Product Description

Customer Reviews (41)

A great bible of training schedules and information
If you're looking for a scientifically-proven collection of training schedules for the sports listed on the cover than this is the book for you. This quickly covers the theory behind effective training and then presents a number of training schedules based on your sport and time available. My first Ironman training schedule I got off the web and although it worked I was never quite sure of the purpose of each day's exercise, how it fit into the schedule for the week, and how that week fit into the overall plan and although I finished I was not happy with the results. Gale's training programs are scientifically proven and you'll understand what each session is for and why you're doing it.

Another thing I liked is she addresses a lot of common questions athletes in training have, such as "If I skip a day do I make it up and how? How can I insert a race into my training schedule?" and others. She also addresses nutrition with actual formulas that you can use to calculate how many carbs, protein and fats you should consume everyday and immediately after exercise for optimal performance and recovery.

I was not used to workout codes (example "Swim 1:00 E(FORM)") which took some getting used to, and there are explanations in both the front and the back of the book so it requires some thumbing through while getting used to it, but as you ramp up on the syntax all that goes away. Not a big deal but I think it could have been consolidated better.

Also - if you are a triathlete I would highly recommend getting her companion book Workouts In A Binder for swimming. The swim workouts in the book are almost non-existent and the Binder is basically a must have. Although I think the book itself should include more workout routines for swimming I would have bought the Binder anyway; it has a lot of different workouts that keep swimming challenging and fun and its waterproof so you can keep it with you in the pool.

(I also got the water/sweat-proof Workout In a Binders for indoor cycling by Friel and Run Workouts by Bobby McGee to compliment this book. In terms of "meshing" with Gale's book the cycling binder works well but the running does not. The running book is fine by itself for running but I could not "make it fit in" for triathlon training.)

Overall I love this book and paired up with the Swim and Indoor Cycling binders they are now my IM training bible.

Training plans for multisport athletes
a MUST for anyone serious about actually training for any length tri(as opposed to just winging it).very specific plans included to suit a variey of levels and distances.pair it up w/ Friel's book and you have everything you need to understand what you are doing.

Incredible amount of info
This book is great. How the author came up with a way to put so much into one book is beyond me. It does take a few minutes to get oriented to the book's style of coding the workouts, but once you get the hang of it, a whole world of training plans opens up. If you just want training plans and some basic training info, as opposed to excruciating detail, pick up this book. And ignore the reviews that complain about missing info, this later edition is not missing anything.

Great variety of workouts regardless of skill level
I bought this book after doing multisport for a few years.Being a disproportionately bad runner compared to my cycling and swimming, I knew I'd need to find a training plan that would help me improve.I'm awfully glad I picked up this book.The author has a great variety of plans for those just starting out in multisport to those looking to make the jump from international distance to Ironman.
I personally chose the 27 weeks to a half-ironman plan.The plan is incredibly time-consuming (on average about 12 hours a week).The exercises and drills are fun and challenging.I've already noticed a huge difference with the integration of her drills.The weight lifting is a critical part of this training, and the phases keep things pretty interesting.
On the downside, I wish she offered more information on Aquabike. USAT has begun pushing this a lot, and I hope she'll consider it for the next edition.The chapter on nutrition was somewhat obvious, I'd highly recommend buying a book on nutrition to go along with this book.
I'd definitely recommened this book regardless of your level of fitness.I think next year I am going to try to the Joe Friel book, but I'm certainly happy I picked this one up this year.

Training Plans for Multisport Athletes
Great overall book with training plans for beginners to advanced (experienced) runners, cyclists, swimmers or a combination of all three.Great detailed programs with weekly breakdowns of type of training in each discipline and the amount of time needed to spend on each daily to complete your competition successfully.Definitely a must have if you are a duathlete, triathlete, or single sport athlete. ... Read more

Product Description
Holds many answers to establishing and maintaining the mental discipline needed for a most grueling and psychologically challenging event. The authors, both experienced, successful athletes and triathlon competitors, summarize current research and offer invaluable mental exercises to improve performance. ... Read more

Product Description
Shaping up for a triathlon is serious business. Triathlon Training For Dummies is packed with insider tips and proven methods for training for a triathlon and pumping yourself into the best possible shape by race day. It helps you find the motivation you need to stick to your program, eat better to maximize your energy, and prevent injures both before and during the race.

