So now that it is February, you are most likely fine tuning your training plan for the new race season, selecting your 'A' race(s), registering early for the sell-out of the increasingly popular races, making travel plans for the destination races, and thinking about the goals (resolutions) you set for yourself only one month ago.

I know there are many things to consider as a triathlete, however, I feel I must add one more 'to do' to your list for this season. Finding a good team! Not a team in the traditional sense of the word, but a different type of team. A team that you have in place in the event that you need a professional for physical therapy, massage therapy, nutrition etc.

This was a piece of information passed on to me by a former coach and I feel it is important for me to pass along to you. As a triathlete you spend ample time learning what training principles best suit you, what gear is essential and what new bells and whistles are available to improve your racing. But do you spend much time thinking about who you would turn to if your shoulder started acting up? Or if you are having trouble keeping energy after the bike leg is over?

You will be thankful that you put in the time to research a massage therapist, physical therapist, nutritionist that fits your needs. Remember, it is important to find someone that you feel is going to do the best work for you. A simple example would be, finding a nutritionist. It doesn't take anytime at all to do a search on line for a nutritionist in your area, but it may take some time to find a nutritionist that understands you are a triathlete and that you may require different nutritional needs.

When you first meet with someone this is your chance to interview them as well and to make sure they see things as you do. It is imperative that you feel comfortable with whom you have chosen and you aren't settling with first available or possibly because everyone you know uses this professional. Of course your friends and teammates are great resources to find out who they use, and odds are you will most likely find them acceptable, but don't wait until it is too late to find out.

If you are anything like me, your workouts maintain a certain balance in your life. Therefore, I believe spending the time before an injury happens or before you have lost more days than you care to count, is time well spent. Have your team in place. Don't lose time finding them when it is too late and you could be on the road to recovery sooner.

I have an amazing team that consists of a massage therapist, physical therapist, nutritionist and a chiropractor. Personally, I spent the time ensuring they are sport minded individuals who place a high value on thinking outside the box. Your team may look different than mine, but take the time, you will be glad you did!