Balanced Triathlon Training

Benefits of Balanced Triathlon Training

As triathletes we’re always asking ourselves; how can we get faster?  Since my first triathlon I’ve already succumbed to the fact that I’ll never be an elite or professional triathlete, but what I love about the sport is that it still plays to my Type A personality.  When I first thought of triathlon I was like “Cool. Swim suit, goggles, bike and running shoes, I’ll be good to go.” I was in for a surprise.

As a triathlete you’re constantly analyzing your results, thinking and looking for ways to improve whether it be wanting that nicer bike, aero helmet, wheels, lighter running shoes, better nutrition, diet, training, etc.  Even though you may not be elite or a professional, this is where the sport really draws you in as there are so many things to consider that it is never monotonous. 

After purchasing the nice bike, helmet, wheels, etc. I have what I need to be fast, but what I’ve learned is it all revolves around proper training.  Growing up I never concentrated specifically on swimming, cycling or running.  These were always something actively fun to do.  Once you start “training” you quickly realize how much there is too it.  I’ll hear people say “I wish I could swim as good as this person, or I could bike as fast as them or run as fast as them then I would podium in races.” Yes it would be nice to have swum growing up, but you can’t change the past.  What you can do is learn now, work hard and help in the future. 

When people ask me, “what part of triathlon is your strength?” Yes I’ll admit we all have some sort of strength (swim, bike or run), but my answer is…. “None.” I’ve always enjoyed running and previously would say that is my strength and from analyzing results it still is, but is the run going to make me podium or promote me racing better?  From what I’ve learned…..NO. 

During the off season I’ll concentrate on my weakest length which is and probably will forever be the swim, but throughout the season I’ve learned to trust my Coach and follow the plan.

I was analyzing some previous results and found it quite intriguing that my Overall Results were always higher than my individual overall swim, bike or run times.  It took me a second and the only thing I could come up with was balanced triathlon training. 

Like I said I was never a swimmer, cyclist or runner growing up, but through following my Coaches plan with proper balance of training I’m seeing the results.  

Have you analyzed your results? Do you find yourself doing better in one leg? Do you concentrate more on the swim, bike or run?