This authoritative guide helps you evaluate your cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, endurance, and flexibility, and to set manageable realistic training goals. You’ll learn how to establish a workout schedule, choose a target finish time get the right, affordable equipment you’ll need for each leg of the race, and maximize your fitness and form for swimming, biking, and running. You’ll also get plenty of help in putting it all together as you focus your training, add dual workouts, become a quick-change artist, and save time during transitions. Discover how to:

• Choose an event to train for based on your fitness level
• Get into your best possible shape
• Select the right equipment and sportswear
• Train for an Olympic, Sprint, or Ironman triathlon
• Fuel your body and prevent injuries
• Prepare for training sessions
• Maintain energy and recover quickly
• Set training schedules for every triathlon event
• Treat common training and racing injuries
• Live like an athlete

Triathlon Training For Dummies comes complete with resources for finding triathlons near you, lists of items to bring along on race day, and tips on registration formalities and racing etiquette. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Excellent Prep
This book was an excellent preparation for my first triathlon. It gave me all the information needed on the various gear and training required. I owe a large part of my success in my first tri to this book and I highly recommend it! If you are wondering about this fun and challenging sport, get this book and give it a try!

Helpful to novice.
This book offers good advice for someone who has little knowledge about triathlons.The beginning even offers encouragement for choosing to train for one.My husband felt the book was geared more toward women athletes, but he still read it.Overall, a good starting point.

Good Help for a Beginner
I found this book to be pretty helpful in explaining the basics of a Triathlon to the uniniated.I didn't understand how the transitions worked and never heard of tri suits until I read this book.It's written in that positive easy to read Dummies style.If you're thinking of doing your first Tri, I highly recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description
Make sure your next race is your best with the programs in Triathlon Training. Choose from six race specific programs: two for sprint distances, two for Olympic distances, one for the half Ironman, and one for the Ironman. The sprint and Olympic programs include target race times, so you can choose the program best suited to your training and ability level.

Technique instruction and training drills for the swim, bike, and run will shave time off each phase of your performance. Recommendations for equipment, nutrition, and supplements give you the support for training and performing at the highest level. And, because injuries are prevalent in the sport, Triathlon Training advises how to prevent the most common triathlon injuries and prescribes treatment and recovery measures for various injuries.

Developed in consultation with USA Triathlon and the British Triathlon Association, Triathlon Training will improve your performance and enjoyment in the sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

Has It All!
This book has everything you need to know about triathlon training, from sprint triathlons to the full ironman.Here are the following topics covered in the book: origins of triathlon, getting the right gear (very helpful), swim, cycle, run, tackling your training, nutrition, race day, aches and pains and the world's greatest races.The book has great/realistic pictures.It covers the right gear you need to be successful from breaking down what you need and what you can do without.It also gives training programs for all levels of triathlons and it very easy to understand.This book has it all.

Great seller, Quick Shipping
Training for Triathlons is a lot easier after reading this, I read it quickly and followed several workouts and already feel stronger after a couple weeks.

Excellent book about triathlons
I am new to triathlons but have been an avid runner for years.This book thoroughly describes how to become a triathlete.It has detailed training plans for anyone from a beginner to an experienced triathlete.I can see myself using this book for years to come.

Great for the very beginner interested in testing themselves
The book breaks down tough terms and products with recommendations on the best overall gear to use during the race.The fitness plans forced me to take a serious look at my swimming endurance.I can run and bike but the book helped me train my way into this critical portion of the race.

Belongs on the coffee table...
The best *looking*, but far from best, book I've found on triathlons.Its heavy, glossy pages with full-color photos make it very appealing on the surface, but sadly it lacks any depth.It offers cursory explanations of various aspects of the sport, and sprinkles in a little bit of good advice here and there, but that's about it as far as content goes.It fails to include some crucial aspects of training - such as weight training - completely!

