LOCALadk Magazine
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Summer 2018 LOCALadk Magazine 57 LOCALadk Preparation The amount of time and effort required to prepare for a triathlon varies for each individual for obvious reasons. Are you already in shape? Perhaps already a runner? Do you know how to swim? Or are you starting from scratch? Are you train- ing for a sprint, olympic, half- or full triathlon? Regardless of your current situation and goals, training and preparing for your race is ver y important. Following some type of training plan is best. This will ensure you spend an adequate amount of time training in each discipline, es- pecially the ones you may not enjoy most. Additionally, as your fitness increases, a training plan will slowly build on your training volume. Not building at all, or ramping up too quickly, can both lead to injur y. Training programs range from free to ver y expensive. You can find these online and in books magazines. You can even hire a coach to craft a customized program and provide ad- ditional guidance. Generally, you get what you pay for and the longer the event, the more important the quality of the training program. Swimming tends to give people the most difficulty. Al- though lots of people know how to swim, far fewer people know how to swim for distance, which requires laps. If you weren't a high school or collegiate swimmer, then it's a good idea to take a few swim lessons with a local coach. This will be the fastest way to get up to speed. If proper swim instruction is not an option, I recommend asking a friend who is proficient in swimming for help. You- Tube videos and online articles can be helpful, but they can also generate confusion and provide mixed information. This often leaves the athlete with more questions then answers. Join a Triathlon Club Joining a local triathlon club and training for a triathlon with friends is a no-brainer! You'll have more fun, learn from others who are more experienced, and get a little extra moti- vation from the accountability. Most clubs offer group work- outs and provide training resources and discounts for race registration and gear. What Are You Waiting For? Set a goal, make a plan, and trust the process. The three most important things it takes to become a triathlete are dedication, perseverance, and the will to tr y something different. There will be obstacles and there will be days when you question what and why you're doing it. Overcoming those challenges and rising to the occasion is part of what make it fun. Setting a goal and achieving it is an incredible feeling. John DiGiacomo The author, Chris Kaplanis enjoying his run