Trifuel

Before we even consider a course of action to pursue fitness and health, we must understand that the modern world is out of balance with too much stress, unhealthy diet&exercise practices, obsessive/compulsive behavior, materialism/consumerism. We are faced with Hype, Shortcuts and Gimmicks when we pursue healthy diet or exercise techniques. It is important to take a step back and understand the need to take a more balanced and holistic approach to life, health, fitness and peak performance in the workplace.

Can you point your toes and straighten out your feet?

When you kick on your back, do you tend to go very slow, stay in one place, or even go backwards?

Do you have a tough time with swimming drills because your kick is not propelling you forward fast enough?

Do you wear fins in workouts just to "keep up"?

Our most precious resource is time. Time to work, time to train, time with our families and time with ourselves. There is only so much of it and everyone needs more. As a self-coached Ironman athlete your primary role is a Time Investment Manager.

When you begin to plan your training, and as you manage the details going forward, ask yourself two questions:

It is well known that fat makes its greatest contribution as an energy source during low to moderate intensity exercise. During exercise at 40 to 60% of VO2Max, fat breakdown supplies about half of the energy needs (1). This has led to recommendations that individuals who want to burn more fat to lose weight should exercise at a lower intensity.

The fitness systems or components required for success at the IM distance are:

1. Optimal body composition. Why train harder or longer when you can gain instant fitness with improved body comp?

2. Improved economy (swim technique, pedaling efficiency and bike fit, running economy). Again, free speed.