Coaches Have The Keys To Triathlon Success
Triathlon has experienced explosive growth in the Unites States
. Even though the Ironman has been labeled the most strenuous single day event in the world, thousands of triathletes line up every year to participate.
Some folks think swimming, cycling and running all at the same time is nuts. But to the triathlete it seems like a great way to complete body fitness, a continual source of intriguing stimulation and great personal satisfaction. But to get the most out of the sport and yourself, you need a coach.
TRIATHLON IS COMPLICATED
When first starting there is a lot to learn. Often someone who takes up triathlon is accomplished at one sport and thinks it would be fun to add the others. Even if you are a great runner, you still have to master the complicated aspects of cycling and swimming.
Cycling performance is highly dependent upon technique. Even if you have powerful legs, you still need to pedal efficiently to make the most of the bike course. Perhaps even more importantly, you need to be capable of riding so efficiently that you have enough energy in your legs to run after you get off the bike. Triathlon coaches help you accomplish this by making suggestions on bike equipment that fit your body type, riding style and goals.
Swimming is also about technique. It is very difficult to critically analyze your own swim stroke. But this is easy for a coach to do as she walks along the edge of the pool watching you swim. Minor adjustments in body alignment, hip position or hand entry into the water could translate into big gains. Your coach will help you make the changes that produce faster swim times.
ORGANIZATION
In order to succeed in triathlon you must organize both your life and your gear. Lets face it, most of us must earn a living, maintain a sane family social life and somehow find time to exercise. Youll have to juggle swim sets, bike rides and run workouts to get stronger and finish your triathlon faster. This is nearly impossible without a coach.
On race day you have to set up your equipment and organize your gear. The advice your coach gives you about saving time in transition can save you as much time as it would for you to run a mile.
MOTIVATION
Life has it ups and downs and so does training. At some point your job, marriage or other life experiences may sap your energy and detract your focus. An experienced coach will sense when desire is waning. This is part of the game.
A good coach will anticipate theses low points. Triathlon coaches understand and can often predict the peaks and valleys youll go through in training. Hell help you stay on course in spite of them. Staying on track when motivation is low it the difference between finishers and champions.
RESTRAINT
To excel in triathlon you have to put in lots of hard work. Very few people who undertake the sport lack motivation. Many are hard charging folks interested in new challenges. Others see it as a way to personal transformation. But all have a tendency to push on when the going gets rough.
The unfortunate reality is that many triathletes suffer from the no pain, no gain mentality. It is beneficial to push on when exhaustion is pounding on the door. But the tendency to ignore the aches that precede injury can spell disaster. Your coach is someone to filter those aches and pains through. You need the voice of reason and experience telling you when to back off.
Injury is your nemesis. If you get a stress fracture in your foot you will lose much of your hard-earned fitness while healing. If you tear your Achilles tendon, you may never run the same again. If you feel an odd pain, talk to your coach about it. She will then make adjustments to avert disaster while keeping your training on schedule.
INJURY PREVENTION
Overuse injuries are common and preventable in triathletes. Preventing them requires 1) personal experience in the sport 2) solid understanding of biomechanics, and 3) the ability to craft a plan that will build strength without inviting injury. Triathlon coaches have all three.
Your coach will help prevent running injuries by analyzing your gait and helping you choose the best running shoes. Your coach will also suggest cleat position and saddle adjustments that minimize stress to your knees while cycling.
Injury prevention isnt just about holding back when tendonitis flares up. It begins with a sound analysis of your abilities. It includes a personalized training plan that will work relentlessly on your weaknesses while building on your strengths.
The fastest way from start to finish is to swim, bike and run as fast as you are capable without stopping. The only way to do this is to train as hard as possible without stopping to heal an injury or recover from burnout.
Hire a coach who will take the time to understand your triathlon goals and build a training plan around your career and family life. Follow that plan and talk to your coach whenever you hit a bump in the road. With the right coach you'll reach a level that will be unthinkable on your own.
by: Dr Christopher Segler
Natural headache solutions Approaches of Employing A Cane Pole and A Compact Rod for Pole Fishing Hit The Ground Running With Huarache Shoes How Does Life Coaching Work? Wild and Crazy Bachelorette Party Ideas How to Relieve Migraine Headaches Four Approaches To Make Better Your Room Beaches of Kerala TVS Apache 160 the most popular race bike in India Beaches In Kerala Approaching Your Big Day In Elegance With Awe Inspiring Bridesmaid Necklaces Get More Coaching Clients With Local Television Natural remedies for toothache