In the end, this book is ultimately better suited for your coffee table than your bookshelf.Complete newcomers to triathlons may get a little out of it, but I think anyone seriously interested in the sport would be better off reading The Triathlete's Training Bible by Joe Friel. ... Read more

Product Description
In one handy, easily referenced guide, TRIATHLETE MAGAZINE'S COMPLETE TRIATHLON BOOK offers the best advice, stories, and tips from the top coaches and athletes who have contributed to the magazine over the years. Appealing to both novices and the most seasoned athlete, the book strikes a balance between technical depth and beginner-friendliness by getting right down to the guidelines that all triathletes can use. In addition, the book offers advice for the various categories of triathletes: beginners, veterans, short-course specialists, Ironman specialists, and others. Bearing the name of the most popular source forinformation on the sport, this book is sure to become a classic among triathlon enthusiasts. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Complete, says it all
Great guide to keep you on target for your race and keep you sane/realistic about what you need to do to get there. (any distance).I had very good results from using this guide and still reference it for tuning me up when needed.

One of the better triathlon books I have read
Before the days of GPS, Fitzgerald, who has a running background, realized the only way to get faster on the run was to train by pace.While others focused on HR, he said, "Run faster."I read this book after reading a lot of other training books.I still grabbed some great information.For instance, cyclists seem to be obsessed about weight even at very beginner levels.Runners do not.However, weight is much more detrimental to a runner than a cyclist (marathoners don't weigh over 145 even when they are 6'2" while Lance and others can be 5'10" 160 without a problem).But, the best advice from this book came from this statement, "Stretch the muscles you use, strengthen those you don't."Thus, as a triathlete stretch certain muscles, strengthen others, and you will be better off.

Good book as anyone can learn something from it.

Tri training
The book has some good information for new Triathletes, but is pretty basic. Anyone can use this book, but it's definitely geared toward novice athletes.

Great Intro to Tri Book
This book covers all the basics of equipment,training, and diet that you need. Great intro to all the facets of triathlons. Sample workouts, tips on saving $$ on gear, how to shop for quality gear, and lists of all you need to successfully complete a triathlon. A must have book.

Complete Triathlon Book - Review May 2008
I bought my Complete Triathlon Book ( Matt fitzgerald) in 2007. I compete in many Duathlons and a few Triathlons.I also run competively 1 or 2 times per week. In general im pretty competitive, like to be near the front, so was looking for lots of new tips etc . I would rate the book as ok. The cover looks great. To get my higher rating I would hope to see many more pictures ' preferably in color' to illustrate various beneficial tri techniques, equipment and ways to save those vital seconds.
I'm still looking for the perfect Tri Book.
To date I have found my best advice in seperate swim , bike and run books.
Gerry K ... Read more

Product Description
This is not a book about how to train for an Ironman, the kit you need or anything that could actually prove to be useful. If there is anything useful in this book then that's purely by accident. If you are looking for some genuine training tips on Ironman then please get one of the decent training books - not the 55,000 words of illiterate drivel this represents. This is a simply a story about someone (fat northerner in the shape of Darren) deciding to do something as stupid as Ironman and the things you encounter on the way. Such as the psychotic geese, paperless portaloos, the mind games and the doomsday feeling that no matter how much training you do it's never enough. Darren is fat, bald, ugly and lives in the North West of England with his wife Amy and daughter Lilly-Mae where he continues to try to be a triathlete. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Highly recommended by www.tri247.com
Review: How Triathlon Ruined My Life
Posted by: John Levison
Posted on: Tuesday 29th April 2008

John Levison has had his head in a book again. Here are his thoughts on his latest read...........

Having recently reviewed another real-life triathlon story, I was fortunate to bump into Darren Roberts, author of How Triathlon Ruined My Life at this year's TCR Show. He enthusiastically offered me a copy of his book to review. We've mentioned the book before on the site, but, to date, none of the team had read it. So, how was it?

Now, Darren describes himself as "fat, bald and ugly", and his book as "55,000 words of illiterate drivel", so probably fair to say he doesn't take himself or his literary prowess too seriously! While I'm not going to comment on the former, I can confidently say I didn't find the book drivel at all - it's a cracking read, laugh-out-loud funny at times, which gave rise to a few strange looks as I chuckled to myself on the Tube going to work.

The book is a story; no, it's Darren's story, of going from scratch, to finishing an Ironman in six months, with all the impacts that has on home, work, life and family. This wasn't the initial plan, which involved a more pragmatic/balanced approach to building up to an Ironman event over 18 months. However, as is often the case, life events, in this case the birth of a child and the death of a young colleague, changed that plan and Ironman became "something I had to do, not talk about". So plans for a half-Ironman in 2006, then a full Ironman in 2007 became "just do the full Charlie and stop messing about! So I did".

