Archive for January, 2012
Time For A New Garmin?
4
In July 2007 (Wow! That’s a long time ago) I received my Garmin Forerunner 205 as my birthday gift. I had just started running in May but I knew “bigger” things were in my future for running.
I was so excited to receive my Garmin Forerunner 205
Testing it out
I’ve had many firsts with the Forerunner…First 5K, first half-marathon, first triathlon. It’s been through my many ups and downs and treated me well.
Unfortunately over the past month or so it has been randomly shutting off. In addition, the other day I went on a run and my pace ranged from 1 minute miles up to 14 minute miles. Wacky. At one point it said I was going darn near 140 mph. Ha!
See anything wrong with this?
Although I’ve been thrilled with Garmin’s service I still would have to pay to have it repaired, which is understandable. I won’t lie, I’ve been eyeing to upgrade to something waterproof given I’ll be doing more swimming now that I’m doing triathlons, but I didn’t want to have to make this decision just yet. At this point am I better off to bite the bullet and upgrade since I plan to do so within the next 6 months?
My current Forerunner is working…for the moment. Obviously it’s been known to shutoff and my recording pace was wacky that one run. I just don’t know when that will happen again or if it will shutoff during a long run, as I’ve started training for my next half marathon training this week.
Anyone have any insight? Thoughts?
Oh yeah, and Garmin, if you’re reading this, how would you feel about sending me a Garmin 310XT or 910XT to use in my training? I’ll be training for my first Half Rev3 distance race this summer too and would love to give all of my readers my feedback on either one of those models. Just a thought. =)
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Have you entered my Sparkly Soul Giveaway yet??
Who Doesn’t Need A Little Sparkle In Their Life?
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A couple weeks ago I received word, through FitFluential, that I was lucky enough to be chosen to test out Sparkly Soul headbands. Several months ago, while checking out TeamSparkle skirts, I happened upon the Sparkly Soul site too. I knew I wanted to try them out to add to my sparkle, because who doesn’t like a little (or a lot) of sparkle in their life?
I’ll admit I was a bit hesitant. My biggest fear wasn’t about the headband slipping, it was about if I could tolerate the pressure on my head. Throughout my childhood I wore headbands without a problem. Unfortunately, as I grew older I had more and more issues with them causing headaches. When the sporty headbands started to get popular a few years ago I gave them another try. After multiple attempts they caused me a headache, were too big/small, and most often flung off my head.
My attempt at wearing a headband in 2007. Too tight and ready to fly off.
I didn’t know what to expect from Sparkly Soul, but was excited to try them out. I was able to choose my colors and went with 5/8” thickness in silver and 3/8” thickness in red.
So, did they cause me to have a headache? Did they fling off of my head like a slingshot? Did they stay in place??
How fantastic that Sparkly Soul wants to share the sparkly love with not only me, but someone else too? Another giveaway? Yes! 2 Sparkly Soul Headbands (one thick, one thin) to one of my readers. Yay!
The contest runs from Sunday, Jan 29, 2012 until 11:59pm EST on Friday, February 3, 2012. The winner will be announced on my blog and twitter on Saturday, Feb 4, 2012. So make sure you check back! (Note: If the winner does not contact me by Saturday, Feb 11, 2012, a second winner will be chosen.)
Ways to Enter
Please leave a separate comment for each that you complete.
Required:
Visit Sparkly Soul and come back here to comment what colors you would choose if you win. (I had a hard time deciding myself!) Are there any colors that you wish they had that they didn’t? If so, tell me what colors you’d like to see.
Earn Extra Entry:
Tweet about this giveaway – “I want to win a @SparklySoul headbands from from @BananaBuzzbomb! Check it out here: http://www.bananabuzzbomb.com/2012/01/29/who-doesnt-need-a-little-sparkle-in-their-life/”
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Here Comes The Madness – Columbia Winner Announced
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I should be out running…but I’m not. ”Why?” You ask. When I woke up at 5am to head to job #1 for the day it was mild outside. When I got off of job #1 the wind and snow started. I headed home for a quick daily house cleanup before heading out for job #2 for the day. The wind has progressively picked up and it is now 36* (feels like 26*) with 18 mph winds. But you say, “Bah! You’ve run in worse than that. It’s never held you back before.” True.
