Any triathlon will require endurance, and any triathlon will require ample training. An off-road triathlon requires many extra skills compared to the ones done on pavement or groomed trails. Competitors in training for an off-road triathlon must prepare to deal with awkward running and biking surfaces, plus the unforgiving terrain that can be found in the back country. Training for an off-road triathlon requires preparation for the elements in addition to the physical demands.
Geography
The geography of the course is the appeal of off-road triathlons. According to Xterraplanet.com, the unexpected is always expected in off-road triathlons, whether it be rising water levels, thunderstorms that wash out trails or temperature changes. The site states that the geographic challenges and untamed courses are part of the thrill. Training for off-road triathlons will take you up huge mountains, down creek beds and straight through areas full of jagged rocks.
Types
Biking training for off-road triathlons is done on narrow trails that sometimes can be undefined. Steep downhills and uphills are also features of off-road triathlon bike courses. Running training for off-road triathlons is conducted on trails similar to those that bikers use. To choose a spot for swim training, find out what type of water you will be swimming in for your off-road triathlon. If your off-road triathlon uses a pool, practice at the local health club or other swimming pool. If your race will use a lake or river, find a lake or river for your swim training.
Warning
An element of danger is present in off-road triathlon training. Trails are not flat and can feature rocks, sticks and deep ruts that put you in danger of suffering a myriad of injuries. Most training must be done in areas that are not close to medical help. Beware of animals when training for off-road triathlons. Off-road triathlon routes go through forests, rivers and other areas that animals call home. Some animals can be dangerous if they are startled.
Misconceptions
According to The Triathlon Experts, the training for an off-road triathlon should not be done the same way as training for a regular triathlon. Take time to work on skills specific to off-road triathlons, like bike riding skills and learning how to run on uneven surfaces. Another misconception is that you can quickly adapt to the different terrain if you have done many triathlons. That is not true because off-road triathlons will work different muscles than regular ones and those muscles need to be prepared. Triathlete and registered physiotherapist Sophia Sagur states that off-road triathlons demand a stronger core when compared to regular triathlons and that proprioception--the ability to react to uneven surfaces and know where your body is in space--is key.
Benefits
The benefits of training for an off-road triathlon include physical fitness and self confidence. Following through with a rigorous training program will melt away fat, build muscles and increase your physical endurance. Just as important, after you have completed the training program and completed a race, you will have the confidence of knowing that you took on a strenuous task and persevered.
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