Turtle on Speed via Toyebot on Flickr
We must all try to exhibit a little patience and persistence in training to help us achieve our triathlon goals. Slow to start…. but soon you’ll be a rocket turtle!
Where Do You Want to Go Today?
Sometimes it’s easy to dismiss patience as something newcomers to our sport or distance must display to get ready for the impending challenge. We must all stop for a moment and realise one of the most beneficial things we as athletes can do is take a step back, relax and think about a plan for the forthcoming season or seasons. How are we going to reach the goals we set ourselves and what are we going to do to get there? To step up a distance, the commitment to go for a qualifying slot or PB should be planned after taking that step back.
It’s a very easy thing to say; “yes” – but not always easy to achieve, yet if we carry out our planned routine and respect the challenge we have set ourselves then great things can be done!
I want to Go Fast. NOW!
One of the most frequently asked questions new and experienced athletes alike ask of me as a coach is,
“how long will it take for me to get fit enough to get where I want to be….”
The answer isn’t always well received, we’re all looking for the quick answer but it isn’t always that simple. It can take years to develop strong “bike legs” giving us the performance we desire, and just as long to perfect that elusive swim stroke! On top of that we need to run like the wind and transit between these disciplines like a well oiled machine! Time focussing on our weaknesses is always well spent, and we all love training in the discipline we’re best at. If we approach our goals like they are our favourite discipline and a plan we can move towards where we want to be. Knowing this won’t happen overnight needs a patient outlook, overcoming problems and issues is a challenge but becoming a master of solutions and options will give you the tools to succeed.
But the Tortoise Beat the Hare…
Adaptation comes as we rest and recover, an often overlooked scenario, and if we remind ourselves of this we will start to develop a patient approach. Trust in yourself and where you’re going by being honest about how you are feeling and where you want to end up; this will bring out your best in both training and racing.
Though we must overcome the fear of failure and the unknown, (but that is whole other story!), our team of supporters can help us through. It isn’t just the athletes who need to display the qualities we’re talking about.
Get Faster Year by Year
Taking things slowly with a structured training program, from a professional coach, a Tri Magazine or from the internet, will reap the most benefits as you will unknowingly become patient by committing to the written word. As the weeks and months go by the benefits will be greater the more you commit to your chosen path. These benefits will ultimately see you successfully across the line
Friends and family are one of the most important tools in your training repertoire, long distance racing is less of a hobby and more of a lifestyle. A supportive family network means more harmony at home and the workplace giving the athlete less to think about and greater focus on training. Athletes will spend a great deal of time in working towards their chosen goal and happier athletes are faster! I speak through direct personal experience… I must encourage enrolling the talents of a core group of trusted sports professionals such as a coach, physio., chiropractor or sports massage therapist, expanding your circle will keep you literally moving in the right direction.
So in our ever changing efforts to be a better athlete remember, those who take it slower usually end up fastest.
For more about James visit www.jpssports.net or on twitter @JPSSportsCoach
