Thursday, February 21, 2013

Weekend Workouts - Feb 23rd and 24th

Chilly, but sunny is as good as we can ask for here in the Bay.  Conquering new routes this weekend for our ride, and getting our Escapees some much needed Aquatic Park time to get a good feel for the cold and open water swimming skills.

Saturday Ride - Novato - Wilson Hill - Tomales - Marshall Wall
59 and 64 Mile Options

Putting in two good climbs this weekend, but rolling terrain to help keep the groups together.  Perfect opportunity to stretch the distance and look for a breakthrough on the bike, or sit in the paceline and enjoy the ride.  Wilson Hill is the familiar climb for everyone, while Marshall is a long climb, where pacing and proper gearing is paramount to make it to the top with good legs for the final 20 miles.

59 Mile Route



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65 Mile Route


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Sunday Aquatic Park Swim and Run (5k Time Trial Option)

Kahn will be leading the group on some Open Water techniques, and even leading some daring souls outside the mouth of Aquatic Park, to feel the currents.  Feel free to practice your open water swim skills inside the piers for a good 30-45 minute swim to help acclimatize to the cold.  After the swim, join the group for either run option of the Escape From Alcatraz run course (10 miles total from AP), or a good benchmarking 5k Time Trial (8 miles total with warmup and cooldown).



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Participating in M2 Group Events
M2 Group Training members are of course welcome for all rides/runs and events.  Gold Pass members who wish to join in on weekend rides and runs can upgrade their pass $25/month each.  10-15 pass members can use a class pass to attend either.  Please email deacon42@gmail.com or mccormack.m@comcast.net for details.

Thursday, February 14, 2013

Weekend Workouts - Feb. 16th and 17th

Warming up nicely to the high 60's this weekend!  We are planning a great weekend with open road for our ride, then some Miwok Trail action for the run on Sunday.  New kits are in too!  Make sure you come by the studio to grab yours and look out for another ordering window if you missed out.


Saturday Ride - Mill Valley - Nicasio - Olema 
55 Miles

Heading out of Mill Valley, we will take a nice warm-up through Fairfax, then towards Nicasio.  With its rolling terrain, this route is perfect for continuing to build our pace-line skills, as well as fitness.  Once past the reservoir, we'll head to Olema for a regroup and then charge down Highway 1 to finish the day.  You can add an extra 20 miles riding from the city too. 

Route from Mill Valley


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Sunday Run - Muir Beach - Miwok Trail
8.5 - 12.5 miles

Heading out of Muir Beach, we'll enjoy the sunshine and views of the Pacific Ocean while we take on the Miwok Trail, and into the Headlands.  This is a great benchmark for fitness, and we'll run here frequently through the year.  An amazing Strava segment KOM held by our very own Mike V!

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Participating in M2 Group Events
M2 Group Training members are of course welcome for all rides/runs and events.  Gold Pass members who wish to join in on weekend rides and runs can upgrade their pass $25/month each.  10-15 pass members can use a class pass to attend either.  Please email deacon42@gmail.com or mccormack.m@comcast.net for details.

Thursday, February 7, 2013

Weekend Workouts - Feb 9th and 10th

Another banner weekend up in the North Bay, just have to let these pesky rain showers pass, but Saturday and Sunday are looking good!  This weekend brings us to Wilson Hill for our ride, and most peoples' first dip into Aquatic Park for a swim/run brisk Sunday morning as we help our Escape From Alcatraz athletes acclimatize to the colder waters.

Saturday Ride: Lucas Valley - Wilson Hill - Petaluma
56 and 71 mile options

56 Mile Option
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71 Mile Option

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Sunday Swim/Run - Aquatic Park & Escape From Alcatraz Run Course 10 to 11.5 miles

30 minute swim in Aquatic Park, followed by a tour of the Escape From Alcatraz run course, you have two options when returning after the Sand Ladder.  For 10 miles you can follow the course back, or for 11.5, take a more scenic and challenging route through the Presidio.


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Participating in M2 Group Events
M2 Group Training members are of course welcome for all rides/runs and events.  Gold Pass members who wish to join in on weekend rides can upgrade their pass $25/month.  10-15 pass members can use a class pass to attend either.  Please email deacon42@gmail.com or mccormack.m@comcast.net for details.

