Fitting in Training For a Triathlon

Working lunch

Running at lunchtime or arriving at work by bike is lauded in some quarters but frowned on in others. The support of your boss and co-workers can make a world of difference. Some people have spawned a company training club or obtained corporate sponsorship. Inclusion in the company newsletter as a fitness hero and role model may boost your promotion chances. At the very least, triathlon is an enjoyable hobby outside of work which is under your control.

Training mates

Triathlon was born out of a desire to be around other like-minded athletes, sharing in each other’s misery and jubilation. It’s a sociable sport where loners are not the norm – athletes have different goals but they train with others. You may sacrifice your planned training session to help someone, or modify your workouts to train together. It’s all about blending socializing, training and motivating one another in a helpful mix. Get a variety of training mates on board; some may be single-sports people you have trained with before or perhaps beginners. Keep their home and mobile numbers and email addresses with you – you never know when you might change a session or be able to hook up with your best buddy.

The right environment

If you are going to embark on becoming a triathlete, you have to make sure your environment is right. It’s no use planning to take on board new sports if your life is in turmoil and the resources you need are totally lacking. In this case, knowledge is power.

Knowing who you are

If you understand your body, your strengths and weaknesses and what makes you tick, you can be more successful. Some introspection will provide useful insight into what will work best for you as well as identifying your potential pitfalls.

Life so far

Your exercise habits, injuries and past successes are a source of useful information. If you have recurring injuries, your body may need strengthening with specific resistance (weight) training or even require professional sports injury help. Never push an injury that you know will let you down at some point. The advantage of three sports is that you can rest some muscles whilst still staying fit. Your past successes and training habits provide useful clues about your potential and what makes you tick. If you like early morning training but hate exercising after 6pm, heed your preferences and do what you enjoy. With enjoyment comes immediate reward as well as the key to good fitness – consistency.