By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Willie_Gross]Willie Gross
The Tristar Sports event group has recently teamed up with the Federation of Kitts and Nevis to put together an International long distance sporting event called the Tristar 111 Nevis Triathlon last week. Competitive athletes attended the event from various areas of the globe. The event included individual competitors and relay teams.
As the name suggests, the Triathlon comprised of three major sections. These included the swim course, the biking course, and a running course. The event proceeded respectively with only a small transition area where the athletes changed gears and proceeded to the next portion of the competition.
The Swimming Section
The swimming course began in downtown Charlestown in Gallows bay. The athletes began from the beach and swam through the course marked by buoys. The first buoy was located beyond the ferry pier and was aligned with Hunkins Drive. They swam right around this buoy and headed towards the second buoy. At this point they headed back towards the finish line marked by the dinghy dock.
Once the athletes completed this portion of the event, they gathered the biking gear and transition out of their swimming gear in the designated area by the main car park. After this they ran over the bike course.
The Biking Section
Once on the bikes, the athletes began what is to be four laps around the island. The distance was about 20 miles, or 32 kilometers around the island. They began on Hunkins Drive and continued along the main road through Charlestown, which would mark the coming laps. They headed from Charleston to Pond hill, and then headed to the right in the direction of Montpelier. They continued through the village, heading back to the main island road where they would continue to circle the island, and repeated this three times. Once the laps were completed, the competitors turned on Hunkins Drive once more and gathered their running gear.
The Running Section
The athletes had parked the bikes, transition into their running gear, and began the next course. The running course led towards Bath Village, near the port on the right, and then on the old road on the outer ring. They ran through Bath Village and entered Fort Thomas. Then they ran along the beach at gallows bay, which completed the first lap, which was repeated once more. After completing this segment they headed to the finish line on Hunkins Drive.
The Rules
The racers could not bring MP3 players, cell phones or other types of electronic devices to the race. They needed to be properly dressed for each portion of the event, and they should have checked their bags of gear that were to be used for transitioning in advance, prior to the Triathlon by the deadline. Drafting, escorting, and littering were strictly prohibited and violators would be disqualified. All racers were expected to smile and have a good attitude from the beginning of the race to the end.
Participating in the Triathlon or just visiting the island to watch is a great opportunity to check out rel=nofollow [http://www.nevisstylerealty.com/]Nevis real estate.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tristar-Triathlon-in-Nevis&id=6288720] Tristar Triathlon in Nevis
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Training For a Triathlon - 5 Top Tips
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jarrod_Fritsch]Jarrod Fritsch
Do you want to compete in your first triathlon? Are you unsure of how to start your training for your very first triathlon? Do you feel totally confused?
If so, this article will provide you with simple to use tips, strategies and information on how to get to the starting line of your first triathlon. There is no fancy lingo. There are no extensive training plans that must be followed. This article will simply enable you to reach a base level of fitness to get you ready to race.
So let's keep it simple and fun. Your triathlon training must be fun and something that you look forward to.
To complete your first triathlon you simply need to get some general base fitness in all of the 3 sections of the triathlon (swim, bike and run). For your first triathlon you do not need to follow an exhaustive or step-by-step training plan.
In my opinion it is not the amount of training time that we have, it is how we utilize that training time.
Tip 1: Select a Race
The first tip to having a successful first triathlon race is to simply get registered for your first race. There are various triathlon races all of different lengths. A Sprint distance race is usually the best choice for the new triathlete. This involves swimming 0.25 to 0.62 miles, biking 5 to 18.6 miles and running 1 to 3.9 miles.
Tip 2: Equipment
For your equipment I suggest that we employ the KISS principle. The fancy "toys" can come later. For your very first triathlon you just need to have the basic equipment.
The Swim: The essential items here are goggles and a swim cap. A wetsuit might be required if there is an open-water swim in cold water (International Triathlon Union).
The Bike: The essential items here are a bike (any bike in decent condition is suitable for your first triathlon) and a helmet (this is mandatory in every competition). Additional items may include; cycling shorts, water bottle and repair equipment (spare tires, etc)
The Run: The essential item here is to have a well-fitting and comfortable pair of running shoes. It is important that the shoes do not pinch anywhere. In addition, your running clothes should be comfortable and breathable and this should include a hat (preferably a cap made with mesh to allow for breathing).
Tip 3: The Swim
For many, the swim is often the most challenging part of the race, and for new triathletes this is certainly the case. If you are new to swimming, I would highly recommend consulting your local swim club and inquire about swimming lessons or jump online and check out many of the valuable swimming resources on the internet. Swimming is a very technical based sport, so any improvement in technique can take minutes off your swim time and leave you with more energy.
The key is to start your swim training slowly, start with short distances and have adequate recovery time. It is much better to start with shorter training amounts in your early phases of swim training than to overdo it and risk an injury. In a very short time, just two to three weeks, you will be more comfortable in the water and be more confident with swimming.
Your goal is to slowly increase your distance without taking a break. Each week you want to increase your swim distance by approximately 10% until you reach your race distance plus 10%.
Tip 4: The Bike
The cycling portion is the second leg of your triathlon race. A majority of triathletes find the bike leg of the triathlon the easiest part of the race. As with swimming, when you begin your cycle training, start with short distances and build toward the length of the bike leg, plus 10% that you will complete on race day.
The bike section of the race is the first opportunity that you get to hydrate and refuel. You want to train with the same food and hydration items that you will be using during the race. That way there will not be any surprises on the day with your nutrition.
If you have not done much cycling, you want to ensure that you get some practice on the road. You want to make sure that you are able to make turns and have correct balance on your bike.
The last thing to mention about your bike training is to train on the bike that you will be racing with as often as you can. The more you can train on the bike you will use during the race, the more confident you will feel on race day.
Tip 5: The Run
The run is the last part of the triathlon race. There are 2 types of training for the run: Firstly you need to improve your running distance, and secondly you need to learn how to run with tired legs, as you will have just completed the bike section of the race.
Improving your running distance is your first focus. If you are new to running than this process will take some time, so please be patient. Running is the most grueling on the body as your legs have to take the impact as your feet hit the pavement.
Your second focus is run training when your legs are already tired. This is generally achieved with "brick" sessions. A "brick" session is a bike ride followed by run session. The run does not need to be long, you are simply getting used to running after being on the bike. This will improve your stamina, leg strength and it will train your muscles to work after being on the bike.
I wish you loads of fun and success with your triathlon training and I hope you enjoy the experience of training and racing. Remember that the journey of a thousand miles starts with just a single step.
Jarrod Fritsch http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com
Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Jarrod offers Triathlon Training for Beginners. Jarrod offers a unique approach to training and racing, one that cuts through the "mystery" of how to train and prepare for your triathlon racing. Jarrod understands the needs of the beginner triathlete and offers an approach to training that caters for the demands of a busy schedule.
If you want to learn more about preparing for your first triathlon visit http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com/offer and purchase my "Triathlon Training for Beginners" guide. This guide will demystify how to get started in Triathlon and prepare you for your first race.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Training-For-a-Triathlon---5-Top-Tips&id=6300147] Training For a Triathlon - 5 Top Tips
Do you want to compete in your first triathlon? Are you unsure of how to start your training for your very first triathlon? Do you feel totally confused?
If so, this article will provide you with simple to use tips, strategies and information on how to get to the starting line of your first triathlon. There is no fancy lingo. There are no extensive training plans that must be followed. This article will simply enable you to reach a base level of fitness to get you ready to race.
So let's keep it simple and fun. Your triathlon training must be fun and something that you look forward to.
To complete your first triathlon you simply need to get some general base fitness in all of the 3 sections of the triathlon (swim, bike and run). For your first triathlon you do not need to follow an exhaustive or step-by-step training plan.
In my opinion it is not the amount of training time that we have, it is how we utilize that training time.
Tip 1: Select a Race
The first tip to having a successful first triathlon race is to simply get registered for your first race. There are various triathlon races all of different lengths. A Sprint distance race is usually the best choice for the new triathlete. This involves swimming 0.25 to 0.62 miles, biking 5 to 18.6 miles and running 1 to 3.9 miles.
Tip 2: Equipment
For your equipment I suggest that we employ the KISS principle. The fancy "toys" can come later. For your very first triathlon you just need to have the basic equipment.
The Swim: The essential items here are goggles and a swim cap. A wetsuit might be required if there is an open-water swim in cold water (International Triathlon Union).
The Bike: The essential items here are a bike (any bike in decent condition is suitable for your first triathlon) and a helmet (this is mandatory in every competition). Additional items may include; cycling shorts, water bottle and repair equipment (spare tires, etc)
The Run: The essential item here is to have a well-fitting and comfortable pair of running shoes. It is important that the shoes do not pinch anywhere. In addition, your running clothes should be comfortable and breathable and this should include a hat (preferably a cap made with mesh to allow for breathing).
Tip 3: The Swim
For many, the swim is often the most challenging part of the race, and for new triathletes this is certainly the case. If you are new to swimming, I would highly recommend consulting your local swim club and inquire about swimming lessons or jump online and check out many of the valuable swimming resources on the internet. Swimming is a very technical based sport, so any improvement in technique can take minutes off your swim time and leave you with more energy.
The key is to start your swim training slowly, start with short distances and have adequate recovery time. It is much better to start with shorter training amounts in your early phases of swim training than to overdo it and risk an injury. In a very short time, just two to three weeks, you will be more comfortable in the water and be more confident with swimming.
Your goal is to slowly increase your distance without taking a break. Each week you want to increase your swim distance by approximately 10% until you reach your race distance plus 10%.
Tip 4: The Bike
The cycling portion is the second leg of your triathlon race. A majority of triathletes find the bike leg of the triathlon the easiest part of the race. As with swimming, when you begin your cycle training, start with short distances and build toward the length of the bike leg, plus 10% that you will complete on race day.
The bike section of the race is the first opportunity that you get to hydrate and refuel. You want to train with the same food and hydration items that you will be using during the race. That way there will not be any surprises on the day with your nutrition.
If you have not done much cycling, you want to ensure that you get some practice on the road. You want to make sure that you are able to make turns and have correct balance on your bike.
The last thing to mention about your bike training is to train on the bike that you will be racing with as often as you can. The more you can train on the bike you will use during the race, the more confident you will feel on race day.
Tip 5: The Run
The run is the last part of the triathlon race. There are 2 types of training for the run: Firstly you need to improve your running distance, and secondly you need to learn how to run with tired legs, as you will have just completed the bike section of the race.
Improving your running distance is your first focus. If you are new to running than this process will take some time, so please be patient. Running is the most grueling on the body as your legs have to take the impact as your feet hit the pavement.
Your second focus is run training when your legs are already tired. This is generally achieved with "brick" sessions. A "brick" session is a bike ride followed by run session. The run does not need to be long, you are simply getting used to running after being on the bike. This will improve your stamina, leg strength and it will train your muscles to work after being on the bike.
I wish you loads of fun and success with your triathlon training and I hope you enjoy the experience of training and racing. Remember that the journey of a thousand miles starts with just a single step.
Jarrod Fritsch http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com
Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Jarrod offers Triathlon Training for Beginners. Jarrod offers a unique approach to training and racing, one that cuts through the "mystery" of how to train and prepare for your triathlon racing. Jarrod understands the needs of the beginner triathlete and offers an approach to training that caters for the demands of a busy schedule.
If you want to learn more about preparing for your first triathlon visit http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com/offer and purchase my "Triathlon Training for Beginners" guide. This guide will demystify how to get started in Triathlon and prepare you for your first race.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Training-For-a-Triathlon---5-Top-Tips&id=6300147] Training For a Triathlon - 5 Top Tips
Friday, February 24, 2012
Triathlon Training in Chamonix
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Chris_Lavender]Chris Lavender
Chamonix is an ideal location for triathlon and marathon training - illustrated by the success of two major events: the Triathlon at Lake Passy and the Mont-Blanc ultra-Marathon.
