Don't Get Sidelined

It is very important to make sure that you have covered all the emergency “surprises” that may come up for your first race. After all the hard work you have put in your training schedule and at CROSSFIT 619, you wouldn’t want to get sidelined by an unexpected mishap or equipment failure.

Make sure to check your bike tires before heading off to start the swim. Make sure they have proper balance.

In addition, many find it more comfortable to apply some Vaseline to the tip of their bike seat.

In case of emergency, don’t forget your spare tire! If you are in a longer race, you may want to have a spare tube and changing tools in your seat pack if possible. Even if you are in a shorter race and it is your first time, carry a spare – you will be sorely disappointed if you don’t get to finish your first triathlon due to equipment failure.

Not just the tire can go flat – sometimes you will too! Bring along some energy bars or gels in case you need them. No matter what you prefer, remember that it can get hot and chocolate melts. For the run, you can find belts that will hold your energy gel for the run. Make sure to practice eating these items on the fly before the big race. You will want to know both how to handle them and how your body will react.

Are You READY?

You have tried the distance.
You have done the open water swims.
You have hit the pavement on the cycle.
CROSSFIT 619 and training have prepared your body.

Your mind is ready.

What could you be missing?

As we mentioned in the last article, your new athletic adventure, the triathlon, actually requires a lot of new equipment that you may not be used to. You need to make sure that you don’t get a flat tire or become a sinking ship – literally or figuratively!

Many triathletes use a bike and heart monitor to help them pace themselves. Even if you use it when you train, you will want to make sure it is working properly before you begin your race. Make sure it is functioning well and locked in place in a position that is easily visible when riding.

Start your bike out in a higher gear. This will make it easier to begin the race and get momentum without having to grind on the pedals. If your bike shoes are attached to the pedals (don’t forget your special shoes!) it will help get the bike moving sooner and provide you with more stability while slipping your foot into the shoe. A lighter spin at first will also provide you with the brief warm up you need to adjust to the transition. Once you are comfortable, you can switch to the lower gears.

Many races will have someone checking the handlebars or the bike before racking it to make sure they are safe. However, make sure to do this yourself if you are on your own. If you had any last minute repairs to do on your bike, always double check their functionality.