Multisport Magazine Issue 22 | Page 47

PURE PERFORMANCE | Bike The bike leg is the easiest section to get ready for. If you are tired you can always free-wheel (not pedal all the time). Again start slowly - if you are not confident cycling on the road, start by cycling at the local park. A basic mountain bike and helmet is all that is needed. Some people even use Cruisers with their baskets on the front - and that is OK by us! Again the Enticer distances vary from 5–10km, but if you have a basic level of fitness you don’ t have to do a lot of training to get ready for this. If you don’ t like to go on the roads, another good option is to use the cycles at your local gym. Run Yes it is called a run but you can actually walk! There is no rule that says that you must run the whole way - in fact many people will walk all or nearly all of the run section. Make sure that you have some energy at the end so that you can look good as you run across the finish line. What do you need to do to get ready for the run? There are two main points for the run section. First and foremost, cover the distance in ONE training run. This does not mean that you must do this every week - you should build up to run the distance over a 4-week period. If you have never run before start with a short walk of say 20 minutes and include a little running. The bottom line is that at the very least you can walk the whole way. Secondly, practice running off the bike. One of the hardest parts of the triathlon is the start of the run. When you get off the bike your muscles are tired from cycling and also your body is sending oxygen to your cycling muscles creating the ‘ jelly’ legs feeling. The best way to get around this is to do a couple of “Brick” (because that’ s what your legs can feel like) sessions. Celebrating 10 years! TRY-A-TRIATHLON These involve a short run off the bike on a couple of occasions prior to your event. Classic mistakes when training for a triathlon Too Much More is not always better. Be realistic. A basic program will get you there. If you have a demanding job, a life, kids and would still like to have some friends after the triathlon, keep in mind what is required. Too Long Classic mistake number two is thinking that you are not doing enough. Once you have reached the race distances, the buzz on the day will get you through the event. Any more is what will determine how fast or how easy you find it. Too Intense Going too fast in training is very common – a classic mistake is going too hard, too fast and ending up injured or burnt out before the event. If you are tired or sick it is okay to miss a session, as your body is telling you that you need a rest. Final Note When you get to the event, remember what your goals were at the start. If your aim was just to finish, don’ t get sucked into having to beat someone else or a time. Finishing a triathlon is a great personal achievement in itself. Have some fun and enjoy the post race activities, including the selfies, and then make plans for your next challenge! Enter now triathlonpink.com.auMULTISPORT MAGAZINE | 47