Things at Endure It are super busy right now so to help you keep everything straight here are some friendly reminders.

Threshold Testing is taking place during all weekday classes this week. Good luck, and at the bottom of this post I've copied some tips that we listed last week.

Wednesday November 16th - 7:00 p.m. @ Endure It Naperville - Club Meeting - Natural Running Clinic. We will have a tech rep from Newton Running to come present a clinic on Natural Running. Please join us and bring your running gear. If you plan on attending the meeting shoot us a quick email at endureitclub@gmail.com so that we can get a rough idea on numbers.

Thursday November 24th - Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet @ Endure it Naperville at 6:45 a.m. Get your turkey day started with a little exercise! Avoid the parking mess that will be downtown Naperville, and meet at Endure It instead. We'll have some juice, coffee, bagels, and high fives...Bird might even demonstrate some "sport taps". We are planning on running down to the trot together and then meeting up after to jog it back to the shop for a light breakfast and to talk about how fast we "could" have run if we were actually in season. If you plan on meeting up with us at Endure It please shoot us an email (endureitclub@gmail.com) so that we can make sure to have enough food/coffee/juice/sport taps to go around.

December 15 - Endure It Holiday Party @ Blackfinn Napeville - 7:00 p.m.
Be there...nothing more to say other than be there!

For some tips on how to attack the threshold testing here you go.

Be as fresh as possible with a good night sleep, some breakfast before class, and I wouldn't recommend a super hard day of training before testing.

Make sure your mind is in the right place. This is going to hurt, think about that ahead of time and know that everyone else there is suffering along right with you.

Get a good warm up in, if that means waiting at Endure It before the coach gets there so that you can set up right away and start spinning then do it. You're not going to burn yourself out with a good solid warm up. You want to make sure your heart and muscles are geared up and ready to rock.

Once you start the test stay steady! If your power is jumping around like crazy it takes more energy. There shouldn't be 20-50 watt surges, that will hurt later in the test!

Remember as time goes on it becomes more difficult to raise that average power number. BUT at the same time do not go out too hard.

It's better to see numbers increase as the time goes on than to see someone peg it from the start and then fight for dear life to keep their numbers where they are.

Stay focused, don't worry about anyone else

Stay efficient on the bike, any movement not directly related to spinning the pedals is a waste of movement...also read waste of energy. So if you're bouncing around like a kid with ADHD who hasn't taken his meds and instead ate 3 large pixie sticks and 2 cans of Mountain Dew...you're wasting a ton of energy!

Break the test down into segments...first 10 minutes, next 5, next 5, next 5 and then every minute.

With those segments set little goals for yourself depending on how you're feeling. For example, if you're working really hard then your goal might be to hold the average wattage you're at. Or if it's easy you might want to increase the average wattage by 2 watts in a 5 minute range. The key is to make small goals!! If you think you're going to blow things up by 10 or 15 watts you might be setting yourself up for a disappointment.

Remember this is hard, it's supposed to be hard and you won't regret working hard!!

6th Annual Endure It! Team Time Trial Series

2011-11-11T11:04:00.001-06:00

Back for its 6th year, our Indoor Team Time Trial Series is set to take place on the Computrainers:

January 8, 2012 Register Here
March 18, 2012 Register Here

This classic event is one of a kind. It is a 2-person team effort with drafting enabled on our custom 12.48 mile time trial course. Strategy, teamwork, pacing, and sheer guts all play a factor in this race of truth. Scheduled opposite our threshold testing weeks, this is a great way to break up the Winter grind and monotony.

Course: 12.48 miles, mostly flat
Average Finish Time: 33 minutes
Start Times: 7am, 8am, 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm (4 teams per time slot)
Cost: $40 per team (additional races only $20 per team)
Divisions: Male, Female, Coed
Timing: Time stops when both riders cross the finish line

Find a partner, whether its a friend, the guy next to you in computrainer class, Dean Patsavas himself, or the sexy guy/gal from the produce section, anyone you think might look good in spandex, it doesn't matter. The time slots will fill up fast.

The first wave will begin promptly at 7am. To stay on schedule 10 minutes will be allotted for warm up on the Computrainers prior to your race. You are encouraged to bring your own trainer for warm up. There is plenty of space in the shop to set up and ride. It you're unfamiliar with drafting on the Computrainer, plan to arrive early enough to see at least some of the race prior to yours.

If you have been a frequent rider in CT classes already, you have a good idea of your current threshold wattage. It is ideal to find someone with similar power, but not necessary. If you are in search of a partner contact Dan at daniel.dziubski@gmail.com, he will find your time trial counterpart.

Some Cyclocross Action...

2011-11-09T14:32:00.000-06:00

The cyclocross crew has been out there tearing up the races every week...and to prove it here are a few pics. Thanks Spyder!

Blaine rockin out...

Seriously, who puts a tree there? And why aren't you bunny hopping it?

Byers is confused to why he's riding down Schlapp on a cross bike...

Spyder still rockin sweat pants

Craig where is the Endure It kit?

We've heard Spyder likes to play in the mud...

You don't even look dirty

Sweet yellow shoes Blaine, what do you think you're Ron Good?

Is this a running race? Get on your bike punk!

And the ugliest dressed goes to Byers, some of Blaine's yellow shoes would finish this off well.

Throw some 'bows Spyder

Focus...by the camera not Blaine

Threshold Tests are Next Week - Here are Some Tips

2011-11-08T08:40:00.000-06:00

The first round of threshold tests at Endure It will take place next week. If you've tested before you know how painful this can be, if you haven't tested there is NOTHING to be nervous about!! But it will be rather painful, one way to think about it though is as soon as you start you have less than 30 minutes of suffering left. At Endure It we threshold test in a manner where we get your average power from a 30 minute effort. There are other ways and other protocols to use, but we have found that this suits us the best for right now. Obviously things can change.

So how should you go about attacking the threshold test. Instead of writing a long narrative, if you want that I'd rather talk than type so just contact one of us at the shop, here are some tips to help you prepare and execute the test.

Be as fresh as possible with a good night sleep, some breakfast before class, and I wouldn't recommend a super hard day of training before testing.
Make sure your mind is in the right place. This is going to hurt, think about that ahead of time and know that everyone else there is suffering along right with you.
Get a good warm up in, if that means waiting at Endure It before the coach gets there so that you can set up right away and start spinning then do it. You're not going to burn yourself out with a good solid warm up. You want to make sure your heart and muscles are geared up and ready to rock.
Once you start the test stay steady! If your power is jumping around like crazy it takes more energy. There shouldn't be 20-50 watt surges, that will hurt later in the test!
Remember as time goes on it becomes more difficult to raise that average power number. BUT at the same time do not go out too hard.
It's better to see numbers increase as the time goes on than to see someone peg it from the start and then fight for dear life to keep their numbers where they are.
Stay focused, don't worry about anyone else
Stay efficient on the bike, any movement not directly related to spinning the pedals is a waste of movement...also read waste of energy. So if you're bouncing around like a kid with ADHD who hasn't taken his meds and instead ate 3 large pixie sticks and 2 cans of Mountain Dew...you're wasting a ton of energy!
Break the test down into segments...first 10 minutes, next 5, next 5, next 5 and then every minute.
With those segments set little goals for yourself depending on how you're feeling. For example, if you're working really hard then your goal might be to hold the average wattage you're at. Or if it's easy you might want to increase the average wattage by 2 watts in a 5 minute range. The key is to make small goals!! If you think you're going to blow things up by 10 or 15 watts you might be setting yourself up for a disappointment.
Remember this is hard, it's supposed to be hard and you won't regret working hard!!

For a little motivation here is 3 time Ironman World Champion Craig Alexander completing a lactate test.

Don't forget the upcoming Endure It Club Events

November 16 - Club Meeting @ Naperville - 7:00 p.m. - Natural Running Clinic presented by Newton

November 24 - Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet at Endure It Naperville at 6:45 a.m.

December 15 - Club Holiday Party @ Blackfinn - 7:00 p.m.

December 17 - NBC Kona Viewing Party @ Endure It Naperville - Details to follow

The Importance of Core Work

2011-11-07T14:06:00.000-06:00

We all know that without a strong core our bodies won't perform to the level which we would like them to. But at the same time we sometimes ask what types of exercises can we do to help us build a strong core. We are also all super busy and trying to find time to do one more thing isn't the easiest thing to do. There are great resources out there to help with Core work, and we'll start to highlight some here on the blog. So to kick it off here is a short (6 minutes) video clip of Professional Triathlete Rasmus Henning demonstrating some core work:

UPCOMING ENDURE IT EVENTS

November 16 - Club Meeting - 7:00 p.m. @ Naperville

Natural Running Clinic presented by Newton

November 24 - Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet @ Naperville at 6:45 a.m.

December 15 - Club Holiday Party - 7:00 p.m. @ Blackfinn in Downtown Naperville

You're not going to want to miss this! Years past have been EPIC!

Can You Guess What Arrived Yesterday?

2011-11-04T08:30:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of hints...

You'll definitely want to stop in to the shop to check out this new bike, and you just might have to get one...I mean you should always have one more bike than what you currently do right?

