Question:

: In training? In a marathon? I’m considering 30 sec each mile. I was wondering : about the experiences of others who may have tried it. when they renamed them to Snickers, I stopped eating them. but my experience was that sometimes the peanuts would get stuck in my teeth. HTH. — Steve Leyland mhm32×16  Smeeter#35 flower: three 6 four 9 five 8 eight 9 Alcatroll Labs Inc collaborator (bongwater maintenance dept)   =^//E0// //E0// ARMY^= Prince Charles and Prince William NEVER travel on the same airplane just in case there is a crash. _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW Meow MeowMeow  M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW* MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW MeoW Meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** _*MEOW*_ Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW Meow MMEEOOWW M*E*O*W MeoW meow ***MEOW*** MeOw mEoW _*MEOW*_ XXXXXX  XX      XX  XX  XXXXXX  XXXXXX   XX  XX       XX  XX XXXXXX  XX      XX  XX  XXXXXX  XXXXXX   XX  XX       XX  XX XX      XX      XX  XX  XX      XX       XX  XX        XXXX XXXX    XX      XX  XX  XXXX    XXXX     XX  XX         XX XXXX    XX      XX  XX  XXXX    XXXX      XXXX         XXXX XX      XXXXXX  XXXXXX  XX      XX         XX         XX  XX XX      XXXXXX   XXXX   XX      XX         XX         XX  XX                ;,._                           _,,-                 `;,  `:.  ,   ;.   .   :’  .;` /                  ; `;;,      .:    :.      ,;;` /                   ‘;/    :: :  . ::/    ;` ;                    ).’ __.._`        ’_..__ `./                    /<  \ /I`,      ,’I //                      /   `;-7/_ — /_7-;’   /                    //.    `"’:" ;; ":`"’     /                     |/ .  .:’ __..__ `.     |                     /|: ./. `=_  _=’ .   |/                        /:(/::.  /  .::) /                         ////=-v-’`-v-=\\  fL                         ///`Nx_;;/_xN’\                        / /   `"w==w"’                           /                 "Warning to all: Steve Leyland is a trolling twat of the highest order. Killfile the muppet now and move on. Even the briefest of searches on his past UseNet posts will reveal the truth. You have been warned. *plonk*" Bastard Bear, uk.rec.motorcycles "It’s a bigger shame that packs of idiots can’t keep their profanities and idiocies in groups where such is the norm, but instead have to go crying for attention in groups that don’t deal in heavy cross posting, cascades, profanity, abject stupidity, and every other moronic thing that Steve Leyland, Dean Humphries, and Eddie Bernard represent." Mike Soja, alt.bad.clams

Response:

A GREAT idea. When I was breaking into long runs (over 2 hours) I would run for 10, walk for 1. Felt like I could go forever.  It also gives your legs a break.If it works for you, thendo it.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – During long runs I walk for about 30-40 seconds every 12-15 min.  I use this time to drink and stretch out my arms.  If I’m taking a gel then I walk for about 1 minute to 90 seconds because my frozen fingers can’t get the damn wrapper open fast enough to consume the solidified "fruit flavoured toothpaste" inside.  I’m still fairly new to long distance running, so I find that the walk breaks really help my endurance at the end of my long runs. Sylvia De Silva

Response:

In training? In a marathon? I’m considering 30 sec each mile. I was wondering about the experiences of others who may have tried it.

I’m training for my first marathon, my LSD is only up to 9 mi. but I’m reading Jeff Galloways "Marathon" and he promotes walk breaks.  During my LSD I run the first 3 mi. non-stop then walk for a min. for every mile after that.  When I’m done I feel great.  During my short runs of 5 mi. I don’t walk at all.  I guess whatever works for you, I’m 44 and I don’t expect to break any records, I’m just happy to be out there doing it. Kelly Lee

Response:

I use the run/walk plan, though nothing formal – no timer set on my watch, no strict distances or times. On training runs, I walk a bit every mile or two.  Maybe a 30 second walk, maybe stop to take a leak, or just a quick stretch.  If you do this, you can make your long runs longer and this will be a good thing. In races – I walk about 20 seconds at every water stop.  It’s a brief walk and it lets me drink without gulping air or spilling it all over myself.  I usually run the last few miles without stopping.  In an Ironman triathlon, I walk 30-45 seconds in every rest stop and I get to pass many, many people on the run. Does it work?  Well, that depends on your goals, I ran a PR on Sunday in the Motorola Austin Marathon and made my qualifying time for Boston, so it worked for me.  Clearly the winner of the race didn’t walk 30 seconds every mile. Alan.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – In training? In a marathon? I’m considering 30 sec each mile. I was wondering about the experiences of others who may have tried it.

Response:

I’m considering 30 sec each mile.

If you can run a mile in 30 seconds, you don’t need our advice. Bill R. 00

Response:

During long runs I walk for about 30-40 seconds every 12-15 min.  I use this time to drink and stretch out my arms.  If I’m taking a gel then I walk for about 1 minute to 90 seconds because my frozen fingers can’t get the damn wrapper open fast enough to consume the solidified "fruit flavoured toothpaste" inside.  I’m still fairly new to long distance running, so I find that the walk breaks really help my endurance at the end of my long runs. Sylvia De Silva

Response:

In training? In a marathon? I’m considering 30 sec each mile. I was wondering about the experiences of others who may have tried it.

