safety Archives

How to Avoid Knee Pain While Training for a Triathlon

July 16, 2020/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Tips to avoid knee pain during tri training

If you experience knee pain during your training, you’ll want to make some changes to the way you train as well as look into what could be causing the pain. The source of the pain can come from any of the three tri disciplines, so you’ll want to pay close attention to when you feel discomfort to address the problem source. While you do not have to stop training, it’s important to ease up on your training intensity and make some adjustments to the way you train to combat the pain and prevent further harm/damage to your knees. Follow these tips to avoid knee pain during your tri training.

What’s the Problem?

Knee pain is a common problem we hear about in the world of triathlon because you’re training for two sports known to cause knee pain. Best described as pain felt above, below, or behind the kneecap that is caused by overuse or misuse during specific physical activities. Knee pain is very common for triathletes, but most often stems from the incorrect form while running or cycling. It can lead to swelling and even grinding or cracking sounds when doing any physical activity, so it’s best to get to the root of the problem before it’s too late.

Train Without the Pain

Swim

Swimming is the lowest impact on your body in a triathlon. For this reason, it’s the safest alternative to turn to when dealing with knee pain. When hitting the pool for a workout, find a swim stroke style that causes the least amount of discomfort in your knees. Swimming is also an excellent way to alleviate current pain and helps you avoid causing any further damage. You can also try focusing on arm-only workouts and use a pull-buoy to avoid making the problem worse.

Bike

Knee pain is typical when riding for extended periods for any athlete. Avoid riding on hilly terrain or unpaved roads to avoid putting too much strain on your knees. Another thing that could be the cause of your knee pain is incorrect bike fit. You can fix this with minor tweaks, like correctly adjusting your saddle height. While this seems minuscule, it impacts your knees much more than you may think. Suppose you are experiencing more pain than usual when out for a ride, this is an indicator to ease up on your training rides. Deal with your current injury to prevent permanent damage.

Run

Typically, running is where athletes feel the most pain and discomfort during training. Running is known to be hard on your joints, but there are ways to reduce this to keep reaching your triathlon goals. An alternative workout for knee pain we recommend is aqua running. If running is especially painful for you, take some time to evaluate your form when you run. Make sure you’re running lightly while maintaining a comfortable stride to avoid heel-striking.

Try training with a group or with a professional coach who can watch your technique and form to help find the source of your problem. It’s always great to have people looking out for you. Plus, you’ll enjoy getting advice from those more familiar to the sport if you are just starting.

When in Doubt, Stretch It Out

Pain in any joint is attributed to the tightness and strength, or lack-there-of, in the muscles around it. This is why flexibility and mobility are so essential to avoid further knee pain. There are a number of knee-specific stretches you can do. Most athletes find the effects of stretching properly essential to dealing with knee pain during training. These stretches almost instantly alleviate knee pain and can be done in front of the tv, or anywhere you’d like. You can also incorporate yoga for triathletes into your training to work on strengthening the knee while increasing your flexibility.

Take a Break When Needed

If you are experiencing extreme knee pain, take some time off when training to prevent causing permanent damage. While this may be tough or feel counteractive, you’ll thank yourself in the long run (pun intended). Pay attention to your body, and take a break if you need to. With the help of these tips, save yourself the trouble and avoid knee pain from happening down the road.

Swim Stroke Styles: What They Are and Why They Matter

June 25, 2020/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Benefits of Incorporating Different Swim Stroke Styles into your tri training

Triathlon swimming is different from competitive swimming. You’re in open water with a bunch of triathletes on the same mission: to reach the end of the swim as quickly, efficiently, and safely as possible. The distance of the swim will help you determine which swim stroke style you should work on during training to do your best on race day. Your current skill level in the water is also important to factor in. Keep reading to see the benefits of learning multiple swim strokes during your training for your upcoming tri.

Why Different Swim Strokes Matter

In open water racing, you’ll find yourself having to swerve around other athletes. You may also have to stop quickly to avoid getting kicked and make tight turns around buoy markers. Adding in new strokes for just one of your workouts per week will make a difference in being able to react to these circumstances in an efficient way. Not only that, using different strokes will cause you to use different ranges of motion resulting in less strain to particular muscles and more of a complete shoulder and chest workout.

