Triathlon Training
When you sign up to Big Picture, you’ll receive expert advice from an experienced and highly qualified coach. I provide training programmes based on proven training principles and the latest scientific research. Forget the one-size-fits-all approach to training; your programme will be individually tailored to meet your training needs. A typical coaching agreement makes provision for the following:-
Athlete Profiling
You’ll be asked to fill in a detailed questionnaire:-
- to establish current health and fitness
- to examine recent training history
- to identify strengths and weaknesses (physical, psychological, and tactical)
- to explore reasons for training.
A discussion will follow, either face-to-face or by telephone/email.
Development of the Training Plan
Before work starts on a periodised i.e. structured training programme, we’ll agree a set of training goals for the forthcoming months. These will be targeted at key races and will also address any identified weaknesses in skills or technique needed to help you train and race more effectively.
Weekly Training Schedule
You’ll receive precise training schedules, usually based on a 3 or 4 week period. The schedules will contain details of each workout specifying the type of exercise, the duration and the intensity. All aspects of your training will be covered including swim, bike, run, strength and conditioning, stretching, brick work etc.
Regular Testing and Progress Reviews
Throughout the training period, your progress will be monitored and reviewed. This requires regular testing of each discipline. Swim and run tests usually consist of a simple time trial, whilst bike testing involves a ‘ramp test’ (as pictured) where heart rate is plotted against power output measured in watts. These methods provide accurate times and heart rate zones for precise, individual workouts.
Telephone Support and Expert Advice
With over 10 years experience as a triathlon coach and university lecturer in Sport and Exercise Science, my athletes receive advice on nutrition, strength and conditioning, mental preparation, and much more.