For Triathlon training purposes the resort boasts excellent facilities and the most stunning backdrop imaginable for swimming, cycling and running.
For swim training, there is the stunning Lake Passy which offers 1500m of open water training, plus a 50m outdoor pool. There is also a 25m indoor pool if the weather turns against you!
For road cycling, you are in Tour de France territory so expect some staggering ascents and numerous world famous cols. And what goes up must come down so beware of the adrenalin pumping high speed descents. If you prefer to take it a little easier there are plenty of flat rides along the valley so you can always head over to Samoens or Morzine.. or take a tour of Lake Geneva which is 170 km loop.
For running you can choose from flat well sign posted forest trails offering 60 / 90 minute comfortable runs and a range of more challenging tracks with vertical ascents of over 1000m!
The network of flat roads, steep paths and miles of beautiful mountain trails offers unbeatable training terrain. The tourist office will be able to supply you with maps, and guides to the walking and biking paths available.
Chamonix is hosting the 8th annual Mont Blanc triathlon this year on 28th August 2011. The stages of the race include a 1500m swim around the lake, a 40km cycle race and a 10km run. There is also a half-distance "sprint" version and two shorter courses for children and teens.
The Mont Blanc Marathon is held this year on 25th June. This is a normal Marathon length but do not be fooled! There is an elevation of 2500m and a 1500m descent which classifies this race as an ultra-marathon.
Chamonix can also provide a base for other Major European competitions, from the Iron Man competition (in Switzerland, Austria and NICE) to the French Elite Triathlon Grand Prix series and the European world cup races.
As with any extreme sport, you need to train sensibly - and there is great online training and nutrition support to help you through. Chamonix also has tailor made training camps available, and some great in resort Physiotherapists specialised for sports injuries.
If you like the idea of triathlon training in Chamonix then you should stay at rel=nofollow [http://www.rudechalets.com/Snow/Chalets/Chalet-Chocolat-Chamonix/4/8/182.aspx]Chalet Chocolat in les Pelerins.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Triathlon-Training-in-Chamonix&id=6302082] Triathlon Training in Chamonix
Chamonix is an ideal location for triathlon and marathon training - illustrated by the success of two major events: the Triathlon at Lake Passy and the Mont-Blanc ultra-Marathon.
For Triathlon training purposes the resort boasts excellent facilities and the most stunning backdrop imaginable for swimming, cycling and running.
For swim training, there is the stunning Lake Passy which offers 1500m of open water training, plus a 50m outdoor pool. There is also a 25m indoor pool if the weather turns against you!
For road cycling, you are in Tour de France territory so expect some staggering ascents and numerous world famous cols. And what goes up must come down so beware of the adrenalin pumping high speed descents. If you prefer to take it a little easier there are plenty of flat rides along the valley so you can always head over to Samoens or Morzine.. or take a tour of Lake Geneva which is 170 km loop.
For running you can choose from flat well sign posted forest trails offering 60 / 90 minute comfortable runs and a range of more challenging tracks with vertical ascents of over 1000m!
The network of flat roads, steep paths and miles of beautiful mountain trails offers unbeatable training terrain. The tourist office will be able to supply you with maps, and guides to the walking and biking paths available.
Chamonix is hosting the 8th annual Mont Blanc triathlon this year on 28th August 2011. The stages of the race include a 1500m swim around the lake, a 40km cycle race and a 10km run. There is also a half-distance "sprint" version and two shorter courses for children and teens.
The Mont Blanc Marathon is held this year on 25th June. This is a normal Marathon length but do not be fooled! There is an elevation of 2500m and a 1500m descent which classifies this race as an ultra-marathon.
Chamonix can also provide a base for other Major European competitions, from the Iron Man competition (in Switzerland, Austria and NICE) to the French Elite Triathlon Grand Prix series and the European world cup races.
As with any extreme sport, you need to train sensibly - and there is great online training and nutrition support to help you through. Chamonix also has tailor made training camps available, and some great in resort Physiotherapists specialised for sports injuries.
If you like the idea of triathlon training in Chamonix then you should stay at rel=nofollow [http://www.rudechalets.com/Snow/Chalets/Chalet-Chocolat-Chamonix/4/8/182.aspx]Chalet Chocolat in les Pelerins.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Triathlon-Training-in-Chamonix&id=6302082] Triathlon Training in Chamonix
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
5 Mental Race Day Tactics to Turn You Into A Triathlon Ninja
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ben_Greenfield]Ben Greenfield
A triathlon ninja is smart and sleek, and sometimes wears a sexy black compression bandana under their bike helmet*
A triathlon ninja is calm and cool under pressure, and can do impressive things like count how many gels they've had in the past 2 hours.
A triathlon ninja sneaks up barely noticed, usually late in the race when everyone else is fading, and whoosh! turns up the heat and burns streaks of speed in the pavement.
*performance enhancing benefits not proven by research.
Are you a triathlon ninja? Do you want to be one?
In this article, you'll learn five race day mental tactics that allow you to become a triathlon ninja, and use your ninja superpowers to push your body outside your comfort zone, physically beyond what you believe to be possible, and into a new level of personal achievement. Sweet. Are you ready grasshopper?
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #1: Break Up.
While your subconscious mind can grasp the concept continuously swimming, cycling and running from point A to point B, or even of traversing 140.6 miles in a single day, your conscious mind (the part that actually dictates your race day decisions) is easily distracted.
For a triathlon ninja, this distraction can be a good thing, because you can feed your conscious mind tiny intermediate goals to break things up. Rather than having to making it to the finish line, you convince your body to make it to the next buoy, the next telephone pole, or the next aid station.
I personally divide most triathlons into much more than 3 separate events (swim, bike, run) and instead typically categorize 6-12 separate "sections" of the race on paper, then study that paper going into the race.
Got it? OK, you've got Step 1 of 5 (see you're already learning how to break things up).
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #2: Dig Deep.
There's very little you'll experience in a race that you haven't already experienced in training. You just have to remember to dig deep enough during the race to call on those times in training when you headed out the door to run in torrential rain, rode your bike 30 miles on half-inflated tires, or finished off 1500 meters of a swim while resisting the compelling urge to rush to the bathroom and take a dump.
During a race, the slight discomfort that we put up with in training can sometimes mentally or physically derail us. So when the going gets tough, think back to the hardest part of your training, including somehow getting your heart rate near maximum at 5am in the morning, and draw on those episodes during the race.
Want practice? Compare getting through this article to reading Moby Dick in high school and you�re well on your way to become a triathlon ninja.
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #3: Ask Why
A triathlon ninja knows their motivation for doing triathlons.
Some people do triathlons to live a long time so they can see their grandkids.
Some people do triathlons because they were never any good at sports and this lets them be an athlete.
Some people do triathlons because it makes them look good naked.
Regardless of what your motivation is, you need to identify it and know why you do triathlon.
Then, when you're riding up the steepest hill of the race, ready to fall off your bike and puke, you can remember that the whole reason you're doing this is so that you look sexy for your tropical vacation in 2 weeks. Or whatever motivates your ninja heart.
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #4: Harness Energy
You've probably seen the video game or movie where the superhuman being clutches two hands to their chest, creates a giant ball of fiery energy then releases the burning orb into a crowd of fierce opponents, dispersing the enemy like rag dolls.
A triathlon ninja has those same superpowers.
When you go running up the beach from the swim, harness the energy of the screaming crowds. Feel it. Use it.
When you ride through the aid station, feel the positive energy emanating from the generous volunteers, and use that too.
And as you run, try to smile. This smiling strategy helps significantly�, because people smile right back at you and cheer you on (whereas nobody really claps much for the triathlete who looks like they're on Planet Hell).
So yes, I'm the guy at the race who's doing the rock star pump-up-the-crowd hand waving as I ride out of transition � and yes, that's kinda hard to do when your heart is pumping out your throat, but it's worth the effort when you ride back into transition and those same people give you that energy right back.
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #5: See Success
Close your eyes.
Can you imagine the feel of the water in your hand during the swim, the air blowing by your cheeks on the bike, and the slap of your foot against the pavement on the run?
If not, you may need triathlon ninja practice.
The best athletes on the planet regularly engage in visualization, in which they close their eyes and imagine everything happening perfectly. This takes practice and imagination, but your mind can be trained to visualize powerfully.
Start with small things, like closing your eyes and feeling the sand on the beach under your feet before the race starts.
Then progress to more complex visualization, such as seeing and feeling yourself successfully snag a water bottle as you fly by an aid station on your bike. If you're really good, you can imagine yourself brining that aid station water bottle to your mouth and feeling the cool water refresh you. And you know you need a little more practice, or an Alzheimer's screening, if you're having a hard time mentally recalling what an aid station actually looks like.
So what do you think? Can you be a triathlon ninja? You bet you can. Remember!
Break up.
Dig deep.
Ask why.
Harness energy.
See success.
I'll see you at the races. I'll be the guy with the compression bandana.
Get even more information on this hot topic over at [http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com]http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com, where you can grab a free book from author Ben Greenfield, jam-packed with over 75 pages of fitness, nutrition and human performance content. You'll also get instant access to a free weekly audio podcast, videos, free iPhone app and more!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?5-Mental-Race-Day-Tactics-to-Turn-You-Into-A-Triathlon-Ninja&id=6307416] 5 Mental Race Day Tactics to Turn You Into A Triathlon Ninja
A triathlon ninja is smart and sleek, and sometimes wears a sexy black compression bandana under their bike helmet*
A triathlon ninja is calm and cool under pressure, and can do impressive things like count how many gels they've had in the past 2 hours.
A triathlon ninja sneaks up barely noticed, usually late in the race when everyone else is fading, and whoosh! turns up the heat and burns streaks of speed in the pavement.
*performance enhancing benefits not proven by research.
Are you a triathlon ninja? Do you want to be one?
In this article, you'll learn five race day mental tactics that allow you to become a triathlon ninja, and use your ninja superpowers to push your body outside your comfort zone, physically beyond what you believe to be possible, and into a new level of personal achievement. Sweet. Are you ready grasshopper?
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #1: Break Up.
While your subconscious mind can grasp the concept continuously swimming, cycling and running from point A to point B, or even of traversing 140.6 miles in a single day, your conscious mind (the part that actually dictates your race day decisions) is easily distracted.
For a triathlon ninja, this distraction can be a good thing, because you can feed your conscious mind tiny intermediate goals to break things up. Rather than having to making it to the finish line, you convince your body to make it to the next buoy, the next telephone pole, or the next aid station.
I personally divide most triathlons into much more than 3 separate events (swim, bike, run) and instead typically categorize 6-12 separate "sections" of the race on paper, then study that paper going into the race.
Got it? OK, you've got Step 1 of 5 (see you're already learning how to break things up).
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #2: Dig Deep.
There's very little you'll experience in a race that you haven't already experienced in training. You just have to remember to dig deep enough during the race to call on those times in training when you headed out the door to run in torrential rain, rode your bike 30 miles on half-inflated tires, or finished off 1500 meters of a swim while resisting the compelling urge to rush to the bathroom and take a dump.
During a race, the slight discomfort that we put up with in training can sometimes mentally or physically derail us. So when the going gets tough, think back to the hardest part of your training, including somehow getting your heart rate near maximum at 5am in the morning, and draw on those episodes during the race.
Want practice? Compare getting through this article to reading Moby Dick in high school and you�re well on your way to become a triathlon ninja.
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #3: Ask Why
A triathlon ninja knows their motivation for doing triathlons.
Some people do triathlons to live a long time so they can see their grandkids.
Some people do triathlons because they were never any good at sports and this lets them be an athlete.
Some people do triathlons because it makes them look good naked.
Regardless of what your motivation is, you need to identify it and know why you do triathlon.
Then, when you're riding up the steepest hill of the race, ready to fall off your bike and puke, you can remember that the whole reason you're doing this is so that you look sexy for your tropical vacation in 2 weeks. Or whatever motivates your ninja heart.
