Question:

This is my second season, so I’m still a relatively ‘newbie’… You’d think that someone who bikes (spinning classes in the winter, swims twice a week, lifts weights twice a week, and runs twice a week would be lowering her body fat percentage, but I seem to be stuck at 21% or so (according to my Tanita body fat monitor…and the mirror).  I’d like to get leaner….. So, I started to think about my eating habits, etc.  On an average day, I eat about 1,300-1,500 calories.  I’m vegetarian, but I’m very good about getting enough protein.  I am starting to wonder if I’m not getting enough calories to effectively lower my body fat percentage.  I probably burn about 600 calories or so per workout, and I have a pretty sedentary ‘desk job’.  I read in Triathlete magazine this month that Sally Edwards thinks that exercising at too high of a heart rate may make it difficult to lose that last 5-10 pounds of body fat. Any thoughts?  Do any of you have really great dieticians that work well with vegetarian triathletes? Before you buy.

Response:

I should have mentioned that I am 5′-2", 117 lbs, female.  Does the calorie count still sound too low?

I can’t say.  I’m not a nutrionist of any sort, but 1300-1500 calories a day just sounds low to me, even for someone of your stature who does no exercise at all. I base my comments solely on my personal experience; I’ve had times in my life when I’ve reduced my calorie intake and the result was diminished energy and no weight loss, sometimes even weight gain because I couldn’t exercise as hard. It’s a tricky thing to manage and requires good judgement and listening to your body. I stand by my earlier suggestion that to progess in a sport, you need a minimum of three times a week.  "Progress" will enable you to develop more muscle and burn more fat.   What you do in those three session a week also makes a big difference. If, e.g., you  make one of your three runs a week a speedwork session (repeats of short distances at higher than your usual pace with a short rest between), you’ll eventually increase the speed of your other workouts and, as a result, burn more calories both during and after your runs. Best of luck to you. -S-

Response:

Consumer Reports did an article about Tanita monitors, and they said they work really well as scales, but tend to measure body fat about 5% high (which would put you at 16%).

They also have a specific setting for athletes.  I believe the logic, as I remember it from reading the instructions a few years ago, was that you’d be dehydrated if you work out more than 5 hrs. per week.  This my body fat percentage is considerably lower with the ‘athletic’ setting.  I’m planning on doing the water body fat test next time it comes to my gym. John Kelly

Response:

I should have differentiated better……fat loss is related to energy deficit no matter how the energy deficit is achieved.  The long term best method seems to be from a combination of exercise and energy intake restriction (slight).   Dieting alone will often lead to a loss of lean mass as well as fat (not to mention that people stop "dieting" and yo-yo).

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – But surely lost fat is better than just "weight"? Phil | The key to weight loss is total energy deficit not where that comes from. | The exercise session that expends more total energy will lead to more weight | loss. | | Look at the 100 and 200m finals of any world level track meet (or high | school for that matter) and you will not see much fat.  Those guys do almost | no training in the "fat burning zone". | | | Spinning classes are good interval workouts (to be used sparingly in | the winter and more often during the racing season) but they rely on | the quick-burning fuels (sugars) not the slow-burning kind (fat). You | should ride a little longer at an easier level and you’ll burn more fat | that way. ALso, it’s tough to be  a vegetarian and triathlete (I ate no | meat before I started tris, and now I eat it fairly often…when your | body craves it, it needs it, so eat it.) | | | Before you buy. | |

Response:

But surely lost fat is better than just "weight"? Phil

| The key to weight loss is total energy deficit not where that comes from. | The exercise session that expends more total energy will lead to more weight | loss. | | Look at the 100 and 200m finals of any world level track meet (or high | school for that matter) and you will not see much fat.  Those guys do almost | no training in the "fat burning zone". | |

| Spinning classes are good interval workouts (to be used sparingly in | the winter and more often during the racing season) but they rely on | the quick-burning fuels (sugars) not the slow-burning kind (fat). You | should ride a little longer at an easier level and you’ll burn more fat | that way. ALso, it’s tough to be  a vegetarian and triathlete (I ate no | meat before I started tris, and now I eat it fairly often…when your | body craves it, it needs it, so eat it.) | | | Before you buy. | |

Response:

The key to weight loss is total energy deficit not where that comes from. The exercise session that expends more total energy will lead to more weight loss. Look at the 100 and 200m finals of any world level track meet (or high school for that matter) and you will not see much fat.  Those guys do almost no training in the "fat burning zone". – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Spinning classes are good interval workouts (to be used sparingly in the winter and more often during the racing season) but they rely on the quick-burning fuels (sugars) not the slow-burning kind (fat). You should ride a little longer at an easier level and you’ll burn more fat that way. ALso, it’s tough to be  a vegetarian and triathlete (I ate no meat before I started tris, and now I eat it fairly often…when your body craves it, it needs it, so eat it.) Before you buy.

