Training for a Long Course Triathlon – 10 Days to Race Day with Custom Bike Fit
Source: Custom Bike Fit Youtube Channel: Training for a Long Course Triathlon – 10 Days to Race Day
Video Training for a Long Course Triathlon – 10 Days to Race Day with Custom Bike Fit
Video Training for a Long Course Triathlon – 10 Days to Race Day with Custom Bike Fit YouTube Channel.
Training for a Long Course Triathlon – 10 Days to Race Day
The Importance of Understanding Fatigue versus Tiredness in Athletes
When it comes to preparing for a race, especially one as physically demanding as a triathlon, understanding the difference between being tired and fatigued is crucial. This was the topic of discussion when Michael Baker from Custom Bike Fit sat down to chat about his training program in the lead-up to the upcoming race in Harvey Bay. As Michael mentioned, the increase in volume and intensity of his training program has left him feeling tired, but not necessarily fatigued.
Tiredness, as Michael explained, is a feeling of physical and mental exhaustion, often leading to increased sleep and a reluctance to get out of bed in the morning. However, with the right mindset and determination, athletes can still push through and complete their training sessions, as Michael has been doing. Feeling tired is a normal response to increased training load and is to be expected in the weeks leading up to a race.
On the other hand, fatigue is a more serious issue that impacts an athlete’s ability to perform at their best. Signs of fatigue include a decline in training performance, persistent heavy legs, and an overall feeling of decreased fitness. Michael, fortunately, has not experienced these symptoms, indicating that he is managing his training load effectively and listening to his body’s signals.
The Mental and Physical Battle during Training
During the conversation, Michael also shared his mental and physical strategy for getting through challenging training sessions. He mentioned that he has developed a mantra, inspired by a quote from Renee and Kylie, which he uses to motivate himself during tough sessions. By reminding himself to “chop wood, carry water,” Michael is able to push through the discomfort and stay focused on his training goals.
This mental battle, as Michael described it, is a familiar part of the training process and is essential for building mental resilience. From a coaching perspective, it is encouraging to hear that Michael is embracing these challenges and developing a strong mental approach to his training. This will undoubtedly benefit him on race day, where mental strength is just as important as physical fitness.
Taking Ownership of the Training Process
One of the key components of Michael’s training approach is his sense of ownership and connection to the training program. He shared an example of modifying a swim session based on how he was feeling in the water, demonstrating his willingness to adapt the program to his body’s needs. This level of ownership and responsibility is essential for athletes to feel fully committed to their training and race preparation.
Michael’s dedication to following the training program, even during challenging strength sessions, reflects his deep sense of accountability and commitment to the process. He expressed that, despite feeling tired at times, he understands the importance of sticking to the plan and not giving in to the temptation to cut corners. This dedication, combined with his coach’s support, creates a powerful partnership that is driving his progress forward.
Understanding the Mental and Emotional Aspects of Race Preparation
As the conversation shifted towards the upcoming race in Harvey Bay, Michael highlighted the various responsibilities and commitments he has leading into the event. In addition to his race preparation, he explained that he also has to manage bike fit appointments and support his partner’s participation in the barge to beach event. This holistic approach to race preparation demonstrates Michael’s ability to balance his personal and athletic endeavors, further underlining his commitment to the sport.
Moving Forward with a Fresh Perspective
As the race draws near, Michael and his coach are focused on the final phase of preparation, which involves gradually reducing the training load and allowing the body to recover and peak on race day. Michael emphasized the importance of adapting his training schedule to accommodate busy days leading up to the race, ensuring that he arrives at the starting line feeling fresh and prepared.
In conclusion, the conversation with Michael Baker from Custom Bike Fit provided valuable insights into the mental and physical aspects of race preparation for a triathlon. By understanding the difference between tiredness and fatigue, taking ownership of the training process, and effectively managing the demands of race week, Michael exemplifies the dedication and resilience required of an athlete competing at a high level. As he continues to embrace the challenges of training and race preparation, his journey serves as an inspiration for athletes striving to reach their full potential.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel Custom Bike Fit and do not necessarily represent the views of CicloNews.