Response:

In training? In a marathon? I’m considering 30 sec each mile. I was wondering about the experiences of others who may have tried it.

You’ll find almost as many approaches to this as there are runners. When I was first beginning to build my tolerance for long runs in training, I did something like you suggest, or more often 1 minute every two miles, during which I would have time to drink, etc. Over time, I stretched the continuous running to 3, hen 4, then 5 miles, etc. Now, in training runs of 10 miles or less, I don’t schedule walks; over 10, I walk briefly 2 or 3 times about 30 seconds each. In my most recent marathon, last Sunday, I walked three times for about 15 seconds each while drinking more water than usual after taking energy gels at miles 5, 12 and 19, roughly. The trick you may find is not to walk at all in the last three or four miles of a marathon or long run–when you MOST want to walk–because it’s hard to start running again. Like drinking fluids during a long run or race, if you walk, do it before you desperately need it. Good luck. Chris

Response:

Question:

I think it’s a german brand which is well established.  Good quality. — Andre Charlebois BPE in exercise science, MCP, CNA, A+ webmaster for Triathlon New Brunswick

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Has anyone heard of these tri bikes? I’ve just seen one in a bike store in town but never seen one before. Price looked good. Any comments would be apprc.

Response:

Has anyone heard of these tri bikes? I’ve just seen one in a bike store in town but never seen one before. Price looked good. Any comments would be apprc.

Response:

Question:

I’m in the Chicago camp.  While the lakefront path can get a little dicey for bikes during peak hours during the summer (after work and on weekend mornings), it is close by and absolutely great at other times.  It is 18 miles from one end to the other and even in summer the southern end of it is pretty quiet.  There is one beach right down town that is set up for distance swim training with bouys and lifeguards.  Every day you will see tri folks locking up their bikes near the beach to jump in for the 1 mile round trip out to the most distant orange bouy. The 18 miles of lakefront path are pretty well marked in 1/2 mile increments (mostly accurately), so you can even do longer interval runs.  Lots of secure places to lock the bike during a brick.   Another great feature is all the water fountains and restroom facilities up and down the lake — a critical issue during these hotter months. Another "super club" is Lakeshore Athletic Club in Lincoln Park.  1/4 mile indoor track, 25m 8 lane lap pool (on a separate FLOOR from kids pool), about 20 spinning classes per week, aerobic training machines and weights of all kinds, etc. (I practically lived there for about two months this winter.) Finally, I’ll mention the Belmont Racing Club — a group of bike folks focused on bike racing.  They do a 50 mile ride every Sat & Sun morning starting near Lincoln Park.  The first and last 5 miles are somewhat stop and go at city stop lights, but beyond that they cruise on quiet shady suburban streets.  If 50 isn’t enough for you, they sometimes go further. Bottom line:  I live about 1 mile south of Wrigley Field, 1 mile west of the lakeshore and virtually all of my workouts begin and end and home. Regards, Ray Daniels – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Due to some changes at my firm, I’ll be leaving my current home of Dallas and moving to either New York or Chicago.  I’ve lived in NYC (pre-multisport days) and it seems that Central Park would be the only place to ride and run.  As for swimming, I imagine finding a pool would be very difficult. As for Chicago, I really don’t know where I’d swim, run or bike. Any thoughts on training, clubs, group rides, etc. in either city?  I work in finance, so my hours dictate that I live in the City, not in the burbs.

Response:

Got to be Chicago.  The swim set up is just ideal at Ohio St. beach with both sprint and international distances marked along the sea wall and right about now there are buoys in the water roughly marking each turn around. Running is fine along the lakefront but cycling can be a little cramped.  Two solutions are go ride in the burbs or just head a little farther south on the trail, pass Soldier’s Field and McCormick Place.  The lakefront isn’t nearly as crowded on the South Side and you should be able to mantain speed for a pretty good distance. td

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Re: Chicago–In addition, lots of good riding  in the farther out suburbs (both road and trail). –Lee Crumbaugh (Tri-Hard)

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Well, if you’re a trader, the markets open earlier here. Lincoln Park/Old Town is good for running, crowded for good biking.  Great suburban riding is nearby if you have a car, can probably bike into the northern ‘burbs. Scott "I get up at 4 AM" Hoffman Share what you know. Learn what you don’t.

Response:

Frank, Here’s a brief summary of what you can find in the Chicagoland area. -Lake Michigan-open water swims in the summer. -Lakefront path-good for run training-bad for bike training. -Chicago Area Runners Association-very active running group. -No local active tri group in Chicago proper, but groups train out of Village Cycle Sport in Elk Grove as well as Mission Bay in Elgin. -Numerous group rides out of the Barrington area (40 min. from downtown).  They typically go 60-120 miles on weekend morning. -And much, much more… Feel free to let me know if you have any more questions about Chicago or the Chicagoland area. Good luck, Kevin Munday

Response:

As one who has lived in both cities, from a multisport perspective, I think Chicago wins hands down. You have easy access to the lakefront for swimming, biking and running and country rides are just a short ride away for the longer stuff. Additionally, there are a number of "super clubs" (Eastbank, Goldcoast Multiplex, Illinois Athletic Center), that provide a great haven for winter training, at a much more affordable price than New York City clubs. Chicago is also quite a bit more affordable, though severely lacks what New York has to offer in terms of culture, restaurants, and  the like. Just my two cents … –howard solomon

Response:

For NY, it sort of depends where you live.  I live in northern Manhattan, and cycle across the George Washington Bridge (at 178th St.) into New Jersey and cycle there on Route 9W.  I run on Riverside Dr., where I can run for nearly 5 miles before I have to cross a street. And I swim at the pool at Columbia University.  There are apparently a few clubs and such but in general, I train alone so I can’t give you much info on that. Hope this helps, Walter R. Strapps

Response:

I live in downtown Chicago (Old Town)  and am training for my first triathlon.  I don’t know any different but I can’t imagine a better place to train.  For what it’s worth I am also in the financial industry. Within a a  5 minute walk outside my front door, ( I am not rich, I rent) there is access to approximately 20 miles of absolutely beautiful  lakefront bike and jogging paths.  Within a 5 minute bike ride, the Ohio Street Beach at Lake Michigan has an International Distance swim course all marked out. You don’t have to be a great swimmer you are never in more than about 5- 6 feet of water, however when the winds are up you definitely the sensation of "open water" swimming.  I nearly got sea sick my first couple of times out. There are also plenty of clubs  with indoor pools at a very reasonable rate to join. Anyway if you come to Chicago I think you will be more than pleasantly surprised! Good Luck!  I know I will need it! T.K.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Due to some changes at my firm, I’ll be leaving my current home of Dallas and moving to either New York or Chicago.  I’ve lived in NYC (pre-multisport days) and it seems that Central Park would be the only place to ride and run.  As for swimming, I imagine finding a pool would be very difficult. As for Chicago, I really don’t know where I’d swim, run or bike. Any thoughts on training, clubs, group rides, etc. in either city?  I work in finance, so my hours dictate that I live in the City, not in the burbs.

Response:

Due to some changes at my firm, I’ll be leaving my current home of Dallas and moving to either New York or Chicago.  I’ve lived in NYC (pre-multisport days) and it seems that Central Park would be the only place to ride and run.  As for swimming, I imagine finding a pool would be very difficult. As for Chicago, I really don’t know where I’d swim, run or bike. Any thoughts on training, clubs, group rides, etc. in either city?  I work in finance, so my hours dictate that I live in the City, not in the burbs.

Response:

Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hey all!!! A buddy and I are interested in buying triathlon-ready bikes.  Do you have any recomendations on what to get?  I guess we are both looking to spend around $1,200 to $1,500…maybe a little more if needed.  Anyway I would reall apreciate any info you guys/girls could give me… Plus, are there places where you can buy a program that would get you ready for an Ironman Distance Triathlon?  I’ve just started and am getting really serious about training.  I figure it’s time to get organized so that I can race to the peak of my ability…thanks again. Jesse Leifert Hey all!!! A buddy and I are interested in buying triathlon-ready bikes.  Do you have any recomendations on what to get?  I guess we are both looking to spend around $1,200 to $1,500…maybe a little more if needed.  Anyway I would reall apreciate any info you guys/girls could give me… Plus, are there places where you can buy a program that would get you ready for an Ironman Distance Triathlon?  I’ve just started and am getting really serious about training.  I figure it’s time to get organized so that I can race to the peak of my ability…thanks again. Jesse Leifert

I’m now offering triathlon online email training. I have a degree in sport science (4 year program). check out my sites for reference, and note the attached package http://members.tripod.com/~TriNB/MHFS/mhfs.htm http://members.tripod.com/~TriNB/ http://www.geocities.com/HotSprings/Spa/4264/

[ contract.txt 5K ]