There has been a lot happening at Endure It the past few weeks with Computrainer classes starting up full force again, new 2012 bikes arriving daily, and the blog has been getting a great number of hits lately...thank you!! We are always trying to make an effort to improve, and to better help you as athletes. With that said what would you like to see more of? Email us at endureitclub@gmail.com and please share what you would like to see more of whether it be training tips, nutrition advice, upcoming event ideas, improvements to past events, gear reviews...if you can think of it send it on in to us!

UPCOMING EVENTS

November 16 - 7:00 p.m. Club Meeting @ Endure It Naperville - Newton Natural Running Clinic

November 24 - 6:45 a.m. Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet @ Endure It Naperville

For registration information click here: https://napervilleturkeytrot.com/registration.php

December 15 - 7:00 p.m. Endure It Holiday Party @ Blackfinn Naperville **this will be EPIC**

16 West Jefferson Avenue, Naperville, IL http://www.blackfinnchicago.com/naperville/

To help keep everyone motivated through the winter months we're going to try to put up some videos (which we didn't take, we found on the internet) so here is one of the first ones. It's Macca running out in Kona with some of his posse.

Meeting Tonight & Smoothie Ideas

2011-11-03T08:41:00.000-05:00

Come to the Endure It Club Meeting tonight at Willowbrook at 7:00 p.m. Coach Sara Fix will be speaking about training, recovering and doing it all over again. There will also be a USANA Representative to speak about the benefits of supplementation for endurance athletes and free chair massages (first come first serve). We hope to see you there!

Smoothie Ideas

As athletes it's of the utmost importance that we fuel our bodies well before, during and after training. One of the best ways to do this (especially for the time crunched athletes that we are) is to make a quick smoothie which we can grab quickly and take with us where ever we might need to go. We have to send out a special thanks to Dan "Birdseed" Dzuibski for forwarding on these awesome concoction ideas!

Classic smoothie

4 strawberries
.5cup blueberries
1 banana
1.5 cup almond milk
1 scoop protein (vanilla)
couple pieces of ice
1 heaping scoop raw creamy unsalted almond butter

Blueberry Nut

.5 banana
.5 cup almond or coconut yogurt
2 tbsp nut butter
1 date
.5 cup blueberry
1 cup ice
.5 cup almond milk
1 scoop protein

Chocolate Banana

2 frozen banana
1 cup almond milk
1 tbsp flax
1tbsp cocoa powder
1tsp vanilla
honey, syrup, agave to taste

Birdseed Drink

.25 cup cashews
.25 cup almonds
blend those very finely
.5 cup water
.5 cup almond milk
.75 cup blueberries
1 scoop protein
1 frozen banana

Are you trying to be the best at exercise?

2011-11-02T08:11:00.000-05:00

The infamous Kenny Powers (who had a bike in Kona by the way, the picture is on my phone though so I'll post it some other time) claims that he "plays real sports, and isn't just trying to be the best at exercise".

Those of us that are "trying to be the best at exercise" should sign up for a computrainer class...otherwise you may end up living in your brothers house with a small gut, sweet facial hair, a mullet, and spend your time listening to self-motivation tapes telling everyone why you are the greatest...do you really want to be "that guy"?

November...Computrainer...DO IT!

2011-11-01T08:52:00.002-05:00

November's here, Computrainer Classes are rollin', you don't want to fall behind do you? We still have room in some classes. I mean who wouldn't like a set like this:

Shut Up and Ride

And if you're still not convinced...Starsky and Hutch say "Do it, do it"

Don't forget the following events coming up:

November 3 - 7:00 pm @ Endure It Willowbrook - Club Meeting featuring Coach Sara Fix, USANA Supplementation for Endurance Athletes, and free Chair Massages

November 16 - 7:00 pm @ Endure It Naperville - Club Meeting - Natural Running Clinic presented by Newton

November 24 - 6:45 am @ Endure It Naperville - Naperville Turkey Trot

December 15 - 7:00 pm @ Blackfinn Naperville - Endure It Holiday Party

How to Set Up for Computrainer Class & Reminders

2011-10-31T08:12:00.000-05:00

With the new computrainer season upon us it's important to remember a few things when setting up your bike on the computrainer. Erik was kind enough to make us a couple of YouTube videos to help out.

Computrainer has been off to a good start so far. Remember if you're not a MAP member you'll need to have a punch card starting tomorrow.

Upcoming Events

November 3 - Club Meeting @ Willowbrook - 7:00 p.m.
**Topic - Coach Sara Fix on completing 4 Ironman races in 14 months...and improving upon each one, USANA Representative on supplementation for endurance athletes, and free chair massages (first come first serve)

November 16 - Club Meeting @ Naperville - 7:00 p.m.
**Topic - Newton Natural Running Clinic

November 24 - Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet @ Endure It Sports Naperville at 6:45 a.m.

No

An Endure It Product Highlight - Cervelo S5 & Computrainer Reminder

2011-10-28T09:33:00.000-05:00

I'm pretty sure that the number of bikes you should own are what ever number you have plus one. If you're looking for that "plus one" (and not the wedding type of plus one, although you may have more fun with this bike than you will with some wedding dates) look no further than the new Cervelo S5.

The New Cervelo S5 Rival

Clean Lines

Why don't you have one yet??

Shown above is the S5 Rival which retails for $3800. Cervelo is always on the cutting edge with their technology and engineering. They are offering the new S5 at various price points which range from $3800 for the S5 Rival (pictured above) to $9000 for the S5 VWD Dura Ace DI2 Model (please be patient if we do not have all of the models in stock). There are also other models which fit in between. Shouldn't you be on the bike that Thor won a number of races on this past year?

This bike is not strictly for "roadies" or "tri-geeks" but has various options for how you can set it up, both super aggressive or more relaxed depending on your bike fit. These bikes will start to sell quickly, and wouldn't this be a great holiday gift to yourself? You deserve it!

For technical information on the various specs of S5's offered check out the Cervelo site here http://www.cervelo.com/en_us/bikes/2012/S5/

If you have further questions about the S5 stop in to the Naperville store and check it out for yourself. You won't be disappointed.

Just a quick reminder that Endure It Computrainer classes are free through Monday. You don't want to miss out on what is already shaping up to be our best computrainer season ever. Our athletes are working hard already, and gaining fitness and efficiency each and every session. For more information about computrainer classes either call the store 630-323-6844 or email us at endureitclub@gmail.com

A Few Computrainer Tips & Testing Dates

2011-10-27T08:39:00.000-05:00

We're into our second full week of computrainer classes and classes are going great. Everyone seems to be motivated and is putting in some solid base work. Since we have started up again here are a few tips and things you might want to remember as we go through the classes:

The power numbers you were putting out last year are probably higher than where you are right now. This is totally fine, we typically expect about a 10% decrease in power right now from where you were when you stopped riding computrainer in the spring. With that said, everyone is different, so please don't get discouraged if you're not hitting numbers that used to be easy. Your numbers will come back, and we hope improve!
It's October! We are working on "base building" right now. These base training miles are critical to your training for a couple of reasons. If you don't have a base to build off of, you can risk injuries later in the season when we are putting forth some more difficult efforts. We know people don't like to do "easier" types of workouts, and we're trying to mix things up so that we can make this base training fun. If you are a triathlete who is training for a longer distance (half ironman to ironman) odds are you're "racing pace" will be around the percentages that we're putting out right now. If you think you're going to be pushing many more watts you might want to think twice...remember you have a long run to do too!
EFFICIENCY. I can't stress that enough, now is the time to work on your pedal stroke, to improve your cadence, maybe even to get refit on your bike. If you become a more efficient rider that will pay off huge come race season. I have seen a lot of people bouncing around on their bike looking for power at times. You DON'T need to do that, all you're doing is wasting energy that could be used to go faster. Really try to focus on your efficiency throughout classes, if you have questions about it, ask your coaches. When you watch them ride they aren't swaying side to side and moving all over the bike (even when they stand they are in a comfortable rhythm which is efficient).
Cadence is extremely important as well. We all have a natural cadence, something we feel comfortable with. If that cadence is below 90 (especially for triathletes) we should really work on improving that. Elite coaches and athletest have shared that the "ideal" run cadence is around 90...and they also shared that if you're riding at a cadence which is similar, running will come more naturally.

We have fielded many questions about the threshold testing dates. So instead of just springing it upon you here is our tentative plan:

November 14-18
February 6-10
April 23-27

Like I said those are tentative dates, and we just wanted to make sure everyone knew ahead of time what that schedule looked like. We have a few people signed up for our November Bike Challenge...but we're always looking for more, so if you want to join us on what is sure to be a fun time email us at endureitclub@gmail.com

I mean do you really want to miss out on all of this fun??

Byers and Gibson dropping the hammer on those guys...

The infamous Richier Bro's...Dave Jansen and is that Glen Marino rockin out there?

That just looks painful...but in a fun way I suppose

A November Challenge

2011-10-25T12:55:00.000-05:00

I know it's the off season and all...and we want to make sure you don't look like this cycling fanatic...

So with the kick off of the new computrainer season the infamous Chad "I can hammer out a 25 fly in the pool like no other" Beert had an awesome idea for a November Challenge. This challenge will be quite simple.

Ride for 25 hours in the month of November. The challenge starts November 1 and ends November 30. It's not even an hour a day, and if you ride on the computrainer at Endure It 3 times a week that's already 12+ hours done right there. Just think when you're done you might be able to hammer away with these guys.

