COACH DAVE’S EARLY SEASON REMARKS
Greetings Team Javelin!

Congratulations on being part of an exciting new concept in the sport of triathlon! I have ridden Javelin since 2001 and am now proud to be affiliated with a company that has not only a great technological insight on cycling, but is taking the time to recognize the sport of triathlon as a whole and the heart of the sport ... the age group athlete!

While some of you are getting ready to open the season at the California Half Ironman or Ironman Arizona, many of you are in the middle of a midwest or northern winter. Having lived in both places I’ve decided to include a little something for everyone.

For those getting ready to toe the line for the first time this season:

1. Don’t force your fitness between now and race day. Take what your body is ready for during the time allotted. It’s a really long season for those in warmer climates so no need to do too much too soon! More than likely we all want to be competing through the summer, not recovering from our winter efforts!
2. Race to your fitness level! When you get to the start line for your first early season event, arrive there with a plan. Develop a plan for pacing and nutrition based on your current fitness level and what you have done in training. Don’t ask your body and mind for too much more than what you have done in training.
3. Race with an open mind. This means standing on the start line believing in the possibilities of a great race, while being aware that the best plans don’t always hold true. Be flexible on race day, listen to your body, make adjustments as needed (slow down, speed up, eat more/less, drink more/less) and be confident in the decisions you make.
   

1. Consistency!
   
   - Train with a weekly schedule that is accomplishable
   - This schedule should include all three sports (or substitutions for fun)
   - The schedule should also includes people you enjoy training with and a approximate goal of 3 x each discipline per week, set up in any format
   
2. Training Health, Strength, Balance
   
   - Keep your training levels at a point where you can train every day and health is a priority.
   - Take days off by choice (not forced from fatigue)
   - Include strength training! A program including a variety of exercises that have general strength activities and exercises particular to our sports will be of value. Frequency of abdominal and low back exercise will help you maintain form in all activities … even day to day tasks!
   - Balance, this is similar to #1 above (consistency) BUT we should also strive for life balance! (this has a different meaning for everyone) Take days off to do other fun activities, go to the beach, watch movies, be with family etc ... have some fun and be creative with your training.
   
   
3. Nutrition
   
   Many people have room for improvement here for increased energy and optimal recovery! Eat balanced meals (carb, protein, fat), include lots of fresh foods, less "big" meals, more small meals. Start the season off energized!
   

As we move through the 2005 season I look forward to hearing about many of your accomplishments and adventures. I also hope to meet many of you at events such as; Ironman Arizona, Auburn International Triathlon, Ironman Couer d’ Alene, Vineman Half Ironman, Vineman, USA Triathlon Long Course Nationals & Lake Degray Triathlon Festival, Hawaii Ironman and potential others to be announced later.

Like I say around here with my athletes; … It’s Go Time!