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #4: Harness Energy
You've probably seen the video game or movie where the superhuman being clutches two hands to their chest, creates a giant ball of fiery energy then releases the burning orb into a crowd of fierce opponents, dispersing the enemy like rag dolls.
A triathlon ninja has those same superpowers.
When you go running up the beach from the swim, harness the energy of the screaming crowds. Feel it. Use it.
When you ride through the aid station, feel the positive energy emanating from the generous volunteers, and use that too.
And as you run, try to smile. This smiling strategy helps significantly�, because people smile right back at you and cheer you on (whereas nobody really claps much for the triathlete who looks like they're on Planet Hell).
So yes, I'm the guy at the race who's doing the rock star pump-up-the-crowd hand waving as I ride out of transition � and yes, that's kinda hard to do when your heart is pumping out your throat, but it's worth the effort when you ride back into transition and those same people give you that energy right back.
Triathlon Ninja Race Day Mental Tactic #5: See Success
Close your eyes.
Can you imagine the feel of the water in your hand during the swim, the air blowing by your cheeks on the bike, and the slap of your foot against the pavement on the run?
If not, you may need triathlon ninja practice.
The best athletes on the planet regularly engage in visualization, in which they close their eyes and imagine everything happening perfectly. This takes practice and imagination, but your mind can be trained to visualize powerfully.
Start with small things, like closing your eyes and feeling the sand on the beach under your feet before the race starts.
Then progress to more complex visualization, such as seeing and feeling yourself successfully snag a water bottle as you fly by an aid station on your bike. If you're really good, you can imagine yourself brining that aid station water bottle to your mouth and feeling the cool water refresh you. And you know you need a little more practice, or an Alzheimer's screening, if you're having a hard time mentally recalling what an aid station actually looks like.
So what do you think? Can you be a triathlon ninja? You bet you can. Remember!
Break up.
Dig deep.
Ask why.
Harness energy.
See success.
I'll see you at the races. I'll be the guy with the compression bandana.
Get even more information on this hot topic over at [http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com]http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com, where you can grab a free book from author Ben Greenfield, jam-packed with over 75 pages of fitness, nutrition and human performance content. You'll also get instant access to a free weekly audio podcast, videos, free iPhone app and more!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?5-Mental-Race-Day-Tactics-to-Turn-You-Into-A-Triathlon-Ninja&id=6307416] 5 Mental Race Day Tactics to Turn You Into A Triathlon Ninja
Monday, February 20, 2012
10 Triathlon Training Schedule Time Savers
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ben_Greenfield]Ben Greenfield
There are a ton of triathlon training schedules. Some are good, some are bad, and some are nice to look at when you need to fall asleep quickly and don't have any sleeping pills nearby.
But regardless of which triathlon training schedule you use, there are 10 crucial time-saving elements you need to be looking for, if you don't want to waste time training when you could be kissing up to your boss, wasting time on YouTube, or teaching your kids how to make offensive sounds with their armpits.
So in no particular order of importance (except that the first one is about food, which I find myself thinking about a lot as a self-admitted food junkie), here are your 10 triathlon training schedule time savers:
10. Eat Lunch Fast. Taking 5 minutes to eat your lunch will leave, in most cases, 55 extra minutes in your triathlon training schedule. So what takes a long time to eat? Salads, casseroles, dinner leftovers - and pretty much anything that requires cutlery. Choose these instead: wraps, sandwiches, smoothies and shakes. And yes, I am that guy riding my bicycle down the road as I finish up a turkey-avocado wrap that I've wrapped in aluminum foil and stuffed down my bike jersey.
9. Quality Over Quantity. Most triathletes, especially the Ironman ones, swim 140% too much, bike 200% too much and run 170% too much - mostly because there is too little hard fast training and too much long slow training. I personally use a ton of high intensity interval training workouts (HIIT), and that means I get to watch movies with my kids at night. So what's an example of HIIT? Rather than going on a 45 minute run, I'll do 10 treadmill 30-60 second sprints on the highest incline I can possibly manage, and then do my core workout between each sprint.
8. Commute. Ride your bike to work. Put your clothes in a backpack, and pack baby wipes or Actionwipes to wipe yourself down. If you're like me, you can even go so far as to wash your hair in the sink. If this doesn't work for your triathlon training schedule you can also: A) run to the grocery store for small items (I run hard there, and then easy back while I'm carrying stuff like bananas); B) do errands on your bike (not recommended for anything that involves your hair looking nice); or C) ride or run to social events, like parties, and then drive home with your friends or family.
7. Family Training Tools. As soon as my wife and I found out we were pregnant with twins (actually she was, I just helped, which was the fun part), we equipped our garage with a double bike trailer and a double jogger. The bike trailer always has two little bike helmets and a bunch of books and toys inside (you'd be surprised at how long a Batman action figure will keep a little boy entertained on a long bike ride). My wife uses the jogger to take the kids on little nature field-trips, or to soccer, swimming, and even the gym (speaking of the gym, try to join one that has free kid care, like the YMCA, so you and your spouse can exercise together). Some triathlon training schedule advice is to do "Invisible Training", which is done early in the morning or late at night when your training is "invisible" to your family, but I encourage you, at least once a week, to set a good example and make family a part of your training.
6. Indoor Training. It sounds a bit blah, but if you want to free up time in your triathlon training schedule, you can save many, many minutes by hopping on an indoor trainer or treadmill rather than getting dressed for weather conditions, going outside, and fighting stop signs, stop lights, traffic and Grandma's on rollerblades with their 8 grandchildren and 2 schnozzle dogs. You'll even find me sometimes skipping my swim to do an indoor workout.
5. Eat Right. If you're eating calories that don't have high nutritional value, a good part of your triathlon training schedule is going to be spent simply A) trying not to get fat and/or B) fighting against the recovery and fitness reducing effect that "empty calories" have on your body. Anything process, refined or packaged should comprise only a very small part of your diet, and everything else should come from whole, raw, real food. And yes, the local coffeeshop bakery case falls into the latter category, even the cookies with the pink frosting that say "Fat-Free". I also recommend that just about everybody take the bare minimum supplementation protocol: Vitamin D, Magnesium, Fish Oil and Greens.
4. Communication. You, your spouse, your family, your friends, your co-workers and your boss should be aware of your triathlon training schedule when you have a 5 hour bike ride planned for the weekend, or you decide to disappear to the gym for an extra hour on Wednesday morning. We keep a big calendar by our front door where we write down workouts, family events, races, and sometimes the ever-present reminder for me to "mow the lawn already". If you and your spouse are geeks, you could certainly use something like Google calendar or the "Remember The Milk" phone app - but we go old-school paper calendar at the Greenfield house. I'm also very open to friends and co-workers when I can't hang out. Don't be embarrassed to wear your triathlon training schedule on your sleeve - most people will respect you for being committed to fitness.
3. Friday Night Fuddy-Duddy. Speaking of friends, I don't recommend you engage in heavy drinking or late night social activities on Friday night - primarily because Saturday is such valuable time for getting in your triathlon training scheduled workouts. Save the tom-foolery for Saturday nights or Sunday afternoons, when you've gotten your high quality training out of the way. My wife and I will often stay in on Friday night, grab a movie (the last good one was "Due Date", but I digress), have a date night, hit the sack by 10pm, and be fresh and ready to get started into workouts or training on Saturday.
2. Cross-Train. Lately, many of my social relationships are now formed from playing tennis with a group of guys. For me, that's my social outlet that keeps me from being an isolated triathlon geek who has lost the skill to communicate with the general population and mostly just stares off into space and utters phrases like "Oily Cassette Blurby Blah-Blah". You're not "wasting time" when you cross-train in your triathlon training schedule - instead, there is often a very good training effect upon your triathlon fitness. While the social sports of golf, softball and baseball may not be the best cardiovascular cross-training activities, look into group activities like soccer, basketball, tennis, or if you are an international reader, cricket (I know nothing about cricket, but I threw that in there to make this a globally relevant article and to appease any Eastern hemisphere readers).
1. Non-Triathlon Post-Race Festivities. If you've got a family, the last thing you want is your family to regret you taking them to the big race in your triathlon training schedule. By all means, do not arrive at your race 5-7 days before the race with your family for a "vacation", spend the entire vacation fretting about racing and tweaking your bicycle, and then fly home the night of the race or the morning after. Instead, go to the race later in the week, like 3 or 4 days early (you're not a professional athlete, for crying out loud, so why skip out on life just to acclimate?) and then stay 2-3 days after the race to engage in non-triathlon post-race festivities with your family, like theme parks, scenic attractions, wine tasting, or if you'll really up for an adventure, wine tasting at theme parks. I take no responsibility for injuries incurred during that last activity.
If you're trying to prepare for a triathlon without neglecting your friends, family or career, then these time-saving tips should be good additions to your triathlon training schedule. If you want more advice just like this, then you'll want to visit rel=nofollow [http://www.triathlondominator.com]http://www.triathlondominator.com, where I've got more techniques for Half-Ironman and Ironman triathletes to get maximum results with minimum training time. See you there!
Get even more information on this hot topic over at [http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com]http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com, where you can grab a free book from author Ben Greenfield, jam-packed with over 75 pages of fitness, nutrition and human performance content. You'll also get instant access to a free weekly audio podcast, videos, free iPhone app and more!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?10-Triathlon-Training-Schedule-Time-Savers&id=6287231] 10 Triathlon Training Schedule Time Savers
There are a ton of triathlon training schedules. Some are good, some are bad, and some are nice to look at when you need to fall asleep quickly and don't have any sleeping pills nearby.
But regardless of which triathlon training schedule you use, there are 10 crucial time-saving elements you need to be looking for, if you don't want to waste time training when you could be kissing up to your boss, wasting time on YouTube, or teaching your kids how to make offensive sounds with their armpits.
So in no particular order of importance (except that the first one is about food, which I find myself thinking about a lot as a self-admitted food junkie), here are your 10 triathlon training schedule time savers:
10. Eat Lunch Fast. Taking 5 minutes to eat your lunch will leave, in most cases, 55 extra minutes in your triathlon training schedule. So what takes a long time to eat? Salads, casseroles, dinner leftovers - and pretty much anything that requires cutlery. Choose these instead: wraps, sandwiches, smoothies and shakes. And yes, I am that guy riding my bicycle down the road as I finish up a turkey-avocado wrap that I've wrapped in aluminum foil and stuffed down my bike jersey.
9. Quality Over Quantity. Most triathletes, especially the Ironman ones, swim 140% too much, bike 200% too much and run 170% too much - mostly because there is too little hard fast training and too much long slow training. I personally use a ton of high intensity interval training workouts (HIIT), and that means I get to watch movies with my kids at night. So what's an example of HIIT? Rather than going on a 45 minute run, I'll do 10 treadmill 30-60 second sprints on the highest incline I can possibly manage, and then do my core workout between each sprint.
8. Commute. Ride your bike to work. Put your clothes in a backpack, and pack baby wipes or Actionwipes to wipe yourself down. If you're like me, you can even go so far as to wash your hair in the sink. If this doesn't work for your triathlon training schedule you can also: A) run to the grocery store for small items (I run hard there, and then easy back while I'm carrying stuff like bananas); B) do errands on your bike (not recommended for anything that involves your hair looking nice); or C) ride or run to social events, like parties, and then drive home with your friends or family.
7. Family Training Tools. As soon as my wife and I found out we were pregnant with twins (actually she was, I just helped, which was the fun part), we equipped our garage with a double bike trailer and a double jogger. The bike trailer always has two little bike helmets and a bunch of books and toys inside (you'd be surprised at how long a Batman action figure will keep a little boy entertained on a long bike ride). My wife uses the jogger to take the kids on little nature field-trips, or to soccer, swimming, and even the gym (speaking of the gym, try to join one that has free kid care, like the YMCA, so you and your spouse can exercise together). Some triathlon training schedule advice is to do "Invisible Training", which is done early in the morning or late at night when your training is "invisible" to your family, but I encourage you, at least once a week, to set a good example and make family a part of your training.
