You made the decision to TRI – Now Don’t Blow Your Tri Training with Unnecessary Injuries:

As we train for endurance sports, we have to understand that we should optimize our strengths and work harder on our weaknesses as we flex our physical and mental muscles. This all starts with a plan and a goal that is workable. Achievable goals are more likely to lead you to success than those placed beyond your reach. Tri training will not only accustom your physical body to the risk of joining the game, it will also recreate your willingness to continue despite the fatigue and the ever-present negative voice that tells you “you wont make it, “there is still X number of miles to go”, “give up”.

Triathlon training programs vary in length. A few months may move you through a short sprint triathlon while an IronMan Triathlon must be taken seriously and will take a minimum of 1 year in training. Considering the event covers three endurance sports, it is no wonder why even professionals take years before they can actually master the techniques to win the title.

As you begin to lay out your plan for your Tri training, remember to stage your workouts so that you lengthen your workout times over several weeks. Injuries have plagued many triathlon dreams and could have certainly been prevented. You will soon realize how vulnerable your body becomes as you start to add mileage to your runs, or you hop off of a 30 mile bike ride to pound out a few miles on foot. If you are not used to the “wear and tear” then you will be exposing yourself to injury. You must slowly and methodically work your way up so that your body can adjust and recover for you. Our bodies can be pushed to amazing lengths, but it must be done with patience.

Here are 5 ways to help prevent injuries from taking away your triathlon dream:

Stretching – Always work stretching in whenever possible. This will release muscle and tendon tension. There are numerous studies showing the importance of stretching before and after workouts in injury prevention. Your muscles will be in a consistent state of rebuilding and must be stretched often to prevent tightness.

Training duration – Work up slowly to your goal distances. Keep your training plan realistic and give your body time to adapt to the training.

Rest – Never be scared to rest. Many athletes neglect the importance of rest. We get the mindset that a day not training is a day lost. We forget how hard our bodies are working and the need to slow down for recovery. Never regret taking a day off, you will be amazed at how much better you feel when you pick back up.

Footwear – You have to take care of those feet. We are asking them to do a lot of work. This is one area where we can’t cut corners when it comes to expenses in getting into Triathlons. Get fitted by a professional based on your height, weight, arch and running style. This can make the difference in actually enjoying your training or hating every step you take. If you make the decision to give the sport a try then make the decision to give yourself the best possible experience.

Hydration – This is not only important while you are training, but it is just as important while you are going through your daily routine. You are kicking your body into overdrive and producing a 24 hour fat burning machine. It will need fuel all day long. Your body is working hard to recover while you are not training and it is important to keep it hydrated so it can work efficiently.

Nobody said the training was going to be easy. However, the rewards can’t be described in words. It will become addicting as you begin to make progress on small realistic goals set to achieve the one big goal. Always be cautious so injuries will not keep you from reaching your goals. Work hard, work smart and always remember to just enjoy the ride.

Tags: First triathlon, Training for a Triathlon, tri training