Training Plans and Rates      1.   Elite      For very serious athletes who want every part of their training analyzed and planned. Includes training and biomechanical analysis through videotape and/or still photo. Includes nutritional analysis and weight training. Fully periodized training based on specified competition dates. Athlete is advised to commit to full year of training. Training plans are provided in highly detailed 1 week microcycle blocks.      Rate:$200 USD ($300 CDN) 1st month, $150 USD ($225 CDN) each month thereafter.      2.   Competitive      Includes nutrition analysis. Less detailed periodized training for athletes who aren’t in a position to specify competition dates. Training plans provided in 2 week blocks.      Rate: $150 USD ($225 CDN) 1st month, $100 USD ($150 CDN) each month thereafter.      3.   Recreational      For the athlete whose focus is more on event completion than goal time. 4 week training block provided.      Rate: $100 USD ($150) 1st month, $50 USD ($75 CDN) each month thereafter.                                                        Moncton Health and Fitness Services (MHFS)             Client Questionnaire Please answer the following questions and contract to the best of your ability and mail it (or fax 506-388-6241) along with a cheque for your first month to: MHFS, 204 Brookview St., Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, E1C 9N8. Use additional paper if necessary. PERSONAL Name: City: State/Province: Zip/Postal Code: DOB: Ht: Wt: Phone: (time zone included) w: (area code included) h: (area code included) Fax: (area code included) email: Occupation: I desire Plan (circle): Elite, Competitive, Recreational and have Canadian Customers) I understand that I am committing to this program for a minimum of four (4) months: _______ initials. PERSONAL PHYSIOLOGY               Max. HR: sport- VO2 Max: sport- Anaerobic Threshold Heart Rate (estimated): Avg. Resting HR: % BodyFat: SPORT RELATED I wish to be coached in the sport of (triathlon / duathlon / running / cycling) Circle one Yrs. Competing: Favorite Sport: Best Time: Least Favorite: Strengths / Weaknesses: AVG. TRAINING TIME AVAILABILITY EACH WEEK (hours): Mon. Tues. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Sat. Sun. TOTAL GOALS (Please state your goals. List event dates and distances.) TRAINING HISTORY (Please describe a typical week of training from the past month.) Average Hours / week: OTHER COMMENTS: CONTRACT AND WAIVER PLEASE READ CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING Make 2 copies and fax them to me. I will sign both and fax one back to you. I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT A TRIATHLON AND TRAINING FOR A TRIATHLON IS AN EXTREME TEST OF A PERSON’S PHYSICAL AND MENTAL LIMITS AND CARRIES WITH IT THE POTENTIAL FOR DEATH, SERIOUS INJURY AND PROPERTY LOSS. I HEREBY ASSUME THE RISK OF PARTICIPATING IN THE TRAINING AND OTHER ACTIVITIES RECOMMENDED BY ANDRE CHARLEBOIS AND/OR MHFS. I CERTIFY THAT I AM PHYSICALLY FIT, AM SUFFICIENTLY TRAINED FOR PARTICIPATION IN THIS PROGRAM AND HAVE NOT BEEN ADVISED AGAINST PARTICIPATION BY A QUALIFIED HEALTH PROFESSIONAL. I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT MY STATEMENTS ON THIS CONTRACT ARE TRUE. I ACKNOWLEDGE AND ACCEPT THE RISK ASSOCIATED WITH RIGOROUS PHYSCIAL TRAINING. I WAIVE, RELEASE AND DISCHARGE ANDRE G. CHARLEBOIS AND/OR MONCTON HEALTH AND FITNESS SERVICES FROM ANY AND ALL CLAIMS , LOSSES, OR LIABILITIES OF DEATH, PERSONAL INJURY , PARTIAL OR PERMANENT DISABILITY, DAMAGE TO PROPERTY, MEDICAL OR HOSPITAL BILLS, THEFT, OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING ECONOMIC LOSS, WHICH MAY NOW, OR IN THE FUTURE, ARISE OUT OF OR RELATE TO MY PARTICIPATION IN THIS TRAINING PROGRAM. I AGREE NOT TO SUE ANY OF THE PERSONS OR ENTITIES ASSOCIATED WITH ANDRE CHARLEBOIS AND/OR MONCTON HEALTH AND FITNESS SERVICES. I HEREBY AFFIRM THAT I AM EIGHTEEN (18) YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER. I HAVE READ THE DOCUMENT AND I UNDERSTAND ITS CONTENTS. I ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THE TERMS OF THIS CONTRACT SHALL BE INTERPRETED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE PROVINCE OF NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA. SERVICE CONTRACT the 10th of each month. I agree to give at least two weeks’ notice before cancelling my training plan. I understand that I can extend and change my plan at any time after the initial four months. I understand that I will receive training plans according to the plan I have purchased. I HAVE READ AND AGREE TO THE WAIVER AND SERVICE CONTRACT. MONCTON HEALTH AND FITNESS SERVICES                               Revised: 14 Sep 1998          Copyright   1998 Moncton Health and Fitness Services                 All rights reserved.            Site Design by Moncton Health and Fitness Services

Response:

Hey all!!! A buddy and I are interested in buying triathlon-ready bikes.  Do you have any recomendations on what to get?  I guess we are both looking to spend around $1,200 to $1,500…maybe a little more if needed.  Anyway I would reall apreciate any info you guys/girls could give me… Plus, are there places where you can buy a program that would get you ready for an Ironman Distance Triathlon?  I’ve just started and am getting really serious about training.  I figure it’s time to get organized so that I can race to the peak of my ability…thanks again. Jesse Leifert

Response:

Question:

I’m an avid bicyclist and runner.  I’ve run three marathons so far though I’m not happy with the outcome of any of them.  NYC will be my next one and I’m actually looking to triathlon training to pick up my fitness level. Anyway, here is the problem.  I’m just learning how to swim and have about 2 more months to be able to pull out a reasonable time in a 1/2 mile swim. I’m doing well but find that my body seems to be too low in the water which makes it a struggle to breath.  I am comfortable with bilateral breathing and if I put a flotation belt on to keep my body higher in the water I can to the front crawl for quite a long time.  Once the belt comes off though I tend to get more water in my mouth and can only swim for about a minute before I’m out of breath and losing form.  What can I do to keep my body more on top of the water.  Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Races arn’t always to the swift….but to those who keep on running. Steve Shattuck  

Response:

I’m an avid bicyclist and runner.  I’ve run three marathons so far though I’m not happy with the outcome of any of them.  NYC will be my next one and I’m actually looking to triathlon training to pick up my fitness level. Anyway, here is the problem.  I’m just learning how to swim and have about 2 more months to be able to pull out a reasonable time in a 1/2 mile swim. I’m doing well but find that my body seems to be too low in the water which makes it a struggle to breath.  I am comfortable with bilateral breathing and if I put a flotation belt on to keep my body higher in the water I can to the front crawl for quite a long time.  Once the belt comes off though I tend to get more water in my mouth and can only swim for about a minute before I’m out of breath and losing form.  What can I do to keep my body more on top of the water.  Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Races arn’t always to the swift….but to those who keep on running. Steve Shattuck

It’s almost impossible to give swimming advice over cyberspace because each swimmer has a set of problems unique to him/her. I strongly advise you to find a coach. The coach will acess your strngths and weaknesses and will provide a regimen built for you to improve your stroke. There are United States Masters Swimming (USMS) programs around the country that provide coaching and it is a strong bet that one is in your area. Anyway, what is probably happening is that you’re not moving much in the water between strokes; that will make your legs sink. When you start to improve, your stroke will give you a more efficient glide. This glide in turn will tend to lift your legs up, kind of like an airplane wing in a stiff wind. Result? You will feel more on the top of the water instead of submerged in it. Hope this helps.                           |26      | IMC’96: 10:36:37          |   Fe   |   ‘98 IMC, GCT, BSLT IMC’97: 10:42:53          |        |                  "THE BEST ELEMENT OF RACING"

Response:

I would suggest the following book.  It has a number of simple drills you can practice to improve your swimming. Total Immersion : The Revolutionary Way to Swim Better, Faster, and  Easier by Terry Laughlin, John Delves List Price: $13.00 Our Price: $10.40 You Save: $2.60 (20%) Availability: This title usually ships within 24 hours. Paperback – 286 pages (August 1996) Simon and Schuster Books; ISBN: 068481885X I pasted the above text from amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/068481885X/002-3321661-9067025 Have fun, Fred. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m an avid bicyclist and runner.  I’ve run three marathons so far though I’m not happy with the outcome of any of them.  NYC will be my next one and I’m actually looking to triathlon training to pick up my fitness level. Anyway, here is the problem.  I’m just learning how to swim and have about 2 more months to be able to pull out a reasonable time in a 1/2 mile swim. I’m doing well but find that my body seems to be too low in the water which makes it a struggle to breath.  I am comfortable with bilateral breathing and if I put a flotation belt on to keep my body higher in the water I can to the front crawl for quite a long time.  Once the belt comes off though I tend to get more water in my mouth and can only swim for about a minute before I’m out of breath and losing form.  What can I do to keep my body more on top of the water.  Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Races arn’t always to the swift….but to those who keep on running. Steve Shattuck  

Response:

You might like to think about the following things too : * Stretch whilst swimming. When your hand has entered, reach forwards as far as you can (without throwing your body off the centre line) and stretch from your finger tips to your toes and pull in your stomach. This will help keep your legs and bum up.

Good advice * Make sure your head is steady (not moving) and the water line is just above your goggles (i.e. look forwards to the end of the pool, not down). This keeps your shoulders up.

Wrong! Bad advice. Try to keep your head in-line with your spine (just like when you are talking to someone). This means you’ll be looking DOWN, not forward. By looking forward your hips will sink lower. You need to counter-balance the legs and hips dropping by pressing down with your head and chest (bouy). The goal is not to keep the shoulders up, but to create the least amount of drag. A level body creates much less drag than an uphill one. Once you can maintain balance, learn to swim (or skate) on your side. (slicing one shoulder through the water at a time). You have to learn balance before you can work on the skating though. * don’t slip the water. Make sure that just before you start the "push", your elbow is not leading your hand. This makes sure you get good propulsion from the whole of the forearm.

Right. I call it keeping a vertical forearm. Keep a good "purchase" on the water by not pulling too hard or you will "rip" though the water instead of anchoring your arm to slide your body past. Check out the  Total Immersion book and/or video to get a much better explaination. Marty Hull has 3 good video tapes as well – Water, Fluid Swimming, and How Swimming Works Swimmingly, Michael Collins UCLA Bruin Masters Coach & Merchandise Manager Swimming World Magazine 310-607-9956 x105

Response:

Best advice I can give is get the Total Immersion book. The tips and drills in there will improve you swimming so much. I got some tips from their site and then got the book, in a matter of a few weeks I have cut my number of strokes per length from 28 to 15, much of it because of the balance stuff. Andrew

Response:

I’d like to second the advice for entering into a Masters (type) program. There is *nothing* better for swimming than getting in coached group workouts regularly. It is extremely hard to make effective stroke corrections without some kind of coaching. And the friendly competition of these workouts will do wonders to get you through tough interval sets. jeff.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I’m an avid bicyclist and runner.  I’ve run three marathons so far though I’m not happy with the outcome of any of them.  NYC will be my next one and I’m actually looking to triathlon training to pick up my fitness level. Anyway, here is the problem.  I’m just learning how to swim and have about 2 more months to be able to pull out a reasonable time in a 1/2 mile swim. I’m doing well but find that my body seems to be too low in the water which makes it a struggle to breath.  I am comfortable with bilateral breathing and if I put a flotation belt on to keep my body higher in the water I can to the front crawl for quite a long time.  Once the belt comes off though I tend to get more water in my mouth and can only swim for about a minute before I’m out of breath and losing form.  What can I do to keep my body more on top of the water.  Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Races arn’t always to the swift….but to those who keep on running. Steve Shattuck