Starting Monday I’ll be heading into my half marathon training. Here’s my plan I’ve made myself. It’s based off of Hal Higdon’s plan with a bit of tweaking of my own.
From Monday on out there’s no looking back. After finishing the half marathon we’ll be heading off to Italy for a short break, then once we arrive back to the states I’ll be back at it to train for my Half Rev3. I’m not complaining or saying this as though it a bad thing. I willingly signed up for it all. I’m stoked. I’d also be lying if I didn’t say I’m a bit scared though. I’m scared in the way of, “Am I going to be able to juggle all of this, without breaking physically or mentally?”
For instance, my rest days are scheduled basically around my work schedules. i.e. I work 3 jobs on Thursdays = rest day. So in other words, I don’t necessarily have “rest” days. I know, not a good thing. Working this many jobs and undertaking these new challenges, it going to be, well, a challenge. But I know that’s all part of the process.
Which leads me to this very moment. I somehow feel that these last 2 days are my last “free days” before the madness begins. (Not that I’m not already living through a bit of madness) The word relax isn’t really in my vocabulary but I’d like to try my best to do so. With that being said, I already see my OCD rearing it’s ugly head. When I feel I lack control I organize, purge, and clean like a mad woman. Basically, it’s like I’m nesting. I’ve already had a few moments today that I’ve had to talk myself down and literally say aloud, “Heidi, stop.” The thing is, exercise is a way for me to keep this OCD nastiness in check. At this point it’s a catch 22. Bah.
Heck, who knows, a few minutes after I post this you may find me pounding pavement or jumping on the trainer. What I do know: Monday will be the start of another exciting journey.
My question for you: The last few days before heading into training what do you do? No change? Rest? Indulge?
One last thing! For those that follow the blog, you’ll remember that yesterday was the last day to enter the Columbia Omni-Heat Lush Plush Jacket Giveaway. I’d like to announce that Laurel C. is the proud new owner of the jacket.
I will be sending Laurel an email and get the jacket out to her soon. As for those that didn’t win, I have another giveaway coming up with next week. Say what? And let’s just say, it’s sparkly!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
RFF – 1/27/12
11January 27, 2012
in Simply Happy
I was tagged by the wonderful Jen over at Miles, Muscles, & Mommyhood to tell you some random things about myself. I’m thinking I’m going to start to add this in as a weekly feature just for fun.
I’m supposed to tag someone too. This time around I’m not going to tag anyone….but if you want to join in, holler and I’ll tag you and make a set of random questions just for you!
11 Random Things About Me:
1.I have never touched an illegal drug or smoked a cigarette. I’ve only had one experience where I overindulged in alcohol to the extent of needing to vomit. And that was after only 2 drinks. I guess I’m what you call a lightweight. And I’ve never done a “shot”. In all honesty I haven’t had alcohol in well over 2 years. It’s just not my thing.
2. Although I may come across as a ray of sunshine, I really have to work at it. When I was younger, it came naturally. Now I stress and worry way too much. I make a point on a daily basis to focus on the positive and remember to smile.
3. I’m grateful we have our house but if I could do it over again I wouldn’t have pushed to purchase a home. Right now I’d like to be a nomad.