Freestyle Stroke

Freestyle is the best-known swim style stroke, and the most common stroke we see out at Jack’s Generic Tri, because it’s the most efficient swim stroke you can learn. It takes you farther than other strokes without expending more energy. Freestyle also gives you a full-body workout. It works the muscles in your arms, legs, core, and back. If you are looking for a particular swimming stroke to strengthen your back muscles, freestyle is definitely the way to go. Although the most efficient stroke, it can also be difficult to master. One of the most important things to focus on during training is your breathing. You can practice this by using the flutter kick while holding a kickboard out in front of you and practice rotating your face in and out of the water to breathe until you’ve established a rhythm you can replicate in the open water.

Click here to learn more about the freestyle stroke

Backstroke

Backstroke is rarely used during a triathlon, but it is a great stroke to incorporate into your training because it helps your shoulders unwind after sticking with one specific stroke for a while. This stroke is great for improving hip rotation. It also works your shoulder flexibility in the opposite way from freestyle. Depending on the length of your swim, mastering backstroke is always a great alternative to have up your sleeve. Your face stays out of the water, so you can breathe whenever you want. Backstroke is extremely useful when you need a bit of a rest period or if the water is choppy on race day.

Click here to learn more about the backstroke

Breaststroke

Breastroke is the perfect swim stroke style for building strength in your hands by using them as paddles. This will translate into a stronger pull in freestyle. It’s a great way to switch things up and focus on different muscle groups. If you’re hesitant to hold your breath, breaststroke is great because you breathe every stroke. You can also complete this stroke without having to put your face in the water. Some argue breaststroke is the slowest swimming stroke, which may be a con for people who prefer speed. This stroke can be done for longer periods of time, so it can serve as an endurance workout. It’s a good alternative to your regular stroke as a way to mix in some cardio and burn a lot of calories in a session.

Click here to learn more about the breaststroke

Butterfly Stroke

If you’re looking to challenge yourself in the water, the butterfly is the way to go. This stroke was named after the movement in which you move your arms and is great for strengthening your core. This is important to triathlon because a strong core aids in swimming, cycling, and running. Butterfly requires a great deal of strength and coordination that takes time to develop. Not only does is this stroke a great workout to build abdominal strength, but it also strengthens your shoulders and chest. Each stroke requires that your core muscles have enough power to pull your arms over the water. Just a few laps of butterfly leaves you feeling its effects and burns the most calories of any swimming stroke. If this stroke is something you’re interested in perfecting, consider joining a Masters Swimming Program to get to proper coaching and guidance you’d need.

Click here to learn more about the butterfly stroke

Keep in Mind:

Although your goal may be to complete the distance as fast as possible, you have to pace yourself. Triathlon requires you to be as efficient as you can in order to save energy for the bike and run later on. Incorporating different swim strokes into your training builds strength in other muscle groups, reduces the risk of injury, and breaks the repetitiveness in your swim sets. In the meantime, try these ways to stay motivated to keep up with your tri training and we’ll see you at JGT in no time!

Understanding the Different Types of Bike Pedals

May 22, 2020/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Types of Bike Pedals: Understanding the Basics

When it comes to choosing bike pedals, you need to consider the best option to meet your needs depending on the kind of riding you’ll be doing. It’s all about personal preference and what you feel most comfortable with. If you’re in the market for some new pedals, keep reading to understand the different types of bike pedals to figure out which ones are right for you.

Types of Pedals:

There are two basic types of bike pedals: Flat and Clipless. Flat pedals are the more common of the two when it comes to triathlon because you wear regular running shoes with this type of pedal. Which is great and convenient for the bike to run transition. Clipless pedals are great for athletes who want to feel more at one with the bike. With these pedals, you’ll need to wear special cleats that clip into the specific type of pedal system that’s compatible with your cleats.

