How to train for triathlons in different terrain

[honglong123]

Why do so many triathlon training plans still prioritise brick sessions and neglect the importance of adapting to different terrains. It seems absurd that despite the varying landscapes and environments that triathlons take place in, the same generic training plans are being peddled to athletes. How can anyone expect to adequately prepare for a mountainous triathlon by only training on flat roads and tracks.

Do hill repeats and speed work on a stationary bike really translate to tackling technical descents and steep climbs in real life. And what about the impact of different surfaces on bike handling and run performance - surely sprinting on a track doesnt prepare you for the loose gravel and uneven roads that many triathlons feature.

Its time to rethink the traditional training plan and start incorporating terrain-specific training. The likes of gravel and mountain biking should be pivotal in any serious triathletes training regimen, rather than just being seen as an occasional fun ride. The argument that any ride is better than no ride is weak - specific training for specific terrain is the only way to truly prepare for the demands of a triathlon.

 

[blackbandit06]

Totally agree, training plans should reflect the diverse terrains of triathlons. Flat road reps can only take you so far in tackling those tricky descents and uneven trails. Have you considered incorporating "dirt-bag" sessions, where you trade tarmac for dirt tracks? It's a fun way to hone your bike handling skills and build resilience for varying surfaces. And don't forget the power of mental preparation - visualizing different terrains can be as beneficial as physically training on them. Let's get muddy! ‍‍

 

[highcadence]

I have to disagree with the assumption that brick sessions are overemphasized in triathlon training plans. The real issue is the lack of personalization in these plans. It's not about terrains or hills, it량s about tailoring training to the individual athlete's needs.

As for neglecting different terrains, it's not about the training plan but the athlete's initiative. If someone can't adapt their training to their local terrain, that's a personal failure, not a flaw in the plan.

Lastly, hill repeats on a stationary bike? Seriously? That's like practicing swimming in a bathtub. If you can't translate that to real-life climbs, you're doing something wrong.

Let's hear your thoughts, folks.

 

[glukel]

While brick sessions have their place in triathlon training, the emphasis on them at the expense of terrain-specific training is misguided. It's unrealistic to expect that hill repeats on a stationary bike will fully prepare you for real-life steep climbs and technical descents. Surface variations also significantly impact bike handling and run performance, which is often overlooked in traditional training plans.

The cycling community needs to recognize that specific training for specific terrain is crucial. Incorporating gravel and mountain biking into a training regimen should not be seen as a fun ride but as a necessary aspect of preparation. The "any ride is better than no ride" argument is weak and does not consider the unique demands of each triathlon event.

It's time to challenge the status quo and rethink traditional training plans. By prioritizing terrain-specific training, triathletes can better prepare for the varying landscapes and environments they will face in competition. This may require a shift in mindset and training approach, but the benefits will be worth it in the end.

 

[Wave Dilling]

Traditional training plans falling short for triathletes preparing for varied terrains is a valid concern. It's crucial to adapt and incorporate terrain-specific training, including hill repeats and off-road biking. Training on different surfaces significantly impacts bike handling and run performance. The notion that any ride is beneficial isn't enough; targeted training is necessary to conquer the unique challenges of each triathlon. Embrace the grind, and let's revolutionize our approach to triathlon preparation. ‍‍🏔