I am preparing for a sprint length triathlon this coming spring.  I am currently working hard to bring my baseline cardio fitness to a level that I will be able to complete this race in style.  A triathlon is a stretch for me, as I have never been a runner.  I can walk for miles and miles, but running had always been a huge challenge.  Building to the point where I can confidently run longer distances has been slow, but I am seeing progress.

KT Tape

Aches pains and minor injuries are all a part or training for any kind of endurance sport.  I am feeling my share or pain in this process of change, from semi-couch potato to capable novice athlete.  I am fortunate to have the opportunity try out a product that gained some attention last summer during the Summer Olympics.  Anyone who even casually followed the Olymics was captivated by the team of Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor as they dominated Women’s Beach Volleyball.  Those watching may have also noticed the unique tape that was supporting Kerri Walsh’s recently healed shoulder; KT Tape.

“Perfect for athletes, weekend warriors, and everyone with sore muscles. KT Tape™ provides muscle pain relief, increased mobility, and enhanced recovery”- Description from KT Tape

I have used the tape with decent results for a shoulder that I injured many years ago that always seams to be a little sore after use.  The extra support of KT Tape really helps keep it feeling good throughout the day.  I also used it with very limited success for minor shin splints that I was feeling after my morning run.  A new pair of shoes was ultimately the solution for this.  My wife tried the tape out during her recreational soccer game, trying to relieve the plantar fasciitis that has recently flared up.

The thing I have found with KT Tape is application is the key.  If it is not put on right, it will not provide support, and will not provide relief.  Fortunately the KT Tape website has a pretty extensive instruction set to help with effective application.  There is also a booklet that comes with the tape that provides instruction for the more common uses of KT Tape

Tech4o Accelerator Pulse Watch

One of the most valuable aids I have used to maximize the efficiency of my training has been the Tech4o Acclerator Pulse watch.  This watch which features a heart rate monitor along with all the usual stop watch features, and the regular watch features have allowed me to really get in tune with my body during aerobic training.  The watch is fairly easy to use, and I was up and functioning after just a few minutes of browsing the owners manual.

Keeping yourself in a target heart rate is critical in maximizing training.  Having a device that tells me where my heart rate is in relation to my target heart rate is critical.  Without this device, I was only guessing, and never knew where I was, and whether I was getting the most bang for my training buck.

The watch is nice, if not somewhat generic looking.  It is not too large, and the strap is made of plastic that is not affected by moisture.  The chest strap with the heart monitor is easy to take on and off, and is small enough and light enough not to stay in place while running. I have just begun using the Accelerator Pulse Watch and will report back soon as I gain experience with it.

Tech4o at REI

Training Plans for Multisport Athletes by Gale Bernhardt

Developing a an effective training plan to get myself ready for my first triathlon has been a challenge.  I have no experience with this type of planning, and would not know an effective training schedule if I tripped over it during my morning run.  Training Plans For Multisport Athletes has been a fantastic aid in educating myself, and developing a plan that works for me.  While the book is very dense with interesting information,  there are section of the book that lay out plans for your current level of conditioning, and the type of event you are planning to participate in.  These chapters lay it out plainly.  What you need to do and when.

My suggestion is that if you are new to this type of event, Like me, read a book called Your First Triathlon. This book lays the foundation to using Training Plans for Multisport Athletes, and give you the basics that one needs to know to begin competing.  I have read both books, and they have helped make me confident that I will be ready when that day comes, and I step up to the starting line.

Training Plans for Multisport Athletes at REI