Fair to say that Darren didn't arrive in triathlon from a couch potato background, having spent nine years in the forces; the Parachute Squadron of the RAF Regiment, no less. He also works in the sports industry in strength and conditioning with Red Bull, Reading Football Club and a number of professional athletes such as Paul Casey and Lee McConnell. All that said 100kgs of muscle, the ability to bench press small houses combined with an aerobic exercise regime of "breathing in and out" possibly wasn't the best start point for a potential Ironman.

What I like about the book is its honesty - it's 100% Darren. I met him for barely two minutes, but imagine that I've got a pretty good insight into him as a person simply by reading his book. Nothing feels contrived, or put in because it will read well. It's just the good, the bad and the ugly of preparing to spend the best part of 13 hours swimming, biking and running to get that Ironman finish. It's also very observant - his description of the typical pre-race portaloo is a classic, as are the characterisations of typical triathlete stereotypes: 'alpha-male', 'swim nemesis' and 'other triathlete'...

So, from me it's a clear recommendation. If you are a triathlon fan, and like the sound of an honest, easy reading and funny book, this is for you.

Any profits from the sale of the book are donated to the Chris Jones Riders Fund, Chris was a 14-year old motor bike racer who died in a racing accident in 2005, whom Darren worked with as part of the Red Bull team. The fund was set up in Chris' memory to raise money within the motorcycle industry to provide vital medical equipment to help the future of British Racing. Chris' death was one of the primary inspirations for Darren to do the Ironman.

Disappointed
I enjoy reading all sorts of books on triathlon -- training, fun stories, etc. - I'm hooked. I took a chance on this book and was disappointed...not only was it poorly written, the story itself is boring and the author is not at all likeable. Don't buy this book -- there are many others that are great reads on the market.

Crybaby
All i got out of the book was how this fatbody couldnt train enough to make his goals happen. The book is dry and not well written. Definitely not worth the money put out on it.

NOT RECOMMENDED

Great triathlon read!
I bought this book on a lark and it was well worth the money.Great story of someone who decided to jump into triathlon by signing up for an Ironman.I found myself rolling with laughter and other times saying, "yep, I did that too."Too few triathlon books out there, but this is a great one for anyone who is interested in the sport.Great read for new triathletes and grizzled veterans. ... Read more

Product Description
Dedication, passion, obsession--for serious endurance athletes, coaches, duathletes, and triathletes, the quest for improvement never ends. Knowing they can shave time from the previous performance, they seek out the latest in research and training techniques.

In Championship Triathlon Training, renowned experts George Dallam and Steven Jonas provide you with the same advanced conditioning concepts and programming used by today's elite triathletes.

By understanding the science behind the principles, you will incorporate physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, and injury prevention into your regimen to address your specific needs and the demands of competition. Specifically, you'll learn these techniques:

• Use weight training, plyometrics, and core development to accelerate skill development in all phases of swimming, running, and cycling.
• Apply metabolic training to improve endurance and race speed.
• Combine sport-specific skills, such as mounting and dismounting, with metabolic training to improve transition times between phases.
• Develop more efficient movement patterns for increased performance potential and reduced injury.
• Assess health and physical status to avoid overtraining.

Complete with sample programs for each triathlon distance, technique analysis, training- and race-specific fueling strategies, and tips for motivation, focus, and goal setting, Championship Triathlon Training will optimize your training and maximize your results. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great book
This presentation of information is very simple and understandable. I don't know if it is easier to understand because I've read several other triathlon books or because this one is superior. I've been doing triathlons 4 years, completing two iron distance triathlons, but I would still consider myself a beginner as I've always been self-coached and never achieved the results I've been looking for. I plan to follow the training schedule from this book from sprint straight through to ironman training programs, to prepare to compete in Silverman in November.

I find the nose-breathing technique interesting and may try it. Also, the running techique of focusing the stride on the ball of the foot is interesting. I don't think there is anything new under the sun as far as training for triathlons and some of the recommendations I will not follow to a "T", but it is an excellent addition to the training arsenal.