Not to be confused with David Fix...notice the lack of hair this guy has, and the small calves?

So who's in? Shoot us an email at endureitclub@gmail.com and we'll get you on the list of people for Endure It's first monthly challenge. Winners get high fives, sport taps, and a sense of accomplishment which can't compare to that of setting a PR (you'll get much less of a sense of accomplishment from this). Not to worry if you don't want to join us here, we will only think slightly less of you than we had before, and you'll have a chance to redeem yourself in December with the December Running Challenge.

Endure It Club November Meetings and Events

2011-10-24T10:58:00.002-05:00

November 3, 2011 - Club Meeting @ 7:00 pm Willowbrook

Please join us for our next club meeting on November 3rd at 7:00pm in Willowbrook. This is an additional club meeting that wasn't originally on the schedule, but will be a great resource for all. Sara Fix will be speaking about how she succcesfully completed four Ironmans in 13 months improving upon each one. Sara will speak briefly on tips regarding recovery, training, and life management. Other "Sara" resources will be Julie Hood of USANA Health Sciences and Massage therapist Anna Rosinia. Julie will discuss supplements for endurance athletes and how a specific program may be designed for you. Anna will be on hand providing complimentary chair massages (first come first serve).

November 16, 2011 - Club Meeting @ 7:00 pm Naperville

**Endure It Sports Welcomes Newton Running to our second club meeting in November**

Also the previously scheduled club meeting which was to take place on November 16th will still be taking place, however the location will be changed to the Endure It Sports store in NAPERVILLE. We will be having Justin Dyszelski from Newton Running presenting a Newton Natural Running Symposium.

Topics to include:
Fundamentals of Bio mechanics
The Science Behind Newton Running Shoes
Injury Prevention

Justin is an accomplished triathlete, Kona finisher and passionate about running. He is in the Chicago area frequently and is excited to have the opportunity to work with our athletes at Endure It. He will have various Newton shoes to demo (though they will NOT be for sale). Please plan on attending and wear comfortable clothes as we will be much more active at this meeting due to the fact that this will be a running clinic.

Endure It Club Event - Naperville Turkey Trot

Come join your fellow club members on Thanksgiving morning at the Naperville Turkey Trot. You can click the following link to register:

https://napervilleturkeytrot.com/registration.php

Since the "trot" starts at 8, we were planning on meeting up at the Endure It Sports store in Naperville between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m. for some coffee and GU Brew before heading down to the start as a group. Feel free to bring your family and friends as well. Why not feel a little less guilty about stuffing yourself with turkey later in the day by starting it off with a run? If you plan on joining us please shoot us an email at endureitclub@gmail.com and let us know how many people you will be bringing.

Registration for the run is only $30 until November 16th, then it goes up to $35...this is a large event to register early!

2011-2012 Computrainer Season "On Your Left"

On Your Left from SimplyConnected on Vimeo.

Reminder -Please take advantage of the FREE OCTOBER classes!

Also, November MAP payment is due Oct. 25th. Endure it! is looking to provide it's best season ever!

**PLEASE follow us on facebook http://www.facebook.com/endureitfor more up to date product pics/video/ and club updates.

A Masters Swimming Opportunity and Discount

2011-10-21T08:28:00.000-05:00

You would think the Fix kids would be able to swim fast enough for this NOT to happen...

This only happened because he was swimming backstroke...ask Andrew about his butterfly, he claims to take 2nd in every race.

And Charlie can probably out swim me...he's catching up on the run too. (Sorry Olivia I didn't have a picture of you getting bit by the fish in the lobby...and go figure Sara is on her phone in the background)

One of the best ways to improve upon your swimming is to join a masters group. For many of us (trust me I'm included in this group) swimming is not our strong suit and it's difficult in the winter months to get motivated to jump into a cold pool. There have been a group of us that have been swimming with the masters team out of Naperville North on Tuesday and Thursday nights, Saturday mornings, and Sunday afternoons. This is a great program coached by Sue Welker and truly a great group of people to swim with. This group is not set up through Endure It, however, if you are an Endure It club member we have been extended a 10% discount. Please email Rick (ricklapinski@hotmail.com) if you're interested in this discount or joining the group. It is much more motivating to swim with a group of people, and ALL ability levels are welcome!!!

I mean come on, how are you going to get here...

Dig Me Beach...the Ironman Hawaii Swim Start

...without putting the work in?

Tomorrow is our first Saturday of Computrainer classes, make sure you take advantage of these excellent training opportunities! Come next season, you won't regret the work you put it!

A Thursday Trainer Workout

2011-10-20T09:36:00.000-05:00

As the daylight dwindles and the leaves fall we all know that we're in for the start of indoor riding season. I know there are many people trying to fight it, but it's going to happen sooner or later. Time on the trainer can be quite boring, I know, my last 100 mile ride prior to Ironman was on the trainer...nothing like 5 hours in your living room watching television to pass the time right?

Riding indoors doesn't have to be a drag. I think it's quite important! Many people are taking part in computrainer classes, which is wonderful. If you haven't been, make sure to check one out in October...they are free for this month only!!

If you're looking to spice up your trainer ride here are a few tips (make sure to warm up before doing these workouts):

A Gearing Pyramid - Start near the top of your cassette and drop a gear every 5 minutes (or 10 depending on time) until you're down at the bottom of your cassette...and then ride back up it.
Television Tempo - Ride at a "tempo" type of a pace during the show you're watching and rest on the commercials.

Another television option could be to ride HARD during the commercials and stay aerobic during your shows.

Single Leg Pedaling Drills - to split up the riding throw these drills in to help your efficiency.
Position Changes - If you're on a road bike ride 5 minutes in the drops, 5 minutes on the hoods, and 5 minutes of your choice...repeat! With a Tri-Bike go 5 in aero, 5 on the bull horns, and 5 sitting up on the pads...repeat!

Remember to get signed up for Computrainer classes!! They do make a huge difference come race season, and besides look what you might see when you leave.

Who wouldn't want to leave Computrainer to this sunrise?

Those are just a few tips to help pass the time. If you have any workouts you like to do go ahead and forward them on to Rick (ricklapinski@hotmail.com) and we'll get them posted here. What else would you like information, or tips about? We'd also love to hear your feedback about the blog. Is it good, bad, do you want more of something, less of something...let us know!!

On Your Left!

2011-10-18T09:39:00.000-05:00

Computrainer Season Is Here!!

2011-10-17T10:39:00.000-05:00

It's hard to believe I know, but the 2011-2012 Endure It Computrainer Season is upon us. The first class of the season is taking place right now...are you there? Well you should be! The month of October is free, I mean what more incentive do you need? If you have questions about Computrainer, how the training is set up, what the cost is, when the classes are please let us know (ricklapinski@hotmail.com).

We hope to see you in the store!

Endure It Ride n Tie

2011-10-15T14:20:00.000-05:00

Thank you everyone who came out to this mornings "Ride n Tie" at Waterfall Glen. I think it's pretty safe to say we all had a great time, and it was a beautiful morning to do something fun outdoors. This is our second event in the past month and we really have to thank everyone for coming out. I'm pretty sure no one has regretted it thus far, and there are definitely more in the works. We really do have some amazing people at Endure It, so if you're not sure about coming out please do, you'll be glad you did. Here are a few shots from the day today.

The pre-race discussions taking place...

Go figure Glen is late

Bird and Tad rockin out (sorry about the blurry shot it is freezing here, lets go back to Hawaii)

Post Race...Yea yea yea we all know you could have been faster

Is Dean ever not talking??

Bird wants you!

Tad on a recon mission for Glen, he's late again...

Parking lot pimpin

Yea, not sure what that is...

Ride & Tie, Rockin' Video, Kona Wrap Up

2011-10-14T08:17:00.003-05:00

It's been a while since we've updated here. I apologize I lost the internet connection in Kona and really didn't feel like venturing out with a computer to find a new one. So we'll try to play catch up here.

Join Endure It tomorrow for our

"Ride & Tie" at Waterfall Glen which will take place at 7:00 a.m.

The Ride & Tie will be a fun event where you and a partner "leap frog" each other around the 9.5 mile crushed limestone loop. One person starts on the bike, the other on the run. The teammate on the bike drops it at a certain location on the trail (location of your choice) and then continues by running. When the teammate who started running gets to the bike (which remember has been left on the side of the trail) they get on the bike and continue riding...you continue to go back and forth until you finish TOGETHER. This really is a fun event and a way to do something a little different. Who knows maybe there will even be a group who will get together after for a Team Endure It breakfast.

Have you checked out our new video from the Facebook page? Not on Facebook? Here it is...pretty sweet:

On Your Left from SimplyConnected on Vimeo.

KONA WRAP UP

Well the 2011 Ironman World Championship is in the books. Endure It had a great time in Kona, and our athletes were tremendous!

Endure It Rockstar Coach Mary Tobiason made it look easy with an 11:38:02, congratulations Mary on an incredible performance!

The Real Brains Behind Endure It Sara Fix crushed Kona in an incredible time of 11:10:34! Congratulations Sara for your fastest Kona time ever!!

And Endure It Coach Rick Lapinski rounded out the crew with a time of 9:34:49.

We have to send out a special thanks to all of the Endure It Nation who made the trip out to the big island to cheer us on. It really is incredible when you're at the turn around in Hawi and people are cheering for you, calling you by name...because they actually know you. Endure It had an incredible presence in Kona, and again THANK YOU!!

