How to Ensure Endurance During the Big Event
We all know triathlon is no joke. The athletes don’t just swim or run or cycle — they do all three in rapid succession. Only the fittest will survive — literally. Although other aspects of one’s physical performance are very important, endurance plays a key role to win. A burly muscleman could only do so much next to a lithe athlete who can endure hours of physical exertion. That is what triathlon is. That’s why, more than just the strength, triathletes develop their endurance even more. How can you ensure you’ll last for hours at a time during training?
1. Eat Carbs — Lost of ‘Em!
Yes, there’s no room for non-carb eaters in triathlon. Carbohydrate is fuel and you need that fuel greatly. Eat lots of carbs before the race. The rule is to eat carbs at the ratio of 4:1 (carbs: protein) one hour before every rigorous exercise routine. Without eating one hour prior to training, your performance drastically decreases. Afterwards, 90 minutes into the training, eat again for fuel and energy.
2. Drink Up
Athletes get dehydrated quickly and frequently. Therefore, you should always rehydrate by drinking every 15 to 20 minutes. Remember, people can live longer not eating, but not without drinking. Increase your water consumption every time you drink. Also, it might be best if you consume sports drinks with electrolyte contents rather than just plain water. When you sweat, you sweat out electrolytes and water, so you lose both. If you want to replenish your strength, you should take in that which you had lost in the first place.
These are a couple of tips to enhance your endurance. However, you could only improve with your own power and it’s all up to you if you want to further and surpass your present physical capabilities.