Response:

I’d consider Endurox R4 – it’s got some protein in it.  I’m also a vegetarian and using this stuff instead of Gatorade has made a real difference for me. I recommend you do any sport at which you want to improve at least three times a week.  It’s been my experience that twice a week is barely sufficient to maintain sport-specific fitness at any activity.  Only twice a week probably means that you’re further away from your potential, and therefore further away from burning as many calories as you’d like.  I do three swims, three weight lifts, three bikes, and three runs every week.  In the winter, I let the cycling slide but am sure to keep up with the other two.  In the summer I cycle a lot and will let the swimming and/or running and/or lifting slide a bit.  You might want to consider the ’seasons’ idea if three a week of all four activities is just too much for your schedule. Your calorie count is awfully low.  My guess, based on what you’ve told us here, is that you’re exercising at a relatively low level for you and doing it on very little fuel.  More fuel will enable you to exercise at a higher level and you’ll end up losing weight. -S- – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is my second season, so I’m still a relatively ‘newbie’… You’d think that someone who bikes (spinning classes in the winter, swims twice a week, lifts weights twice a week, and runs twice a week would be lowering her body fat percentage, but I seem to be stuck at 21% or so (according to my Tanita body fat monitor…and the mirror).  I’d like to get leaner….. So, I started to think about my eating habits, etc.  On an average day, I eat about 1,300-1,500 calories.  I’m vegetarian, but I’m very good about getting enough protein.  I am starting to wonder if I’m not getting enough calories to effectively lower my body fat percentage.  I probably burn about 600 calories or so per workout, and I have a pretty sedentary ‘desk job’.  I read in Triathlete magazine this month that Sally Edwards thinks that exercising at too high of a heart rate may make it difficult to lose that last 5-10 pounds of body fat. Any thoughts?  Do any of you have really great dieticians that work well with vegetarian triathletes? Before you buy.

Response:

  ALso, it’s tough to be  a vegetarian and triathlete (I ate no meat before I started tris, and now I eat it fairly often…when your body craves it, it needs it, so eat it.)

Following this logic my body must require massive doses of chocolate daily. -hug Before you buy.

Response:

Depending on your height and weight, you may not be eating ENOUGH calories to meet the demands of your training schedule.  This will cause your body to "hang on" to calories.  Once you take in an adequate amount of calories to meet your body’s needs, your metabolism will increase, because your body will know that an adequate source of calories/nutriton is constantly being provided.  Eating healthy snacks 1 hr. before and immediately after (high carb/low fat) a workout is especially helpful. A very useful site is located at: http://www.ivillage.com/diet/tools/healthcalc/   But keep in mind, the more active you are, the more you need to eat. Otherwise your workouts will suffer and you will feel very tired and unmotivated.  I learned a lot by going to a sports nutritionist.  I am a vegetarian and don’t eat dairy, but she helped me learn how much to eat (65-70% carbs, mostly whole-grains, beans, fruits, veggies and soy) and when, and how to use supplements during workouts/races.  I learned that for me (5′6", 135 lbs., 15 hrs. week training) I needed to eat approx. 3200 calories a day!  I was eating around 1800-2000.  Since I started following her advice, my workouts have dramatically improved and I am able to take my training to a higher level.  I gained about 6 lbs. in 2 weeks, and then began losing it and now I am stronger and leaner than before, now that my body has adjusted and knows it will be getting what it needs. Another useful site is http://www.dietician.com and a MUST READ is at http://www.pponline.co.uk/encyc/0127.htm Hope these help! Cindy J in Chicagoland – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – This is my second season, so I’m still a relatively ‘newbie’… You’d think that someone who bikes (spinning classes in the winter, swims twice a week, lifts weights twice a week, and runs twice a week would be lowering her body fat percentage, but I seem to be stuck at 21% or so (according to my Tanita body fat monitor…and the mirror).  I’d like to get leaner….. So, I started to think about my eating habits, etc.  On an average day, I eat about 1,300-1,500 calories.  I’m vegetarian, but I’m very good about getting enough protein.  I am starting to wonder if I’m not getting enough calories to effectively lower my body fat percentage.  I probably burn about 600 calories or so per workout, and I have a pretty sedentary ‘desk job’.  I read in Triathlete magazine this month that Sally Edwards thinks that exercising at too high of a heart rate may make it difficult to lose that last 5-10 pounds of body fat. Any thoughts?  Do any of you have really great dieticians that work well with vegetarian triathletes? Before you buy.

