Reality Check

We're almost through our first week with Renata (our home stay Xterra athlete) and I have to say, it's been great and also very humbling. While Kebby can hang with her on the swim and on the bike, I'm pretty much tail end charlie on everything.   Renata really loves to train, so most mornings, she has been getting up to join us for our workouts then heading off with her coach - Jim Vance.

Our neighbor Stephanie joined us yesterday for a brick session and having four people made for a great environment!  The coolest part was probably when Renata did her session on the treadmill. The first indicator that she is cut from different cloth was the fact that she couldn't turn it up as much as she wanted (it only goes to 10 mph).  The second (and more significant indicator) was her form.  It was absolutely perfect! She did everything you ever read about related to good running form.  Controlled strides. Mid-foot strike, foot under center of mass and heels almost hitting her butt.  Words really don't do it justice but it was clear after about five seconds that I'm an age grouper and she's a very talented professional.  

Still, so far having her around has been everything we hoped.  Motivating and an educational look into how a pro trains.