Check out Bird rocking the Queen K near town:

To wrap up here are a few pics documenting that amazing day.

Before the Start...

And the tension builds...

The Hang Loose just outside of Waikaloa

Scott Rigsby, double leg amputee and Multiple Kona Finisher

Ironman Hawaii - Day 4 - The Underwear Edition

2011-10-06T23:00:00.000-05:00

Today was the infamous Underwear Run here in Kona. It was ROCKIN! Hard bodies, funny costumes and an all around great time.

The start area of the Underwear Run

2 of the 3 Lapinski's

Ann Wesling of Tri-Center

Wattie Ink...Rock the W

Not a bad view...

The Wattie Ink Girls

Charlie and Andrew stopping for a quick pic

The Lavato's

Fix kids & Lavato's a great combo

Two more nights to sleep before the big show. Let's get ready to roll here!

Ironman Hawaii - Day 3

2011-10-06T02:00:00.000-05:00

We're only waiting on a couple more people and the Endure It crew will be complete! Today most of the posse headed up to chill at the Mariott and I'm sure had a great time. Here are a few pics from around Kona today.

The entrance to the Energy Lab

Monster Solar Panels

The first mile into the Energy Lab is downhill...and fast!

Bird chillin near Dig Me Beach

The cruise ship in town today.

Tomorrow is the infamous "Underwear Run" we'll try to get some solid pictures of Endure It in full force there.

Ironman Hawaii - Day 2

2011-10-05T10:09:00.000-05:00

Kona is getting much more crowded. Day 2 was a solid day of swimming and biking. We didn't take to the run course, but tomorrow plan on doing some recon in the infamous energy lab. Pictures are taking forever to load, but here are a few shots of the day.

Bird cramming down some breakfast before hitting up the Queen K

Rick and Sara getting ready for a ride on the Queen K

Sara and Bird on the Queen K

Liz out hammering the Queen K

We need some of these signs on Schlapp right?

Rick and Sara after the Parade of Nations...new found respect for Mexico

Most of the Endure It Crew is here, we had a great dinner at the Fix's house tonight and can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. We'll try to get more pictures of the whole crew out here. One day closer to the big show!!

Ironman Hawaii - Day 1

2011-10-04T00:16:00.000-05:00

Some of the Endure It crew has been here a few days, some of us arrived yesterday, and more today. We're about to take the island by storm. Things here are amazing, and we had a great day of training. This place is full of energy and we are loving every minute of it!

Dig Me Beach

A shot looking out at the swim course

Sara in Hawi

(she might be part camel...I drank 2 bottles she hadn't touched hers yet)

Yep making friends with the locals

The winds coming out of Hawi were crazy, they came from the left, right, front and back...all within 2 seconds...no joke!!!

On our drive back from Hawi we saw a super tan guy rockin a Specialized Shiv...so I say, that's Macca. Not to worry David pulled over waited and we snapped this picture.

Macca on the Queen K

All is awesome from the Big Island!

The First Scavenger Run = Success

2011-09-29T21:56:00.001-05:00

Thank you to everyone who came out tonight for our first Endure It Scavenger Run. I would have to say it was a success, and that everyone had a great time. Definitely a great turn out for the first event! Here are a few pictures from the night...

"Three Girls and a Guy" planning their route.

So confident they even took time for a smile

The "Timid Gophers" did some serious damage and won by 10 minutes!!

Come on Mike catch up!!!

The "Big Birds" scanning, I think Bird is flexing his quads...

The Official Ref's for the night!

It's not rocket science guys...get moving!!

Rippy and Bird in a sweet picture taken by Annette

Thanks for this picture Gabe, one of the stops on the run

Part of "Team Jaeger" striking a pose in front of the Childrens Museum

Picture of the night!!!!

Thanks again to everyone who came out, if you have other pictures forward them on we'd love to get them posted. Email the pictures to ricklapinski@hotmail.com

The next Endure It Club Meeting will be October 12th at 7:00 p.m. in Naperville. We hope to see you there!!

Scavenger Run - TONIGHT @ 6:30 - Endure It Life

2011-09-29T08:29:00.000-05:00

The Scavenger Run is TONIGHT! Grab a friend and come on out to join us at Endure It Life in downtown Naperville. We will kick the run off at 6:30, this is sure to be a good time and a great way to be a bit more "social" while doing something active. I'm sure there will be a group heading out after the run to grab a bite to eat as well. Hope to see you all tonight!! I mean who wouldn't want to come and hang out with this guy...

A Treadmill Tip & Scavenger Run Reminder

2011-09-28T08:50:00.001-05:00

Just a quick reminder that the Endure It Scavenger Run will take place tomorrow night (Thursday) at 6:30 p.m. leaving from Endure It Life in downtown Naperville. There is plenty of parking in the parking garages downtown, and the weather is going to be great (at least that's what I'm going to say now) so there are no excuses to skip this one! Grab a friend or four and make your way down to the scavenger run. Rumor has it there may be some festivities at a local establishment post-run as well.

Running on a treadmill can be brutally boring, but at the same time it can be effective and quite structured. When you're looking to pass the time a little quicker try this treadmill workout, the miles click off quickly and you can learn how to "recover" at a higher pace.

Warm-Up: 1-2 miles Easy
Main Set: .25 miles at a "recovery pace" (this pace could be a planned marathon or half marathon pace if you want)
.25 miles at .1 mph faster than your "recovery" pace (this was the pace directly before)
.25 miles at your "recovery pace"
.25 miles at .2 mph faster than your "recovery pace" (wow look a mile is already done!)
**Repeat this workout for 2-5 miles, realize you'll get to a point where you're really moving**
Cool Down: 1 mile easy

This is a great way to change things up, and it helps to make the time go by quicker. Another thing you could do to change this particular workout up is to change to .5 mile segments, or you can go by time as well. Whatever you would like, just stay active!!

Here are a few more pics from IMWI to share.

He completed the whole run in his fireman gear in honor of 9-11

The lead car on the bike

Some of the Endure It Crew on Old Sauk Pass

AJ lookin strong

Dan's making it look easy

He hurdled that barrier behind him for an extra challenge

AJ once again

I think this is the only picture I have seen of Leen where she isn't smiling!

Train hard, Race smart, No regrets!

Scavenger Run - THURSDAY @ 6:30 p.m. - Endure It Life Naperville

2011-09-26T08:25:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Endure It Club meeting last Wednesday night in Willowbrook, it was great to see some familiar faces, as well as a few new ones! It's always fun to get together "away" from swimming/biking/running.

Our next event will be the "Scavenger Run" on Thursday Night at 6:30 leaving from Endure It Life in downtown Naperville. Bring your friends, a phone/camera, and get ready for a fun event. The more teams we have the more fun this will be...you can kind of think of it as the "Amazing Race - Naperville Edition" alright maybe that's a little extreme, but it should be fun either way!

Thanks to Dave Cagigal and Chris Sixt there are a lot more pictures from Ironman Wisconsin, just so we don't bombard you all at once I'll throw a few up on the upcoming blog posts.

Those earflaps aren't as easy to get on as you would think...

Cliff ready to rock, I wonder if he has cookies stashed in his special needs?

Who wouldn't be happy to see us?

An amazing morning

The start to a perfect day

Bam!

As if we don't bring enough attention to ourselves...

Yanke lookin strong

Dan "Punching" his ticket to Kona

We hope to see everyone on Thursday night for the Scavenger Run!

Meeting Tonight - 7:00 p.m. @ Willowbrook & Some Athlete Photos

2011-09-21T10:33:00.000-05:00

The Endure It Club will be meeting tonight! It sounds like we're going to have a great turn out, we hope to see you there!!

Thanks to Randy Zipfel and Michael "Spyder" Thomas here are some photos of them from recent races (Randy at the Lake Geneva Half Ironman and Spyder at the Jackson Park Cyclocross Race)

Randy Looking Good, Doing a Little Construction On the Course

Digging Deep

Are those sweat pants?

Looks like you're going to make it over this barrier...

Drop the hammer...

Lookin huge!

Chillin post race

The evidence of a hard race.

Meeting Reminder, Congratulations, Happy Birthday

2011-09-20T11:36:00.000-05:00

Just a quick reminder that our next club meeting will be TOMORROW night at 7:00 p.m. in Willowbrook! The new Endure It T-Shirts are in and at the Willowbrook store. Come to the meeting tomorrow night to pick one up.

Thanks to Dean "My Email List is Bigger Than Yours" Patsavas I found out that Racing Randy Zipfel tore it up at the Lake Geneva Half Ironman on September 10th and won his Age Group. Congratulations Randy, way to represent Endure It!

Do you ever have that moment when you feel like a complete jerk because it is someone's birthday yet you didn't know? Yep that was the great majority of us at the Willowbrook Computrainer class this morning (ok maybe not everyone, but some of us) when Sara informed us that it was her birthday. So a HUGE happy birthday to the one and only Sara Fix!!!!

