Competition
Triathlon competition is rigorous, particularly at ultra-endurance distances, with thousands competing around the world each year. Although avoiding injuries is vital to achieving optimal performance, several maladies are commonly experienced during competition and are of unique concern to athletes, coaches, supporting medical personnel, and race officials.
+ Dehydration
+ Hyponatremia
+ Gastrointestinal distress
+ Muscle cramps
training
Countless hours of swimming, cycling, running, and other modalities are often undertaken by competitive triathletes in preparation for competition. Avoiding injury during this time is critical to optimizing training benefits and competition performance. However, if not implemented correctly and with individualized care, high volumes of training may lead to specific overuse injuries.
+ Plantar fasciitis
+ Tendonitis of the shoulder, hip, knee, or ankle
+ Iliotibial band syndrome
+ Stress fractures
nourishment
Proper nourishment of the body is critical during triathlon training and competition. Nutrient intake, adequate hydration, and sufficient sleep will allow for muscle recovery and heightened adaptation during training and greater energy availability during competition. Understanding nourishment standards, followed by consistent implementation, is vital to successful competition outcomes.
+ Macronutrient consumption
+ Fluid intake
+ Sleep quality and quantity
+ Optimizing recovery
medical care
Managing injuries properly during training is essential to accomplish performance goals. Likewise, receiving excellent medical care for injury or illness during competition is often necessary. Competitive triathletes should be aware of common injuries and also possess general knowledge of prevention strategies and treatment options in the context of race environment and competition level.
+ Environmental factors
+ Race conditions
+ Medical care options
+ Injury prevention strategies