Triathlon Tips!

Picking a big event to train for can be a great way to fire up your workout routine. I know doing the LA Marathon this past spring got me really focused on running and finishing the race was amazing. It was definitely a bucket list achievement. My next big race is the 2012 Nautica Malibu Triathlon in September. I’ve been working with my trainer and getting advice from accomplished triathlon participants and here are a few tips to keep in mind when training for something like this:

1. When you have a busy schedule like I do, you have to make training sessions a priority. You can’t just plan for occasional killer, over-the-top workouts and let it go the rest of the time. Consistency is key.
2. If you are ultra-competitive like I am, you might be tempted to push yourself to the max and beyond during every training session. Don’t do it! This is a marathon, not a sprint (ha), and you have to give yourself time to build up strength and endurance. And, you don’t want to get injured – then there’s no way you’ll make it to the finish line.
3. Stay hydrated. I’m not great about carrying water while I run (I do carry it on my bike, though) so I drink a lot of water before and after and on longer runs, I try to have someone meet me on my route with water.
4. Train by racing. One great thing to do is compete in shorter events as part of your training regimen. It’s fantastic mental preparation and there are water stops so you don’t even have to carry water! I ran a half marathon in Pasadena with my brother as part of my marathon training and it was one of my favorite runs. A spring triathlon is also a great warm up.
5. Set reasonable expectations. Of course you want to be the best at everything you do, but if you’re working your training time in with the rest of your hectic life, be realistic about what you do – aim high of course but not out of reach.

Alison Sweeney wants YOU to finish first! Make sure you check out her website HERE, and if U have any more question about training OR anything else, you can always email us at [email protected]!!
[Image via AP Images.]