4. Growing up I went through “food stages”. For several years all I wanted was peanut butter and jelly, then it was hotdogs, then chicken tenders. It’s no surprise I still go through “food stages”. i.e. bananas
5. Although I like things to be clean and my OCD will rear it’s ugly head, I have no problem getting down and dirty. I don’t know how many times I’ve picked up already chewed gum as a custodian. Yes, I’m a custodian at a high school. See why here. Cleaning a high school is not for the faint of heart. Seeing the things I see and do would make most people cringe. Oh yeah, I’m a registered veterinary technician too. On the same lines as a custodian, I’ve seen/performed things that would make most people pass out. Drawing blood, hands touching guts in the abdomen, suturing incisions closed, expressing anal glands, and dealing with projectile vomit/diarrhea. I’ve had many o’ smelly and dirty days while on the job. And that’s not even considering the bites and scratches. I’ve got some hawt scars.
6. I’m a morning person. I love to get up early and get the day started.
7. I don’t drink coffee. Never had a cup o’ joe….ever. Same goes for energy drinks. Never had a Monster, Red Bull, etc. I gave up soda pop in high school. Can’t even remember the last time I drank a soda. So where exactly do I get my energy?? It’s au natural. I am Buzzbomb after all.
8. I love photography and wish I could do something more than just taking day to day photos.
9. There are so many different types of workouts I want to try but am too intimidated to do on my own. I’d love to have a personal trainer of some sort.
10. I wish I could have a work from home job. I think I’d be content working on the computer all day long…of course with my workouts thrown in too!
11. I haven’t used a drop of shampoo or product on my hair in over 7 months (I need to update you all on this). Want to know why I’m ‘poo free? Watch this.
Jen’s 11 random questions for me:
You are stranded on a deserted island. Tell me
1. What are the 5 foods you would pick to have with you? Bananas, oranges, tomatoes, grapes, spinach/lettuce.
2. What 2 things would you pick to drink? Fresh water w/lemon and Kombucha (totally digging it lately)
3. What book would you want to have? Twilight…don’t judge.
4. You are visited by ONE person for 24 hours only, who is it? Husband
5. You can have ONE skill that you do not currently posses. What is it? Fly
You just won 5 million dollars! Tell me
1. What is the first thing you do? Ask, “Is this for real?” If so, run around the block dancing.
2. What is the first thing you buy? I’d first pay off our house (does that count as buying?) Then I’d start to give my belongings away so I can start anew….and more simply.
3. Who is the first person you share your winnings with? Husband, then parents.
4. Would you relocate? Where? Oh yes. Would probably travel first to determine where we’d like to ultimately settle. I can foresee a tropical destination for a home though. But then again, I can also see multiple small homes. Or maybe staying nomads.
5. Would you donate to charity? For sure.
6. You must buy me a gift, what do you get me?? A brand new triathlon bike of your choice!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Found: Triathlon Coach(es)
16
If you can remember back, I was looking for a triathlon coach. Being my first full season as a triathlete and undertaking my first Half Rev3 distance I knew I needed direction. I was unsure where to go, who to ask, and what to do. People were giving me names and contact information (which I truly appreciate and have saved). Then I received word that Rev3 was offering a coaching option. Bingo!
So my coach(es) have been found. I’ve chosen to sign up with the Rev3 Group Coaching. Here’s what all it includes:
- Monthly training program with daily workouts to include race specific guidance, equipment tips and nutrition suggestions.
- Training opportunities with Team Rev3!
- Password protected forum available to each athlete in the program. Rev3Tri Team, Rev3 Race Director and Rev3 Staff will all be available on the forum for continued support.
- Advanced information given to include: course updates, course maps, race director tips, coach tips, race weekend schedules, and so much more!
- On-course training days
- Race weekend meet ups, racing tips, motivation & strategy, meeting the athletes on Team Rev3!
- Webinars and online chats on specific training topics.
That’s exactly what I’m looking for. I knew I needed direction but didn’t want to get myself in too deep and realize, “Crap, what have I done?!” My biggest concern was having a training plan and this will be provided with the program. In addition I’ll have the guidance and support of fellow triathletes. I’m super psyched and grateful for this option. Thanks Rev3!
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
What Is Banana Buzzbomb All About?