The Northface Endurance Challenge Marathon Relay & Club Meeting

2011-09-19T08:18:00.000-05:00

This past weekend some of the Endure It crew took on The Northface Endurance Challenge as a marathon relay. Saturday morning our team captain Erik "Bird" Walter, Chad "The Motor" Beert, David "He's Still a Gamer" Fix, and Rick Lapinski...sorry can't coin a nickname for myself...made the drive up to Kettle Morraine in Wisconsin to tackle the trail marathon relay. This was a really cool event, and running on trails is rather painful! Each of us ran around 6.5ish miles of which the first .75 miles was on the road to the trail and then the fun began! Up, down, left, right, roots, rocks, pine needles, sand pretty much everything but a river crossing (which would have been awesome). The whole team put in a tremendous effort to take the win in the marathon relay division with a time of 3:02:xx. The times for the 50 mile, 50k and stand alone marathon were rather impressive especially considering the terrain that they all ran on all day! If you have the opportunity to participate in this race series I would highly recommend it.

Ultra-Marathon Man Dean Karnazes

Hey David, this isn't a swim meet...

David races into the lead only to take a few wrong turns

Lookin' strong

Beert is more concerned with his split, get moving!!

Beert finishing up strong

Bird on the runway for take off

Endure It Sports...Relay Champions

The race venue, totally chill atmosphere with cool people.

Reminder this Wednesday night at 7:00 in Willowbrook will be our next club meeting. We will be discussing the following topics:

Taking an "off-season" break
Endure It at Cyclocross Races & the Chicagoland Cyclocross Series
Scavenger Run (September 29th, 6:30 p.m. @ Endure It Life in Naperville)
Up Coming Monthly Challenges & Events & Club Meetings

Who raced at the first cyclocross race of the season yesterday? We'd love to hear about your experience and if you have any race photos please pass them along to us at ricklapinski@hotmail.com

We hope to see you all at the meeting on Wednesday night!!

Train Hard, Race Smart, No Regrets

Congrats Ironman Wisconsin Athletes, IM 70.3 Vegas Finishers, and Sub-5 TTT Crew

2011-09-16T08:36:00.001-05:00

Yes this is a little late, but a huge congratulations is in order for all of the Endure It athletes which had the honor of becoming an "Ironman" last Sunday. I think it's pretty safe to say that we had an incredible time cheering you all on. Old Sauk Pass was definitely "Endure It Hill"!! Thank you to everyone who came out to cheer on these inspiring athletes.

Everyone deserves a huge congrats for finishing a difficult course, and for smiling while you were doing it! Well, maybe Dzuibski wasn't smiling that last mile...but I would say that was well worth it considering he's headed to Kona next year!!! Congrats Dan, you're top secret training paid off once again.

We also want to congratulate our athletes who toughed out a brutal day on a brutal course at the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Las Vegas! You are all so inspiring and have definitely earned some time off. To the "Sub 5 Century Ride Team Time Trial" crew congrats!! You put up an impressive time. I do believe we had a couple of club members who were brave enough to race the half ironman in Lake Geneva last Saturday. Since I haven't heard any news reports of "missing persons" because you were lost on the bike course that wasn't marked, I'm guessing it went well, so congrats!!

For many of us (I'll get there in three weeks) it's the start of the "off-season" so make sure you take a few weeks to look back upon this season. List out what went well, what might not have gone so well, and feel free to talk to any of us about improving for next year. With that in mind make sure you come to our next club meeting:

September 21st - 7:00 p.m. @ Willobrook

At the next meeting we will be discussing the following topics:

Taking an "off-season" break
Endure It at Cyclocross Races & the Chicagoland Cyclocross Series
Scavenger Run (September 29th, 6:30 p.m. @ Endure It Life in Naperville)
Up Coming Monthly Challenges & Events & Club Meetings

With the cold weather approaching Endure It was going to order some custom "winter training jackets" like ones we had a few years ago. These jackets are great for both cycling and running (and wearing around town as well). The jackets take about 8-10 weeks to process and we wanted to put it out there to gauge the interest. So if you're interested please let me know ricklapinski@hotmail.com the faster we get people committed the quicker we can turn them around and get the order placed. These jackets are great for the winter months, and aren't just your typical windbreaker type of coats. I wear mine pretty much all winter when training!

Congratulations again to all of our athletes!!

Train Hard, Race Smart, No Regrets

IMOO in Pictures Part 4

2011-09-13T15:03:00.001-05:00

IMOO in Pictures Part 3

2011-09-13T15:03:00.000-05:00

IMOO in Pictures Part 2

2011-09-13T15:00:00.000-05:00

IMOO in Pictures Part 1

2011-09-13T14:55:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Liz Flowers for all these great pictures from a great day!

Race Weekend Is Here!!

2011-09-09T08:37:00.000-05:00

Race Weekend is here for many of our athletes. We would like to wish the best of luck to everyone racing at Ironman Wisconsin and the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Las Vegas, and that crazy group of riders who are riding the Sub-5 Team100 mile time trial. You've all worked extremely hard, sacrificed a great deal, and you're ready for a great race. Remember to get out there, have fun, race your race, and leave it all on the course.

We'll be out in full force at Ironman Wisconsin on Old Sauk Pass for the bike, and scattered about State Street for the run. We have quite a few bib numbers already, if you haven't passed yours along please send it to Rick at ricklapinski@hotmail.com

Looking forward to an amazing weekend of racing, and don't forget to pass along your results and photos. We'd love to share in the celebration of your accomplishments.

Train Hard, Race Smart, No Regrets

A Cycling Training Tip & Safety

2011-09-08T15:07:00.000-05:00

Often times people head out for a ride, and they do just that ride. First of all that's awesome! There is nothing wrong with that, but at times things can get a bit stale, especially at this point in the year when the weather is still nice enough to ride outside comfortably (I think anytime is a good time to ride outside...but we might have a few screws loose) but you might be tired of the same routes/roads. Here is a quick workout to help you change things up with your cycling, and to start to prepare for our "off-season" computrainer classes. (after your post-season break of course)

20-30 minute warm up easy spinning
1 minute standing at a constant pace/power
1 minute sitting at a constant pace/power
2 minutes standing at a constant pace/power
2 minutes sitting at a constant pace/power
3 minutes standing at a constant pace/power
3 minutes sitting at a constant pace/power
4 minutes standing at a constant pace/power
4 minutes sitting at a constant pace/power
5 minutes standing at a constant pace/power
5 minutes sitting at a constant pace/power

You have an option now, either cool down, or go back down the ladder. This is a great workout, and really makes the time go by quickly when you're out riding.

Safety!!

Make sure you're safe out there when you're training. Daytime is becoming shorter and drivers aren't always expecting to see you out on the roads. Make sure you have flashers going on your bikes, or clipped onto your back if you're running. It's not even a bad idea to have them going during day time hours. Professional Triathlete Jordan Rapp is a huge advocate for this after he had a near fatal accident last March, I konw so many of us like to read about what the pro's do, this is something he does do. Not a bad idea. Those flashing lights will make you more visible, and anything you can do to help drivers see you out on the road is important. Reflective gear is important as well, so make sure you're wearing something reflective when your training in low light conditions...this isn't the time to be a ninja. Although maybe we should have a ninja run in a safe location at some point in time. Just a thought.

Train Hard, Race Smart, No Regrets

IMWI Taper Week, Nutrition Tip, Good Luck to IM 70.3 Las Vegas World Championship Racers

2011-09-06T08:23:00.000-05:00

Ironman Wisconsin Race Week is finally here! It's been a long journey not only for our athletes, but for their support crews as well. Trust me the feeling of pride on Sunday afternoon/night whenever it's over will be incredible.

We have received quite a few responses back from people coming up to cheer on the athletes, but of course we're always looking for more. So if you're kicking around the idea of coming on up, grab a friend and make it happen. You surely won't regret the experience!!

Just in case you missed the directions in a previous blog post here it is once again. We will once again take the hill on the top of Old Sauk by storm to cheer on our Endure It athletes (and other people as well I suppose). We will be out on the bike course and directions to get there are below. Please let us know if you plan on joining us so that we can touch base just in case you get lost. Email us at ricklapinski@hotmail.com

Directions to our location are here:

I-88 W toward Aurora
Take the exit onto I-39 N/US-51 N toward Rockford
Keep right at the fork, follow signs for I-39 N/US-20 E/Wisconsin-Belvidere Rockford and merge onto I-39 N/US-20 E
Continue to follow I-39 N
Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Interstate 90 W/Interstate 39 N and merge onto I-39 N/I-90 W
Take exit 142A on the left to merge onto US-12 W/US-18 W toward Madison
Take exit 251A toward Spring Green/La Crosse
Turn right onto US-14 W/University Ave
Continue to follow US-14 W
Turn left onto Cleveland Rd
Cleveland dead ends at the top of a monster hill. Park anywhere along that hill, there will be a lot of other people parking there as well. After you park walk to the top of the hill and take a right on Old Sauk Pass (you can only go right or left). You’ll walk to the top of the hill where the Endure It Tent will be set up.

Let's show those cheeseheads how we roll!!

NUTRITION TIP - Snack size bags are amazing! With a little planning ahead of time you can have a healthy snack at your finger tips all of the time. Try making a stock pile of healthy snacks and package them in those small snack size bags, which you can just grab and go whenever. Some ideas for snacks could include:

Almonds
Walnuts
Cashews
Dried Fruit
Raisins
Pretzels
Trail Mix
Popcorn (air popped of course minus the butter and with just a touch of salt)

What I like to do is to pack up the snack size bags whenever I buy the larger bag (whether that's pretzels, almonds...whatever). That way when I'm in a rush heading out the door it's easy to grab and saves me from getting something at a gas station or convenience store. So it helps because it's healthy and because I'm saving money from overpaying for things at those stores.

Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Las Vegas - Sunday September 11th

The Endure It Club would like to wish everyone who is racing this coming Sunday out in Las Vegas for the Ironman 70.3 World Championships the best of luck! Go out there, enjoy the experience, race your race, and most of all have fun! If you're racing there let us know as well (ricklapinski@hotmail.com) so that we can track you from out on the hill in WI.

Reminder - Our next club meeting is SEPTEMBER 21, 7:00 P.M. @ WILLOWBROOK. We will be discussing the following topics:

Taking an "off-season" break
Endure It at Cyclocross Races & the Chicagoland Cyclocross Series
Scavenger Run (September 29th, 6:30 p.m. @ Endure It Life in Naperville)
Up Coming Monthly Challenges & Events & Club Meetings

Train Hard, Race Smart, No Regrets

Endure It Rides!

2011-09-03T05:00:00.000-05:00

An example of some of the awesomeness that you get at Endure It!

Looking for Swim Workouts??

2011-09-02T09:27:00.000-05:00

Are you tired of going to the pool and just staring at that black line for lap after lap after lap? How about racing the person in the lane next to you? Lets be serious we've all been "that guy/girl" who wants to beat the person in the lane next to us without knowing if it's their 7th lap or 700th lap. Unless you come from a swimming background writing swim workouts can be difficult. Below is a link to the National Training Center Blog, located in Clermont, Florida. This blog is kept up by Sara Mclarty, who is also a professional triathlete and stellar swimmer. There are "A", "B", "C" workouts listed a for a few days a week and countless workouts that were completed previously.

Check it out if you're looking to improve upon your swimming, or if you're looking for some new workout ideas.

http://ntcmastersswim.blogspot.com/

Train Smart, Race Hard, No Regrets!!

Who's Racing Ironman Wisconsin? And a Tip of the Week

2011-09-01T09:39:00.000-05:00

As you know we're going to have the best cheering section on the bike course at Ironman Wisconsin. With that said, who's racing? Bib numbers are up (at least that's what I've been told).

Please email us your Bib number so we can be sure to track you throughout the day and to cheer you on. We don't want anyone left out...so please let us know that you're racing!! Email us at ricklapinski@hotmail.com

Tip of the Week

We all lead busy lives, and try to make the most of our short period of time to train. With that said nutrition AFTER your workout often gets neglected. Training breaks down your muscles, your body then wants to reubuild. So the time after your workout is crucial!! For post-workout recovery a little planning can go a long way. Before you start your training session make sure you have something to eat immediately after, now this doesn't mean a greasy burger or breakfast sandwich. Two easy post-workout options include:

Chocolate Milk

Smoothie (add in some First Endurance Ultragen or whey protein powder for an added benefit)

Obvisously the smoothie takes a little more effort than the chocolate milk, but getting some nutrition within the first 30 minute window at the end of your workout is vital!! Within the next hour make sure you take in a balanced meal consisting of some quality carbohydrates, protein, and fat (not of the saturated variety!).

Mixing up a smoothie is super easy, some ideas for items to use include:

Frozen Fruit
Fresh Fruit
Juice
Coconut Water
Ultragen
Whey Protein
Spinach
Carrots
Beets

And anything else you might want to throw in. Remember this time after your workout is important!! Take the few minutes ahead of time and you'll be happy you did.

A Great Resource for Endurance Athletes

2011-08-30T13:53:00.000-05:00

There are countless websites out there which claim to have information about endurance athletes. Some of these websites are great, others not so much. There are forums which are also loaded with helpful information, and not so helpful information.

A resource that I like to check on a daily basis is The Endurance Corner. http://www.endurancecorner.com/

There are daily tips written by various coaches and people closely affiliated with endurance sports. The topics range from training tips, to motivational tips, nutrition strategies, mental toughness...and the list goes on.

Chicago Triathlon Wrap Up, Ironman Wisconsin Information, Club Meetings

2011-08-28T20:38:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to everyone who raced today at the Chicago Triathlon. We had a great time cheering you on, and you do an amazing job on a super windy day in the windy city!

The swim looked tough today!

The One and Only Erik "Bird" Walter...check out the muscle striation on those calves.

Katie did the triple...crazy!!

Nothing like teammates running together, Randy had to drop the hammer on Dave here I guess.

Our next event will be at Ironman Wisconsin in two weeks at Ironman Wisconsin. We will once again take the hill on the top of Old Sauk by storm to cheer on our Endure It athletes (and other people as well I suppose). We will be out on the bike course and directions to get there are below. Please let us know if you plan on joining us so that we can touch base just in case you get lost. Email us at ricklapinski@hotmail.com

Directions to our location are here:

I-88 W toward Aurora
Take the exit onto I-39 N/US-51 N toward Rockford
Keep right at the fork, follow signs for I-39 N/US-20 E/Wisconsin-Belvidere Rockford and merge onto I-39 N/US-20 E
Continue to follow I-39 N
Keep left at the fork, follow signs for Interstate 90 W/Interstate 39 N and merge onto I-39 N/I-90 W
Take exit 142A on the left to merge onto US-12 W/US-18 W toward Madison
Take exit 251A toward Spring Green/La Crosse
Turn right onto US-14 W/University Ave
Continue to follow US-14 W
Turn left onto Cleveland Rd
Cleveland dead ends at the top of a monster hill. Park anywhere along that hill, there will be a lot of other people parking there as well. After you park walk to the top of the hill and take a right on Old Sauk Pass (you can only go right or left). You’ll walk to the top of the hill where the Endure It Tent will be set up.

Our next club meeting will be on Wednesday, September 21st at 7:00 p.m. at the Willowbrook Store. We hope you come out to join us. On the 21st we will talk about the following topics:

Taking an "off-season" break
Endure It at Cyclocross Races & the Chicagoland Cyclocross Series
Scavenger Run (September 29th, 6:30 p.m. @ Endure It Life in Naperville)
Up Coming Monthly Challenges & Events & Club Meetings

Club Meetings through the winter and early spring have been scheduled as well as the topics which we will talk about at the meetings. So if you're a planner...clearly I am...here are the dates.

October 12 - 7:00 p.m. @ Naperville - Topics: Computrainer Season, Cyclocross Update, Winter Base Training Tips, Off-Season Goals, Strength Training
November 16 - 7:00 p.m. @ Willowbrook - Topics: Nutrition for the Holiday Season, Dressing for Cold Weather Training, Naperville Turkey Trot Group; Cyclocross Update
November 24 - Naperville Turkey Trot - Meet at Endure It before to park, and after for bagels, juice, and coffee.
December 15 - Endure It Holiday Party (date subject to change, time and location TBD)
January 18 - 7:00 p.m. @ Naperville - Topics: Pre-Season Training, Designing a Training Program, Strength Training Revisited, Solvang Camp
February 15 - 7:00 p.m. @ Willowbrook - Topics: Planning a Race Season, $ saving tips, Building a Base, SWIM, Club Races (Galena Triathlon, Leon's Triathlon, Ironman Racine 70.3, Ironman Wisconsin)
March 14 - 7:00 p.m. @ Naperville - Topics: Group Riding Etiquette, Bike Maintenance, Group Riding Opportunities

Train Hard, Race Fast, No Regrets!!

Chicago Triathlon This Weekend!!

2011-08-25T07:37:00.000-05:00

The Chicago Triathlon takes place this weekend and we will be there in full on cheering mode! Good luck to all of our athletes out on the course, the weather looks like it's going to be perfect for a fast day. Make sure you stop by the tent to hang out, grab a drink or snack and to cheer on the whole Endure It crew.

We are going to have our tent set up along the swim/run course (kind of weird isn't it?) we'd love to see you come on by, and for those that do we will even have some little give aways as an incentive.

Stay tuned to the blog and facebook as we will have information in the coming weeks about the following topics:

Ironman Wisconsin "Where Old Sauk Road becomes Endure It Hill"
Upcoming meeting dates and topics
Upcoming events through the fall/winter/spring months
Upcoming Challenges
Locations for free high fives from Bird

Something new that we are trying to get started is to get a better team presence at races. So if you're racing at the Chicago Triathlon, or at Ironman Wisconsin please let us know by sending Rick an email (ricklapinski@hotmail.com) bib numbers are a bonus too!! We would like to set up some team dinners before races and have some team pictures taken for us to post on the blog as well. Also keep the ideas coming.

Train hard, race fast, have fun!

Some Upcomimg Event Details & A Training Tip

2011-08-15T08:39:00.000-05:00

Congratulations again to everyone who raced this weekend, way to represent for Endure It!! we have some events on the horizon and want to make sure everyone is informed and we would really love to have you out as well. So here are some details:

8/17/2011 - Endure It Group Ride / BBQ @ 6:00 p.m. Endure It Naperville

We will be rolling out of the Naperville shop at 6:00 p.m. for a no drop group ride of around 20-25 miles. The ride will be followed by a BBQ at the store. Of course we want you on the ride, but if you can't make it stop by after for a burger, beer and to share those race stories with your fellow club members. Rumor has it Bird is going to be wearing bibs and giving out high fives!

