ironguides

Adopting a training regime of swimming, cycling, and running is very attractive to a growing number of people. The challenge of training for three sports instead of one reflects a more balanced approach to fitness. Throw in couple of sessions in the weight room, and your schedule won’t be the only thing that is being taxed - your body will also be taking a hit, trying to keep up with the repairs and maintenance of your system as they react to the new stresses and demands you’re placing on it.

 

Make no mistake – arriving at the finish line is really not the biggest challenge….arriving at the start line injury free is!! Ask any triathlon veteran, and chances are they’ll tell you about their share of training related injuries. Here are a few tips on how to give yourself a level playing field at the start of the season.

 

Proper gear – Check in at a triathlon-specific shop and ask about the proper gear for cycling and running. Have a qualified individual fit your bike to your body, and fit a proper helmet to your head. Cycling specific shoes and pedals will increase your performance as well as helping you avoid foot injuries. Visit a running store for your shoes, and make sure the salesperson watches you run in a number of different shoes before you decide on buying a pair.  Remember, the shoes with the nicest color or highest price tag may not fit your feet and gait properly, so opt for the ones that feel the best over the ones that look the prettiest. 

 

Proper coaching – Training under qualified guidance can make all the difference in the world for beginners and veterans alike. A well thought out training plan will help your body progress at the proper pace, instead of overloading your body with too much volume or intensity in too short a time period. Training is a process of over-stressing the body and allowing it to adapt, so you want to make sure you’re on a schedule that break your body down faster than it can repair itself. Keep in mind that rest is an important part of any successful training plan.

 

Proper healthcare – Consult with a Sports Chiropractor, Kinesiologist, or Sports Physiotherapist before you begin training. Try to make sure they are athletic themselves, or better yet, participating in the same sport. Someone in the trenches with you will better understand and appreciate what you’re going through, and will be able to better advise you with respect to the event you’re training for. They should perform an overall functional assessment including checks of your range of motion, flexibility, and any functional muscle weaknesses or imbalances. Take their recommendations seriously. If you have had any major cardiovascular, skeletal or metabolic conditions (heart conditions, osteoporosis, diabetes, etc.) have a check in with your primary care physician as well.

 

You’ll be investing a significant amount of time in your new multi-sport endeavor, so take the time to set yourself up for success from the start.