Tips for Triathletes
Welcome to the Greater Nashua Sprint Triathlon. If this is your first tri event you may be wondering how to begin your training, when to begin your training and where to begin your training. Preparing for a triathlon is a great challenge since you will be training for three events verses one. It is recommended that you meet with your personal physician to ensure you are healthy to begin training and with approval begin training as soon as you commit to doing a triathlon. Some 1st time tri’s also join a gym or club to learn the best way to proceed with the training. Finding a gym that has the equipment you will need is also very important. A gym with a cardio center, weight room and pool are great as well as ones that offer classes that will help get you in overall shape.
Train safely. Focus on training safely from start to finish that is, start to finish of each workout and the overall program. Don’t push too hard. A good program allows you to “feel” your workout but you should not be in “pain” after. Start slowly and add on based on where you finished your last workout and how you felt. Don’t forget to take a few days off based on your program. “Rest days” allow your body time to rest, heal and get stronger. Your body works best when it is rested and healthy. A personal trainer or coach is also recommended for those who are new to the sport or may be looking for new ideas to add to their program. Having a trainer will give you the advantage of working with someone who will build your workouts and has expertise in working with athletes.
Have goals. You want to set goals for how you will finish the event, even if your goal is to just finish. Training for three events takes time and commitment and it can be frustrating if you don’t have goals at each level. Sample goals:
- Join a gym
- Sign up for classes that include all three events: swim clubs, bike teams, and running clubs.
- Train “so many” hours per week and then per leg (swim, bike, run)
- Finish the race
- Finish in “top 10”, “top 20” over all or age group
The Nashua YMCA currently offers a Tri Club. The club focuses on the swim event. The class is run by three certified USA Swim Coaches. The coaches build workouts that focus on technique, endurance and overall conditioning. If you have any questions relating to this event or training for a triathlon please feel free to contact the Coaches:
Colin Cook
Colin@PeakTriCoaching.com
978-337-6717
Melissa Johnson
mjfitnesscoach@gmail.com
617-680-3081
Race day tips:
- Get plenty of rest leading up to your race day and the night before
- Eat a healthy meal the night before, one that will keep your energy levels up
- Hydrate before, during and after the event
- Check you have all your gear
- Make sure your bike has had a recent tune up
- Follow all rules for each event – they are there for your safety