Here’s a story about a guy named Greg that you might be able to relate to. Greg has been aiming to do a triathlon for a couple of years now. Unfortunately, between his busy engineering job and his family life with kids, it hasn’t happened yet.
Every January, new year’s resolutions come, and Greg swears that this year will be the year! The goal is to start training for the summer in the three disciplines every week and build up his endurance.
Spring comes and, unfortunately, not a lot has been achieved, so Greg starts a race against time to fit as many training session as possible to get as strong and fast as possible in an attempt to “catch up”.
Unfortunately, this has lead to a shoulder injury and a lower back injury in the past year, and a hamstring injury this year that has prevented him from competing in the event he was looking forward to.
Some advice to keep in mind while training for events like this:
- Warm up your body and stretch the muscles you use in your sport.
- Find a good location you can practice from.
- Set a training schedule and commit to it (commit to about three times a week, with some cross training).
- Build your training gradually, and always consider how you’re feeling to know how much you can accomplish on that particular day. Remember: your body knows best–listen to it.
- Trainers will help your technique, endurance, and the pace you should train at.
- Breathe! Yes: don’t forget to breathe. Your body and your mind will thank you.
- Don’t push yourself too hard, and be sure to temper your training before the race.
- Finally, Osteopathy can help your body through the training, increase performance, prevent injuries, and help you recover.
Learn more here.
Good news after two Osteopathic treatments, Greg just finished his first semi-marathon and is ready to do his first half-Ironman very soon!
Greg’s story serves as good basic advice for participating in any strenuous activity during the summer months in our great city of Calgary.
If you are an athlete and you think you might benefit from an Osteopathic treatment, consider booking an appointment with me.