Dream Believe TRI Coaching and Clinics

frequently asked questions

How do I get started with triathlons?

Find local triathletes to get to know, join a club or team. Check out a local bike shops or triathlon shops and see what local opportunities are going on. Find local triathlon camps or clinics. Hire a coach.

What if I've never raced in a triathlon? A marathon?

Don't worry! We all started at the beginning at one point or another. The best thing to do is to start moving. Begin slowly and gradually add distance and time. Remember a great rule of thumb is the 10% rule. Don't adt more than 10% distance each week. If either sport is new I encourage you to find someone to help with form and mechanics this will help prevent injury down the road.

What do I need to start training for a triathlon?

At a bare minimum begin practicing your swimming in the pool, riding your bike on safe roads, and practicing your running. If you do each of the three disciplines two times a week you are off to a great start. I also encourage getting equipment that is right for you. Finding a basic bike that is your size and running in the right running shoes is important in staying healthy.

What is the bare minimum of equipment that I need?

The bare minimum for equipment is swim goggles, any bike, a (new) helmet, and comfortable running shoes. Of course a great attitude!

I've already been racing for a long time. How can a coach help me?

Even though you may feel like you understand the sport and how to train, a coach is a great tool to enhance your strengths and improve your non-strengths. Often a coach can bring in an objectivity that is needed to accurately assess your goals and progress. A good coach will take the time to listen to your goals and help provide the proper training plan for you to achieve them. Coaches can challenge you when you need to be challenged and give you proper rest when they see you need it.

I don't like training alone. What are the best options for me?

There are many options. Dream Believe TRI offers group coaching packages, so you and your friends can train together for an event. Or, you can join Running Club to train with your peers, inspire others, and be inspired by the group. Ask local bike shops what group rides go out locally and check out your local swimming pools to find the various master swim programs.

I have never done a triathlon and I am confused how to prepare and be ready for the day of the race?

Dream Believe TRI offers great beginner clinics that teach you the basics of what to do and expect the day of the triathlon. There is also a great one hour "crash course" that can be done privately to help you familiarize yourself and what to expect the day of the triathlon.

What do I eat in a triathlon?

It is recommended to consume 60 grams or 110-120 calories every 45-60 minutes of exercise. There are various sports products that are out on the market that are easily packaged and consumable while training or racing. Gels, liquids, bar, Cliff blocks, Sport Beans are just a few. Practice taking nutrition while you are training, then when it comes to race day you will know what sits well with your stomach.

Is coaching only for advanced athletes or does a beginning runner or triathlete need a coach?

Coaching is great for any level of athlete. Elite athletes benefit from the coach direct and analyzing their workouts. The athlete will be challenge as well as rested when it is critical. For beginning athletes coaches will explain and direct the new athlete as they begin their new sport. Coaches take the guess work out of the training and racing.

What are the benefits of training with a coach? Can't I train on my own?

The benefits of a coach are that they take the guess work out of when to do what, how often to train, and when to rest.

What if I just want to get in shape/lose weight but I don't want to complete a distance race or triathlon?

That is absolutely fine. Dream Believe TRI encourages individuals to come up with a goal that is specific. If getting in shape and weight lose is important the coach at Dream Believe Tri will shape a program that achieves these goals!

I work full time and have a family, how will I find time to train and stick to a schedule?

Life can be busy and challenging so throwing in a training routine may not seem realistic. The coaches at Dream Believe TRI will understand demanding schedules. We will find a program that is quality vs. quantity to fit your demanding daily routines.

Every time I train for a long-distance race I get injured, can you help me stay injury-free?

Yes, this is a major goal. An athlete health history will be given in the beginning. At this time the athlete will share with the coach how increase mileage has brought on various injuries. The coach's number one priority will be to create a plan that establishes a great foundation and base to prevent any unnecessary injuries. A program will include strength training and balance exercises to help the athlete become well rounded, stability and injury free athlete.

We have been through injuries ourselves, and have extensive networks of trusted professionals and experts that we can refer you to in order to speed your recovery.

I've never run longer than a 5k, can you teach me how to train for a marathon?>

Most definitely, the coaches at Dream Believe TRI want the athlete to achieve his/her goals just as much as the individual. With the proper training plan set up the athlete is on the right track to achieve his/her goals.

I'm over 40, is it too late to become a runner or triathlete?

It is never too late to start! My favorite moment was when I raced at National Championships and saw a gentleman there with 78 written on his calf. (In triathlon your age group is written on your calf).

Why is there a 3-month minimum commitment in packages?

Unfortunately, change isn't immediate when it comes to fitness. In fact, the faster you are, the smaller the increases you will see. A relationship with a coach starts out as a learning process. The athlete learns the coach; the coach learns the athlete. We have found that athletes who make a commitment tend to have better results.

©2012 Dream Believe TRI Coaching and Clinics
Coaching & Clinics for Triathlon, Running, Swimming, Cycling & Endurance Sports   |   Athens, GA   |   Madison, WI   |   Southeast WI

 

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