0
As you all know, I have recently been named a FitFluential Ambassador. FitFluential is in partnership with multiple publications and I’m currently going through the process of “auditioning” to write or VLOG for these digital publications. At this time they’re looking at my content and seeing if their readers would like to read what I have to say. So….without further ado…
Who is Heidi and what’s BananaBuzzbomb.com all about??
Our lives are constantly evolving. Have you ever looked at where you are and said, “How the heck did I get here?!” or better yet, could you have every imagined that you are where you thought you’d be 10 years ago? I’m amazed every day by the transformations I’ve gone through in my life…especially within the past 5-10 years.
If you would’ve mentioned I’d be a runner, let alone a person that’s completed a half marathon and is on her way to running her first Half Rev3 Triathlon, I’d have looked at you as though you had 3 heads. It’s crazy. I didn’t get here by taking the easy route or by myself. The kind words and support of family members, friends, and fellow bloggers and tweeters have carried me through many o’ training session days.
You may not see workout plans on this blog but what you will see are the adventures of my journey through life. The ups, the downs. The successes, the setbacks. The challenges I present myself, the moments I overcome challenges. My life changes, from food, to simplifying. Using trial and error to figure out what works for me. Learning to enjoy, be grateful, and soak up every morsel that life has to offer.
My focus is to not only empower myself, but also those who watch and read my blogs. I’m focusing on becoming a better, well-rounded person, and am so grateful for those who have come along on my journey.
My question for you: What do you like about my blog? Why do you read or watch my posts??
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Does Omni-Heat Really Work – Part 2 – Giveaway
38January 23, 2012
in Reviews
Awhile back you may remember I gave my review on Columbia Sportswear’s Omni-Heat Base Layer. Well, it’s time to give you a bit of a review on the jackets I also received.
A bit of a refresher: Over a month ago I surprisingly “won” several jackets from Columbia Sportswear on Twitter. I received a Women’s Lush Plush Jacket, 2 Men’s Hexaholic Down Jackets, and a Women’s Midweight Baselayer top and bottom.
Please note: Although I received “free” products, Columbia did not require nor request reviews or feedback from me. I just thought I’d pass along information about my experience with the products.
Immediately out of the box I was in love with my jacket. It’s red and burgundy. I’m known for wearing bright colors. Unfortunately, lately I’ve settled for traditional black or brown when it comes to my jackets because they’re versatile. So, Columbia was spot on when choosing a bright color for me.
I put it on and found I was a bit uncomfortable =( In the wintertime I tend to wear many layers (who doesn’t?) With these layers the jacket was tolerable but a little snug. I held onto the jacket for a few days and then finally sent Adam (the awesome guy behind @Columbia1938) saying it was a bit too snug. His response, “No worries! We’ll send another one in a larger size. You keep that one to pass along to someone to stay warm.” How cool is that? Soon the larger coat arrived and I was a happy camper.
The jacket is so extremely soft. When they call it plush they aren’t kidding. I love how cozy it is. It is formfitting and found that although this size is comfortable the arms are still snug. Seeing other reviews on their site it looks like I’m not the only one to feel this way. 
Pocket on each side
Pull strings inside pockets to make waist tighter
Waist tightening mechanism
Next up was my dad’s and D’s jackets. Like I stated, they each received the same jacket. They are already HUGE Columbia fans (Yes they each have multiple colors in their sweatshirts, sweaters, and pants…I kid you not), so it’s no surprise that they immediately fell in love with their jackets. 
When I delivered my dad’s jacket he was already wearing a Columbia sweatshirt. Not kidding.
Back velcro tab on hood to hold goggles in place
Not only do their jackets have the Omni-Heat but they are also down-filled. There are many zippers with the pockets and underarm vents. My dad totally geeks out with pockets and zippers. This picture shows that D does too!
Open armpit vent
Mesh pocket on the inside of the jacket. My understanding is it’s for goggles, but you could use it for anything you’d like.