9/11/2011 - Ironman Wisconsin

We always have some amazing club members who take on the challenge of Ironman Wisconsin, and if you've never experienced an Ironman come join us as we stake our claim on the top of the hill on Old Sauk Pass, one of the largest hills on the IMWI course. It's always a great time and this is the best place to watch the bike portion of the race. More details will follow, along with directions to where we will be set up. We will be grilling out up on the hill so if you plan on coming please let us know (Ricklapinski@hotmail.com) so we can make sure to have enough food.

Fall 2011 - Chicago Cyclocross Series

Let's make a statement at the races this fall. I'm thinking crazy hand ups and rowdy fans!

Endure It Training Tip - Consistency is Key

As the season starts to come to a close shortly something to keep in mind for future success is the idea of consistency. When we are done with our seasons it's always nice to take a little break. That's something which is very important for the mind and the body. The key is to make sure the break isn't too long. Stay active, cross train, go for a run without your Garmin, ride a new route, play dodgeball...do something different! The best way to set up a good 2012 season though is to keep a base. Set some goal times/distances that you would like to maintain each week through the off season. It's nice to work towards a goal (more on goal setting in an upcoming post) and a small attainable goal now will pay off next race season. Consistency is the key, day in and day out, week in and week out, ect...

Train hard, race harder!

Why Not Get Involved?

2011-08-10T09:26:00.000-05:00

The Endure It Club has been busy training and racing all summer. We really want to make a better "team" effort to support everyone racing and training from here on out. So with that said there are a few ideas we have to get things rolling, but the ideas only work with your help! How can you help? It's really pretty simple, share with us your racing plans, support our "team" events, not only racing and training, but social events too, and pose your questions.

This blog is about to get more active, some things to look forward to are:

The Endure It Group Ride/BBQ - August 17 @ 6:00 pm - Endure It Naperville
The Scavenger Run (date coming shortly)
Ironman Wisconsin on course spectating - September 11
An Endure It presence at the Chicago Cyclocross Series
Weekly Training Tips on Swim/Bike/Run/Nutrition/Cross-training/Strength/Mental Training

We are always open to ideas and suggestions, if you have any (or would like the training tips to cover a certain topic) please email Rick at ricklapinski@hotmail.com

Scavenger Run - Monday August 8 @ 6:00 p.m.

2011-08-05T06:53:00.000-05:00

Introducing Endure It's Scavenger Run on Monday August 8th at 6:00 p.m. leaving from Endure It Life in Downtown Naperville. Bring a friend or two and a camera phone, don't have a friend (we feel sorry for you) come and we'll make sure you have a team to join. Teams can include anywhere from 2-4 people (or more if you really want to). The scavenger run will include several clues of locations you have to run to and use your camera phone (or digital camera) to prove you were at the locations. The run will be in the 4-5 mile range and the entire team must stay together for the duration of the run, as will be evidenced by the photo's. This will surely be a great way to start the week, and will be a nice change to your training.

Prizes will be available for the winning team, as well as various raffle prizes to be picked randomly. We really hope you join us for this new fun event!

To RSVP or if you have questions email Rick (ricklapinski@hotmail.com)

Enduring the Triple Bypass

2011-07-12T16:03:00.000-05:00

Check out our club members who managed to Endure the Triple Bypass ride out in Colorado this past weekend. Four of them even managed to do the double, that is 240 miles in two days with 20,000 feet of elevation gain.

Congrats and looking good guys!

Endure It Running Tops

2011-03-25T10:45:00.002-05:00

We have had several people request a running top with the Endure It logo to wear at their running races, since everyone has a different preference on what they would like for a running top we have come up with a great solution.

If you are interested in getting a Endure It branded shirt, go out and get any running shirt (white, gray or black is probably best) bring it to either the Naperville or Willowbrook store and Endure It will pay to have the logo put on at Boomer T's.

If interested please drop off your shirt by April 15th preferably in a labeled bag or even better have your mom put your name on the tag so we can make sure we get the correct shirt back to the right people.

2-Person Team Time Trial

2011-02-08T14:23:00.004-06:00

February 6th Team Time Trial Results (Updated)

Eric Walter, Rick Lapinski 29:36.70
Mike Lee, Joe D 29:50.80
Dan Dziubski, Jason Addante 31:28.64
Mike Jones, Debbie Dust 31:42.19
Chris Soltis, Joel Lanphier 32:08.3
Brian Kulak, Kevin Kulak 32:16.91
Mike Jones, Debbie Dust (2) 32:45.87
Dan Dziubski, Meghan Lapeta 33:12.53
Dan Turney, Mark Wanner 33:19.10
Mike Byrnes, Brian Kubinski 33:30.93
Lauren Rippy, Katie Dumford 34:18.50
John Czapla, John McMahon 35:06.60
Mike Tobey, Mike Kuszynski 35:22.47
Jo Della Torre, Russ Bautch 36:24.00
Meaghan, Lauren Rippy 37:02.44
Sara Fix, Tony Z 39:00.19
Katie Dumford, Teri Vertullo 39:57.60

Pictures

Video

Another Swim Workout of the Week

2011-01-21T13:56:00.000-06:00

Thanks to some Endure It athletes we have our first athlete submitted workout of the week, keep these coming!!

Warm up:

250 swim
250 pull
250 kick
5 - 50s swim easy/swim medium/drill/swim fast/swim easy

Main set:
3 - 300s (300 swim hard/300 pull hard/300 swim hard)
100 easy
9 - 100s (100 swim hard, 100 pull hard, 100 kick hard) on the 1:45 (repeat 3 x's)

Cool down:
100 easy cool down

Total - 3000 yards

The Second Workout of the Week for 2011

2011-01-14T15:05:00.000-06:00

Crazy to think we're 2 weeks into the New Year already, and we hope you're year is off to a great start and that training is going well. Here is a swim workout for you to help mix things up:

Warm Up:

300 swim
100 choice
100 kick

Main Set:
100 swim w/ 10 seconds rest after (25 easy, 25 hard)
200 swim w/ 15 seconds rest after (50 easy, 50 hard)
300 swim w/ 20 seonds rest after (50 easy, 50 hard, 50 choice of stroke)
400 swim w/ 25 seconds rest after (100 easy, 100 hard)
500 swim w/ 30 seconds rest after (race pace)
400 swim w/ 25 seconds rest after (100 hard, 100 easy)
300 swim w/ 20 seconds rest after (50 hard, 50 easy, 50 choice of stroke)
200 swim w/ 15 seconds rest after (50 hard, 50 easy)
100 swim w/ 10 seconds rest after (25 hard, 25 easy)

Cool Down:

200 (50 swim, 50 choice)

Total Distance - 3200 yards

Enjoy!!

The First Workout of the Week in 2011

2011-01-07T10:31:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year! This workout of the week is coming a little bit late, but better late than never right? Since it is January I think it's safe to say we are officially transitioning from "off-season" to "pre-season" types of workouts. The "long run" is something that endurance athletes like to get into their weekly workouts and sometimes it can be boring to just go out and plug along. Below is not necessarily a "long run" but a "progressive run" which can be a nice substitute at this point in the season.

The workout:

15-20 minutes of easy jogging to warm up. After your warm up, pick a pace that you can easily hold for the duration of your run, and by easy it should be a "conversational" pace. Run the first mile (after your warm up) at this "conversational" pace. Each mile after pick up the pace between 5-10 seconds per mile. You will notice that to pick up the pace ever so slightly won't take a huge toll because it is a gradual increase in speed. This is a great workout for runs between 4-12 miles. One of the nice things is that you finish strong, which is the goal in every race! Make sure you take the time for a proper warm down of 10 minutes towards.

**If you're distance is not as far you can always change the pace every half mile to better fit your workout**

Train hard and train safe!!

Coming Soon to a Kick Ass Shop Near You

2011-01-06T10:35:00.004-06:00

...if you live in the Chicagoland area that is. Coming this Spring check out the latest in the Endure It cycling gear by Capo Forma.

Workout of the Week 12/29/2010

2010-12-30T15:09:00.000-06:00

Well we've shared a swim, bike, and run workout thus far. And seeing as many of us are triathletes one of the most crucial parts of training are those brick sessions. You may have a killer bike split in a race, but if you fall apart on the run was that effort on the bike correct? Since we are in December/January the following aerobic workout is a great way to mix things up. (this should probably be done indoors with a trainer and treadmill, at the gym with a bike and treadmill...but if you prefer take to the streets, just be careful!) Make sure you're prepared for this workout...having your bike set up, treadmill set up, running shoes ready, water ready...you get the picture.

Bike - 30 minutes

10 minutes warm up in a comfortable gear
Each 5 minutes after your initial warm up increase the effort by going to a smaller cog on the cassette. (if you train with power add between 5-10 watts every 5 minutes)
Continue to "drop" a gear until your 30 minutes are up, and QUICKLY transition to your running shoes.

Run - 20 minutes

Take this run out hard, your legs should be warmed up, and in a race aren't you going to run hard?
Stay with the pace, and if you're heart rate calms down where you want to increase your pace go for it.
The key here is that you're running within seconds of getting off of your bike. A transition of less than a minute would be ideal here!
Now that your 20 minutes is up, get those running shoes off and right back to your bike.

