I have gained a lot of knowledge from experience, research, and my coaches throughout my nine years of triathlon. This knowledge has definitely helped me achieve my goals, but I wish I had focused more on the three things below from the beginning.
This is for all those just starting out in the sport, or any endurance sport, for that matter. Here are the things I wish I would have done when I first started:
1. Have a strength and recovery program from the start! Don't just throw dumbbells around, but determine your muscle imbalances and do the little things to strengthen those. Make the foam roller your best friend on a daily basis.
2. Learn proper swim technique before worrying about how far or fast you swim. Take lessons!
3. Learn to KICK, KICK, KICK in the pool! I, along with many others, use the excuse, "I need fresh legs for the bike and run". Well I am here to tell you, if you learn to kick in the beginning it will become a strength and you won't have tired legs coming out of the water. It is also one of the easiest ways to get your body in the right position.. as long as you get those hips up and kick at the top of the water :)
These are just a few things that can help us all become better athletes, no matter our ability or length in the sport.