Different Benefits:

Flat Pedals

There are many benefits of flat or platform pedals. Any type of shoe you decide on will work with this type of pedal. They’re great for a quicker bike-to-run transition because, without changing shoes, you eliminate the need to spend any more time in transition.

Flat pedals also reduce any anxiety you may have about falling over during the bike leg. You can put your feet down to catch yourself, as opposed to if you were clipped into the pedals. Lastly, this is the more common and affordable option of the two kinds of pedals. Flat pedals can be found for $10 – $40.

Clipless Pedals

There are also many benefits of a Clipless Pedal (clipless means clipped in). Increase your speed during the bike portion by being clipped into your bike pedals. This allows you to take full advantage of your pedal stroke, which in turn allows you to ride faster once you have mastered the push and pull of it.

A smoother more efficient pedal stroke will lead to better average power output. Being clipped in can actually keep you a little safer while riding because it reduces the chance of your foot slipping off the pedal while climbing, descending, or while fatigued. There are endless options when it comes to choosing clipless pedals if that is the

You can go clipless right from the start or use flat pedals until you are more comfortable in the saddle. There are benefits to each type of pedal, but the important thing is to choose what is more comfortable for you. Whatever you choose, spend time becoming familiar with your bike pedals to maximize your efficiency on race morning of Jack’s Generic Tri!

Rockin’ Training Playlist to Get You Ready for Jack’s Generic Tri

May 5, 2020/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Get back to your JGT training with this rockin’ playlist

Looking for a new rockin’ playlist to get you in the zone for some Jack’s Generic Tri training?! You’ve come to the right place. We’re big music lovers at JGT, so we’ve put together some of our favorite hits for your tri training sessions! Get motivated for this year’s 18th celebration with this rockin’ training playlist that will make you feel like you’re at the JGT finish line festival!

Scroll through the playlist below!

These songs can pump you up, give you a second to catch your breath or help you through the warm-up/cool-down. With these hits, you’ll want to crank up the volume, but make sure you can still hear your surroundings. It’s important to know what’s going on around you!

5 Must Try Yoga Poses for Triathletes

November 21, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Give your muscles the TLC they need when you incorporate these 5 must-try yoga poses for triathletes into your training.

Adding yoga to your life offers many benefits such as increasing mobility and range of motion, preventing injuries, and relieving pain. Hopefully, you already have some kind of stretching routine included in your training. If you don’t, the offseason is the perfect time to try some new things! We’ve compiled a list of the 5 most beneficial yoga poses for triathletes to combat the wear and tear we put our bodies through during training.

1. Downward Facing Dog

Purpose: This is a common pose but is especially beneficial for a triathlete with any built-up tension in your calves and feet from running. Also great for cyclists with lower back from riding. Hold this pose to help build strength in your shoulders, arms, and chest.

How To: Start on your knees with your hands out in front of you, push your bottom up until you feel a stretch in your calves and the bottom of your feet. Straighten your legs if you can, but the main thing to remember in this pose is keeping your back flat as possible.

2. Crescent Lunge

Purpose: This pose utilizes all the muscles in your body but focuses on getting a stretch in the back of your legs, groin, and hip flexors, while building strength in the front of your legs. Practicing this pose will open your range of motion in your legs and hips.

How To: Start in a standing position, and go into a lunge until your front leg is bent at a 90-degree angle. Keep your core tight to remain balanced as you lift your arms above your head. During this motion, you will feel a stretch in your triceps and chest. Take deep breaths as you hold this position, switch to your other leg and repeat.

3. Pigeon Fold

Purpose: The Pigeon Fold is a great yoga pose for opening up your hips and getting a deep stretch in your hip flexors and glutes. Good for athletes who spend more time cycling to loosen and realign their hips after putting in hours on the bike.

How To: Start in a Downward Facing Dog, bend your right knee and sweep your leg down and place it on the mat beneath you. Lower yourself to a comfortable seated position with your left leg behind you as you feel the stretch in your quad and hamstring. Hold your chest high to focus the stretch in your legs.