6. Indoor Training. It sounds a bit blah, but if you want to free up time in your triathlon training schedule, you can save many, many minutes by hopping on an indoor trainer or treadmill rather than getting dressed for weather conditions, going outside, and fighting stop signs, stop lights, traffic and Grandma's on rollerblades with their 8 grandchildren and 2 schnozzle dogs. You'll even find me sometimes skipping my swim to do an indoor workout.
5. Eat Right. If you're eating calories that don't have high nutritional value, a good part of your triathlon training schedule is going to be spent simply A) trying not to get fat and/or B) fighting against the recovery and fitness reducing effect that "empty calories" have on your body. Anything process, refined or packaged should comprise only a very small part of your diet, and everything else should come from whole, raw, real food. And yes, the local coffeeshop bakery case falls into the latter category, even the cookies with the pink frosting that say "Fat-Free". I also recommend that just about everybody take the bare minimum supplementation protocol: Vitamin D, Magnesium, Fish Oil and Greens.
4. Communication. You, your spouse, your family, your friends, your co-workers and your boss should be aware of your triathlon training schedule when you have a 5 hour bike ride planned for the weekend, or you decide to disappear to the gym for an extra hour on Wednesday morning. We keep a big calendar by our front door where we write down workouts, family events, races, and sometimes the ever-present reminder for me to "mow the lawn already". If you and your spouse are geeks, you could certainly use something like Google calendar or the "Remember The Milk" phone app - but we go old-school paper calendar at the Greenfield house. I'm also very open to friends and co-workers when I can't hang out. Don't be embarrassed to wear your triathlon training schedule on your sleeve - most people will respect you for being committed to fitness.
3. Friday Night Fuddy-Duddy. Speaking of friends, I don't recommend you engage in heavy drinking or late night social activities on Friday night - primarily because Saturday is such valuable time for getting in your triathlon training scheduled workouts. Save the tom-foolery for Saturday nights or Sunday afternoons, when you've gotten your high quality training out of the way. My wife and I will often stay in on Friday night, grab a movie (the last good one was "Due Date", but I digress), have a date night, hit the sack by 10pm, and be fresh and ready to get started into workouts or training on Saturday.
2. Cross-Train. Lately, many of my social relationships are now formed from playing tennis with a group of guys. For me, that's my social outlet that keeps me from being an isolated triathlon geek who has lost the skill to communicate with the general population and mostly just stares off into space and utters phrases like "Oily Cassette Blurby Blah-Blah". You're not "wasting time" when you cross-train in your triathlon training schedule - instead, there is often a very good training effect upon your triathlon fitness. While the social sports of golf, softball and baseball may not be the best cardiovascular cross-training activities, look into group activities like soccer, basketball, tennis, or if you are an international reader, cricket (I know nothing about cricket, but I threw that in there to make this a globally relevant article and to appease any Eastern hemisphere readers).
1. Non-Triathlon Post-Race Festivities. If you've got a family, the last thing you want is your family to regret you taking them to the big race in your triathlon training schedule. By all means, do not arrive at your race 5-7 days before the race with your family for a "vacation", spend the entire vacation fretting about racing and tweaking your bicycle, and then fly home the night of the race or the morning after. Instead, go to the race later in the week, like 3 or 4 days early (you're not a professional athlete, for crying out loud, so why skip out on life just to acclimate?) and then stay 2-3 days after the race to engage in non-triathlon post-race festivities with your family, like theme parks, scenic attractions, wine tasting, or if you'll really up for an adventure, wine tasting at theme parks. I take no responsibility for injuries incurred during that last activity.
If you're trying to prepare for a triathlon without neglecting your friends, family or career, then these time-saving tips should be good additions to your triathlon training schedule. If you want more advice just like this, then you'll want to visit rel=nofollow [http://www.triathlondominator.com]http://www.triathlondominator.com, where I've got more techniques for Half-Ironman and Ironman triathletes to get maximum results with minimum training time. See you there!
Get even more information on this hot topic over at [http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com]http://www.bengreenfieldfitness.com, where you can grab a free book from author Ben Greenfield, jam-packed with over 75 pages of fitness, nutrition and human performance content. You'll also get instant access to a free weekly audio podcast, videos, free iPhone app and more!
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?10-Triathlon-Training-Schedule-Time-Savers&id=6287231] 10 Triathlon Training Schedule Time Savers
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Couch to Marathon Transformation
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dade_Hamiill]Dade Hamiill
Coaching runners in the last ten years has taught me that a successful marathon experience isn't about a magical pill or program. I have given the same training plan to ten runners and seen 10 totally different effects. It's not so much about what you do to practice as how to deal with the impact of training for your life, body, and mind. Instead of talking of mileage each week, it's more essential to talk about the ideas of marathon training - what I will refer to here as the Key Six Phases of the marathon life cycle.
Phase One: Commit
It's the one thing to put a race on the bucket list, it's another to decide on a race and drop the money on an entry payment. Signing up provides you something to show for your family and friends; it's a gathering that you can mark as a milestone in your personal calendar. You never know, maybe you might convince some of your crazy pals to sign up with you!
Phase Two: Connect
Now you are technically "in" in the race, it's the perfect time to start building a little community who'll support and keep you going en route to your finish line. While you might have your own pre-existing team in place, here's a few activities to do if you begin from scratch. Look for a local running shop where one can take a seat and chat (even if briefly) with a fellow runner about the right footwear for you. This shop will probably provide the important information on the local run.
Phase Three: Conspire
With the event kept in together with a team to run with at least part of the time, you can now turn your focus on your marathon training program. Choosing the suitable method has less to do with the plan itself, and more to do with you...so always place yourself first when you make your decision.
Phase Four: Consistency
Whatever plan you do end up picking, your main aim is get stick to it as closely as you can. The most effective training plans are "Easy To Do," in that there isn't any super-hard sessions or not easy to comprehend guidance. The greatest goal of the marathon plan is to help you get prepared to deal with the rigors of 26.2 miles - and the fastest way to achieve that is to get you running as often as possible for as long as you can handle during that time.
Phase Five: Doubt
Nobody is ever honestly ready for competition day. Speak with any person on the starting line on race weekend and you'll hear plenty of awesome reports of overcoming obstacles like injuries, scheduling, health, etc. It's just part of what we do as runners; do your very best to stay focused and don't be afraid to request for support from the networks you've built in early phases of your training.
Phase Six: Conserve
Once you're in a running groove, you'll find that running is actually effortless. You like it, it's empowering and it's transforming who you are. So if 40 miles per week is good...then 60 or 80 must be better, right? If the 20-miler is good, a 24-miler should be better, right? Wrong!
Remember our mantra of Consistency above; getting aggressive with all or part of your training is a major roll of the dice. The gamble might help some, but they are frequently within the minority, and it's not worth it this early in your running career.
Dade is a lover of sports and he wants share to the world his passion on Marathon. Learn more about [http://www.marathonnation.us/marathon-training/the-couch-to-marathon-transformation/]Couch to Marathon and get the best [http://www.marathonnation.us/]marathon training schedule suited for you.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Couch-to-Marathon-Transformation&id=6309534] Couch to Marathon Transformation
Coaching runners in the last ten years has taught me that a successful marathon experience isn't about a magical pill or program. I have given the same training plan to ten runners and seen 10 totally different effects. It's not so much about what you do to practice as how to deal with the impact of training for your life, body, and mind. Instead of talking of mileage each week, it's more essential to talk about the ideas of marathon training - what I will refer to here as the Key Six Phases of the marathon life cycle.
Phase One: Commit
It's the one thing to put a race on the bucket list, it's another to decide on a race and drop the money on an entry payment. Signing up provides you something to show for your family and friends; it's a gathering that you can mark as a milestone in your personal calendar. You never know, maybe you might convince some of your crazy pals to sign up with you!
Phase Two: Connect
Now you are technically "in" in the race, it's the perfect time to start building a little community who'll support and keep you going en route to your finish line. While you might have your own pre-existing team in place, here's a few activities to do if you begin from scratch. Look for a local running shop where one can take a seat and chat (even if briefly) with a fellow runner about the right footwear for you. This shop will probably provide the important information on the local run.
Phase Three: Conspire
With the event kept in together with a team to run with at least part of the time, you can now turn your focus on your marathon training program. Choosing the suitable method has less to do with the plan itself, and more to do with you...so always place yourself first when you make your decision.
Phase Four: Consistency
Whatever plan you do end up picking, your main aim is get stick to it as closely as you can. The most effective training plans are "Easy To Do," in that there isn't any super-hard sessions or not easy to comprehend guidance. The greatest goal of the marathon plan is to help you get prepared to deal with the rigors of 26.2 miles - and the fastest way to achieve that is to get you running as often as possible for as long as you can handle during that time.
Phase Five: Doubt
Nobody is ever honestly ready for competition day. Speak with any person on the starting line on race weekend and you'll hear plenty of awesome reports of overcoming obstacles like injuries, scheduling, health, etc. It's just part of what we do as runners; do your very best to stay focused and don't be afraid to request for support from the networks you've built in early phases of your training.
Phase Six: Conserve
Once you're in a running groove, you'll find that running is actually effortless. You like it, it's empowering and it's transforming who you are. So if 40 miles per week is good...then 60 or 80 must be better, right? If the 20-miler is good, a 24-miler should be better, right? Wrong!
Remember our mantra of Consistency above; getting aggressive with all or part of your training is a major roll of the dice. The gamble might help some, but they are frequently within the minority, and it's not worth it this early in your running career.
Dade is a lover of sports and he wants share to the world his passion on Marathon. Learn more about [http://www.marathonnation.us/marathon-training/the-couch-to-marathon-transformation/]Couch to Marathon and get the best [http://www.marathonnation.us/]marathon training schedule suited for you.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Couch-to-Marathon-Transformation&id=6309534] Couch to Marathon Transformation
Thursday, February 16, 2012
What Are the Top 5 Features To Consider When Buying a Triathlon Wetsuit?
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mike_Kirkman]Mike Kirkman
Here is a quick guide outlining key considerations to take into account when you are purchasing a triathlon wetsuit. This guide features triathlon wetsuit material right through to the manufacturer's warranty.
Triathlon Wetsuit material
The most common material is neoprene, which comes in different levels depending on your price range. Top brands coat their more expensive wetsuits with a silicon coating skin (SCS) that cuts quicker through water helping with propulsion and glide through the water. The "nano" coating on some wetsuits helps trap air between the silicon and the suit to increase buoyancy. It's important to look for a wetsuit that has different levels of thickness with the shoulder panels and arms thinner than the chest and legs. The thicker material around the torso and upper legs will help with floatation and the thinner panels help with easier movement and flexibility.
Correct fit and wetsuit construction
The wetsuit needs to fit snuggly and it should not let in any water flow. This means the wrists, ankles and neck should have a comfortable firm seal. The wetsuit construction itself should have a mixture of stitching and glue between the panels to increase the life of your wetsuit. The wetsuit will initially feel tight and hot when you first try it on out of the water. Once you enter the water it will start to feel more comfortable. Choose the correct size by using the height and weight size guides found on most online retail websites. As a rule of thumb if your body type is tall and thin then be guided more by the height and with short and wide body types go with the weight size guides.
Quick release zipper
Make sure the zipper draws all the way down the back, so the end is level with your hips. This makes it easier to put the wetsuit on and ensures an easier transition when taking off your wetsuit from the water exit. You can also use a water-soluble lubricant around your ankles to make it even easier to take off your wetsuit.
Propulsion panels and speed strakes
Rubber panels on the bottom side of the forearms act as a paddles when swimming. This helps the pull stroke and creates faster propulsion through the water. Another new feature for top of the range wetsuits include speed strakes along the chest panels and the legs. The strakes help hydrodynamic stability in choppy water and it also helps you keep a straight line in the flat, outdoor water.
Manufacturer's Warranty
If you are buying online, always check that the retailer has a warranty and exchange policy in place. Buying a wetsuit is an expensive investment, so it's important to have piece of mind if it is damaged due to manufacturing error.