We also noted that although the guys were comfortable in their jackets, we found that the sizing in their jackets seemed to run a bit smaller than an average jacket fit too. With that being said, something we figured out: with the Omni-Heat you don’t need as many layers as you normally would. Once D made the mistake of wearing his Columbia jacket to the mall and was sweating his butt off. He learned his lesson.
So it looks like we have yet another “Win” for Columbia Sportswear with Omni-Heat. I’m hoping to use it on my challenge when I hit the slopes soon and see how well it does. I don’t think it will disappoint.
My mom didn’t get a free jacket from Columbia, but upon seeing these jackets perform (and stealing my dad’s several times) she hit the store and got one for herself!
So what am I going to do with this extra Columbia jacket I have sitting around? Well, I’ve been in contact with Adam at Columbia and he gave his blessing to allow me to give it away to one lucky reader. How cool is that?
Want to win the jacket? Here’s the deal:
One entrant, chosen at random, will win a Women’s Lush Plush Jacket. 
PLEASE NOTE: Only a medium size is available. Remember this jacket runs small.
Measurements:
- Back of neck to waist – 25″
- Chest – armpit to armpit – 18″
- Arm Length – armpit to wrist – 22″
The contest runs from Monday, Jan 23, 2012 until 11:59pm EST on Friday, Jan 27, 2012. A winner will be announced on this blog, my Twitter, and my Facebook Page on Saturday, Jan 28, 2012. (Note: If the winner does not contact me by Saturday, Feb 4th, 2012, a second winner will be chosen.) The jacket will be mailed out by me following the giveaway.
Ways to Enter
Each counts as a separate entry – please leave a separate comment for each that you complete.
-Follow me on Twitter: @BananaBuzzbomb
-Tweet about this giveaway: “I want to win a @Columbia1938 Lush Plush Jacket from @BananaBuzzbomb! Enter to win here http://www.bananabuzzbomb.com/2012/01/23/does-omni-heat-really-work-part-2-giveaway/”
-Like Me On Facebook: Banana Buzzbomb Not allowed to do this, sorry!
Although not a requirement, be sure to check out Columbia site and consider following them @Columbia1938 on twitter. If you do, make sure you send a shout out to Adam and tell him @BananaBuzzbomb sent you =)
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
Knee Pain? Already??
5
Last night I was made aware of the Virtual 5K Twitter Road Race. I figured, what the heck, and signed up. I knew bad weather was on the way but knew I wouldn’t let it hold me back.
Unfortunately I woke up this morning and had my first DNS (did not start). Yep, I’ve never had a DNS before. Yargh. How crappy that my first be a virtual race. Then again, it was free, so at least I wasn’t out money. And I guess it’s easier to miss a virtual race than an actual race. Either way though, it was a DNS.
So “Why a DNS?” you may ask. Believe it or not the weather wasn’t too bad. Over the past few weeks my right leg has been bothering me. If you remember from a previous post, this is my “bad” leg. I have the unfortunate post-injury symptom of “feeling the weather”, but it’s usually tolerable. Back in 2008, when I was training for my first half marathon, ramping up the mileage, I had some intense discomfort.
For some reason, my recent discomfort is becoming worse and worse to the same intensity I had in 2008. However, other than weather there shouldn’t really be a reason for this discomfort. I am not logging lots o’ miles. I’m not just running , as I’ve added cross-training. And lastly, if anything, I’m taking way more rest days than I should. Although I know this is an excuse, I haven’t been pushing myself to sticking to a hardcore training schedule because number 1) my work schedule and more importantly, number 2) come the end of this month there’s no looking back on training until I complete the Half Rev mid September.
When I woke up this morning in even more discomfort I had to tell myself, it’s time to take an actual day off. Yes, even though I’ve been taking more “rest” days than I should, my rest days are never truly rest days. Mostly I take rest days when I am working more than one job (often 3) on that day. And I still crank out burpees, planks, and/or more . So today I did no workouts. No running, swimming, cycling, burpees, planks, pushups….nothing. I’m going a bit nuts. Thanks to D, it’s been tolerable. Remember, I’m a buzzbomb. It’s VERY hard for me to sit still.