4. Cross-Legged Twist

Purpose: This pose focuses on stretching your lats, shoulders, and neck. This will help reduce any pain you may have from constantly rotating your body side to side during your freestyle swim stroke. Holding this pose will lengthen and help mobility along your spine which is great for increasing your range of motion during your swim training.

How To: Begin on the floor with both legs out in front of you. Bring your knees to your chest and place the bottom of your feet on the ground. Slide your left foot on the ground under your right leg to rest your foot beside your right hip. Bring your right arm across your body and place it against the inside of your left knee. Push slightly to twist your body until you feel a stretch in your lats and shoulder.

5. Bridge Pose

Purpose: Offers relief from pain caused by the position you are in when training on your bike. Good stretch for your quads, chest, and abs while also strengthens your glutes and hamstrings. You will feel this pose strengthens your back muscles to reduce or prevent pain you may have from running and cycling.

How To: Lie flat on your back with your knees bent with feet on the floor shoulder-width apart. Place hands on either side of your body to help keep yourself balanced. Press your feet and arms firmly into the floor and push your hips up off the ground.

These yoga poses work muscles that are often neglected in the repetitive movements you do while preparing for a triathlon. Get the most out of your training when you add in these 5 yoga poses that are best for triathletes before or after your next workout!

15 Reasons You’ll Love Jack’s Generic Tri

November 1, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Still searching for that one triathlon with an experience different from all the rest? Look no further!

If you’re a regular racer, you’re familiar with big-name races that cost big bucks to participate in, but your experience ends up being subpar. Or maybe you’re a new triathlete searching for your perfect race to kick start your tri journey. If you’re looking for a race that puts the participants first, Jack’s Generic Tri is the tri for you! Keep reading for 15 reasons why you’ll love Jack’s Generic Tri!

Pre-race warm-up to kick off the open wave!

1. Location

Jack’s Generic Tri takes place at Lake Walter E. Long (aka Decker Lake) and spans 1,200 acres. JGT kicks off with a 600-meter swim in the lake. The bike course goes around the lake for 11.2 miles and features some rolling hills. The run is on a mix of off-road paths and paved roads. Then we meet back up at the finish line party for some fun!

2.Participants Always First

JGT was inspired by creating a race unlike any other that put the participants at the forefront of the entire event. This race has come a long way since 2003, but our goal remains the same: give the participants an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

3. Pre-race Warm-up

Final steps of preparation before we kick off the race. Camp Gladiator is there with us to lead you in a group warm-up as the sunrises over the swim course in Decker Lake.

4. Professional Race Photos

This is a race you’ll want to remember. We have professional photographers set up all along the course to capture your best moments during the race! You can even pre-order your photos for a discounted price.

5. Super Cool Participant Shirt

This isn’t your typical tri, so you won’t receive a typical race shirt. Be ready to make all your friends jealous when you rock your JGT shirt around town!

6. Family-Friendly Course

Fun for the whole family!

Make sure you bring the whole gang to cheer you on throughout the race. There are great locations for your family and friends to watch along the course.

7. Professional Timing

You can count on accurate chip timing to have your results waiting for you at the finish line party.

8. Volunteers

The Jack’s Generic Tri volunteers are there every step of the way and go above and beyond to help you reach your goal of crossing the finish line.

9. Free Food and Drinks

You’re going to be hungry after all that swimming, biking, and running! We have free food and drinks ready for all participants at the finish line party to enjoy as you share your race stories with fellow athletes.

Reasons Why You'll Love Jack's Generic Tri

Cheering on your teammates as they take their final steps over the finish line!

10. Comradery With Other Athletes

One of the true highlights of JGT is the sense of comradery all the athletes bring to the event. The constant support we see among the participants throughout the racecourse is inspiring and is what makes us love this race above others.

11. Fully Supported Course

There will be a mechanic there on race morning to help you with any last-minute mechanic issues. There is 1 aid station outside of transition, and 2 aid stations located along the JGT run course stocked with water and hydration beverages to help you make it across the finish line!

12. Finisher Medal

Get ready to earn some awesome bling with your very own finisher medal made especially for JGT’s 18th celebration!

