Hey Mat

I noticed that Alpine Ascents are booked solid this summer for Mt. Rainier climbs. Waiting list only. I'm starting to get the itch. Looks like a guy might have to book a year out.

Today I did about 17 miles on the bike and ran into a very nasty headwind on the way back. At first I was a little bummed but realized I was training and this was exactly what I needed so I got my act together. In through the nose and heavy quick exhalations through the mouth the whole way back more or less. I was actually able to increase my pace to the point I was grinning and liking it.

I can't help but wonder if your exhalations are aggressive enough. Are you making the swooshing noise? Emptying the air from down deep very quickly?

It's just not for slowpokes. I like to roll on occasion and I don't generally pressure breathe on a rest step or a slow pace. Only when I'm working hard. When you sound like a choo-choo train your doing it right. Straight up the side without stopping................