I must admit, this is kind of embarassing. Here I am, averaging running 3 miles on my runs, having discomfort. Uhhhh. There are others out there pounding out miles upon miles. And here I am, feeling like I’m making excuses.
Alas, something that I need to remind myself…I’m not them. (My ongoing theme on this blog, I swear). I’m Heidi, a former non-athlete. I know anyone can be an athlete, and darn near anyone can be a runner. But, some of us are better at this form of exercise. Let’s be honest, some are almost born to run. They have a better physique and style to their running. I really don’t fit into this category. This is something I’ve accepted, but it doesn’t mean I can’t/won’t run. It’s just more difficult for some of us. It’s not an excuse. It’s a fact.
Another thing I need to remember is that I need total rest days, even if I feel like I’m taking “rest” days from my main training. If I’ve learned anything since starting to run in 2007, it’s listening to my body. When something hurts, you must listen. I’m not talking about little aches and pains that come along with training. I’m talking about the pains that could hinder you long term in your training plan.
I’m heading into my training January 30th. Where does this leave me? I’m going to follow the same regimen I used in 2008:
Glucosamine – Previously I used Cosamin. Since then I’m vegan and this has required some research. I believe I’ve found what I’m going with. I have chosen Deva’s Glucosamine, MSM, and CSM. If anyone has any recommended vegan brands that they’ve chosen give me a shout out.
Pro-tec Patellar Tendon Strap – On casual runs I don’t find this necessary, but have found it to help significantly when I add to mileage. Since it’s already started I think I’m going to strap that baby on here on out.
Massage – Thankfully my MIL is a massotherapist and is more than happy and willing to work on me. She’s a lifesaver every time I have a flareup. Although my knee is the focal point of discomfort, I also experience discomfort through my entire right leg. I’ve already scheduled a massage with her tomorrow.
I may have had my first DNS today, but I’m glad I took an actual rest day. I’m hoping to get everything in line and ready as I head into my official training. It’s best to try to take care of it now instead of later. I’ll keep you posted.
Be Grateful and Keep Smiling =)
You’re This. I’m That. What’s The Big Deal?
10January 20, 2012
This time around I’m talking about diet. I think it’s pretty well known that I went vegetarian in 2008 and then vegan in 2010, based mostly on morals and my health. I’m proud to say I’m vegan, however at the same time I dislike labels per se. 
Although most would think the definition is clear cut, some have other definitions of the lifestyle. Some may focus solely on food, whereas others make it an entire lifestyle (what they wear, what products they use, etc). That point I will discuss in a future blog post.
What I’m getting at is that how I live my life doesn’t necessarily mean you must live your life the same. I’ll be honest, I couldn’t imagine living my life any other way and I do believe it is the best way to live my life. BUT, that’s my opinion. I have formed my opinion based on my research. Others do the same with their lifestyle. Who’s to say I’m right, you’re wrong, or vice versa?
I’m sure there are vegans that will read this and say, “Gasp! You are not truly a vegan if you say things like that!” (Shrug) That’s just how I roll. I’m definitely not against peaceful demonstrations or people passing out handouts. I’m all for “promotion” of your lifestyle, within certain limits, and when done correctly…even if it’s not my style to do so. Do I wear “vegan” shirts? Sure. Do I proudly live a vegan lifestyle? You betcha! But, I prefer to live by example and have someone come to me with their questions instead of me forcing my opinions and views on them.
What I am against: chastising others for their views of the opposing lifestyle. For instance, recently I stumbled on a conversation about someone throwing out the idea of becoming vegan. It’s one thing to say, “I don’t think that’s the best way to go. I prefer to live a (insert type) lifestyle because…” It’s another to say, “Vegans don’t eat healthy.” Or, “You NEED meat to build protein.” This type of stuff just opens, dare I say, a can of worms. No matter what the situation, chances are you won’t convince the “other side” to agree with you. I see it the same as a person quoting Bible scripture to a non-believer in order to prove their point. I’m all about learning and having educated discussions, but in certain situations, round and round you’ll go.
