 |
Article written by Niki Dobbyn
We've all asked ourselves this question at one point
or another. Do I really have what it takes to train and complete
a mini-triathlon? Yes, you do! Triathletes come in all shapes, sizes
and ages. A majority of us don't enter these competitions to win
the overall race. We enter because we want to win our own personal
race. It takes hard work and dedication, but you can also train
and compete in a mini-triathlon if you put your mind and body to
it. Here are some things to consider when planning for your first
mini-triathlon.
We all have strengths and weaknesses that we have to take into consideration
before we decide on how we should train for a mini-triathlon. Some
of us may be great runners and bikers but are terrible swimmers
or, some can bike and swim but have never tried running. Others
may not be athletes at all but are looking for a new challenge.
Be honest with yourself so that you can find the best way to accomplish
your goals.
Be realistic in planning your training schedule. If you don't know
how to swim, don't expect your first workout to be a one mile swim.
For your first training session, you may want to work with a coach
who can teach you how to drown-proof yourself and swim in a pool.
As you learn more, you can begin working on distance swims until
you can swim at least 100 yards further than the length of the swimming
part of your mini-triathlon. Do your best at arranging a training
schedule that you can complete. When you have mastered one workout,
move on to a harder workout. If you force yourself into a schedule
that is unrealistic, you will be unhappy at the end of every workout.
The idea is to work at your own pace and enjoy the process.
Stick with the plan.
We have kids, jobs, dentist appointments, car-pools, PTA meetings
and household chores that make every day different. Training for a
mini-triathlon requires dedication. Find creative ways to combine
activities. Ride your bike to work, run a few miles during lunch,
swim before work or let your kids ride bikes with you while you run
in the evening after work. There are also triathlon groups you can
join. Partnering up with a group of dedicated individuals can make
all the difference in the world. They will encourage you on tough
days and help you figure out creative ways to manipulate your schedule
so that you can fit all of the important things in your life into
each day.
Considering the advise above will only help you make
better decisions in planning your triathlon goals. Enjoy the process
and don't criticize the size of your accomplishments from day to
day. Give yourself a pat on the back for working towards a big goal!
Remember, there are some people who are natural triathletes and
compete to win. Then there are the rest of us who work really hard
and feel amazing because we complete the race!
|
