Take Your Training To The Next Level

So you have dabbled in triathlon long enough to decide you really like it and you're ready to take your training to the next level; How do you do it? Here are some suggestions, in no particular order:Upgrade Your Equipment- Add aero bars to your road bike, this will improve your aerodynamics and help you utilize larger muscle groups on the bike to help keep you fresher for the run.- Upgrade to a carbon fiber frame. These frames are lighter and make for a more comfortable "less-bumpy" ride.- Invest in a more aerodynamic race helmet.- Get a set of race wheels, they are lighter and more aerodynamic, not to mention offer a smoother ride.- Upgrade to a TT or time-trial bike. Keep in mind that in triathlon, aerodynamics usually trumps weight.- Purchase and learn how to use a GPS watch with a heart rate monitor. Feedback while exercising can often change your effort levels and help you get the most from your training.- Invest in a power meter and train with power. For me this has been very beneficial to see numbers as I am going and change my effort based on what I am seeing.- Get a proper bike fit. A more comfortable and efficient position will help you maximize your effort and improve performance as well as prevent injury.Commit To Healthy Living- Eat better. Adapt new eating habits and keep a food log for more accountability. MyFitnessPal is a great portable app.- Lean-up. One thing that will make you faster is leaning up your body up. Obviously if you are lighter it's easier to "carry" your body from the start to the finish over many miles.Up Your Level of Commitment- Spend more time training.- Set harder goals. Goals should encourage you to reach outside of your comfort zone to become a better athlete and person.- Discipline yourself to prioritize training and don't skip workouts.- Push yourself harder during hard workouts.- Enlist support from others. This can be as simple as sharing your goals and asking for support.Hire A Coach- Having a coach creates more accountability and support.- Knowledge is power; "You don't know what you don't know." A coach can educate you.- Coaches often have more insight and experience to share.- A coach can help you stay motivated. They often have a deep passion and are enthusiastic about the sport.- Coaches offer an outside perspective that can be help you make better training decisions.- Let me know if you need help. I am a coach with a passion for this sport. I would love to help you reach your health goals.More about the Coach: Coach Lora Erickson is a USA triathlon & USAT&F certified run coach. She has been coaching for over 18 years and works with all level of athletes. She is also a seasoned athlete with over 30 years of experience. To learn more visit BlondeRunner.com Learn More