Response:

I should have mentioned that I am 5′-2", 117 lbs, female.  Does the calorie count still sound too low? – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’d consider Endurox R4 – it’s got some protein in it.  I’m also a vegetarian and using this stuff instead of Gatorade has made a real difference for me. I recommend you do any sport at which you want to improve at least three times a week.  It’s been my experience that twice a week is barely sufficient to maintain sport-specific fitness at any activity.  Only twice a week probably means that you’re further away from your potential, and therefore further away from burning as many calories as you’d like.  I do three swims, three weight lifts, three bikes, and three runs every week.  In the winter, I let the cycling slide but am sure to keep up with the other two.  In the summer I cycle a lot and will let the swimming and/or running and/or lifting slide a bit.  You might want to consider the ’seasons’ idea if three a week of all four activities is just too much for your schedule. Your calorie count is awfully low.  My guess, based on what you’ve told us here, is that you’re exercising at a relatively low level for you and doing it on very little fuel.  More fuel will enable you to exercise at a higher level and you’ll end up losing weight. -S- This is my second season, so I’m still a relatively ‘newbie’… You’d think that someone who bikes (spinning classes in the winter, swims twice a week, lifts weights twice a week, and runs twice a week would be lowering her body fat percentage, but I seem to be stuck at 21% or so (according to my Tanita body fat monitor…and the mirror). I’d like to get leaner….. So, I started to think about my eating habits, etc.  On an average day, I eat about 1,300-1,500 calories.  I’m vegetarian, but I’m very good about getting enough protein.  I am starting to wonder if I’m not getting enough calories to effectively lower my body fat percentage. I probably burn about 600 calories or so per workout, and I have a pretty sedentary ‘desk job’.  I read in Triathlete magazine this month that Sally Edwards thinks that exercising at too high of a heart rate may make it difficult to lose that last 5-10 pounds of body fat. Any thoughts?  Do any of you have really great dieticians that work well with vegetarian triathletes? Before you buy.

Before you buy.

Response:

I take exception to the statement below. I feel with proper dietary balance you can easily be vegetarian and a triathlete. I’ve been vegetarian for over 10 years and have been training for about half that. Marathons, 1/2 irons, ironman etc. I consider myself VERY competitive for the times I turn in these events. Soooo, it can be done. -Andrew

snip… ALso, it’s tough to be  a vegetarian and triathlete (I ate no meat before I started tris, and now I eat it fairly often…when your body craves it, it needs it, so eat it.) Before you buy.

– U S WEST Advanced Technologies 4001 Discovery Dr. Boulder, CO 80303 (303)541-6212 voice, -8264 fax

Response:

This is my second season, so I’m still a relatively ‘newbie’… You’d think that someone who bikes (spinning classes in the winter, swims twice a week, lifts weights twice a week, and runs twice a week would be lowering her body fat percentage, but I seem to be stuck at 21% or so (according to my Tanita body fat monitor…and the mirror).  I’d like to get leaner…..

Consumer Reports did an article about Tanita monitors, and they said they work really well as scales, but tend to measure body fat about 5% high (which would put you at 16%). You might want to double check with another method (most health clubs can do it with calipers). Vanessa

Response:

Spinning classes are good interval workouts (to be used sparingly in the winter and more often during the racing season) but they rely on the quick-burning fuels (sugars) not the slow-burning kind (fat). You should ride a little longer at an easier level and you’ll burn more fat that way. ALso, it’s tough to be  a vegetarian and triathlete (I ate no meat before I started tris, and now I eat it fairly often…when your body craves it, it needs it, so eat it.) Before you buy.

Response:

Question:

in the new Triathlete, there is a funny pic of some hawaii ironmen running down the street in their underwear- if any of you were there, did this really happen? is this a joke? i don’t really get it, in either case. marcus

Response:

It is a fun race meant to loosen people up and have fun the day before the big race.  It is not a joke.  It really happens.   "Bid me run and I will strive with things impossible."– William Shakespeare

Response:

I was there… it did happen… it is a joke at how some people run around Kona in their Speedo’s… not the proper thing to do there but they still do it.  It was mearly in jest!  It was lead by Roch Frey and Paul Huddle… great stuff!

