Just reading about Meredith Kessler, a triathlete, I’m beyond impressed. She’s about to complete her 55th long- distance Ironman race. That’s 5-5 FIFTY FIVE races, just WOW! Many people that aren’t familiar with a triathlon don’t know that there are different distances that can be competed in. The race is comprised of swimming, biking, and running making this the complete cardio killer. The different distances are here as swim/bike/run:
- Super sprint triathlon: 400m/10km/2.5km.
- Sprint distance triathlon: 750m/20km/5km.
- Standard distance triathlon: 1500m/40km/10km.
- Middle distance triathlon: 2.5km/80km/20k.
- Long distance triathlon: 4km/120km/30km.
- Ironman distance triathlon: 3.8km/180km/42km.
Several years ago I contemplated competing in a triathlon. Several years later I still haven’t, but starting back into my fitness journey I love reading through the list of tips from Meredith. Who knows perhaps a super sprint distance is in my next years future. Meredith said, “I love the Ironman events because although it’s extremely challenging , mentally and physically, I am on a team with my family, friends, supporters and colleagues, who have all worked hard to get me where I am today.” Here are a few of her tips that go along with the fuel that fires her.
Number one on her list is “Do NOT try anything new on race day, use and do what you did in your training. New shoes=new blisters. New foods=don’t even go there.” Number eight is, “Minimize eating salads before a race, high-fiber veggies can create gastrointestinal discomfort, especially during biking or running. Plus they don’t provide sufficient carbs for energy.” 35 is, “Treat each aid station on the course as a rolling buffet, eat and drink to keep going strong and fueled.” Although her tips are focused on being a triathlete this is not the only form of exercise that many of her tips can be applied to.
Have you ever thought about doing a triathlon? What type of fitness goals do you strive for or hope to reach? Read more of Meredith Kesslers on Mind Body Green’s website HERE