IN THIS EDITION…

  • How to convert your fitness into freestyle speed
  • 7 reasons why you need Zone 3 workouts
  • Science-based benefits of taking time off
  • 5 progression run workouts for faster finishes
  • Should triathletes drink tart cherry juice?

PROGRESS IS PERFECT

One of the most effective workouts in your training toolbox is the progression run.  Performed properly, it builds endurance, speed and grit.

Here are 4 key benefits of progression runs as described by coach Amber Sayer.

Be sure to try these 5 progression run workouts designed to have you finishing faster in your next race.

NEGLECTED ZONE

The popularity of Zone 2 and 80:20 training has undeservedly tagged Zone 3 workouts as being “junk miles” or “grey area” training.

Coach Renee Eastman continues her excellent series on managing blood lactate by explaining the 7 reasons why you need Zone 3 workouts.

Her thorough examination of the importance of Zone 3 sessions – and when to perform them – will help make you a better endurance athlete.

FASTER FORWARD

Coach Rob Wilby identifies 2 common freestyle flaws that prevent many age group triathletes from reaching their potential in the water.

To overcome these flaws and achieve a performance breakthrough, he shares two effective drills – one easy and the other more challenging – that will convert your fitness into propulsive force.

ZOOT X IRONMAN

Founded in Kona in 1983, Zoot is the original triathlon brand.  Today it’s the global leader in multisports apparel, producing the world’s most technologically-advanced and complete product line for triathletes.

To celebrate its new global partnership with IRONMAN, Zoot is redefining triathlon apparel with its exclusive IRONMAN Collection.

Designed to amplify performance, the IRONMAN Collection will elevate your most demanding training and racing.

Experience its cutting-edge technology, style and comfort... Upgrade to the Zoot IRONMAN Collection today.

CHERRY ON TOP

With uber cyclists Jonas Vingegaard and Tadej Pogacar seen swilling it at the finish line, tart cherry juice has returned to the spotlight as a possible ergogenic aid.

For triathletes, its apparent effect on accelerating recovery could be helpful, but its greater value might be as a sleep aid.

Learn how the polyphenols and other compounds found in tart cherry juice can improve the quality and quantity of your sleep.

DOWN TIME

In this fascinating study, researchers found that a 53-year-old triathlete – who hadn’t taken more than 2 weeks off in 30 years (!!!) — improved his performance markers by 5% after rebounding from a period of detraining.

This suggests that varying the intensities during macro training cycles is vital for continued progress.  Don’t fear a little time off!

QUICK HIITS:

  • Lux Boot Camp
    3x Hawaii IRONMAN World Champion Craig “Crowie” Alexander has a few spots remaining in his upcoming training camp on the Big Island.  After each day’s work, recovery in luxury at the 5-star Mauna Lani Resort, the camp’s host.
  • Rocket Power
    Body Rocket, which manufactures a device that measures your aerodynamic efficiency while riding your bike, just announced its launch of the world’s most accurate power meter Independent testing suggests it’s 10x more accurate than other systems.
  • Wider
    If you’re still struggling to understand why wider tires are usually faster (within reason), then check out this technical explanation by the experts at Continental Tires.  Embrace the 28s!