Friday, August 26, 2011

Racing for first timers/beginners

Tomorrow is the Clearlake Olympic and Sprint triathlon.  There is going to be a good showing!  Last I heard there are about 900 people registered for the race.  Dave Scott will be there racing as well... or at least that's what the rumors are saying.  I always love this race.

Tips for beginners:
If you don't have a chance to physically check out the course before hand at least study the maps thoroughly.   That way you will know what to expect.

Double check your race packet and make sure you at least have your race bib (for the run), bike number, and helmet number and that they all match.

In your packet there should be a hand out of some of the rules.  Review it and go onto USAT's website and review some of the race rules.

Here is a check list for things to bring to the race.  You may not need everything on this list but it's a helpful tool to have.

Happy racing!!




Friday, August 19, 2011

Welcome!

Welcome to my coaching blog!  I will try to post helpful hints once a week.

This week is all about hydration!  It's been hotter than usual in Houston and in many other areas.  It's extremely important to stay hydrated in this heat.  You need to make sure to take in plenty of electrolytes as well.  If you drink too much water you can deplete your electrolytes and get hyponatremia, which can be very serious.  A good rule of thumb is to take in 24-32 oz of fluid per hour of exercise.  If you are taking in water as your fluid source it's a good idea to also take salt supplements.  Locally Bicycle World of Houston carries a couple of differnt kinds of salt supplements (Enduralytes and elete).   Also, Shark Salts by Enduro Shark are pretty good. 

Here's an article from USAT's website on hyponatremia.

Happy training!!