The training is done and your taper is well on its way. All that’s left is the racing. But you have to get to your big event first, which can be easier said than done when packing three sports into one manageable trip. Traveling for a triathlon can be very exciting, especially if you are going to a different country or to a town you have never been before. However, it can also be really stressful if it is your first time traveling for a race. Here are five tips from triathlon coach expert Natalie Bojko to help relieve some of the stress and get you to the start line ready to perform to your maximum potential.
Plan ahead
Whether you are traveling by car, plane or train it is important to plan ahead for healthy food choices throughout the day. Pack some healthy snacks and/or a light meal that you can carry with you on your carry-on or in your purse. The best choices are things that you would normally eat at home since you don’t want to try any new foods the week of a race. Fruits, veggies, hummus, or simple carbohydrate choices are easy to digest and usually easy to pack ahead.
Quench your thirst
Traveling can take you out of your normal hydration routine, so plan to pack an empty water bottle with you if you are heading through airport security or a full water bottle if you are in the car and bring some electrolyte tabs such as GU Brew electrolyte tablets to add some flavor and much needed sodium to your water. Try to refill the bottle 2 to 3 times over the course of the day.
Carry your baggage
Pack your race-day essentials (tri-suit, goggles, shoes, and helmet) in your carry-on bag to ensure that it makes it to your final destination. The last thing you want to do is buy all new gear the day before a race that you haven’t tried in training!
Compress yourself
Even if you don’t use compression socks as part of your recovery plan in training, it is a good idea to wear a pair while you travel. It can help prevent blood from pooling in your lower extremities and keep your tapered legs ready to race. If possible try to stand up and move around every hour if you are on the plane or make pit stops if you are driving.
Kick back and relax
Last but not least, keep yourself distracted from thinking too hard about race day by packing that book that you didn’t have time to read while you were spending all your time training, or catch up on your favorite TV show by loading a season into your mobile device.
Always remember to have fun out there and do your best!
Natalie Bojko, Senior coach at Carmichael Training Systems.