Thursday, January 31, 2013

Weekend Workouts - Feb 2nd & 3rd

Its looking like a great weekend ahead for some fun on the roads, and for the Super Bowl!  Its a bit unprecedented that we haven't been chased indoors for a weekend yet, so lets make the best of it.  Come on out and burn off all those "pops" and horrible, but oh so good things that go along with Super Bowl Sunday!  Go Niners!

Saturday Ride - Novato-Olema-Limantour-Pt Reyes 


Heading out of Novato for a little different terrain, the gentle and rolling hills allow for a good warm up and continued work on our group riding skills.  Continuing past the Nicasio Reservoir and towards Olema, we head to the hills for some climbing and descending work.  Perfect intervals, for sustained effort, then fast, but steady descents to help our athletes increase their downhill comfort levels.  Options for 1-3 repeats, then heading to Point Reyes Station for a regroup.

Bike Route - 51 to 65 Miles - Hill repeats are 7 miles each (3.5 up, 3.5 down)


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Sunday Ride - Mill Valley-Paradise Loop

With Kaiser Half Marathon going on, we are taking a weekend off from organized runs, but Michael is leading a no-drop Paradise Loop ride for those wanting some extra bike work and guidance this weekend.

Great opportunity for a transition, or brick run after.   A new run store opened up this week right there as well which could be worth a visit: San Francisco Running Company

Bike Route - 20 miles


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Participating in M2 Group Events

M2 Group Training members are of course welcome for all rides/runs and events.  Gold Pass members who wish to join in on weekend rides can upgrade their pass $25/month.  10-15 pass members can use a class pass to attend either.  Please email deacon42@gmail.com or mccormack.m@comcast.net for details.

Tuesday, January 29, 2013

.5 Fe Training Day - March 16th


Perfect way to jump start your year, or see how your training is progressing.  M2 is giving you the chance to tackle the Half Iron distance in a low key, low stress way.  THIS IS NOT A RACE,  just an organized, big training day that allows for you to experiment with your race execution.  To get the most out of this day, we recommend taking extended "transitions" to refuel and be physically and mentally prepared to take on each leg.

For our first year we are excited to have Cytosport and Muscle Milk on board to help fuel you during and after the day of training!

When: Saturday-March 16th, 8:00 AM
Cost: $30.00
M2 Gold Pass or Group Members: $30.00 with $10.00 credit to next month
Where: Swim Start - Aquatic Park, San Francisco
Bike and Run Finish: M2 Revolution Cycling Studio

Register: Click here for M2 Revolution's class registration site
- Select the "M2 .5 Fe Training Day" tab
- Click "Sign Up Now"
- To finish the purchase you will have to create a profile on M2's booking portal

Logistics:
- Mandatory run Gear drop off and packet pickup Wednesday through Friday from 5-8pm at the Studio.  Bike numbers provided to help identify participants.  Waivers must be signed at this point.
- To electronically sign waiver you can click here 
- At packet pickup, M2 will provide a transition bag for transport of your wetsuit and morning clothes back to the studio.
We recommend riding to the start line if in the city.  If arriving from out of town, parking is available at the end of Van Ness.  Other options are to park at Marina Green or in residential areas and ride over.  Some parking areas have time limits so park at your own risk.
- Collect wetsuit and morning clothes at M2 after event.
- Full showers and facilities available after event

The Swim - 1.2 Miles, or as much as you want

Starting at Aquatic Park, you will swim two loops around the perimeter for approximately 1.2 miles depending on current and how far in from the pier you swim.

Water should be in the mid 50's, so wetsuits are strongly recommended.  No lifeguards will be present, so swim at your own risk.

Once finished, there are showers to rinse off, then head to your bike!


T1 - AP Bleachers

M2 will provide monitors to make sure your bikes are secure and collect wet suits after their use.  All gear transported to the studio for pickup later.  Cytosport/Muscle Milk will be on hand providing hydration.

Bike - Four Corners-Stinson-Bolinas Lagoon-Hwy 1

Riding North from the city, along scenic roads, the route climbs Mt. Tam through Four Corners, then Pantoll, and down Panoramic to Stinson.  Heading out along Bolinas Lagoon and a short loop, its now its time to dial in your pacing to make you sustain a good effort, nad have legs left for the run.  Rolling terrain and some sharp climbs could test your pacing abilities.  Bonus climb up Fillmore while back in the city, but suggested route is Union Street to Polk.

