| Multisport Training Tip # 11 |
Technique - Ask yourself:
· Who is giving this advice? Is it a fellow athlete in their second year of Multisport or a veteran with 20 years of races under their saddle? Is advice coming from someone acting as a coach with little experience or credentials in this field or a degreed professional with a multitude of experiences and certifications?
· When considering whether to adopt a technique ask yourself- are the best in the world doing it this way? For example - are the best runners in the world running on their toes and taking very small strides - not that I have seen, or are the best bikers riding in an aero position that simulates what is most aerodynamic in a wind tunnel. No - because this doesn't allow the rider to breath and Norman and the front of the pack aren't doing this.
Equipment - Ask yourself:
· How much is the benefit vs. the cost. For example a carbon bottle cage is really cool and may save you 3 seconds on a 40k TT. However the same $ could buy you a private swim lesson which results in your becoming 15% more efficient saving you 20 seconds and leaving you with more energy for the bike which results in an additional 40 seconds on the 40K.
· How long has this item been available and how often has it been tested? We know that a full length wet suit will save you time in anything over a sprint distance race and so will aero bars an aero helmet and running flats. Long compression sox-not sure. Power Bar and Clif Bars and Gu - a known - this years latest new product- better try it on a training ride that doesn't have a great deal of importance.
Ask a lot of questions before purchasing and adopting equipment and techniques. In closing success still comes down to testing and then smart, consistent and hard training based on current paces, heart rates and or watt zones. Get on your gear and log some miles! See our website for upcoming training opportunities.
Coach Dwight |