For more information on a wide range of wetsuits from entry to high performance, please visit rel=nofollow [http://www.triathlon-wetsuits.org.uk]Triathlon Wetsuits.
Mike Kirkman,
Helping you achieve your triathlon goals http://www.triathlon2win.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Are-the-Top-5-Features-To-Consider-When-Buying-a-Triathlon-Wetsuit?&id=6327411] What Are the Top 5 Features To Consider When Buying a Triathlon Wetsuit?
Here is a quick guide outlining key considerations to take into account when you are purchasing a triathlon wetsuit. This guide features triathlon wetsuit material right through to the manufacturer's warranty.
Triathlon Wetsuit material
The most common material is neoprene, which comes in different levels depending on your price range. Top brands coat their more expensive wetsuits with a silicon coating skin (SCS) that cuts quicker through water helping with propulsion and glide through the water. The "nano" coating on some wetsuits helps trap air between the silicon and the suit to increase buoyancy. It's important to look for a wetsuit that has different levels of thickness with the shoulder panels and arms thinner than the chest and legs. The thicker material around the torso and upper legs will help with floatation and the thinner panels help with easier movement and flexibility.
Correct fit and wetsuit construction
The wetsuit needs to fit snuggly and it should not let in any water flow. This means the wrists, ankles and neck should have a comfortable firm seal. The wetsuit construction itself should have a mixture of stitching and glue between the panels to increase the life of your wetsuit. The wetsuit will initially feel tight and hot when you first try it on out of the water. Once you enter the water it will start to feel more comfortable. Choose the correct size by using the height and weight size guides found on most online retail websites. As a rule of thumb if your body type is tall and thin then be guided more by the height and with short and wide body types go with the weight size guides.
Quick release zipper
Make sure the zipper draws all the way down the back, so the end is level with your hips. This makes it easier to put the wetsuit on and ensures an easier transition when taking off your wetsuit from the water exit. You can also use a water-soluble lubricant around your ankles to make it even easier to take off your wetsuit.
Propulsion panels and speed strakes
Rubber panels on the bottom side of the forearms act as a paddles when swimming. This helps the pull stroke and creates faster propulsion through the water. Another new feature for top of the range wetsuits include speed strakes along the chest panels and the legs. The strakes help hydrodynamic stability in choppy water and it also helps you keep a straight line in the flat, outdoor water.
Manufacturer's Warranty
If you are buying online, always check that the retailer has a warranty and exchange policy in place. Buying a wetsuit is an expensive investment, so it's important to have piece of mind if it is damaged due to manufacturing error.
For more information on a wide range of wetsuits from entry to high performance, please visit rel=nofollow [http://www.triathlon-wetsuits.org.uk]Triathlon Wetsuits.
Mike Kirkman,
Helping you achieve your triathlon goals http://www.triathlon2win.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?What-Are-the-Top-5-Features-To-Consider-When-Buying-a-Triathlon-Wetsuit?&id=6327411] What Are the Top 5 Features To Consider When Buying a Triathlon Wetsuit?
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Beginner Triathlon Training Tips To Help Get You Started
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Josh_Stevens]Josh Stevens
If you are new to triathlons or are considering trying your first, you may have lots of questions about how to train and race. With three sports to consider when doing the Triathlon you must put together a training plan that will help you get through your first race without a hitch. Below are some tips for beginners that should tackle some issues.
1. For your first race do not try for a long event. Keep your first races short so you can learn how to train and fine tune your racing skills. If you do an Ironman event for your first race you may not want to ever try triathlon racing again. Keep it fun so you can do this for years to come.
2. If you are worried you have to go buy an expensive road bike right from the start don't worry about it. You can get by with any road bike, you can even borrow one if need be. If you reach a point that you really enjoy Triathlons and are going to take it serious, then you could consider buying a better bike if your finances allow.
3. One important piece of equipment you must have is good running shoes. For the sake of your feet get a good pair that fit you well. Try to avoid buying a cheap pair of knock offs; they will not hold up and may make your running experience worse.
4. When looking for your first event keep close to home. No need to travel many miles unless you live somewhere that does not have races close to home. If your race is close to home it gives you a chance to check out the course or better yet do some of your training on it. This can help alleviate some race day stress because you are already somewhat familiar with the course.
5. When training for your first short distance Triathlon, don't obsess about a lot of training. You can get by with 5 or so hours a week of training for all three events. If you get addicted to it, like many of us, you will start to increase your training intensity, but that comes later.
Bottom line for your first Triathlon is to just enjoy yourself and do not take it too serious. Overdoing it at first can lead to injury and you may burn out from over training. If you find you enjoy the Triathlon you will want to seek out some good training advice to help you make improvements and start to be more competitive.
Swimming seems to be most people's biggest obstacle when training for the event and during the race. Learning how to overcome any problems you may have will be a great benefit to you. To learn more check out [http://www.squidoo.com/triathletes-swim-training]triathlon swim workouts for more information.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Beginner-Triathlon-Training-Tips-To-Help-Get-You-Started&id=6352293] Beginner Triathlon Training Tips To Help Get You Started
If you are new to triathlons or are considering trying your first, you may have lots of questions about how to train and race. With three sports to consider when doing the Triathlon you must put together a training plan that will help you get through your first race without a hitch. Below are some tips for beginners that should tackle some issues.
1. For your first race do not try for a long event. Keep your first races short so you can learn how to train and fine tune your racing skills. If you do an Ironman event for your first race you may not want to ever try triathlon racing again. Keep it fun so you can do this for years to come.
2. If you are worried you have to go buy an expensive road bike right from the start don't worry about it. You can get by with any road bike, you can even borrow one if need be. If you reach a point that you really enjoy Triathlons and are going to take it serious, then you could consider buying a better bike if your finances allow.
3. One important piece of equipment you must have is good running shoes. For the sake of your feet get a good pair that fit you well. Try to avoid buying a cheap pair of knock offs; they will not hold up and may make your running experience worse.
4. When looking for your first event keep close to home. No need to travel many miles unless you live somewhere that does not have races close to home. If your race is close to home it gives you a chance to check out the course or better yet do some of your training on it. This can help alleviate some race day stress because you are already somewhat familiar with the course.
5. When training for your first short distance Triathlon, don't obsess about a lot of training. You can get by with 5 or so hours a week of training for all three events. If you get addicted to it, like many of us, you will start to increase your training intensity, but that comes later.
Bottom line for your first Triathlon is to just enjoy yourself and do not take it too serious. Overdoing it at first can lead to injury and you may burn out from over training. If you find you enjoy the Triathlon you will want to seek out some good training advice to help you make improvements and start to be more competitive.
Swimming seems to be most people's biggest obstacle when training for the event and during the race. Learning how to overcome any problems you may have will be a great benefit to you. To learn more check out [http://www.squidoo.com/triathletes-swim-training]triathlon swim workouts for more information.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Beginner-Triathlon-Training-Tips-To-Help-Get-You-Started&id=6352293] Beginner Triathlon Training Tips To Help Get You Started
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Beginners Tips For Swimming The Triathlon
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Josh_Stevens]Josh Stevens
Finding the right balance of speed and endurance in your triathlon swim can be tricky. Until you have done enough events to get a feel for the swim portion, you will have to use some trial and error. The time spent in the pool can give you some clue, but until you get out on the open water you really don't know.
When you get into the open water for the swim portion of the race you will face factors that are not an issue in the pool. You may face waves, which are going to make breathing a little more difficult or currents that will push you off course. And you will face having to cope with a crowd of people jockeying for position in the water.
These two factors are in addition to learning how to pace yourself so you are not out of steam before you get out of the water. You want to have a strong swim but you do not want to use up all of your energy before you get on the bike.
While training in the pool you might want to try to simulate a race at the distance of your upcoming event. This is one way to judge how you will respond to the event. You do not have to swim at what you think is your race pace; just go a little faster than you normally swim.
Pay attention to when you start to tire, you can use this info to know how to adjust your pace. Keep in mind that on race day your adrenalin level will be up and it can take a while to get in a groove.
If at all possible try to swim in the ocean or lake depending on where your race will be. Getting used to the water temperature, the waves and current will help you mentally when you do your race. Becoming familiar with the environment brings a level of comfort so you do not feel completely out of place.
Once the crowd starts to thin out at the start, let yourself get into a comfortable pace that you know will help you conserve energy. Keep a steady pace and when you are past the half way mark you can pick it up some if you feel up to it. When you get out of the water you should feel tired but not completely worn out.
If you are new to triathlons don't expect to pick up all of this in your first race. It takes time to learn to train and how to pace yourself. All of this comes with experience so do not get disappointed in the beginning.
Swimming seems to be most people's biggest obstacle when training for the event and during the race. Learning how to overcome any problems you may have will be a great benefit to you. To learn more check out [http://www.squidoo.com/triathletes-swim-training]triathlon swim workouts for more information.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Beginners-Tips-For-Swimming-The-Triathlon&id=6355516] Beginners Tips For Swimming The Triathlon
Finding the right balance of speed and endurance in your triathlon swim can be tricky. Until you have done enough events to get a feel for the swim portion, you will have to use some trial and error. The time spent in the pool can give you some clue, but until you get out on the open water you really don't know.
When you get into the open water for the swim portion of the race you will face factors that are not an issue in the pool. You may face waves, which are going to make breathing a little more difficult or currents that will push you off course. And you will face having to cope with a crowd of people jockeying for position in the water.
These two factors are in addition to learning how to pace yourself so you are not out of steam before you get out of the water. You want to have a strong swim but you do not want to use up all of your energy before you get on the bike.
While training in the pool you might want to try to simulate a race at the distance of your upcoming event. This is one way to judge how you will respond to the event. You do not have to swim at what you think is your race pace; just go a little faster than you normally swim.
Pay attention to when you start to tire, you can use this info to know how to adjust your pace. Keep in mind that on race day your adrenalin level will be up and it can take a while to get in a groove.
If at all possible try to swim in the ocean or lake depending on where your race will be. Getting used to the water temperature, the waves and current will help you mentally when you do your race. Becoming familiar with the environment brings a level of comfort so you do not feel completely out of place.
Once the crowd starts to thin out at the start, let yourself get into a comfortable pace that you know will help you conserve energy. Keep a steady pace and when you are past the half way mark you can pick it up some if you feel up to it. When you get out of the water you should feel tired but not completely worn out.
If you are new to triathlons don't expect to pick up all of this in your first race. It takes time to learn to train and how to pace yourself. All of this comes with experience so do not get disappointed in the beginning.
Swimming seems to be most people's biggest obstacle when training for the event and during the race. Learning how to overcome any problems you may have will be a great benefit to you. To learn more check out [http://www.squidoo.com/triathletes-swim-training]triathlon swim workouts for more information.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Beginners-Tips-For-Swimming-The-Triathlon&id=6355516] Beginners Tips For Swimming The Triathlon
Friday, February 10, 2012
Advice to an Older Competitor - Treasure Your Competition
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Donald_Ardell]Donald Ardell
As a person of boundless opinions, I receive wellness-related advice requests from all over. I'm not a priest, fortune teller, advice-giving guru or even a counselor. I can run my own affairs more or less OK, at least to my satisfaction (so far), but I can't claim any rationale to justify guiding others. Sure, I can and do offer endless general commentaries on wellness matters, but that's as far as I go. Readers must assess these essays and decide what, if anything, to apply. Leave me out of it - what do or can I know about so many highly personal, yet key variables that have to guide individual choices? We are all sovereign in the sense of possessing sole personal responsibility for the choices we make that affect the quality of our lives.
Well, I'm just kidding. Getting advice is fine, provided you take all such offerings with many grains of salt as well as skepticism and critical thinking, and never forget that you really are the responsible agent for all decisions, regardless of who advised what. I'm often asked about weighty matters dealing with my three favorite wellness topics, namely, politics/sex/ and religion.