13. Finish Line Party

Meet back up with your friends and family after the race at the rockin’ finish line party full of music, beer, free food, and drinks! Be sure to stick around and check out the vendors for your chance at some free goodies!

Participants and spectators celebrating at the finish line party!

14. Beer Garden

One of the highlights of any tri: the beer! We have our beer garden stocked full with Oskar Blues Austin beer to cool you off after the race.

15. Swag Toss

We wrap up JGT every year with our signature swag toss with awesome opportunities for you to win some free race entries and other great prizes!

There are many more reasons to love Jack’s Generic Tri, but these are a few of our favorites! Come on out and join us in celebrating JGT turning 18 this year and see for yourself why you’ll love being part of Austin’s coolest triathlon.

Tips You Need To Know For a Faster Transition During Your Next Triathlon

August 15, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

You need to know these 7 time-saving tips for a faster tri transition!

The most important thing is to practice in advance and bring the fewest number of items. If you have a game-plan in your head of what gear you need to remove and replace first, the less time you’ll spend in the transition area throughout the tri. Use these tips for faster transitions, and tackle your next tri like a pro!

Run with Your Bike Out of Transition

JGT Participant running out of transition with his bike in hand

Headed for the bike portion of JGT, running with your bike in hand!

You won’t be allowed to get on your bike until you are out of the transition area with your helmet buckled. Depending on how big the triathlon is, the distance between the racks and mount line can be lengthy. Once you have your bike gear on and ready to go put one hand on the seat, and one hand on the handlebars to guide your bike out of the transition area. It seems simple enough, but it can be easy to lose control of your bike while running next to the other triathletes trying to get out of transition. Practice this in an open space during your training, either grass or concrete, to determine which side of the bike you feel more comfortable running on. The goal is to keep moving the whole tri, so practicing mounting your bike from either side will help determine which is quickest for you.

Attach Stuff to Your Bike in Advance

Prep your bike before the race starts to save a lot of time dealing with the small stuff you need for the bike portion of your next tri. Have your JGT water bottle full and in your bike’s bottle cage, along with gels taped to the frame if you want them. Also, make sure your bike’s tool kit is secured beneath the seat. Often including an extra tube, CO2, levers, multi-tools you are familiar with.

Know the Layout of Transition

How to Remember Where Your Bike Is During Transition

Look for something that stands out to you for you to find your bike faster!

Before race morning, go check out a course map to know exactly where the transition area is, and its layout. This will help you plan ahead to know how far transition is from the course so you can plan accordingly. Make a mental note of where both the bike exit and the run exits are located.

Have a System to Remember Where Your Bike Is

You’ll be assigned a bike rack according to age group. Transition area can look hectic once everyone’s gear is in there, so come up with a method of remembering where yours is for quickest access. Pro tip: JGT participants rack their bikes (on the assigned rack) of a first-come-first-serve basis, so the earlier you get to the transition area prior to the race, the more likely you’ll be able to get a spot at the end on the racks for easiest access and identification.

Wear the Same Clothing For the Entire Race

Come to the race dressed in your tri suit. Granted Jack’s Generic Tri is in Austin, Texas at the end of August, we advise against wearing a wetsuit. Plus, any additional clothing changes will add a significant amount of time to your overall tri.

Use Easy Laces for Running Shoes

You don’t want to waste time tying your shoes in the transition area. Either have your shoes already tied and ready for you to slip your foot into with a secure fit, or try out these Lock Laces or ‘speed laces’ to eliminate having to tie your running shoes at all. The elasticity of the lace will make sure your running shoes stay in place throughout your run portion of your triathlon.

Use Race Belt for Bib Number

Attached bib number to race belt for easy access

Attach your bib number to your race belt before the race for a speedy transition!

Attach your bib number to your race belt before the race start. When you’re heading back into transition after the bike portion, grab what you need and go to get out of transition as quickly as possible. Keep your eyewear on, grab your race belt and go! Put your race belt on as you head for the run start. Next step, finish line!