Detailed route sheets will be made available to those unfamiliar.

Bike Route

T2
The M2 Studio will provide a secure location for your beloved bike, as well as a nice place to change into some dry/clean clothes for your run.  Take your time and fuel up.  This is not a race, just a training day.  Again, we will have plenty of fueling options provided by Cytosport in the studio!

Run - Aquatic Park-Marina Green-Lyon Street-Presidio-Hoppers Hands


Short cruise down Polk, back to Aquatic Park.  The route takes you along the waterfront along Marina Green and up Lyon Street Stairs.  Fun trail run through the Presidio and down to Crissy Field.  Running out to Hopper's Hands, then return along waterfront, back to Aquatic Park and then up Polk to M2. 

There are many places to stop and get water, but we recommend carrying something as this is a long training day, and you will need both the hydration and calories.

Run Route


Finish back at the studio, get cleaned up and enjoy some NCAA basketball action with Championship Weekend going on.  Light food and drinks provided.  Definitely time to try out some Muscle Milk to speed your recovery and provide your body with some essential nutrition after a long day!

Wetsuit/Morning Clothes Bag Recommendations
- Bring an extra water-proof bag to keep clothes dry
- Do not leave valuables in this bag!  M2 is not responsible for lost/stolen items.  No car keys, phones, wallets, etc. please.
- Be reasonable with size.  If its too big/heavy, it risks being left at Aquatic Park.  You must fit everything in the bag.  No tying it onto a larger backpack. 

Gear Drop Recommendations
- Running Shoes
- Hydration belt
- Shorts, shirt, socks and hat/visor to run in
- Dry clothes to change into after event

Monday, January 28, 2013

2013 Bay Area Calendar of Events

Will update as we find more races and develop more events.  Races spotlighted are for the Bay Area, or M2 Athletes have registered.  All are welcome to join in on M2 Monthly Events, additional fees may apply.  Dates are subject to change.

February

Major Races
2/3 - Kaiser Half Marathon
2/24 -San Bruno Mtn. Half Marathon (Trail)

March
M2 Events
3/16 - M2 .5 Fe Day: Tackle the Half Iron distance at your own pace and see how your race planning is working before actually racing.  Semi supported route, with secure "transition" locations to take the ease off your day.  More details coming in the next few weeks.
Major Races
3/2 - Woodside King's Mountain Half Marathon and 5 Mile
3/3 - Escape from Alcatraz
3/9 - Romancing the Island 12k & 25k
3/16 - IM Cabo San Lucas
3/17 - Emerald Across The Bay 12k
3/23 - Napa Valley Trail Marathon & 10k
3/30 - Oceanside 70.3

April
M2 Events
4/27 - Double/Triple Diablo Day: Starting from Walnut Creek, take on Mt Diablo once, twice or three times with the M2 Group
Major Races/Events
4/5-4/7 - GGTC and SF Tri Club Wildflower Training Weekends
4/6 - Golden Gate Headlands Marathon, Half Marathon & 10k
4/7 - SF Rock n Roll Half Marathon (Formerly the "Other" US Half Marathon)
4/7 - Santa Cruz Half Marathon
4/7 - Texas 70.3 - Galveston
4/13 - Muir Woods Trail Marathon, Half Marathon & 7 Mile
4/13&14 - HITS Triathlon Series - Napa
4/14 - Ironman South Africa
4/15 - Boston Marathon
4/18-21 - Seat Otter Classic
4/20 - Silicon Valley Long Course and Sprint (Morgan Hill)
4/21 - Silicon Valley International (Morgan Hill)
4/21 - New Orleans 70.3
4/21 - Napa Valley Silverado Half Marathon & 5k 

May
M2 Events
5/11 - Geysers Ride
5/18 - Tour of California Mt. Diablo: No transport for this one, but surely a large contingent will ride.
5/19 - Tour of California SF to Santa Rosa: Waiting on route details, but M2 will arrange transport home from Santa Rosa.  Last year saw over near 200 cyclists take on the SF to Santa Cruz route with M2.