It is a fun race meant to loosen people up and have fun the day before the big race.  It is not a joke.  It really happens. "Bid me run and I will strive with things impossible."– William

Shakespeare

Response:

I was there… it did happen… it is a joke at how some people run around Kona in their Speedo’s… not the proper thing to do there but they still do it.  It was mearly in jest!  It was lead by Roch Frey and Paul Huddle… great stuff!

I was there too and have pictures of it too. My mother sure liked it. clm in sf — Cathy Morgan, San Francisco, CA 1/00 SF 1/2 Marathon; 4/00 St. Anthony’s Tri; 5/00 IM California 7/00  Vineman 1/2 IM; 8/00 Mrs. T’s Triathlon; 10/00 Off to Kona

Response:

That’s pretty tame compared to the naked dash down main street Tuesday In ‘96 cops actually tried to chase some naked folk downt the street, but weren’t able to catch them! Grant – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -in the new Triathlete, there is a funny pic of some hawaii ironmen running down the street in their underwear- if any of you were there, did this really happen? is this a joke? i don’t really get it, in either case. marcus

Response:

And for the record a man wearing a mask but remarkably like Bob Babbit ‘won’ the race in 1999!

Response:

bh1.aol.com, in the new Triathlete, there is a funny pic of

some hawaii ironmen running down the street in their underwear- if any of you were there, did this really

happen? is this a joke? i don’t really get it, in either case. marcus

Why don’t they invite the ladies to join them next year.  They could run in their bra and Panties (thongs)!! Before you buy.

Response:

Why don’t they invite the ladies to join them next year.  They could run in their bra and Panties (thongs)!! Before you buy.

Because you usually WANTto see women in underwear.  The idea is to dissuade men from wearing their underpants (speedos) around town.  It’s kind of a protest run.   There were rumors floating around before last year’s run that some women were planning a super soaker ambush along the way – but nothing happened – lucky for us. Huddle

Response:

Tee hee… I have photos available from the Inaugural Edition of the Underpants Run, held on October 1 (I believe that was the day), 1998. http://www.stanford.edu/~brooksie/imh/germany.JPG http://www.stanford.edu/~brooksie/imh/germany2.JPG Master Huddle is the, uh, runner on the left. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Why don’t they invite the ladies to join them next year.  They could run in their bra and Panties (thongs)!! Before you buy. Because you usually WANTto see women in underwear.  The idea is to dissuade men from wearing their underpants (speedos) around town.  It’s kind of a protest run.   There were rumors floating around before last year’s run that some women were planning a super soaker ambush along the way – but nothing happened – lucky for us. Huddle

– Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "Real triathletes don’t draft." http://www.stanford.edu/~brooksie *New to triathlon?  Check out Hulaman’s Simple TriTips:  http://www.hulaman.com/triathlon/tritips.html    

Response:

Question:

Hi, Have tall friend wanting to get into sport with low budget. do you have a modestly priced racing bike for sale that would fit a very tall drink of water? Please respond to me.

Response:

We have a good selection of equipment for both Clydesdale and Tall athletes.  I am big and through personal experience have pretty good knowledge of good big bikes (all price ranges) and racing and training equipment for big guys and athletic women, including wetsuits. — Bud Bonzai web site      www.erols.com/bonzaisports 703-280-2248 : Have tall friend wanting to get into sport with low budget. do you have a : modestly priced racing bike for sale that would fit a very tall drink of water? : Please respond to me. : :

Response:

Question:

some of UCSB was up this weekend, and the rest i think are going next weekend, depending on the weather. see ya there scott

Response:

Hey, who was down at Lake San Antonio this past weekend besides members of the Carmel Valley Triathlon Club? I can find no other more perverse bike course, and loved it , as always ! The run has a special place in my heart, too. Anyone going next weekend? Lynne

Response:

See you there on Sunday. Anyone else going to Lake San Antonio on Sunday??

Response:

l"Lynne Fonda-Kosorek" See you there on Sunday. Anyone else going to Lake San Antonio on Sunday??

Our Easter weekend trip was cancelled due to rain.  We are going up Friday, doing the bike on Sat., & run on Sunday. Gary McMurtrey Inland Inferno Triathlon Club http://members.aol.com/infernotri/home.htm

Response:

Question:

Actually, my race highlight was touring the FDR memorial at dawn prior to the race, and being serenaded by a Carolina chickadee that was perched in the "blossoms long gone" Japanese cherry trees. Cathy – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Nortel Cherry Blossom 10 Miler Washington, DC April 5, 1998 What better way to spend a spring morning in the nation’s capital than by running along the Tidal Basin, along the Potomac, past Georgetown, and around many of the monuments?  It was a fantastic day, albeit a bit chilly at around 42F and windy at the start.