Set up a practice transition area prior in the weeks leading up to your upcoming tri and run through it as many times as you need to to make your transition process quick as possible! By the time JGT rolls around, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can get in and out of transition and focus on the triathlon!

Tips to Get Your Best Race Photos During Jack’s Generic Tri

July 31, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Get race-photos you can’t wait to show off with this list of tips for how to look your best in race photos

We all want great shots of ourselves during the race to look back at and cherish later on, but we all know flattering race photos can be tricky. I, personally, find it challenging to get a good photo of myself regardless of what I’m doing, so you can bet a Facebook-worthy action-shot is even more of a challenge. However, with this list of tips and some self-awareness, you’ll be prepared to look your best in your Jack’s Generic Tri race photos. After the race, don’t forget to tag us @JacksGenericTri

Swim Portion

1. Think about your form

Lookin’ cool running out of the JGT swim portion, heading into T1!

The photos that are captured in the water are obviously not going to show a whole lot of your face. What the photo will capture is your form in the water. If you know photographs are being taken, attempt to tighten up your form. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how awesome a mid-swim photo of yourself can be!

2. Be ready to Smile

As you are walking/running out of the water, you can count on one of our amazing photographers to be there to capture the moment. Pro tip: smile BIG! We love seeing our participants having a great time moving on to the next portion of the tri, and these are often some of the coolest photos we get from Jack’s Generic Tri!

Bike Portion

Keep your eyes on the road and flash the photographer a smile when you pass them by!

1. Check your positioning

Bike photos are an awesome chance to get a great close-up race picture. However, no photo is worth losing control of your bike. We know everyone has their favorite riding position to be in when in the saddle. Rather than changing the position you’re comfortable with, simply give the photographer a smile or a thumbs up when you cruise past them! You’ll be very impressed at how they turn out.

Run Portion

1.Position your bib Before

To make sure your personalized bib can be seen in your race photos, place it in the front-center of your race shirt/suit. This is also important for the automated photosystems to use this to tag your photos. This way you don’t have to sift through thousands of photos to try and find yourself!

2. Stand Tall

After running for a while, we tend to let our shoulders fall forward. When you see the photographers up ahead, stand up a little taller! No matter how you feel on the inside, this is a sure way to make you look effortless during the run portion.

3. Increase your stride

Elongate the appearance of your legs by lengthening your stride for a couple of steps! You don’t want to do this for the entire run portion of JGT, but it won’t hurt for a photo or three when you catch a glimpse of the camera (not to mention, you’ll love how long your legs will look in these photos)

Giving the photographer a thumbs up, about to cross the JGT finish line!

4. Relax your face and think positive

We know, easier said than done, but start practicing now on your training runs. Make your cheeks soft and say the word “Money.” Give it a try in the mirror and see for yourself. Hopefully, you’ll already be smiling due to all the fun you’re having at JGT, but when you see a photographer ahead of you relax your face and enjoy yourself, and the pictures are bound to turn out fantastic!

5. Have fun!

Probably the most important piece of advice for your best race photos. If you’re having a good time, it’ll show in the pictures. The photographers are there to capture your accomplishments, so the most important thing to remember is to have fun! You’ll be able to look back at these photos forever, so it’s important to make the most out of your experience.

You can pre-purchase your 2019 Official FinisherPix race photos now at a discounted price.

We hope to see you out there on the racecourse with us on August 25th! If you do decide to join us for Jack’s Generic Tri, use these tips and get ready to see your best race photos ever!

6 Skills to Know Before Race Day of Jack’s Generic Tri

July 19, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Be prepared for anything that comes your way during Jack’s Generic Tri by checking out these 6 skills you need to know before race day!

When it comes to triathlons, there is a lot of information that would be beneficial to know before you get out and tackle your first tri. To help you get prepared for Jack’s Generic Tri, we’ve created a list of 6 basic skills that are sure to help you become a better triathlete in the long-run.

How to Change a Flat

One last bike safety check before the race kicks off!

Follow these 10 steps to fix a flat, and you’ll be back in the race in no time.

