The Benefits of Altitude Training for Non-Professional Athletes
Altitude training involves exercising or residing at high elevations, typically above 7,000 feet, though benefits can start at 5,000 feet. The primary reason for doing this is that the air at higher altitudes contains less oxygen. Your body responds by producing more red blood cells to carry oxygen, enhancing aerobic capacity when you return to […]
Injury Prevention Techniques for Long-Distance Athletes
Understanding Common Triathlon Injuries Runner’s Knee, scientifically known as Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, primarily occurs from the stress of repetitive knee flexion and extension, which is common during the running segment of a triathlon. This condition results in pain around or behind the kneecap where it connects with the lower part of the thigh bone. This […]
Balancing Triathlon Training with Life Commitments
Laying out clear goals for both your triathlon performance and your personal life is vital. What’s your big race ambition? Is it finishing, setting a personal best, or perhaps securing a podium spot? Identify what’s non-negotiable in your personal and professional life. Being upfront about these objectives with yourself and loved ones guides you in […]
Adapting Your Training for Different Weather Conditions
Heat With sweat rates increasing to cool the body, the risk of dehydration elevates. It becomes necessary to do so with solutions that replenish electrolytes lost through sweat. This approach helps maintain the balance of electrolytes in the body, which are vital for muscle function and preventing cramps, a common issue in hot weather training. […]
Triathlon-Specific Strength Training Workouts
Strength training fortifies your muscles, joints, and tendons, preparing them for the rigors of triathlon competition. It boosts power, improves efficiency, and, crucially, reduces the risk of injury. For a triathlete, fewer injuries mean more uninterrupted training days and a stronger performance on race day. Integrating strength training into a packed triathlon training schedule might […]
How to Choose the Right Triathlon Event for You
The Sprint Triathlon is recognized as the entry point for many into the world of triathlon. This distance comprises a 0.5-mile (750 meters) swim, a 12.4-mile (20 kilometers) bike ride, and finishes with a 3.1-mile (5 kilometers) run. Given its relatively shorter distance, the sprint triathlon is ideal for newcomers to the sport. It offers […]
The Role of Brick Workouts in Triathlon Training
Why Brick Workouts Are a Must-Do The crux of a triathlon involves transitioning between disciplines efficiently. Brick workouts are the most effective way to train for these transitions. They help athletes reduce the disorientation and discomfort often felt when switching from cycling to running, a change that can significantly impact performance. Regularly practicing these transitions […]
Triathlon Tracking Training Progress
Performance Metrics Pace is the fundamental measure of an athlete’s speed over a certain distance. Keeping an eye on pace helps an athlete to observe their progress, indicating areas where they have improved and where there is room for improvement. If an athlete consistently lowers their minute-per-mile time during training runs, this indicates an upgrade […]
Traveling for Triathlons
Planning and Logistics Secure your travel dates as early as possible. This proactive measure allows for a more seamless integration of your training schedule with your travel plans. By establishing when you will be away, you can look ahead to schedule key workouts before you depart and minimize the impact on your training continuity. When […]
Cross-Training Activities That Complement Triathlon Training
Yoga Regular practice of yoga gently stretches the muscles and tendons, leading to a greater range of motion. For a triathlete, flexibility may translate to more efficient swim strokes, greater comfort and power while cycling, and an elongated running stride. All these slight improvements can cumulatively shave precious seconds or even minutes off your race […]