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m an avid bicyclist and runner.  I’ve run three marathons so far though I’m not happy with the outcome of any of them.  NYC will be my next one and I’m actually looking to triathlon training to pick up my fitness level. Anyway, here is the problem.  I’m just learning how to swim and have about 2 more months to be able to pull out a reasonable time in a 1/2 mile swim. I’m doing well but find that my body seems to be too low in the water which makes it a struggle to breath.  I am comfortable with bilateral breathing and if I put a flotation belt on to keep my body higher in the water I can to the front crawl for quite a long time.  Once the belt comes off though I tend to get more water in my mouth and can only swim for about a minute before I’m out of breath and losing form.  What can I do to keep my body more on top of the water.  Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Races arn’t always to the swift….but to those who keep on running. Steve Shattuck

Just like Pete said, can’t do much for you unless I see you.  Your on the web so I would suggest checking out the swimring, Total Immersion has a site, ATAC, and webswim.com is also another good one for info on stroke mechanics etc…even the best swimmers in the world use coaches, a masters group can help greatly.  You have got to have an experienced swimmer check you out. Every once in awhile one of the guys in my group brings his camera with a hood on it, and he tapes us so we can watch ourselves, quite an eye opener to see yourself.  Last but not least SWIM, SWIM, and SWIM some more.

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A a USS coach and former competitve collegiate swimmer here are a few thoughts: 1) Keep your head lower in the water.  Instead of looking directly in front of you, look towards the bottom of the pool.  Your body follows your head.  If your head is more in line with your body (imagine standing and looking directly to the sky, then tilt your head down and look directly in front of you) thereby looking more towards the bottom of the pool, your feet will rise.  The higher your head is out of the water the lower your legs and feet will be.  Take it from a person who is a "sinker."  First my legs sink and then the body follows.  However, I have no trouble keeping my legs and feet high in the water. 2) Kick.  The more you kick the more your legs will be at a higher level in the water.  However, make sure your kick produced little ripples or splashes in the water.  If that is the case, you will know your legs are high enough in the water.  If not, they will be submerged too far under making it difficult to swim. 3) Have an experienced swimmer look at your technique.  They can give you tips. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m an avid bicyclist and runner.  I’ve run three marathons so far though I’m not happy with the outcome of any of them.  NYC will be my next one and I’m actually looking to triathlon training to pick up my fitness level. Anyway, here is the problem.  I’m just learning how to swim and have about 2 more months to be able to pull out a reasonable time in a 1/2 mile swim. I’m doing well but find that my body seems to be too low in the water which makes it a struggle to breath.  I am comfortable with bilateral breathing and if I put a flotation belt on to keep my body higher in the water I can to the front crawl for quite a long time.  Once the belt comes off though I tend to get more water in my mouth and can only swim for about a minute before I’m out of breath and losing form.  What can I do to keep my body more on top of the water.  Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Races arn’t always to the swift….but to those who keep on running. Steve Shattuck

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m doing well but find that my body seems to be too low in the water which makes it a struggle to breath. It’s almost impossible to give swimming advice over cyberspace because each swimmer has a set of problems unique to him/her. I strongly advise you to find a coach. The coach will acess your strngths and weaknesses and will provide a regimen built for you to improve your stroke. There are United States Masters Swimming (USMS) programs around the country that provide coaching and it is a strong bet that one is in your area. Anyway, what is probably happening is that you’re not moving much in the water between strokes; that will make your legs sink. When you start to improve, your stroke will give you a more efficient glide. This glide in turn will tend to lift your legs up, kind of like an airplane wing in a stiff wind. Result? You will feel more on the top of the water instead of submerged in it. Hope this helps.

I agree with everything Pete says. Good advice. You might like to think about the following things too : * Stretch whilst swimming. When your hand has entered, reach forwards as far as you can (without throwing your body off the centre line) and stretch from your finger tips to your toes and pull in your stomach. This will help keep your legs and bum up. * Make sure your head is steady (not moving) and the water line is just above your goggles (i.e. look forwards to the end of the pool, not down). This keeps your shoulders up. * don’t slip the water. Make sure that just before you start the "push", your elbow is not leading your hand. This makes sure you get good propulsion from the whole of the forearm. * do lots of swimming.

regards adrian

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Question:

Does anyone know the phone number so I can suscribe to Inside Triathlon.  I let my subcription slide and i cannot find the magazine at any area book stores. Thanks John

Response:

Does anyone know the phone number so I can suscribe to Inside Triathlon.  I let my subcription slide and i cannot find the magazine at any area book stores. Thanks John

There website is www.insidetri.com, i’m sure you can get any info you need there Tim Hignett Buaidh No Bas -Seeking HQ GD and JGB tape trades,YLGM-

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The number given in the magazine is (303)440-0601 or fax (303)444-6788.

