I hoped I could start out by saying, “I’m writing this from 35,000 feet above the Atlantic Ocean en route to Norway.” But alas, the allure of the little screen in front of me and attempted sleep were too much. So, instead, you’ll have to settle for an article written from a hotel room in Mississauga, Canada. Needless to say, I have some experience training for triathlon while traveling. I’d like to share a few tips I picked up along…
Yes, I know. I’m violating a rule even more strict than riding your bike in transition by using the words “inexpensive” and “triathlon” in the same sentence. So, if you wake up in the morning to the headline “Triathlete Stripped of 115th Place Finish in Local Race for Rule Violation” blasted all over your news feed, please know that I am doing this for you. We are sometimes asked what gift we would like for Christmas or other occasion. As…
For some reason, triathletes love placing themselves into different categories. Whether it be finishers and competitors or pros and age-groupers, there’s at least one group for everyone. In fact, the title of this site, Middle of the Pack Triathlete, is just one more example of the phenomena. Today, however, I’d like to discuss one thing you need to join the class of triathletes that are perhaps the most elite of all: those who have suffered a bike problem mid-race, fixed it themselves,…
Whoever decided that dogs are man’s best friend was not a runner. Just ask anyone who’s been running for a while if they have a dog story to tell and you’ll quickly learn why this is true. These stories tend to take on one of several different recurring themes, such as: A dog snuck up and scared the living daylights out of me with its piercing bark. I was out on a county road and was chased by what looked…
We all need a good “recovery meal” after a long triathlon training session. While you’re stuffing down your burger, fries, large Coke, milkshake, second burger, and a side salad (hey it wasn’t all unhealthy), perhaps you’d like some “recovery entertainment” to go along with it. Look no further. I’ve compiled a list of funny—and sometimes inspiring—triathlon-related YouTube videos for your enjoyment. Want to watch all the videos at once for an evening of fun and delight? Just click here to…
As triathletes, we spend hours and hours obsessing over our gear, but far too often we overlook one of the most critical pieces of equipment that, when neglected, can turn even the best race into a nightmare: our ?#@*&%! car keys. You may be wondering about my use of the colorful adjective “?#@*&%!” in describing this simple instrument used to unlock and start our vehicles. If you are, clearly you’ve never finished a race and realized that you are locked…
New triathletes are often told that need to “save their legs” in the swim to be ready for the bike and run. The reasoning is that the kick provides a very small percentage of total propulsion in the water, so conserving energy there will help later on in the race. While not kicking at all is a bad strategy (see The Four Functions Of Your Swim Kick on Triathlete.com), I can see where taking it easy in this department will…
The TYR Special Ops 2.0 goggles are a work of fine craftsmanship, but you will pay for it. If you’re looking for a well-made goggle that isn’t going to leak and the fit works for you, give these a try. I’ll be using these in the open water, for the sun protection they provide and the tight seal around the eyes—a leak in open water is not fun. What I love: The only way to get these goggles to leak would…
I still remember my first bike. My dad found an old two-wheeler at a garage sale, fixed it up, painted it bright red, and gave me the surprise of my life. I was beyond excited. I’m sure you feel thrilled with your brand-new Cervelo P2, but, let me assure you, you have nothing on a 6-year-old boy getting his first pair of wheels. In fact, the second most traumatic experience of my young life—followed closely behind my mom dragging me…
Let’s face it. Becoming an elite triathlete would take a lot of blood, sweat, and tears. Besides, it may be a physical or even genetic impossibility for some of us. But, that shouldn’t keep you from sounding like one. Next time you want to impress your friends, just pull out one of these simple phrases—and hope they don’t press you for details: “I didn’t win, but I did place.” Technically, you placed 423rd if you want to be precise, but…