Bike - 20 minutes

To start back on the bike your heart rate should be elevated, keep it there by putting in a perceived effort of around 8 (on a scale to 10).
After 10 minutes at that level start to slowly cool down until the 20 minutes is up.

This workout should help you get more used to running off of the bike, and is a great way to keep that aerobic work going. Have a happy and safe New Year and we can't wait to see everyone have an amazing 2011!! Remember if you have a favorite workout keep sending them on in.

Workout of the Week 12/22

2010-12-22T14:33:00.003-06:00

How about a swim workout? In my opinion this set goes by quick with the most difficult part being keeping track of the times in your head.

To start chose an interval that you can just make with 2 or 3 seconds rest for 25 yards. You will gain rest progressively as you add distance while still maintaining the original interval from the 25 at the start.

For the example below we will say 20 seconds allows you to complete 25 yards with 3 seconds rest. Just add in your time and give it a try.

25 on :20 seconds
50 on :40 seconds
75 on :60 seconds
100 on :80 seconds
125 on :100 seconds
150 on :120 seconds
175 on :140 seconds
200 on :160 seconds
225 on :180 seconds
250 on :200 seconds
250 on :200 seconds
225 on :180 seconds
200 on :160 seconds
175 on :140 seconds
150 on :120 seconds
125 on :100 seconds
100 on :80 seconds
75 on :60 seconds
50 on :40 seconds
25 on :20 seconds

The total distance for this as a main set would be 2750, you can add or subtract to meet the distance you are comfortable with. Give it a try, it is a bit challenging but goes quick.

Happy Holidays and looking forward to another great year from all the Endure It! athletes.

2011 Endure It! 2-Person Indoor Team Time Trial

2010-12-21T09:39:00.005-06:00

Race #1 - Sunday February 6
Course: 12.48 miles. Mostly flat, with a couple rolling hills
Register Here

Race #2 - Sunday March 27
Course: 12.48 miles. Mostly flat, with a couple rolling hills (exact same course as Race #1)
Register Here

*The 3 Fastest Mens’ Teams will earn: $60 / $40 / $20
*The 3 Fastest Women’s Teams will earn: $60 / $40 / $20
*A New Course Record will earn: $100 and free entry to the March 27 race

All-Time Results Page

This Winter, back by popular demand, is Endure It’s unique team time trial series. The 5th annual race series features our custom TTT course, available exclusively at Endure It! this series is the only one of it’s kind. This is the same course as the previous 4 years. Find a partner for this tactical 2-person race of truth.

Teams of 2 will push off in a head to head showdown versus rival teams; and ultimately, the clock. Races will start in waves every hour, 4 teams to each wave. Drafting among teammates is enabled making for a strategic and tactical plan of attack... Literally!

The First wave will begin promptly at 7am. In order to stay on schedule 10 minutes will be allotted for warm up on the Computrainers prior to your race. However there is plenty of space, bring your own trainer if you desire a longer warm up. Tip: If you’re unfamiliar with drafting process on the Computrainer software, plan to arrive early enough as to view the prior race.

If you have been a frequent rider in this season’s CT classes you already know your threshold wattage. In the past, the most successful pairings are those who have a similar threshold numbers. If you are in need of a partner contact Dan (daniel.dziubski@gmail.com) he will play matchmaker.

Favorite Workout of the Week 12/16

2010-12-16T06:30:00.003-06:00

Here is another fun running workout! Probably easiest done on a treadmill but could still be done outdoors.

Run 60 minutes
20 minute warm-up
5 minutes @ 10 K Pace/5 minutes easy
5 minutes @ 5K Pace/5 minutes easy
5 minutes @ Sub 5K Pace/5 minutes easy
10 Minute Cool

Enjoy and hope to see everyone tonight at Quigleys for the annual Endure It! holiday party!

Favorite Workout of the Week

2010-12-09T20:15:00.000-06:00

As the Computrainer classes are in full swing at both the Naperville and Willowbrook stores here is one of my favorite sets from the last year.

The set below may look easy but when you add in the middle 30 minutes it is a bit more challenging then it may appear.

15 Min Warm Up
7 Min @ 70%
3 Min RI
8 Min @ 80%
2 Min RI
9 Min @ 90%
1 Min RI
10 Min @ Threshold
1 Min RI
9 Min @ 90%
2 Min RI
8 Min @ 80%
3 Min RI
7 Min @ 70%
Cool Down

Club Members Favorite Workouts

2010-12-02T15:13:00.004-06:00

Ok, Ok I know this blog has been in hibernation more or less for the last few months but we have an idea that will change that!

We want to help you make it through the winter but give your workouts a new twist to keep things fresh. Starting today and at least once a week for the next couple of months we will be posting our club members favorite triathlon related workouts. This will be anything swim, bike or run related.

The first one is brought to you today by Michele Ahlman!

Running:

High intensity intervals on the treadmill, this is a very short but intense workout.
5-10 min warm up- seriously slow. Just getting the muscles warm
Jump off and increase the speed to 12 (whatever speed you feel conmfortable but challenged).
Jump on and run for 20 seconds
Jump off for 10 seconds. No more & no less
Do this as many times as you can handle.
15 min cool down

If you have your own favorite workout leave it in the comments and we will make sure to add it to the list.

Computrainer Season is Near!!

2010-08-30T08:02:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Endure it! Computrainer Season 2010/11

The Endure It! indoor computrainer classes will begin October 18th. The schedule for class sign up will not show up on the web calendar until then. As always, our goal is to provide the best program, value, and flexibility. Endure It! has a deep understanding on how to improve beginners to professional athletes in a convenient non intimidating atmosphere. Please join us this year and you will reach new and unrivaled fitness heights for 2011!

endure it! trailer from SimplyConnected on Vimeo.

Naperville Schedule (504 West 5th Ave.)

Monday: 10:15am

Tuesday: 5:30am and 6:45pm

Wednesday: 5:30am, 10:15am, 6:30pm and introducing!! 6:30pm core/strength/stretch with Kate!

Thursday: 5:30am

Friday: 5:30am and 10:15am

Saturday: 6:00am, 8:00am, 10:00am
**core/strength/stretch with Kate will follow the 6:00am and 8:00am sessions

Sunday: 7:00am *NEW endurance course ride

Willowbrook Schedule (20 West 75th Street)

Tuesday: 5:30am, 10:15am and 6:30pm

Thursday: 5:30am and 10:15am

Saturday: 6:00am and 8:00am
**core/strength/stretch will follow the 6:00am and 8:00am class

Sunday: 7:00am *NEW endurance course ride

**new classes will be added as demand shows**

Computrainer Class Details:
-Sessions last about one hour
-Sunday may be up to two hours
-Both Willowbrook and Naperville have access to excellent transition running
-Classses are professionally run by experienced cycling and triathlete coaches
-The classes are a system of building blocks designed to strategically pace you throughout the off-season
-For best results please attend 2-3 sessions per week and start in October as to not miss important steps
-Testing will be provided to track improvement and development (aerobic threshold power)
-No two classes are the same, HOWEVER they may provide the same training stimulus

Pricing Options

- A puchcard with 12 sessions is $160 or $145 for active Endure It! club members
- A single punch is taken for each computrainer class and each core/strength/stretch

MAP (Monthly Advantage Program)

$160 per month or $145 for active club members

Map includes
-Access to the calendar prior to punchcard customers for priority scheduling
-Up to three CT sessions per week of your choice and unlimited core/strength/stretch
**NEW for MAP ONLY this year
-Free bike storage! at either Naperville or Willowbrook! (one bike per customer at a time)
-Access to free (power tap,SRM, Quarq) workshops

Introducing New... DEAN'S LIST!

$210 per month
-Includes all MAP benefits
-Bike will be PRE set up prior to athletes arrival with bike ready to ride (calibrated, tires pumped, towel secured)
-Trainer tires pulled on and off at start and end of season
-Includes full pro tune up each month (November through April)

Cruiser Crawl #1...of many to come

2010-08-20T10:50:00.000-05:00

Leon's Tri Rewind

2010-08-18T11:44:00.002-05:00

Introducing The Endure It Jacket (Pre-Order Only)

2010-07-30T16:30:00.000-05:00

Looking for a fall running jacket with the same design as your smooth Endure It kit or just something to wear on those chilly mornings while setting up transition? Well we have got you covered. We will be placing an order for the Sugoi CK10 Ready Jacket with the same custom design as the Endure It tri kit.

To insure that we have them available in the size you want we are going to do a pre-order only. The cost is $90 + tax, just swing by the Naperville or Willowbrook store before August 15th and pre-order the size you would like. We will be submitting the order Monday, August 16th which will hopefully have them available by the end of September.

The design is below and more information is available on the Sugoi website at http://custom.sugoi.com/usa/eng/Products/Custom/Run/Details/1226-CCK10-CK10-Ready-Jacket

If you have any questions please shoot me an email at Chad.Beert@gmail.com

Endure It's Newest Ride

2010-07-22T17:38:00.000-05:00

You can't tell me this bike wouldn't help your bike split...

...and if it doesn't at least you'll look fast. Add a "Hetti Custom Mount" and you're ready to roll!

Lake Zurich Triathlon

2010-07-20T16:50:00.002-05:00

What do we offer, well good thing you asked..

2010-05-25T15:42:00.001-05:00

Doesn't this look like fun?

2010-05-17T09:50:00.003-05:00