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Question:

Need any wisdom you can spare.  Trying to decide between a Quintana Roo Private Reserve or a Litespeed Tachyon.  What is it like to ride on Titanium?  I am currently on a Cannondale Road Frame.  I will put good aero wheels (suggestions?) and a carbon fork on it. Thoughts?

Can’t tell you anything about the Litespeed but can tell you some about my Roo.  I’ve got a TeQuilo and to sum it up in three words, I love it. It may not be the "best" in any given area, but I’ve found it to be a great all-around ride.  After reading about steep seat angled bikes giving a harsh ride, I was pleased to find the "QR’s" ride comfortable. I’ve also found it comfortable climbing either seated or standing and in my opinion it climbs very well.  So there’s the testimony of a happy QR owner, I’m sure you’ll get good words from happy Litespeed owners as well. I think the new PR comes with an aero shaped carbon fork standard, check out QR’s website to see exactly how its equipped. I guess the best thing would be to find a local shop that carries both bikes, see if you can put some miles on each to find out which suits your preferences.  You probably can’t go wrong on either. Yakabo

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: Thoughts? – Tachyon is Litespeeds triathlon bike.  It has the same 78 degree

     seat tube angle QR’s have.  (Angle’s are adjusted for larger frames.      77 degress for a 57cm, 76 for 59 & up).  The Tachyon also has 650c      wheels.  I’ve heard this years Tachyon, will use "aero-oval" tubing.        Don’t know how this will effect the ride.      I have a Kilo that has been Private Reserved with after market components.      Some of my buddy’s ride Tachyon’s.  I’ve compared a 57cm Tachyon to my 57cm      Kilo.  Geometry is identical.  Set-up’s were too. The only difference was      frame.        There were only two differences I was able to detect:      1. Kilo seemed snappier, ie; more responsive.  This can be both good         and bad.  Snappier can also be twitchy. Personally, I like snappy.      2. It felt like the Tachyon absorbed more road vibration.      Since I didn’t climb with the Tachyon, I can’t say which I felt was      better.        Hope this helps.  Home Page: http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~twm/TTH.html

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: : Correction….. :      I have a Kilo that has been Private Reserved with after market components.                                    TeQuillo’d   Home Page: http://www-leland.stanford.edu/~twm/TTH.html

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Need any wisdom you can spare.  Trying to decide between a Quintana Roo Private Reserve or a Litespeed Tachyon.  What is it like to ride on Titanium?  I am currently on a Cannondale Road Frame.  I will put good aero wheels (suggestions?) and a carbon fork on it. Thoughts?

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Need any wisdom you can spare.  Trying to decide between a Quintana Roo Private Reserve or a Litespeed Tachyon.  What is it like to ride on Titanium?  I am currently on a Cannondale Road Frame.  I will put good aero wheels (suggestions?) and a carbon fork on it. Thoughts?

Adam: I have been riding a Tachyon with Kestral fork for the past three years. First off, I am very happy with my Litespeed. I find it to be very comfortable, light, and handles very well. The newer models have aero tubing that might provide some further benefits, but I don’t think it really makes a very significant difference. I can’t say that I have ridden a QR but I have to think it would ride similarly to the Tachyon. The frame geometries are very similar and that is usually the key determinant to the ride of the bike. The major difference between the two bikes is the frame material and the cost. The QR might be a bit stiffer or harsher, but is it uncomfortable? I doubt it, but you need to ride the bike to know for sure. In conclusion, if I had to replace my Tachyon as my racing and training bike, I would ride both. (Next weekend is the QR expo in Memphis). If I liked the ride, I would be inclined to save the $$ by buying the QR. They are both very good triathlon geometry bikes, so you really can’t go wrong. Good luck and good racing. Stewart Cox

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I think you get more bike for the money with a Kilo PR. Isn’t the Tachyon road geometry? If so, then you need to decide when geometry you want. And you need to know which bike fits best. But fit and geometry considerations aside, the titanium frame will eat up bucks because of the cost of the material. I don’t believe that titanium is a magic material. Fine ti bikes are available, and are fine steel and aluminum bikes for much less money. For aero wheels, Spinergies and Specialized seem to do best in calm conditions or a direct headwind, and many say that the deepest HED’s do best in varying wind conditions. The Nimbles are supposed to be better still, but they are expensive and nobody I know has seen them yet. For carbon forks, I like stiffness. The small-section budget forks like the Profile are rather flexy. The Kestrel has a non-standard crown height and changes the geometry of the bike slightly. The Serotta F-1 is a nice fork, as is the QR Carbonaero. Need any wisdom you can spare.  Trying to decide between a Quintana Roo Private Reserve or a Litespeed Tachyon.  What is it like to ride on Titanium?  I am currently on a Cannondale Road Frame.  I will put good aero wheels (suggestions?) and a carbon fork on it. Thoughts?

Rick Denney Take what you want and leave the rest.

