Lifetime Fitness Triathlon Training

The triathlon, which consists of a race that involves swimming, biking and running, has been gaining in popularity in recent years. Since the first informal triathlons in 1974 to the first Hawaii Ironman in 1978, this multisport endurance race has challenged thousands of athletes. The Lifetime Fitness Triathlon is a triathlon that offers the opportunity for athletes of all ages and abilities to experience triathlon, and knowing how to train for this triathlon can help an individual be optimally prepared on race day.

Significance

The Lifetime Fitness Triathlon is part of the Lifetime Fitness Triathlon Series Race to the Toyota Cup, which consists of six different triathlons. It is open to amateur and professional triathletes alike, and in 2010, the race consisted of more than 3,500 amateur racers representing 39 countries and 20 professional triathletes.

Types

Within the Lifetime Fitness Triathlon, there are different races depending on the distance covered. The distance of the triathlon will determine the intensity and duration of training sessions, as well as nutrition during training. The international distance triathlon consists of a 1.5k swim, a 40k bike ride and a 10k run; the sprint distance triathlon is made up of a .4 mile swim, 15 mile bike ride and a three mile run, according to lfttriathlon.com, the race's website.

Fitness

Since the triathlon consists of three different disciplines, it is important to train for each part of the race. Don Fink, a triathlon coach and author of "Be Iron Fit," states there are eight main types of workouts triathletes should have in their training schedules: the long run; the long ride; transition workouts; high intensity runs; high intensity rides; high RPM, or revolutions per minute, sessions on a stationary bike; swim sessions that are technique oriented; and rest days. The types of workouts are mainly self-explanatory, with transition workouts being what are also called "brick" workouts, consisting of a bike ride followed by a run.

Nutrition

While training for the Lifetime Fitness Triathlon, it is important to stay fueled and hydrated to maintain peak performance and health. Don Fink suggests eating six small meals throughout the day instead of the traditional three meals. This is especially beneficial while training because frequent eating helps keep energy levels consistent before and after workouts. A balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products, as well as a moderate intake of lean meats and low in fats is an optimal training diet, says Fink. Staying hydrated is often overlooked by athletes, but is crucial; according to Fink, a 2-percent dehydration before or during a workout can negatively impact performance.

Warning

Prior to starting triathlon training, clearance by a health care professional is critical if an individual has any medical conditions or prior injuries. The health care professional should be notified of plans to compete in the Lifetime Fitness Triathlon in order to get an appropriate medical clearance. During training, being proactive about injuries such as strains or sprains can help individuals recuperate faster and prevent more serious injury, says Fink.