I haven't been effective at following previous training programs because I invariably trained for times above my skill level. With this added maturity, this book looks like a perfect fit to be more successful during races. I won't know until after November.

Champion Triathlon Training
I don't agree with a lot of reviews I have seen about this book.I found the training concepts to be at a beginners level and the training plans to be inadequate for sucessful elite performance.Maybe a good book for a beginner, but not for an athlete looking to excell

Science and experience presented practically
"Championship Triathlon Training" is an excellent book.It is very thorough, covering all the essential aspects of training and racing for high-level triathlon.It also contains some real nuggets on technique and training.The information on barefoot running and nasal breathing are particularly interesting and thought provoking.Recent physiological research is combined with lessons learned from working with elite athletes to provide extremely practical advice.The discussion of how to schedule intense workouts to provide adequate recovery is extremely valuable especially in conjunction with the discussion of combination training.Perhaps the most valuable component is on using performance testing to establish target workloads.I've competed in triathlon for 25 years and coached for the last several years.My copy of "Championship Triathlon Training" is already well thumbed and occupies a prominent spot on my reference shelf. ... Read more

Product Description
Tri Power: The Ultimate Program for Triathlon Success, by Paul Frediani and William Smith provides the essential tips and exercises in weight training, core conditioning, and improved flexibility for both novice and expert. Tri Power is your go-to guide for getting in shape for the best race of your life, even if it’s your first.If you’ve ever thought about competing in a triathlon, this is your first step to crossing the finish line.

Certified triathlon trainer Paul Frediani and triathlete William Smith join forces to show you how to consistently build and condition muscle on a long term basis; and prepare you to get the most out of your triathlon experience. Through four phases you’ll learn how to properly train your body to maintain its optimal condition:

·Foundation and Adaptation: Begin your strength training journey by concentrating on the basics (hips, spine, nerves, and limbs).
·Strength: Discover different planes of movement, grow stability in your spine and hips, and increase the amount of weight you can lift.
·Power: Concentrate on using the Stretch-Shortening Cycle, improving deceleration, and increasing recovery time.
·Maintenance: Prepare for the season by decreasing strength exercises and increasing recovery, volume and consistency in training

Taking you step-by-step through performance enhancement and injury prevention for triathlons, Tri Power provides the triathlete with knowledge, guidance and structure for maximum results. With a year-round program to keep you focused, Tri Power provides a realistic training schedule that anyone can keep. Whether this is your first race ever or your twentieth — or if you’re just looking to jump-start your exercise regimen — this professional guide will organize your fitness and exercise habits for fast, serious results. Swim, bike, and run to win with Tri Power. With Paul Frediani and William Smith as your personal power-motivating coaches, staying on track will be no sweat. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

Tripower
I have been training triathletes and made a mistake buying this book.This is basic knowledge, nothing new, nothing to add to the information out there. If you are doing your own program and this is new information, then this is the book for you, if you have a background in training and understand the basics of core and strength save your money.

Bridge to understanding
This book is a terrific overall fitness reference.If more people trained and stretched to improve total body function using this book, we would see a rapid decline in chronic pain and disease.

Must have
So I'm 37 now and competed in triathlons for 12 years before taking a few years off due to 3 small children (well, my wife actually had them...).I started using this book because i had gained some weight and I was worried about injury.Not only did this book help me get mileage back up injury free - but I'm going faster than I ever have before.MOST IMPORTANTLY: If you follow the book, it doesn't take a ton of time.As someone who is time constrained - I can do this program in the evenings at home.2x/week it takes 20 min.3x/week it takes 5-10 min.For the past 12 weeks I was running only (no swimming except occassional cross train).I finished my half marathon and am now going into core tri-training.I got back in the pool this week and WAS FASTER than when I was swimming 3x/week - I believe because of the strength/core training.MUST HAVE!!

A Balanced Plan
TriPower is a fantastic plan for both men and women to achieve balance, build core strength and stay injury free during tri training.Power in all 3 sports comes from proper form and technique, and the program outlined here supports and balances out all 3 sports.Balanced strength training is the key to not getting injured, and this book more than any other i found achieves the best balance you can get.