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Question:

Time to start training properly again… Question: While I be able to maintain my cycling base this winter, if I           work a lot harder on short, high HR rides, instead of long ones? Background: I don’t have any means to ride a bike for 6 hours from             November to April. I do have, however, a stationary bike,             cross country skis, and access to a Lifecycle (20 minutes max)         I want to get a lot faster, so speed work is essential. I’m just worried that I will have problems working back up to long distance next summer if I’ve been doing to many short, hard rides during the winter. I want to race an early 1/2 IM in May, and be prepared for IM distance in July. Comments? Re: running. I’m dumb enough to run in -30 weather or in freezing rain. Not worried. David Barclay IMC 1997: 11:55.59 Triathlon: "Swim, Bike, Crawl"

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David —     *Everything* I’ve read suggests that you’ll (a) burn out and (b) not hold on to your fitness as well as doing long efforts.  This *doesn’t* mean don’t go hard, it means go hard a little each week, but concentrate on base building without speed loss.     An example: of 6 hours in a week – 4 overdistance, 1.5 tempo/pace, 0.5 AT AND the other sports you mentioned are fine for maintaining fitness, and can be partially substituted for time on the bike.  As for more power and speed on the bike, time for weights at the gym  – there is no substitute for off-season squats, leg presses, etc. IMHO: Just have fun, break up the pace every once in awhile, and keep at it! Neal. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Time to start training properly again… Question: While I be able to maintain my cycling base this winter, if I           work a lot harder on short, high HR rides, instead of long ones? Background: I don’t have any means to ride a bike for 6 hours from             November to April. I do have, however, a stationary bike,             cross country skis, and access to a Lifecycle (20 minutes max)         I want to get a lot faster, so speed work is essential. I’m just worried that I will have problems working back up to long distance next summer if I’ve been doing to many short, hard rides during the winter. I want to race an early 1/2 IM in May, and be prepared for IM distance in July. Comments? Re: running. I’m dumb enough to run in -30 weather or in freezing rain. Not worried. David Barclay IMC 1997: 11:55.59 Triathlon: "Swim, Bike, Crawl"

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Time to start training properly again… Question: Will I be able to maintain my cycling base this winter, if I          work a lot harder on short, high HR rides, instead of long ones? Background: I don’t have any means to ride a bike for 6 hours from            November to April. I do have, however, a stationary bike,            cross country skis, and access to a Lifecycle (20 minutes max)

Hi David, Thought I’d throw out an answer to this one.  I’ve been asking some cyclists and triathletes around here the same question.  Of course they all give different answers.  Many of the real hard core cyclists take up mountain biking around this time, and do it all through the winter.  And when they go out on a weekend, it’s for 4 hours at a time, with lots of sprinting mixed in.  So they’re getting both hard efforts and long rides in all winter. As for riding the trainer, I’ve had conflicting advice.  One ironman type who’s mostly a runner says do 2 or 3 times 40 minutes every week, 25 minutes of that hard, just to keep the cycling system in gear, and don’t worry about the long stuff until the spring.  Others may take a few months break until Christmas, but by January are doing several hour+ rides indoors every week.  It’s really not so bad if you have people to ride with and music blasting. I’m personally planning to concentrate mostly on running this winter, but in the next month or so will start to get in a regular 2/week 40 minutes hard on the trainer.  Then in January I’ll add one 60 minute moderate trainer ride per week.  And this spring, I really want to get back on the roads as early as possible, even if only irregularly due to weather at first, and even if only on my old bike.  There’s always surprise odd sunny dry days now and then, starting in March at least. Does anyone else living in cold climates want to tell us what they do? You folks who live where you can be on the roads year-round really have an advantage here, I think. Susan

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Question:

Greetings triathletes, I write for an online recreation magazine for kids and I’m currently doing a piece on people who compete in triathlons.  If you’ve been involved in triathlons for a while and have some stories to tell, I’d like to interview you.  We can do it either by e-mail or by phone, whatever’s easiest for you.   Thanks in advance, Jack Walton (604)294-4096 Career Explorer Online http://dragon.gov.bc.ca:8008 —                                 "The Psychic Center is truly a premiere                                  psychic service, and is trusted by the                                  Hollywood stars."                                                 – Robert Osbourne

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If you’re interested in multisport for kids, you might be interested infinding out more about the Dannon Chicago Kids Triathlon. Our company produces it, and it is scheduled for July 13th in 1996. It’s held i conjunction with the Mrs. T’s Chicago Triathlon (July 14, 1996) and will be in its 6th year. Over 800 kids participate ranging in age from 7 – 14 years. It’s really a great time for them and is good exposure to the sport on a smaller scale. If you’d like more info, call us at 312/404-2372!

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in multisport for kids,

Sorry to waste bw, but could the original poster pls resend the survey to me. In the process of hard drive maintenance, I accidentally deleted my email client & my 1/2 completed survey along with it! ;-(

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Question:

Seattle (well the Seattle area) has a number of excellent triathlons of all lengths.  Your best bet is to subscribe to: Northwest TRI-Sport 6815 – 142nd Ct. NE Redmond, WA  98052 (a very cheap yet worth it $12 a year) This is the definitive newsletter/magazine on races and news in the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and some Canada).

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Seattle (well the Seattle area) has a number of excellent triathlons of all lengths.  Your best bet is to subscribe to: Northwest TRI-Sport

Northwest Runner also has a lot of race listings.  I think they were publishing NW Tri-sport for a bit last year.

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Anyone out there have any information about the state of the tri0world in Seattle?  Are there good races, organized clubs, etc? Would appreciate any information. Thanks RSTILL

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