Inspired by JLo

Is it possible for me, in this media-driven, tabloid-saturated age, to be honestly inspired by the selfish act of a mere celebrity? When I found out that Jennifer Lopez completed the Malibu Triathlon on Sunday, I was more than a little bit surprised.

But not shocked.

As a new mother of twins at 39, I have to tip my hat to her for completing the whole course (1/2 mile swim, 18 mile bike, 4 mile run) in about 2.5 hours. She could not have done this without some level of commitment. Judging from the photos, she obviously put in some time. (Nice to see her riding a Specialized S-works bike!!)

Clearly, if I can train for a marathon and two century rides, anyone can. So, good for you JLo!

As for me, the rubber is truly hitting the road and the training is getting serious. On Saturday, I completed my longest run to date -- 16.25 miles from Park Slope to the Koeppel Mazda dealership in Woodside, Queens. (3:04:38, 2487 cal, 145 avg. hrt). I packed two Powerbars and carried a bottle of Gatorade with me. ALong the way I purchased a bottle as well. You should have seen the repair manager's face when I told him I ran all the way there to pick up my car. Priceless.

More importantly, I felt really good at the finish line.

After resting on Sunday, I did a nice 5 mile run on the treadmill on Monday night in a blazing fast 45:36. And I felt REALLY good at then end of that one.

I stopped by Jack Rabbit Sports on Sunday to talk with Todd, the manager and my unofficial running coach. He had suggested wearing triathlete shorts to do the NYC Marathon. As an official "Iron Man," I pretty much take his word as the gospel.

So, for my run on Monday, I did it in biking shorts to get the sensation of running in a pair of wicking shorts. It worked out pretty well so I will probably splurge and get these shorts.