Response:

Nortel Cherry Blossom 10 Miler Washington, DC April 5, 1998 What better way to spend a spring morning in the nation’s capital than by running along the Tidal Basin, along the Potomac, past Georgetown, and around many of the monuments?  It was a fantastic day, albeit a bit chilly at around 42F and windy at the start. Since this wasn’t multisport, I’ll spare all the details.  I ran comfortably, with hr monitor, and thoroughly enjoyed the day.  For me, it wasn’t a day to suffer.  I ran 8+ per mile and just had a really good time running with 6000 others.  Although, I must admit getting a little guilty toward the end and putting in a couple of 7+ minute miles to finish.  The event was extremely well organized and went off with few delays, problems, or otherwise.  One of the cool features of the course was being able to see the leaders at a few points along the way, including the Kenyans (top 8 finishers) and the new women’s world record. Well, after winter and spring races that included three 5k’s, a 12k, and a 10 miler, I think I’ve got this running bug out of my system for a few months.  ONWARD TO COLUMBIA (with Salisbury, first).  I’m looking forward to getting much better acquainted with my bike over the next six weeks. See ya in May. Dave Radomski Springfield, VA, USA Cherry Blossom 10 Miler ‘98  Columbia Triathlon ‘98  Blackwater Eagleman ‘98????

Response:

Question:

I have been in triathlons for seven years, religiously following all the instructions on this newsgroup.    I have all the up to date aerodynamic equipment. Everything is spandex, flashy and Pearl Izumi.  I even have the same fork as PNF. I can urinate off my bike.   Daily I gorge on cliff bars and Gatorade. So why aren’t I fast??

i’m going out on a limb here but i think that it has to do with your training, either intensity, frequency, duration or regimen, but i bet it has to do with one of those. — Logan Heinrich "Tri-Weasel"

Response:

Dr Skull, trolling again.

Response:

I have been in triathlons for seven years, religiously following all the instructions on this newsgroup.    I have all the up to date aerodynamic equipment. Everything is spandex, flashy and Pearl Izumi.  I even have the same fork as PNF. I can urinate off my bike.  Daily I gorge on cliff bars and Gatorade. So why aren’t I fast?? Laszlo

OK, here’s a tip:  When you urinate off the bike, you’re supposed to be on the road at the time.  Otherwise, your aerobars get stuck on the flush handle and it really slows you down. Hope this helps. Brad W.

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have been in triathlons for seven years, religiously following all the instructions on this newsgroup.    I have all the up to date aerodynamic equipment. Everything is spandex, flashy and Pearl Izumi.  I even have the same fork as PNF. I can urinate off my bike.   Daily I gorge on cliff bars and Gatorade. So why aren’t I fast?? Laszlo  I have the same problem and it has been brought to my attention by a close friend that I have forgotten to train. Check your training log if it is blank this may be the root of your problem also.  Hope this helps.                                          Hawk tension

EUREKA!!!! Finally, a solution to my problem!  Hey, and I hear that there’s this company in Australia that has a computer program that will actually do my training for me!  Now, if I can just come up with the $600….. BW

Response:

Are we going to have to go thru the winter with this Dr Skull bloke? I sure hope he gets more reaction from other groups so he eventually stops wasting our time here.  Uh oh, I think he just got the reaction he wanted ! Cheers Barry (slow day at work!)

Response:

Are we going to have to go thru the winter with this Dr Skull bloke? I sure hope he gets more reaction from other groups so he eventually stops wasting our time here.  Uh oh, I think he just got the reaction he wanted ! Cheers Barry (slow day at work!)

LOL!!! he got ya! cheers to you Sam

Response:

Hmm, I’m sure I’m just one more gadget away from being fast myself.  (Now where’s that latest multi-sport catalog)

Response:

Hey Skullmeister: Flame bait or not, keep it up.  If some of us tri-heads can’t take a little needling, then we need to get a life beyond this newsgroup (or at least go out and buy a sense of humor). Kind of reminds me of the people that actually thought that the guy who was "tandeming" with the blow up doll at Mrs. T’s "was making fun of triathlon as a sport."  I’m *way* serious about my racing and I thought it was a scream! Carry on … I TRI

Response:

I have been in triathlons for seven years, religiously following all the instructions on this newsgroup.    I have all the up to date aerodynamic equipment. Everything is spandex, flashy and Pearl Izumi.  I even have the same fork as PNF. I can urinate off my bike.  Daily I gorge on cliff bars and Gatorade. So why aren’t I fast??