Sometimes, it's great fun - I only wish I could get rich and famous giving advice. But, it seems this is not to be, so I'll have to keep at it just for the fun involved. And there are times when I truly enjoy the process of coming up with nuggets of advice, when asked. Let me give you a fresh example.
A 60-some year-old woman to whom I shall refer only as Wendy to avoid embarrassing anyone and inviting a lawsuit wrote about what she called her "triathlete dilemma." She wanted my advice concerning what to do. Being an experienced triathlete as well as somewhat of an expert in wellness and a self-styled authority on everything concerning politics, sex and religion, I was happy to offer Wendy my advice about her dilemma.
Here is the issue Wendy faced, as she described it to me in a post this morning:
Don - Please tell me if I handled a certain delicate situation properly. I recently signed up for my first triathlon of the season. Usually, there is nobody else in my 60-65 year female division, so I am a regular occupant on the top rung of the victory stand during award ceremonies. I just love it when everyone cheers and I'm handed a plaque in recognition of my fabulous performance, even if the ceremony has to be delayed a bit awaiting my arrival at the finish line. The race directors usually bring me right up to the stage, deferring to the oldest of the five-year age categories to be first in line to be granted their due. (There are usually older male age groups but the old gals are the ones whose presence is considered a wonderment by all the other triathletes.)
When my name is called out and I stand on the top rung to accept my award, I usually close my eyes and imagine, in the most vivid fashion, the American flag being raised. I hear the powerful chords of the national anthem. I know in my mind's eye that tens of millions of eyes are glued to television sets around the globe as tears of joy flow at the wonder of my epic triumph.
All people, no matter their nationality, can appreciate the lifetime of sacrifice and single-minded dedication that led me to this stage, to this moment. I know during these moments how Lance felt standing there in his yellow jersey on the Champs Elysees at the conclusion of his seven Tour de France wins.
Of course, I have not worked as hard as Lance, in fact, I hardly train at all. I only took up the sport of triathlon to lose weight a few years ago, but never mind that. I am a triathlete. And the age group champion at that - and don't you forget it, Buster.
In any event, back to my delicate situation, or triathlete's dilemma. When I went to sign up for the race online, I got a bit of a scare: I discovered that there was actually another person in my age group! Mirabile dictu! I immediately went to last year's results to see whether this woman had done the race last year. I found that she had ~ in the 45-49 age group!! The nerve of that impostor! Trying to win by sneaking into the geezer's group. Hah! I turned her in to the race director. He, of course, assumed that it was simply a typo on her entry, but I suspect otherwise. Most importantly, I am, at least for now, the only entrant in my age group. I can follow the immortal counsel of Ashleigh Brilliant, who in one of his thousands of 'Potshots' offered these words: 'To be the best, be the only one in your group.' That's my goal, and I'm willing to enforce it, even if I have to become a birther of sorts in demanding a long form original birth certificate of all my competitors.
My question to you, Oh wise one, is this: Did I do the right thing? Should I have protested or just held my peace, mind my own business and do the best I could, come what may? I await your reply.
I advised Wendy that she made a mistake. We who are in the oldest categories need all the competition we can get, as the years go by. Without someone to race against, we can't truly win. Showing up and finishing is NOT winning. I advised Wendy to recruit, not disqualify, competitors. If necessary, offer to pay the entry fees for elderly ladies willing to enter races for which you plan to sign up. The alternative is to try to persuade younger, very slow female triathletes to "move up" to your age group. In short, Ms. Wendy, you should not have outed this impostor. You should have waited to see if she could whup you. THEN you could have outed her. If you crushed her, she need never know that you knew, the better to keep her coming back.
Contact me next time before you act so rashly.
Well, there you have it. One example of the many bits of advice I offer every day. I can't answer every request, but those who offer elegant sea cruises usually get priority attention.
Publisher of the ARDELL WELLNESS REPORT (AWR) - a weekly electronic newsletter devoted to commentaries on current issues that affect personal and social well being from a quality of life perspective. The emphasis is on REAL wellness, which is also the topic of Don's latest book. Read about it here - https://www.createspace.com/3478226 - The "REAL" acronym reflects key issues embraced and advanced in Don's philosophy, namely, Reason, Exuberance, Athleticism and Liberty. Sample copy of Don's latest edition by request. If you like it, you can sign up - the price is right - free. Contact Don at awr.realwellness@gmail.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Advice-to-an-Older-Competitor---Treasure-Your-Competition&id=6355265] Advice to an Older Competitor - Treasure Your Competition
As a person of boundless opinions, I receive wellness-related advice requests from all over. I'm not a priest, fortune teller, advice-giving guru or even a counselor. I can run my own affairs more or less OK, at least to my satisfaction (so far), but I can't claim any rationale to justify guiding others. Sure, I can and do offer endless general commentaries on wellness matters, but that's as far as I go. Readers must assess these essays and decide what, if anything, to apply. Leave me out of it - what do or can I know about so many highly personal, yet key variables that have to guide individual choices? We are all sovereign in the sense of possessing sole personal responsibility for the choices we make that affect the quality of our lives.
Well, I'm just kidding. Getting advice is fine, provided you take all such offerings with many grains of salt as well as skepticism and critical thinking, and never forget that you really are the responsible agent for all decisions, regardless of who advised what. I'm often asked about weighty matters dealing with my three favorite wellness topics, namely, politics/sex/ and religion.
Sometimes, it's great fun - I only wish I could get rich and famous giving advice. But, it seems this is not to be, so I'll have to keep at it just for the fun involved. And there are times when I truly enjoy the process of coming up with nuggets of advice, when asked. Let me give you a fresh example.
A 60-some year-old woman to whom I shall refer only as Wendy to avoid embarrassing anyone and inviting a lawsuit wrote about what she called her "triathlete dilemma." She wanted my advice concerning what to do. Being an experienced triathlete as well as somewhat of an expert in wellness and a self-styled authority on everything concerning politics, sex and religion, I was happy to offer Wendy my advice about her dilemma.
Here is the issue Wendy faced, as she described it to me in a post this morning:
Don - Please tell me if I handled a certain delicate situation properly. I recently signed up for my first triathlon of the season. Usually, there is nobody else in my 60-65 year female division, so I am a regular occupant on the top rung of the victory stand during award ceremonies. I just love it when everyone cheers and I'm handed a plaque in recognition of my fabulous performance, even if the ceremony has to be delayed a bit awaiting my arrival at the finish line. The race directors usually bring me right up to the stage, deferring to the oldest of the five-year age categories to be first in line to be granted their due. (There are usually older male age groups but the old gals are the ones whose presence is considered a wonderment by all the other triathletes.)
When my name is called out and I stand on the top rung to accept my award, I usually close my eyes and imagine, in the most vivid fashion, the American flag being raised. I hear the powerful chords of the national anthem. I know in my mind's eye that tens of millions of eyes are glued to television sets around the globe as tears of joy flow at the wonder of my epic triumph.
All people, no matter their nationality, can appreciate the lifetime of sacrifice and single-minded dedication that led me to this stage, to this moment. I know during these moments how Lance felt standing there in his yellow jersey on the Champs Elysees at the conclusion of his seven Tour de France wins.
Of course, I have not worked as hard as Lance, in fact, I hardly train at all. I only took up the sport of triathlon to lose weight a few years ago, but never mind that. I am a triathlete. And the age group champion at that - and don't you forget it, Buster.
In any event, back to my delicate situation, or triathlete's dilemma. When I went to sign up for the race online, I got a bit of a scare: I discovered that there was actually another person in my age group! Mirabile dictu! I immediately went to last year's results to see whether this woman had done the race last year. I found that she had ~ in the 45-49 age group!! The nerve of that impostor! Trying to win by sneaking into the geezer's group. Hah! I turned her in to the race director. He, of course, assumed that it was simply a typo on her entry, but I suspect otherwise. Most importantly, I am, at least for now, the only entrant in my age group. I can follow the immortal counsel of Ashleigh Brilliant, who in one of his thousands of 'Potshots' offered these words: 'To be the best, be the only one in your group.' That's my goal, and I'm willing to enforce it, even if I have to become a birther of sorts in demanding a long form original birth certificate of all my competitors.
My question to you, Oh wise one, is this: Did I do the right thing? Should I have protested or just held my peace, mind my own business and do the best I could, come what may? I await your reply.
I advised Wendy that she made a mistake. We who are in the oldest categories need all the competition we can get, as the years go by. Without someone to race against, we can't truly win. Showing up and finishing is NOT winning. I advised Wendy to recruit, not disqualify, competitors. If necessary, offer to pay the entry fees for elderly ladies willing to enter races for which you plan to sign up. The alternative is to try to persuade younger, very slow female triathletes to "move up" to your age group. In short, Ms. Wendy, you should not have outed this impostor. You should have waited to see if she could whup you. THEN you could have outed her. If you crushed her, she need never know that you knew, the better to keep her coming back.
Contact me next time before you act so rashly.
Well, there you have it. One example of the many bits of advice I offer every day. I can't answer every request, but those who offer elegant sea cruises usually get priority attention.
Publisher of the ARDELL WELLNESS REPORT (AWR) - a weekly electronic newsletter devoted to commentaries on current issues that affect personal and social well being from a quality of life perspective. The emphasis is on REAL wellness, which is also the topic of Don's latest book. Read about it here - https://www.createspace.com/3478226 - The "REAL" acronym reflects key issues embraced and advanced in Don's philosophy, namely, Reason, Exuberance, Athleticism and Liberty. Sample copy of Don's latest edition by request. If you like it, you can sign up - the price is right - free. Contact Don at awr.realwellness@gmail.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Advice-to-an-Older-Competitor---Treasure-Your-Competition&id=6355265] Advice to an Older Competitor - Treasure Your Competition
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
The New 5150 Triathlon Series of Events
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=John_Carrott]John Carrott
World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) is a Tampa-based company recognized for athletic excellence, distinguished events and quality products. On October 6, 2010, WTC launched a new global event series called the 5150 triathlon. They said, "Starting in 2011, the 5150 Series will be the largest international distance triathlon series in the world and will be the first non-drafting race of its kind, offering a competitive platform for professional and age group athletes. The 2011 event schedule will offer 13 domestic events as well as a handful of international races. The Hy-Vee Triathlon will host the 5150 U.S. Championship, offering professional athletes the opportunity to compete for $1 million in prize money".
The 5150 series is a series of Olympic distance events. An Olympic triathlon consists of a 1.5k swim, 40k bike and 10k run. When you add up the numbers you get to 51.5k (31.9 miles) thus the 5150 series. If you are at all familiar with the Ironman races then you know that the Half Ironman distance is 1.6k swim, 90.1k bike and 21k run, while the Ironman distance is double that.
This new series is off to a slow start. The 3rd event in the new series was held in New Orleans, LA and had a turn-out of around 300 racers. This is a small number as compared to the 70.3 event that took place on a version of the same course (that was twice the distance) just 2 weeks prior and which had a turn-out of over 3000 racers.
I have worked the New Orleans 70.3, for all 3 years that they have had it, as a volunteer. Each year they get more racers and the event grows in size as well as stature.
Each year the volunteers see various group of racers; the professional, the serious amateur, and the serious idiots.
The professionals are always a pleasure to watch because they make the sport look so easy. They fly around the course with ease, their gear is always the very best, and they seem to have a 6th sense about what to avoid and when to make a change in what they are doing or their position on the course.
The serious amateur is the person that trains hard and does their best, but they forget things or cut corners trying to perform like the professionals. They lack that 6th sense that the professionals seem to have, so they are the ones that usually get hurt when somebody from the next group does something wrong.
Of course, that group is the serious idiot. When you see a 350-pound person on a road bike, you know that this is an accident waiting to happen. Most people also feel sorry for the bike! Here is the problem. A 150-pound racer coming down the back side of a bridge is going to get their bike up to speeds of 45 to 55 mph. A person that is fit and has serious riding experience has no problem taking a curve at the bottom of that hill, with or without sand or gravel on the road. The over-weight, out of shape, person is going add another 5 mph to that speed, then they are going to panic! This is where the pile-ups happen and people go to the hospital. Let me tell you that watching a beautiful young lady go head-over-heels down a cement road is not the site that anybody wants to see.