Major Races
5/4 - St. George 70.3
5/4 - Napa Valley Vintage Half Iron Triathlon
5/5 - Napa Valley Sprint Triathlon
5/5 - Divas Half Marathon and 5k
5/4&5 - Wildflower
5/9 - Bike to Work Day
5/11 - Wild Boar Half Marathon & 5k
5/18 - Ironman Texas
5/19 - Morgan Hill Sprint Triathlon
5/19 - Alcatraz Sharkfest Swim
5/26&27 Alcatraz Challenge

June
M2 Events
6/20 to 6/23 - Lake Tahoe Training Camp: All aspects taken care of by M2 and partners, all you need to do is get to Tahoe in one piece, and we will do our best to keep it that way with a full extended weekend of training and events.
Major Races
6/1 - Hawaii 70.3
6/2 - Vineman Monte Rio
6/2 - Alcatraz "Escape from the Rock" Duathlon
6/8 - Boise 70.3 
6/8 - Lake Tahoe Relay (Run)
6/9 - Folsom Sprint and Olympic Triathlons
6/9 - Golden Gate Triathlon
6/15 - Crissy Field 6 & 12 Hour
6/16 - Reservoir Triathlon - Olympic and Sprint (Morgan Hill)
6/21 - Lake Stevens 70.3
6/23 - Ironman Coeur d'Alene
6/29 - California Sprint Triathlon (Pleasanton)
6/30 - California International Triathlon (Pleasanton)

July
Major Races

7/13 - Vineman 70.3
7/14 - Jungle Run Half Marathon and 10k
7/20 - Trans Tahoe Relay (Swim)
7/27 - Vineman 
7/27 - Barbs Race
7/28 - Ironman Lake Placid

August
M2 Events
8/3 - Shasta Century
Major Races
8/4 - The Giant Race
8/4 - Boulder 70.3
8/11 - Folsom Long Course Triathlon
8/18 - IM Mont Tremblant
8/25 - IM Canada
8/25 - IM Louisville

September
M2 Events
9/7 and 9/8 - Go big training weekend
Major Races
9/7 - Big Kahuna
9/8 - 70.3 World Championship
9/14 - Headlands 25, 50, 75 and 100 Miles
9/13-15 Triathlons at Pacific Grove
9/22 - Santa Cruz Triathlon
9/22 - Ironman Lake Tahoe
9/28 - Big Sur Trail Marathon & 5 Mile

October
Major Races
10/6 - Bridge to Bridge
10/4-6 - Scott Tinely's Adventures
10/12 - Skyline to Sea Marathon and 50k
10/12 - Ironman World Championship
10/13 - Tri Girl Tri - All Women's Sprint Triathlon
10/26 - Napa Wine Country Marathon, Half Marathon & 10k
10/26 - Stinson Beach 12k, 25k, 37k and 50k

November
Major Races
11/2 - Stinson Beach Marathon, Half Marathon and 7 Mile

December
Major Races
12/14 - Hark the Harold Angels 12k & 25k
12/14 - Rodeo Beach 8k, 20k, 30k and 50k
12/29 - Woodside 10k, 17k, 35k & 50k

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Weekend Workouts - January 26th & 27th

Last weeks ride down south on the coast was a good one for the group.  Sun and witnessing the massive surf coming in for Mavericks, capped off another great session, improving our fitness and riding skills.  

Saturday Ride

This weekend, we'll head North on Hwy 1 to add some varied terrain through Olema, and a good benchmark climb out of Muir Beach.  Pacing, as always, is important so that you have the strength to take on the final climb with authority, instead of "surviving" the climb.

This route is 55 miles from Mill Valley, and 75 miles from the city for those looking for some extra work.  The rolling terrain of Highway 1 allows for more group work, along with building your overall bike skills with gearing and pacing.  







Sunday Run

Taking on some more trails in Marin, the group will tackle the other side of Mt Tam by running our favorite Bon Tempe Lake loop.  With routes from 8-11 miles, this is a great day to jump in on a very scenic area.  The The gentle climb out of the town of Ross is perfect for a warmup, then the rolling  and well maintained terrain provides a great environment to work on your endurance.

Our friends at Gu Energy have provided a good supply of water bottles.  All in attendance at our run on Sunday will receive one!  Thanks Gu!




Participating in M2 Group Events

M2 Group Training members are of course welcome for all rides/runs and events.  Gold Pass members who wish to join in on weekend rides can upgrade their pass $25/month.  10-15 pass members can use a class pass to attend either.  Please email deacon42@gmail.com for ride and run for further details.