It’s gotta be the genes, and I don’t mean Calvin Klein’s. Coach Michael Collins Davis Aquatic Masters, CA DAM Home Page:  http://www.pacificmasters.org/dam

Response:

I have been in triathlons for seven years, religiously following all the instructions on this newsgroup.    I have all the up to date aerodynamic equipment. Everything is spandex, flashy and Pearl Izumi.  I even have the same fork as PNF. I can urinate off my bike.   Daily I gorge on cliff bars and Gatorade. So why aren’t I fast?? Laszlo

  I have the same problem and it has been brought to my attention by a close friend that I have forgotten to train. Check your training log if it is blank this may be the root of your problem also.  Hope this helps.                                           Hawk tension

Response:

I have been in triathlons for seven years, religiously following all the instructions on this newsgroup.    I have all the up to date aerodynamic equipment. Everything is spandex, flashy and Pearl Izumi.  I even have the same fork as PNF. I can urinate off my bike.   Daily I gorge on cliff bars and Gatorade. So why aren’t I fast?? Laszlo

Response:

<a bunch of spam deleted  Daily I gorge on cliff bars and Gatorade. So why aren’t I fast??

The ultimate conclusion would be that you are slow!

Response:

Question:

Steve, Thank you for investing your time, and money, in running for ITU president. I am very disappointed, and don’t pretend to understand what happened, but believe you ran a clean, clear, campaign. I am not sure if now is the time to compromise, and so I reserve judgement on the decision not to declare war and start a competing international organization, but I appreciate your feelings that you need to work with Les. Hopefully Rick M. can accomplish something on the inside. Brian Sullivan

Response:

I am not sure if now is the time to compromise, and so I reserve judgement on the decision not to declare war and start a competing international organization, but I appreciate your feelings that you need to work with Les. Hopefully Rick M. can accomplish something on the inside. <<

Did anyone really think the ITU election would turn out differently? Uncle Les is reelected and Sisson is back in

Question:

OPEN HAND POSITION IS MORE AERODYNAMIC….. THINK ABOUT THE SURFACE AREA THAT THE WIND HAS TO GO AGAINST. THE LESS SUFACE AREA THE LESS WIND RESISTANCE…. TRI GUY:                                      _

I don’t see any significant difference between open or closed hands regarding surface area (did you really mean frontal area?) When air hits an object it tends to do that tear drop thing. Having two smaller objects pushing through the air will create a bigger hole in the wind than one object of equal total frontal area, thus greating more drag and is therefore slower. The one hole approach (hands together) produces a single smaller turbulent zone for the torso to follow through, creating less overall drag. My high speed skiing experience has taught me that the hands together approach is faster. I can beat just about anyone downhill given equal equipment. The fact that corners exhilerate me rather than scare me also helps. My swimming experience (not too much but increasing) I have learned that streamling off the wall is fastest with hands together and the body going through the turbulent zone greated by the hands. Most aerodynamic is not always the most important but it is worth maximzing ones aerodynamics while reducing power output as little as possible. I race with hands together whenever I can. TriDork

Response:

OPEN HAND POSITION IS MORE AERODYNAMIC….. THINK ABOUT THE SURFACE AREA THAT THE WIND HAS TO GO AGAINST. THE LESS SUFACE AREA THE LESS WIND RESISTANCE…. TRI GUY:

I am assuming that "open" means the hands are apart and not touching each other, and "closed" means the hands are together and touching. I disagree.  I think a closed hand position is faster.  Think of a downhill skier in a tuck position.  Are his hands apart or together?  They are together.  Why?  Less surface area is exposed (skin pressed together).  Also, there is less disruption of the air as the skier or bike/rider pass through, since the body essentially "drafts" of the hands.  The hands and arms break the air, and the rest of the body follows behind. Also, the closed hands prevent area from entering in between the arms and striking the rider’s abdominal/chest area.   That being said, there is a comfort trade-off with closed hand positioning.  Breathing is harder when hands are close together. In addition, I have found more back strain as well since this is not a natural position (open is, in my opinion).   I think people alternate closed to open simply for comfort and change of position.  During the Ironman bike leg, I found many positions during the 6 hour ride -Rolf —    Rolf "Ironman" Arands, Ph.D. (Chemical Engineering)   Dept. of Chem. and Biochem. Eng’g, Rutgers University  –These are my highly opinionated views, not Rutgers’–