This is the type of scene that happens at a half ironman, and people die at full ironmen competitions. Why, you ask? It is easy, they push themselves to hard, and try for more than they are trained to do.
This 5150 is a nice entry level, and I expect next year that they will be sold out as the word spreads.
This is the perfect event for those people that want to claim they did a "triathlon". The big point is that they can get medals in some age groups for just finishing the race. The top 5 racers in each group get medals!
How many people do you know that have a triathlon medal?
So let's look at those numbers again. 1.5 kilometers is 0.9315 miles, 40 kilometers is 24.85 miles, and 10 kilometers is 6.21 miles. So you swim 1 mile, bike for 25 miles, and run for 6 miles. This is something that most high school students should be able to do. Most importantly, this is something that 80% of the population can train to do without hurting themselves.
This opens the door to people that would love to have that triathlon medal, and who knows, they might find a sport that they really like. They can then train for the next level.
John Carrott is the publisher of several websites, each supporting different areas of interest, but giving something extra that is not part of the 'norm'. If you don't learn something from reading an article or viewing a website then it wasted your time. Each article or website should be an experience to be enjoyed. Please visit the website that supports triathlon events and leave comments, make it a place to share your ideas, experiences, and suggestions for other athletes. http://triathlontrainingsite.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-New-5150-Triathlon-Series-of-Events&id=6366881] The New 5150 Triathlon Series of Events
World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) is a Tampa-based company recognized for athletic excellence, distinguished events and quality products. On October 6, 2010, WTC launched a new global event series called the 5150 triathlon. They said, "Starting in 2011, the 5150 Series will be the largest international distance triathlon series in the world and will be the first non-drafting race of its kind, offering a competitive platform for professional and age group athletes. The 2011 event schedule will offer 13 domestic events as well as a handful of international races. The Hy-Vee Triathlon will host the 5150 U.S. Championship, offering professional athletes the opportunity to compete for $1 million in prize money".
The 5150 series is a series of Olympic distance events. An Olympic triathlon consists of a 1.5k swim, 40k bike and 10k run. When you add up the numbers you get to 51.5k (31.9 miles) thus the 5150 series. If you are at all familiar with the Ironman races then you know that the Half Ironman distance is 1.6k swim, 90.1k bike and 21k run, while the Ironman distance is double that.
This new series is off to a slow start. The 3rd event in the new series was held in New Orleans, LA and had a turn-out of around 300 racers. This is a small number as compared to the 70.3 event that took place on a version of the same course (that was twice the distance) just 2 weeks prior and which had a turn-out of over 3000 racers.
I have worked the New Orleans 70.3, for all 3 years that they have had it, as a volunteer. Each year they get more racers and the event grows in size as well as stature.
Each year the volunteers see various group of racers; the professional, the serious amateur, and the serious idiots.
The professionals are always a pleasure to watch because they make the sport look so easy. They fly around the course with ease, their gear is always the very best, and they seem to have a 6th sense about what to avoid and when to make a change in what they are doing or their position on the course.
The serious amateur is the person that trains hard and does their best, but they forget things or cut corners trying to perform like the professionals. They lack that 6th sense that the professionals seem to have, so they are the ones that usually get hurt when somebody from the next group does something wrong.
Of course, that group is the serious idiot. When you see a 350-pound person on a road bike, you know that this is an accident waiting to happen. Most people also feel sorry for the bike! Here is the problem. A 150-pound racer coming down the back side of a bridge is going to get their bike up to speeds of 45 to 55 mph. A person that is fit and has serious riding experience has no problem taking a curve at the bottom of that hill, with or without sand or gravel on the road. The over-weight, out of shape, person is going add another 5 mph to that speed, then they are going to panic! This is where the pile-ups happen and people go to the hospital. Let me tell you that watching a beautiful young lady go head-over-heels down a cement road is not the site that anybody wants to see.
This is the type of scene that happens at a half ironman, and people die at full ironmen competitions. Why, you ask? It is easy, they push themselves to hard, and try for more than they are trained to do.
This 5150 is a nice entry level, and I expect next year that they will be sold out as the word spreads.
This is the perfect event for those people that want to claim they did a "triathlon". The big point is that they can get medals in some age groups for just finishing the race. The top 5 racers in each group get medals!
How many people do you know that have a triathlon medal?
So let's look at those numbers again. 1.5 kilometers is 0.9315 miles, 40 kilometers is 24.85 miles, and 10 kilometers is 6.21 miles. So you swim 1 mile, bike for 25 miles, and run for 6 miles. This is something that most high school students should be able to do. Most importantly, this is something that 80% of the population can train to do without hurting themselves.
This opens the door to people that would love to have that triathlon medal, and who knows, they might find a sport that they really like. They can then train for the next level.
John Carrott is the publisher of several websites, each supporting different areas of interest, but giving something extra that is not part of the 'norm'. If you don't learn something from reading an article or viewing a website then it wasted your time. Each article or website should be an experience to be enjoyed. Please visit the website that supports triathlon events and leave comments, make it a place to share your ideas, experiences, and suggestions for other athletes. http://triathlontrainingsite.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-New-5150-Triathlon-Series-of-Events&id=6366881] The New 5150 Triathlon Series of Events
Monday, February 6, 2012
Benefits of A Triathlon Training Log For Improving Performance
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Nancy_Clarke]Nancy Clarke
A triathlete encounters a lot of challenges during his training simply because he is trying to succeed in three sports - swimming, biking and running. For sure, it takes a lot of discipline in order to achieve success on each event. One thing that could help a triathlete meet his goals is to keep track of the factors that have helped or hindered his training. The best way to keep track of his performance is to keep a triathlon log where he can record his progress.
If you are an aspiring triathlete, you can write down various details on your triathlon log to keep track of your progress. Aside from jotting down details of your training, you can also write down insights or notes on how you can improve your performance. If you are training with a coach, you can also keep notes of your trainer's comments and suggestions that can help you reach your goals. Keeping a triathlon log is a great way to motivate yourself during times when you feel a little down or when you don't have a lot of confidence to continue with your training. Logging down your achievements, no matter how small they may be can be a good reminder of how far you have come in your training.
What To Track
Some of the basic details that you may want to keep track of and note on your log are:
- workout data (training frequency, performance levels, etc)
- your daily route
- distance traveled
- average speed for each event
- body vitals such as pulse rate and blood pressure
- any soreness or injury
- meals, paying attention mostly to foods that provide energy
- list of vitamins and other supplements
- your weight
- your trainer's comments on your performance
- personal observations on things that help or hinder your performance
- race outcomes
Where To Get Triathlon Logs
You can sign up on some websites that offer online triathlon training logs. Some of these sites include tools that you can use to monitor your performance and to keep you aware of your fitness level. Of course, this means you would have to wait until you can get online before you can access and update your workout data.
What I personally prefer is to use a log book that I can take anywhere with me. This works well for me, because I can jot down my progress and other details on it anytime.
Keeping a log of your performance is a great way to keep yourself focused on your goal. To succeed on your triathlon event, you need to be motivated and determined to reach your targets. Record your daily workout details, take note of even the smallest obstacle you have overcome and you will surely see improved results in your training.
You can get a triathlon log book that allows you to track your training for all three sports on a daily basis. The cover is personalized with you name and photo on the cover. [http://www.personallogs.com/triathlonlogs.php]Find out more here.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Benefits-of-A-Triathlon-Training-Log-For-Improving-Performance&id=6380159] Benefits of A Triathlon Training Log For Improving Performance
A triathlete encounters a lot of challenges during his training simply because he is trying to succeed in three sports - swimming, biking and running. For sure, it takes a lot of discipline in order to achieve success on each event. One thing that could help a triathlete meet his goals is to keep track of the factors that have helped or hindered his training. The best way to keep track of his performance is to keep a triathlon log where he can record his progress.
If you are an aspiring triathlete, you can write down various details on your triathlon log to keep track of your progress. Aside from jotting down details of your training, you can also write down insights or notes on how you can improve your performance. If you are training with a coach, you can also keep notes of your trainer's comments and suggestions that can help you reach your goals. Keeping a triathlon log is a great way to motivate yourself during times when you feel a little down or when you don't have a lot of confidence to continue with your training. Logging down your achievements, no matter how small they may be can be a good reminder of how far you have come in your training.
What To Track
Some of the basic details that you may want to keep track of and note on your log are:
- workout data (training frequency, performance levels, etc)
- your daily route
- distance traveled
- average speed for each event
- body vitals such as pulse rate and blood pressure
- any soreness or injury
- meals, paying attention mostly to foods that provide energy
- list of vitamins and other supplements
- your weight
- your trainer's comments on your performance
- personal observations on things that help or hinder your performance
- race outcomes
Where To Get Triathlon Logs
You can sign up on some websites that offer online triathlon training logs. Some of these sites include tools that you can use to monitor your performance and to keep you aware of your fitness level. Of course, this means you would have to wait until you can get online before you can access and update your workout data.
What I personally prefer is to use a log book that I can take anywhere with me. This works well for me, because I can jot down my progress and other details on it anytime.
Keeping a log of your performance is a great way to keep yourself focused on your goal. To succeed on your triathlon event, you need to be motivated and determined to reach your targets. Record your daily workout details, take note of even the smallest obstacle you have overcome and you will surely see improved results in your training.
You can get a triathlon log book that allows you to track your training for all three sports on a daily basis. The cover is personalized with you name and photo on the cover. [http://www.personallogs.com/triathlonlogs.php]Find out more here.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Benefits-of-A-Triathlon-Training-Log-For-Improving-Performance&id=6380159] Benefits of A Triathlon Training Log For Improving Performance
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Tips for Choosing Which Triathlon to Enter As a Beginner
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jarrod_Fritsch]Jarrod Fritsch
It is often a difficult task to decide on the type of race that you should complete in for your very first triathlon. The type of race that you choose to complete in depends on a number of factors:
i) How fit are you?
ii) Are you a natural swimmer, cyclist or runner?
iii) What is the climate (temperature, humidity, etc) of the area you are going to be racing?
iv) How much triathlon training have you done? If any?
v) Is the swim an open water swim?
vi) What are your goals for triathlon?
All of the above factors will have an impact on the type of triathlon race to enter. There is no hard and fast rule on this decision. There have been many new triathletes go out in complete in a half-ironman races for their very first event.
So, before you can make a decision on the type of race to enter, you need to know the types of races that are out there. There are various triathlon races all of differing lengths. The most common triathlon races are: Sprint, Olympic, Half-Ironman and Ironman.
The Sprint distance involves swimming 0.25 to 0.62 miles, biking 5 to 18.6 miles and running 1 to 3.9 miles.
The Olympic distance involves swimming 0.93miles (1.5km), biking 24.8miles (40km) and running 6.2miles (10km)
The Half-Ironman distance involves swimming 1.2miles (1.93km), biking 56miles (90km) and running 13.1miles (21.09km)
The Ironman distance involves swimming 2.4miles (3.86km), biking 112miles (180km) and running 26.2miles (42.2km)
A Sprint distance race is usually the best choice for the new triathlete. The Sprint distance race provides you with a distance that is very achievable for triathletes of any athletic ability, yet at the same time providing you with a challenge. The Sprint distance race will give you a taste of what triathlon is all about.
One of the best pieces of advice that I can offer is regardless of the race type that you choose, make your decision and stick to it. Once your decision is made, get registered and pay for the race - you have now made the commitment. Then spend the coming weeks preparing for the race that you have just entered. Amazing things will start to happen with your training now that you have committed to a race. Believe it or not, your body will do everything it can to make sure that it is ready for your race.
TIP: Do not make the mistake that many would be triathletes out there have made (and I have been one of them), and that is to wait for everything to be perfect before choosing a race. Things are never going to be perfect. Just get out there and (as Nike) would say, "Just Do It".
