For Triathletes Fast Is Good But Fast Is Also Dangerous

 

Hi folks,

I just came from a great swim workout, where it was clear that my pace is picking up (thanks to Rick) giving me a sense of increasing efficiency and a better grip on the water. However, one false step and I’ll strain a rotator cuff or something. In the pool this is only a minor risk, but on the run it is a major one. As you run faster your efficiency will improve, but if by chance you do injure yourself it can be a doozy.

Here is a synopsis of my thoughts on speed work for swim, bike, run, based upon experience and many self-induced injuries over the years (not recently!):

  1. Swim: it’s safe to do speed work near the end of your workout, but don’t let your technique become sloppy.
  2. Bike: speed work is fine whenever, but if you’re tired remember that lack of focus can get you killed, so beware.
  3. Run: speed is great, and addictive, and when the ‘running endorphins’ are high and you feel invincible, STOP and go home.

Speed in the transition will slow you down, just practice your routine and stick to it calmly and methodically.

-k @FitOldDog

Today’s workouts:

Workout PLAN Coach: Chris Hauth
Swim
Distance: 3500.0 yd
Duration: 01:00:00
Description:
easy swim - 3-4×400′s, or even 3-4×500′s with extra rest Long, steady swimming, nothing on speed work or too focused

 Important Note: These posts do not provide medical advice. You should always consult your physician before undertaking or significantly modifying an exercise program.

Copyright © 2010 Kevin T. Morgan aka FitOldDog, Old Dogs in Training, LLC.

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About Kevin Morgan

About Me: Senior Scientist Ironman Triathlete & Blogger. Carrboro, NC. Mantra: safe exercise for better health through improved mind and body awareness. Business USP: use the experience of an actively competing scientist Ironman triathlete with an abdominal aortic aneurysm stent graft to develop a safe approach to exercise for better health through improved mind-body awareness, if you have diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity, other health challenge, or you are simply dealing with the effects of aging. Marital Status: Partnered Ethnicity: Caucasian
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