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If you have a big drop, then the hands apart position allows the air to flow between the hands with only the seatpost to break the airflow moving through. If your elbow rests are up higher, then the hands close will split the airflow and direct it around your body rather than into your chest.         Then why was Colby Pearce, who rides with one of the lowest

positions out there, able to significantly decrease his drag by *narrowing* his elbow position? I

think the "elbows apart to let air flow through" may just be a myth based on some coincidental

observations on Chris Boardman, which have never been published in any detail…

  I think that the hands and elbows together is the most aero(but not the most stable) in any case. I was just making the point that the hands apart position is only efficient with a big drop to the aero bars. Otherwise you are reducing frontal area on your arms, only to let the airflow hit you directly in the chest to negate any possible gains. Sorry for any confusion.   The best way to see your position is to take photos on the trainer from the front and side, imagine the airflow, and adjust your position to present the smallest frontal area and flattest profile, while still retaining a efficient and (reasonably) comfortable position. You will also see that unless your elbows are below your seat, the frontal area of your hand/arm position doesn’t mean squat. Hands together, and head down, will redirect the airflow around your body in the higher position. As you get lower, the hands can separate for stability without sacrificing as much to the wind. It worked for Paula at Kona. Look at the photos. But, hey…what do I know? I’m a hairdresser, not an engineer. Andrew Peabody Miami Beach

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OPEN HAND POSITION IS MORE AERODYNAMIC….. THINK ABOUT THE SURFACE AREA THAT THE WIND HAS TO GO AGAINST. THE LESS SUFACE AREA THE LESS WIND RESISTANCE…. TRI GUY:

WHOOPS – SLOPPY TYPING – TYPOES FIXED I am assuming that "open" means the hands are apart and not touching each other, and "closed" means the hands are together and touching. I disagree.  I think a closed hand position is faster.  Think of a downhill skier in a tuck position.  Are his hands apart or together?  They are together.  Why?  Less surface area is exposed (skin pressed together).  Also, there is less disruption of the air as the skier or bike/rider passes through, since the body essentially "drafts" off the hands.  The hands and arms break the air, and the rest of the body follows behind. Also, the closed hands prevent air from entering in between the arms and striking the rider’s abdominal/chest area.   That being said, there is a comfort trade-off with closed hand positioning.  Breathing is harder when hands are close together. In addition, I have found more back strain as well since this is not a natural position (open is, in my opinion).  

I think people alternate closed to open simply for comfort and change of position.  During the Ironman bike leg, I found many positions during the 6 hour ride -Rolf —    Rolf "Ironman" Arands, Ph.D. (Chemical Engineering)   Dept. of Chem. and Biochem. Eng’g, Rutgers University  –These are my highly opinionated views, not Rutgers’–

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Peirce with an hands together position on the cover of Inside Triathlon. While every one seems to be going to the open hand position on the aero bars. Any opinions?????? cheers Sam

I’m not sure if this is correct but I think it would depend on the drop between the seat and handlbars. If you have a big drop, then the hands apart position allows the air to flow between the hands with only the seatpost to break the airflow moving through. If your elbow rests are up higher, then the hands close will split the airflow and direct it around your body rather than into your chest. The hands apart is definitely more stable in windy conditions. I use a single tube aerobar and a low drop so I guess it’s whatever works for you. These manufacturers have to keep coming out with new products so the theory changes. Heaven forbid we ever finish building our bike. Andrew Peabody Miami Beach

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OPEN HAND POSITION IS MORE AERODYNAMIC….. THINK ABOUT THE SURFACE AREA THAT THE WIND HAS TO GO AGAINST. THE LESS SUFACE AREA THE LESS WIND RESISTANCE…. TRI GUY:                                      _ :                                   –    o :      ’             –  __o       –    </_ :  `     ‘         –    <         – __/ :    /o_         – (()) (())        -  /

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If you have a big drop, then the hands apart position allows the air to flow between the hands with only the seatpost to break the airflow moving through. If your elbow rests are up higher, then the hands close will split the airflow and direct it around your body rather than into your chest.