1.) Open quick release on break calipers
2.) Open quick release skewer on wheel & remove wheel
3.) Take one side of tire off the rim with your tire levers
4.) Pull out the punctured tube
5.) Check the inside of tire for road debris and cuts in tire
6.) Make sure the rim strip on wheel rim is in it’s proper place
7.) Insert new inner tube between wheel rim and tire
8.) Put the sidewall of tire back onto the rim
9.) Inflate the tube to recommended pressure
10.) Put the wheel back on the bicycle, insert skewer, and re-clamp break calipers

Although it can be tedious, this is a skill you need to know before race day. We recommend using Genuine Innovations Deluxe Ultra Flate tire kit.

How to Fix a Dropped Chain

Get off the bike and steady it in an upright position against something sturdy. To add slack to the chain, push the rear derailleur toward the pedal (forward or inward), and then use your other hand to free the chain from the chainrings or pedals. Line the chain back up with a chainring and cassette to put the chain back in place. Lastly, lift the rear of your bike a few inches off the ground and give the pedals a few turns to allow the chain to find its gear. This seems insignificant, but it’s an important step to keep your chain from more wear and tear throughout the rest of your ride.

How to Ride in the Rain

Check the weather on race morning to see if you should be prepared to ride in the rain. Throughout the course, avoid standing water. You never know what could be underneath a puddle, and you don’t want to risk a flat tire in wet conditions. Also, be on the lookout for rainbow-colored oil patches in the road to avoid any possible slipping. Stay within your comfort zone, and avoid braking through the corners to prevent losing control. Last but not least, bring some protection for your eyes! Hopefully, you do this when out for any ride, but you will be glad you did in case you find yourself riding in the rain.

How to Ride While Taking a Drink

You’re bound to get thirsty during the bike portion, so be prepared to ride with one hand during a race. Practice makes perfect. During your training, practice this by removing one hand at a time to build up your confidence. Start with shorter distances, and before you know it you’ll be a pro at riding with one hand. This skill will allow you to eat, drink and signal to other riders while making your way to the finish line.

Jack’s Generic Tri participant sighting during the swim portion

How to Sight in the Water

To avoid swimming a further distance during your tri, sighting is an important skill you should know before an open-water swim. You need to look where you’re going every few strokes to make sure you are staying in line with the buoys. The best method of sighting is to incorporate glancing forward before you go to take a breath. It is recommended to sight every 2 – 3 strokes, but to find what works best for you, you will just have to practice. Pro tip: Look at the swim course before-hand to see if the course goes clockwise or counter-clockwise, then you’ll know to stay on the right or left side of the buoys.

How to Look Over Your Shoulder

After you perfect riding with one hand, you’ll be ready to learn how to look over your shoulder during your ride. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings during a ride to keep yourself, and others around you safe. It’s all about shifting your weight correctly and keeping your knees, pelvis, and front-wheel facing forward. We advise performing this drill in a parking lot, or on an empty street to make sure you can still ride straight while turned around.

Once you’ve mastered these 6 skills you should know, there will be nothing in your way on race day as you head for the finish line!

Pre-Ride Safety Inspection

October 29, 2018/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Use the 8 tips below when conducting your pre-ride safety inspection

Before each ride, perform a safety check of your bicycle. This pre-ride safety inspection should take a minute or two. Click To Tweet

This pre-ride safety inspection will help prevent avoidable accidents and keep you spinning happily!

Check your tires for proper inflation (marked on the side of the tire)
Check the tire treads for excessive wear or other damage, such as embedded glass or other objects
Check the brakes; spin the wheels to check for rubbing and apply the brakes to ensure they stop the bike smoothly and evenly
Check the brake pads for excessive wear
Check the cables and housing to make sure there is no fraying or splitting
Check the wheel quick release levers to ensure they are secure
Check for any loose parts or other mechanical problems
Do a slow-speed ride and inspect bicycle, brakes, and shifting before you leave your driveway

Following this pre-ride safety inspection guideline will go a long way to enjoying your bike rides. It’s easier to remain motivated in the offseason when your bike is in great shape. It will often help you prevent unexpected incidents or a long walk home.

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