Jarrod Fritsch http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com
Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
Jarrod offers Triathlon Training for Beginners.
Jarrod offers a unique approach to training and racing, one that cuts through the "mystery" of how to train and prepare for your triathlon racing. Jarrod understands the needs of the beginner triathlete and offers an approach to training that caters for the demands of a busy schedule.
If you want to learn more about preparing for your first triathlon visit http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com/offer and purchase my "Triathlon Training for Beginners" guide. this guide will demystify how to get started in Triathlon and prepare for your first race.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-for-Choosing-Which-Triathlon-to-Enter-As-a-Beginner&id=6395590] Tips for Choosing Which Triathlon to Enter As a Beginner
It is often a difficult task to decide on the type of race that you should complete in for your very first triathlon. The type of race that you choose to complete in depends on a number of factors:
i) How fit are you?
ii) Are you a natural swimmer, cyclist or runner?
iii) What is the climate (temperature, humidity, etc) of the area you are going to be racing?
iv) How much triathlon training have you done? If any?
v) Is the swim an open water swim?
vi) What are your goals for triathlon?
All of the above factors will have an impact on the type of triathlon race to enter. There is no hard and fast rule on this decision. There have been many new triathletes go out in complete in a half-ironman races for their very first event.
So, before you can make a decision on the type of race to enter, you need to know the types of races that are out there. There are various triathlon races all of differing lengths. The most common triathlon races are: Sprint, Olympic, Half-Ironman and Ironman.
The Sprint distance involves swimming 0.25 to 0.62 miles, biking 5 to 18.6 miles and running 1 to 3.9 miles.
The Olympic distance involves swimming 0.93miles (1.5km), biking 24.8miles (40km) and running 6.2miles (10km)
The Half-Ironman distance involves swimming 1.2miles (1.93km), biking 56miles (90km) and running 13.1miles (21.09km)
The Ironman distance involves swimming 2.4miles (3.86km), biking 112miles (180km) and running 26.2miles (42.2km)
A Sprint distance race is usually the best choice for the new triathlete. The Sprint distance race provides you with a distance that is very achievable for triathletes of any athletic ability, yet at the same time providing you with a challenge. The Sprint distance race will give you a taste of what triathlon is all about.
One of the best pieces of advice that I can offer is regardless of the race type that you choose, make your decision and stick to it. Once your decision is made, get registered and pay for the race - you have now made the commitment. Then spend the coming weeks preparing for the race that you have just entered. Amazing things will start to happen with your training now that you have committed to a race. Believe it or not, your body will do everything it can to make sure that it is ready for your race.
TIP: Do not make the mistake that many would be triathletes out there have made (and I have been one of them), and that is to wait for everything to be perfect before choosing a race. Things are never going to be perfect. Just get out there and (as Nike) would say, "Just Do It".
Jarrod Fritsch http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com
Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
Jarrod offers Triathlon Training for Beginners.
Jarrod offers a unique approach to training and racing, one that cuts through the "mystery" of how to train and prepare for your triathlon racing. Jarrod understands the needs of the beginner triathlete and offers an approach to training that caters for the demands of a busy schedule.
If you want to learn more about preparing for your first triathlon visit http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com/offer and purchase my "Triathlon Training for Beginners" guide. this guide will demystify how to get started in Triathlon and prepare for your first race.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-for-Choosing-Which-Triathlon-to-Enter-As-a-Beginner&id=6395590] Tips for Choosing Which Triathlon to Enter As a Beginner
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Best Peaking Strategies For Triathlon Racing
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Rhona_Pearce]Rhona Pearce
You've been training hard and your race is looming. How do you make sure you are ready on the day?
Getting your preparation right in the final weeks before your key triathlon race can make all the difference to your performance. This period is commonly called a taper.
Before going any further, it is important to define what we mean by 'taper'. This is the training or physical preparation you do in the weeks leading up to a race to optimise performance. It is not rest - rest is passive!
By manipulating the type, volume and intensity of training you can optimise performance. An effective taper has been shown to improve performance by up to 6% in well-trained athletes.
A lot of scientific research has been carried out looking at the ideal taper, yet it is still an area that is not fully understood. Not much research has been carried out on endurance events lasting 2 hours or longer, and there is a limited understanding of the physiological, neuromuscular and biomechanical factors involved.
So getting your taper right is still a combination of art and science, and you are likely to come across conflicting advice.
Based on existing research, the most effective taper appears to be one that starts 2 - 3 weeks before the race. During this period a 40 - 60% reduction in training volume should be incorporated, whilst maintaining training intensity and potentially including a small (~20%) reduction in training frequency.
So What Does This Mean In Practice For You?
The main aim of the taper is for you to feel fresh (both mentally and physically) by the time that race day arrives so you can perform at your best.
If you are fairly new to triathlon and have not got much of a training background (e.g. you have done around 300 hours of training per year or less - which works out at an average of 5 to 6 hour per week), then you should taper your training for only around a week.
This is because you are not doing enough volume of training to need longer. Also if you were to reduce training volume for 3 weeks you would start to lose fitness due to not having a significant training background.
If you have a good training background and are have been averaging about 10 hours training per week, then you can afford to have a longer taper - about 2 - 3 weeks.
Regardless of how long your taper lasts, you should reduce the volume of training by around 50% but still maintain the intensity of sessions. In other words reduce the duration or frequency that you train but keep the training at the same pace/intensity as you have been - not lower and not higher intensity.
This is to provide enough stimuli to prevent detraining, and to maintain feeling for race pace, muscle elastic properties and neuromuscular activation.
Generally this would mean doing work at race pace, but you might have longer recovery between intervals during your taper than you would normally, and fewer intervals.
During your taper, focus your training more on your weakest discipline. For swimming you may have to reduce the volume by more than 50% as you are likely to have local muscular fatigue more than in the other disciplines.
As swimming is such a technical event you will need to gauge how much you need to keep doing to maintain your technique and 'feel' for the water.
If you are training and racing at a high level, then your taper could start with a few days of rest, before gradually building your training back up again. The rationale is that you would be able to take advantage of the being fully recovered to enhance training tolerance and respond effectively to the training done at this time.
As mentioned earlier, getting your taper right is a blend of art and science. So whilst you can use the principles above, you will need to play around with the exact details of your training to get it right for your key race.
In general the higher the volume of training you have been doing the longer your taper will be. Most triathletes will want to peak for 1 - 3 key races per year. You can use an early season race to practice your taper for your key race(s). For all other minor races, 2 - 3 days rest before the race should be enough.
Don't worry if you feel lethargic during your taper. This is quite common, particularly if you are used to doing a high volume of training. This doesn't mean you need to up your training though. This period of recovery is important for you to perform well on the day!
Final Preparations To Maximise Triathlon Performance
During the last week or so before your key race it is a good idea to practice your transition skills. Also, find out what type of swim start your race will have and practice this if necessary.
Particularly if you are preparing for an Ironman then ensuring a high carbohydrate intake during the few days before the race is important.
Summary Of Tapering For Peak Performance For Triathlon
� Duration of the taper will depend on your training background
� Reduce volume of training
� Maintain intensity of training
� Reduce frequency of training
� Focus on your weakest discipline
� Everyone is different, so practice your taper to perfect it before your key race.
Rhona Pearce has a degree and postgraduate degree in sports science and exercise physiology, and 10 years experience of providing sports science support to triathletes. Her husband is a triathlon coach for the British Olympic programme and together they have developed the Intelligent Triathlon Training website:
Visit http://www.intelligent-triathlon-training.com/ to get your free triathlon training planner, and for lots of practical information and advice about all aspects of triathlon training, nutrition, triathlon gear, injury prevention and recovery.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Best-Peaking-Strategies-For-Triathlon-Racing&id=6397158] Best Peaking Strategies For Triathlon Racing
You've been training hard and your race is looming. How do you make sure you are ready on the day?
Getting your preparation right in the final weeks before your key triathlon race can make all the difference to your performance. This period is commonly called a taper.
Before going any further, it is important to define what we mean by 'taper'. This is the training or physical preparation you do in the weeks leading up to a race to optimise performance. It is not rest - rest is passive!
By manipulating the type, volume and intensity of training you can optimise performance. An effective taper has been shown to improve performance by up to 6% in well-trained athletes.
A lot of scientific research has been carried out looking at the ideal taper, yet it is still an area that is not fully understood. Not much research has been carried out on endurance events lasting 2 hours or longer, and there is a limited understanding of the physiological, neuromuscular and biomechanical factors involved.
So getting your taper right is still a combination of art and science, and you are likely to come across conflicting advice.
Based on existing research, the most effective taper appears to be one that starts 2 - 3 weeks before the race. During this period a 40 - 60% reduction in training volume should be incorporated, whilst maintaining training intensity and potentially including a small (~20%) reduction in training frequency.
So What Does This Mean In Practice For You?
The main aim of the taper is for you to feel fresh (both mentally and physically) by the time that race day arrives so you can perform at your best.
If you are fairly new to triathlon and have not got much of a training background (e.g. you have done around 300 hours of training per year or less - which works out at an average of 5 to 6 hour per week), then you should taper your training for only around a week.
This is because you are not doing enough volume of training to need longer. Also if you were to reduce training volume for 3 weeks you would start to lose fitness due to not having a significant training background.
If you have a good training background and are have been averaging about 10 hours training per week, then you can afford to have a longer taper - about 2 - 3 weeks.
Regardless of how long your taper lasts, you should reduce the volume of training by around 50% but still maintain the intensity of sessions. In other words reduce the duration or frequency that you train but keep the training at the same pace/intensity as you have been - not lower and not higher intensity.
This is to provide enough stimuli to prevent detraining, and to maintain feeling for race pace, muscle elastic properties and neuromuscular activation.
Generally this would mean doing work at race pace, but you might have longer recovery between intervals during your taper than you would normally, and fewer intervals.
During your taper, focus your training more on your weakest discipline. For swimming you may have to reduce the volume by more than 50% as you are likely to have local muscular fatigue more than in the other disciplines.
As swimming is such a technical event you will need to gauge how much you need to keep doing to maintain your technique and 'feel' for the water.
If you are training and racing at a high level, then your taper could start with a few days of rest, before gradually building your training back up again. The rationale is that you would be able to take advantage of the being fully recovered to enhance training tolerance and respond effectively to the training done at this time.
As mentioned earlier, getting your taper right is a blend of art and science. So whilst you can use the principles above, you will need to play around with the exact details of your training to get it right for your key race.
In general the higher the volume of training you have been doing the longer your taper will be. Most triathletes will want to peak for 1 - 3 key races per year. You can use an early season race to practice your taper for your key race(s). For all other minor races, 2 - 3 days rest before the race should be enough.
Don't worry if you feel lethargic during your taper. This is quite common, particularly if you are used to doing a high volume of training. This doesn't mean you need to up your training though. This period of recovery is important for you to perform well on the day!
Final Preparations To Maximise Triathlon Performance
During the last week or so before your key race it is a good idea to practice your transition skills. Also, find out what type of swim start your race will have and practice this if necessary.
Particularly if you are preparing for an Ironman then ensuring a high carbohydrate intake during the few days before the race is important.
Summary Of Tapering For Peak Performance For Triathlon
� Duration of the taper will depend on your training background
� Reduce volume of training
� Maintain intensity of training
� Reduce frequency of training
� Focus on your weakest discipline
� Everyone is different, so practice your taper to perfect it before your key race.
Rhona Pearce has a degree and postgraduate degree in sports science and exercise physiology, and 10 years experience of providing sports science support to triathletes. Her husband is a triathlon coach for the British Olympic programme and together they have developed the Intelligent Triathlon Training website:
Visit http://www.intelligent-triathlon-training.com/ to get your free triathlon training planner, and for lots of practical information and advice about all aspects of triathlon training, nutrition, triathlon gear, injury prevention and recovery.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Best-Peaking-Strategies-For-Triathlon-Racing&id=6397158] Best Peaking Strategies For Triathlon Racing
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