Carefully Curated Triathlon News for November 14, 2024
IN THIS EDITION…
- Unlock running potential with strength training
- Are shorter crank arms a good idea?
- How to build your ultimate off-season program
- 3 ways to resist age-related performance declines
- You only need this much HIIT this winter
FASTER MASTERS
There are 3 main factors that cause us to slow down as we age: declining VO2max, decreasing muscle mass and increased body fat.
Coach Joe Friel shares research that suggests continued racing helps slow the rate of age-related decline.
He also offers 3 strategies for masters athletes to preserve performance. Keep these in mind as you plan your training program, and you’ll kick some younger ass next season.
ULTIMATE OFF-SEASON
If your last “A” race of the year is in the books, then it’s time to turn your attention to planning the most productive off-season possible.
Coach Tatjana Bill outlines her proven 4-part guide to the ultimate off-season.
In it she explains what to focus on for the greatest ROI, and what to de-emphasize. Follow her plan, and you’ll emerge in the spring fresh, strong and ready.
UNLOCK MORE SPEED
Off-season is the perfect time of year to unlock your running potential with strength training.
Having reduced your running volume, you can now utilize heavy lifting to correct biomechanical problems, improve economy and overall increase speed.
With this strength training guide for endurance runners by Jason Fitzgerald, you can construct a program that delivers measurable performance improvement without excessive weight gain.
SWEET DEAL
UCAN’s proprietary SuperStarch (called LIVSTEADY) is a low-glycemic, complex carbohydrate that has changed the way triathletes train and race.
UCAN products provide athletes with steady, long-lasting energy without the spikes and crashes associated with sugary gels and drinks.
Best of all, the flavors are subtle and not too sweet. With zero sugars and zero stimulants, UCAN provides sustained energy throughout the race with no GI or stomach upset.
For a limited time, TriathlonWire readers get early access to UCAN’s Black Friday deals and unlock 30% off your purchases. Check out their complete line of drinks, energy bars and snacks today!
HIIT IT OFF
Continuing with the theme of off-season training strategies, how can we improve cycling performance this winter?
According to Dr. Martin Bonnevie-Svendsen, modest but well-designed HIIT prevents detraining during periods of reduced training loads.
Learn how just one interval session every 7-10 days during your 8-week off-season will give you a head start – and a leg up – on your competition.
BETTER SHORTER
Shorter crank arms are the newest trend in cycling, popularized by superstar Tadej Pogačar’s adoption of 165mm cranks.
Elite cyclist Dylan Johnson reviews the latest research to understand the impact of switching to a shorter crank length. Is it a wise science-based decision or merely a fad?
As triathletes, you’ll want to pay particular attention to its impact on FTP, aerodynamics, bike fit and knee pain.
QUICK HIITS:
- 5 for Free
Looking to polish your stroke mechanics? Then check out these 5 swim drills for triathletes that will dramatically improve your technique, efficiency and confidence
- Saddle Up
When the dust settled from the 2024 Kona Bike Count, saddle manufacturer ISM emerged as the overwhelming choice for bike seats. The preferred perch of 633 age groupers, they were a country mile ahead of second place Selle Italia, which came in at 278
- Gifts for Swimmers (Like You)
If you’re shopping for a triathlete this Holiday season (or need a little something for yourself), then consider these 5 gifts for a faster swim leg curated by Olivier Poirier-Leroy.