        Then why was Colby Pearce, who rides with one of the lowest positions out there, able to significantly decrease his drag by *narrowing* his elbow position? I think the "elbows apart to let air flow through" may just be a myth based on some coincidental observations on Chris Boardman, which have never been published in any detail…

Response:

Peirce with an hands together position on the cover of Inside Triathlon. While every one seems to be going to the open hand position on the aero bars. Any opinions?????? cheers Sam

Response:

Peirce with an hands together position on the cover of Inside Triathlon. While every one seems to be going to the open hand position on the aero bars. Any opinions??????

If you’re asking for OPINIONS, here’s just an educated guess: – The hands-together position is more aerodynamic. – The hands-apart position is probably more comfortable (i.e., allowing the chest to be more open, facilitating breathing, etc.) For my money, comfort is usually going to outweigh aerodynamic considerations.  Being aero ain’t gonna help ya none if you’re too uncomfortable to use your full strength and power.  This is particularly true in a long event like a tri.  If the bike makes you particularly tired because you’re not comfortable, that extra strain will surely affect your running. Just an opinion… Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  /

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Question:

Can anyone supply the results from Bath (U.K.)? The event took place on Sunday 3rd September and I had to miss it as I was at a sprint event at Newbury! Barry Denyer —

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Bath Triathalon results… (From London Times) Mens: 1. Simon Lessing       (GB)  1:53:04 2. Spencer Smith       (GB)  1:54:22 3. Rolf Eggert         (Ger) 1:57:45 4. Jimmy Ricittello    (US)  1:59.17 5. Richard Allen       (GB)  2:00:31 Lessing got two-footed during the bike, but still won! After Alcatraz, it seems he bikes and runs better after an unscheduled stop! Still no love lost between Lessing and Smith however (actually substitute lurid red for that) Womens: 1. Michelle Jones      (Aus)  2:08:29 2. Loretta Sollars     (GB)   2:16:08 3. Alison Hollington   (GB)   2:19:01 4. Annaleah Emmerson   (GB)   2:21:29 5. Sarah (? – sorry) Hollington   (GB)  2.22.23 timbo

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Question:

Gatorade will sponsor the first national triathlon series since the Bud Light Triathlon Series folded in 1993.  11 races will be presented from May through Nov.  All of the Garorade Triathlon Series Races will be televised nationally on Prime Network.  $27,000 in prize money will be awarded in the elite division during the series. Call 407-241-3801 for more information and and applications.

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Gatorade will sponsor the first national triathlon series since the Bud Light Triathlon Series

I’m very interested.  Why not post the schedule right here?  When is the first race?  Any  around Pa or Ohio or Maryland?  I’m making my choices right now, so quick quick give us a list of races. Ruth Kazez

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: Gatorade will sponsor the first national triathlon series since the Bud : Light Triathlon Series folded in 1993.  11 races will be presented from : May through Nov.  All of the Garorade Triathlon Series Races will be : televised nationally on Prime Network.  $27,000 in prize money will be : awarded in the elite division during the series. I would hardly call this a National Series.  I saw the schedule in the latest issue  of Triathlete and almost all of the races are in Flordia.  I think two or three others oare in Georgia and South Carolina and one in Texas. Its great for me South Padre Island is only 5 hours away and it should be a good way to end the season, but as for a National Series it is no where near the scope of the BLTS. Todd

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The Gatorade Triathlon Series Schedule May 14 – Tampa, Florida June 11 – Boca Raton, Florida June 25 – Miami, Florida July 16 – Orlando, Florida July 23 – Atlanta, Georgia Aug. 13 – Sarasota, Florida Aug. 20 – Columbia, South Carolina Sept. 2 – Marsh Harbour, Bahamas Sept. 23 – South Padre Island, Texas Oct. 8 – Jekyll Island, Georgia Nov. 5 – St. Augustine, Florida Each race will have $1,000 in prize money – $500 to first male and female finisher.  Bahamas Race will have $3,000 in prize money.  South Padre Island will be part of the Triathlon Pro Tour and will have $15,000 in prize money. Each race of the Gatorade Triathlon Series will be nationally televised on Prime Network.  (Only 3-4 BLTS races were televised nationally each year) Exclusive Sports Marketing has presented over $150,000 in prize money during the past eight years and has always paid out prize money to race winners.  Exclusive Sports Marketing and Gatorade have committed to presenting the best national triathlon series possible.  In 1995, this means using some of the former sites of the Gatorade Sprintman Triathlon series held in the state of Florida.  New sites, outside of the southeast, will be added across the nation in 1996. The elite waves of each race in the series will follow ITU rules. Disignated races will allow drafting.   Contact ESM at 1060 Holland Drive, Su. 3-L, Boca Raton, Florida 33487 for an application.

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