Base Training – What is it?
When planning athletes’ seasons or even multi-seasons I liken it to painting a picture. The picture won’t be complete until you complete your ‘A’ race. So, where do we start?
With a blank canvas of course…
The base period is the foundation of a triathlon training program, when you build the fitness, strength and skill to reach the finish line of your race. During the base phase you build the most important skills for triathlon: cardiovascular endurance, strength, technique and fuel economy. Training intensity is predominantly (but absolutely not entirely) low in the base training phase so you can safely build your overall training volume without injury.
Variety is a hallmark principle to this training and is far more stimulating physically and mentally than the low intensity monotone approach. One might also have a general sense that more interesting training is likely to be more effective as well. Continue reading…
Winter Training
It’s the official beginning of winter, and you are probably resolved to start training for the upcoming season. But we are all human, and it is sometimes difficult to get the momentum going. Have faith … it will start coming together. Sporadic sessions will become more consistent, the flab will start to disappear. Times will come down. Best of all, it’s not too late to lay down the work for a great season!
Every year when I read the Hawaii Ironman stories I get that blue end of the season feeling. The leaves are falling off the trees and for many of us snow is in the forecast. Many of us reflect on our performances this year and start preparing for next season. I find that most triathletes tend to respond to the off-season in one of two ways. Some take too much time off and get totally out of shape and others keep training hard and are seen running intervals at the track. Continue reading…
It is ALL about the big picture
Consistent training is arguably the most important factor in the development of any triathlete. In my view it is and certainly provides the key which unlocks a triathlete’s potential.
How do you make certain that you train consistently and continuously develop over time? Volume of training is one aspect; quality of that training is another. It is not just about putting together a couple of weeks, or even months but over many years? Let us begin by looking at why training falters, what stops athletes training?
2011 and Planning for 2012
Well folks that was the season that was 2011… and what a season…
Overall winners, qualifiers for Las Vegas 70.3, new Ironmen and Ironwomen, European Championship medallists, personal bests all round and some outstanding individual performances…
F4L Coaching recently hosted the first social weekend for F4L athletes – no pressure – just a group run, some technique work for core stability and swimming, a cracking meal out and then a glorious ride the next day. From the emails I have had back a brilliant time was had by all and it was a pleasure to coach. Continue reading…