Getting Started

I was sending an email to a coaching client, addressing some questions, when I thought the content was great to share with those who might be interested.  The tone is casual and the caloric numbers are specific to him, but lots of this is loosely applicable to most triathletes that are just starting out.  Enjoy!

1.  Failures are all ok, and even better than ok, as long as you USE them to correct course, right?  Announce to your friends that you have to go to bed early because you're a panzy Ironman, fragile and delicate.  Making fun of yourself makes everybody laugh about it, but also brings it to light that you gotta do it.  Deep inside, they will be slightly envious that you are DOING something with your life, so it's all good.

2.  Go to google maps and type in either "pool" or "gym" and check out all the results.  It's the best way to find a pool in your area.  And not just A pool, but poolS.  You need backups.  I use three pools in my area to get my swimming done.  One is the most convenient, but it's outdoors and can be closed for weather.  Another is indoors, but the chlorine in the air bothers me for long periods.  The fanciest is also incredibly expensive, so I save it for loooooong swims.  At any time, I can pick the one that best suits my needs.  It's like having multiple biking or running routes.  Print out a list of their hours and put it on your fridge.

3.  You need 200 to 500 calories per hour for your workouts.  Hornet Juice provides protein.  The amount of calories, protein, and electrolytes you need will vary on how much you've already eaten during the hours leading up to your workout.  DOCUMENT how you feel vs. how much of what you ate.  This is your own personal guide on how fuel effects your performance.  And remember that fast-absorbing energy works like Nitrous vs. slow absorbing.  If I'm feeling a little low and I'm about to head out the door to run, it's time for simple sugars.  If I'm feeling full, I don't eat anything.  If it's hours away from a workout and I'm feeling low, I only eat complex carbs and other slow absorbing-foods (meats, veggies, fruits).  Hornet Juice is 1 serving per 1.5 hours.  Take it just before, during, or just after your workout if you take it at all.

4.  Sore is different than tired.  If you are sore, then a little exercise can be good for you.  The heightened blood flow will help restore your muscles and make you feel better.  In that case, we're talking about a light load, not heavy pushing.  If you are actually tired, then you are done for the day.  Take a nap.  You'll work out much better after a little rest.