Sadly, this isn’t just a food/lifestyle problem. Look at recent problems at sporting events. Opposing fans teams not only being heckled, which is bad enough, but physically assaulted. That’s just crazy.
The list could go on and on.
People need to do their own research and come up with their own opinions. Even more, they need to realize that it’s just that… it’s an opinion. You know what they say, “Opinions are like a**holes. Everyone’s got one.” Remember, what works for you, might not necessarily work for them.
Be Grateful and Keep Smiling =)
To Aero Or Not?
3January 19, 2012
in Triathlon
If you follow me on Twitter you may have remembered me asking “To Aero or Not?” For non-cycling readers, I meant, “Should I buy an aero helmet?” Ya still confused? “Aero Position” is where you’re aerodynamically sitting on your bike. In addition to the position athletes often purchase a helmet that assists with this. The idea is that you’ll be as streamlined as possible with less drag.
So, what’s the big deal? Why am I asking this question? Well, the helmet I currently owned was a Bell mountain bike-styled helmet. I wanted a more “stream-lined” helmet. I had been researching and pricing helmets and was looking for guidance. Come to find out a decent quality “regular” helmet wasn’t much cheaper than an Aero-styled helmet, so I was unsure if I should just go with the Aero.
My biggest concern? I’m not a super-athlete that’s fast or anything. Is there any point to me having an Aero helmet? Also, since I’m not a super-athlete will I look like I’m acting as though I’m one by using an Aero helmet.
Responses poured in. Believe it or not, in the Tri world there are staunch advocates on both sides of the argument.
These are mostly what I got:
Get a regular helmet – “Save the money you’d spend on an Aero and put toward a trainer.” “Aero helmet is so specific.”
Get the Aero helmet – “When is an Aero not recommended?” “If you can stay in Aero position, go with Aero.” “They often help slower riders (not assuming anything.” “I’d take all the help I can get.” “You’re ‘A race’ this summer is mostly flat and an Aero will help on the course.” And lastly, and most importantly, “You only lack skills if you think you lack them!” (In other words, who cares if you’re not a super-athlete, you can wear one.
After going back and forth I used the same thinking I used towards Sparky, my tri bike….I’m going all out. I already have a hybrid bike that I can use for regular riding. Why not go with a tri bike, which is where I’m ultimately headed anyway? It’s the same thing with the helmet. I already have a basic helmet, why not go the extra and get the Aero? Not to mention, the price difference isn’t that great, if at all, in some circumstances. Yes, some “regular” helmets cost the same, if not more, than an Aero helmet.
So, what brand did I go with? I had a lot of help here too. I had it narrowed down to Giro and Rudy Project. Per others, both are great companies and make fantastic products. Initially I was leaning towards Giro due to being more affordable. In my heart I wanted a Rudy Project because of the color choices. Usually I am not this way. I don’t know when the last time I got to choose the color of my shoes….or even my bike. I purchase based on functionality and don’t worry about colors. Come to find out Rudy Project was having a major sale that made the price comparable to that of Giro. Sold!
It was a hard decision on what color to choose. I wanted it to match my bike but at the same time I really liked the bright colored ones. I bought the color I wanted. No, I won’t match. No, I don’t care. Allow me to introduce you to my new helmet….A Rudy Project Wingspan
It came in a big ol’ box with a nice bag to protect it. I even got interchangeable vents (white or silver). Very cool. It took some major adjusting with the chin strap (I have a small head!!) but I think it fits great. I may be cutting some of the excess strap off. There’s a BUNCH.
You’ll see Banana Buzzbomb coming!!
Now, given that it’s a “Rudy” helmet, my brother said that D has to learn this speech and say it to me prior to all of my races. ;)
Keep Smiling and Be Grateful =)
