Proper planning and preparation are key elements to triathlon training and racing. An athlete’s time management and organizational skills play a huge role in their success or failure on race day. A day has only 24 hours and as a triathlete you must learn to get the most out of each and every one of them.

One of the most common complaints that we hear from athletes is that they didn't have the time to get their workouts in. A lack of time does happen - but more likely than not the athlete failed in their preparation and planning of their workout.

This failure could be that they didn't bring their training gear when they left for work in the morning, or that they feel it is necessary to drive 60 minutes out of their way to do a bike ride.

Sometimes life gets in the way and that is fine. We can't plan for the unexpected but we can plan for what we know awaits us each day.

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of each day’s training.

1. Find a place to swim that is as close to home or work as possible. Sure, the pool 45 minutes away is nicer but do you have the extra 90 minutes that it will take to get to this pool? Extra time commuting is extra stress on you.

2. Always have a “Go” pack with you. Keep a bag ready in your vehicle, office or home that has the essentials for a training session. A good “Go" bag has running gear that is appropriate for the season, swim gear, toiletries and a copy of your workout or training schedule. By having a “Go” bag on hand you eliminate the need for return trips home to get your gear.

3. Learn bike routes close to home and work. The time you spend driving to your ideal bike location is time wasted – and not available for training. You can download maps at http://www.mapmyride.com which will help you get to know cycling routes that are in your area.

4. When cycling time is short or the weather is bad, the wind trainer is your first choice. Trainers aren't nearly as fun as being outside but they are one of the best tools in a triathlete’s arsenal. Oh yeah, that saying about 90 minutes on the trainer is better than 2 hours on the road? FORGET IT! 90 minutes is 90 minutes. Just be thankful for the great workout but don't sell yourself short.

5. Find as many running routes in your neighborhood as possible. With a good selection of routes nearby, you can have a run that will fit the bill no matter how short you are on time. This will keep your runs interesting as well.

Remember: A little thought in the beginning will always mean more training time in the end.

View Our Training Plans on Trifuel.com

Eric Doehrman, Certified ironguides Method Coach - USA
http://www.ironguides.net

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