Waste of money
I was highly disappointed with this purchase and felt like I just threw away fifteen bucks.There is nothing in this book that anybody who has any experience at all in the gym, would not already know.I'm not even sure that a complete novice would benifit any from this book.I immediately gave it to my tri club to use as a give-away/door prize.Or maybe somebody could use it to start a fire.Tried to give it zero stars, but the website wouldn't let me. ... Read more

Product Description
Train smarter and get better results no matter how busy your lifestyle. Triathlon Workout Planner is like having your own personal support team to prioritize training, fit workouts into your schedule, and plan for long-term racing success. By choosing the right workout at the right time, you can actually improve efficiency, technique, and overall fitness level in less time with these invaluable tools:

• Three or four key workouts that serve as the core of your weekly training schedule
• The 80/20 rule, which focuses on the 20% of training that gets 80% of the results
• Workout choices based on available time and target heart rate for customized training
• Eight weeks of log pages to gauge progress and make weekly adjustments, helping you stay on track and stay injury free
• Racing plans for every distance—from sprint to Ironman

Take control of your training and your schedule with Triathlon Workout Planner. Train more efficiently and effectively for better performance on and off the race course! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A Simple Approach
Beginning triathletes or those who just don't have time to build their own training programs will find this simple approach to the sport appealing.

Worthwhile read
I'm a book junkie...especially "how to" books on things I love to do (like triathlon.) This one's got plenty of good information, and I like the simpler approach.However, if you're an elite athlete (or wannabe), perhaps this may be too simplistic. Things I liked:
-The simplistic approach to training (I just don't have time to break down my build phase into 5 periodized segments :-))
-The emphasis on establishing *realistic* goals
-The creative training log formats
-Many good ideas & suggestions to take away and use in a way that works for *you*.
There simply is no one-size-fits-all, magical training program out there that will turn you into a better triathlete.Every person's goals, abilties, time schedule/commitments, and life in general are unique.So, glean some new ideas from this and other good books out there, and design the best program for you.This one, in my opinion, has plenty to offer. ... Read more

Product Description
The Ultimate Guide to Weight Training for Triathlon is the most comprehensive and up-to-date triathlon-specific training guide in the world today. It contains descriptions and photographs of over 80 of the most effective weight training, flexibility, and abdominal exercises used by athletes worldwide. This book features year-round triathlon-specific weight-training programs guaranteed to improve your performance and get you results.

No other triathlon book to date has been so well designed, so easy to use, and so committed to weight training. This book was designed specially for triathletes to increase strength, speed, endurance, and stamina. This guide will have you shaving time off of all three events by using the most advanced and efficient exercises available. It will have you recording new personal records and reaching all of your goals. By following the year-round programs in the book, you will be able to finish meets with the same energy you exerted when you began.

Both beginners and advanced athletes and weight trainers can follow this book and utilize its programs. From recreational to professional, thousands of athletes all over the world are already benefiting from this book and its techniques, and now you can too!

As an added bonus, this book also contains links to free record keeping charts which normally sell separately for $20. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Nothing new
Any basic triathlon book will give you weight training ideas as good as these.Google is probably better.

Should be called the Ultimate Let Down
I have been weight training since Iwas 15. This book just lists basic weight training exercises every weight trainer does. I found nothing and I mean nothing new or different that is specific for a triathlete. Its just a weight training book with a triathlete sticker slapped on the front. Dont' waste your money Google is better.

Great!
This is an easy to use book that helps you organize your own routines so that it would take years for you to become stagnate in weight lifting.The pictures of form are helpful and descriptive.I would recommend this book for any triathlete.

Great book
I thought this was a great book especially for someone that is self-motivating. There are so any work-outs included it will keep you busy for a long time!

thanks
I never thought I could or would run a triathlon, but this book really helped me train.It was a great guide and plan for the winter, and hopefully I'll be able to compete in the spring.Without this I'd be lost. ... Read more

Product Description
This book provides a comprehensive plan that helps parents guide their children towards a healthy love of sports. It will show parents, and their kids, how to get involved in triathlon and other "lifestyle" sports that can be pursued for a lifetime. "A Healthy Guide to Sport" will show you how sport can be the most enjoyable, healthy, and educational activity our children get to do. ... Read more

Product Description
In the winter of 1978, 15 men gathered on a small beach in Hawaii to race extreme distances in swimming, cycling, and running - a race that changed the face of endurance sports forever. Since then, Ironman Hawaii has become one of the world's greatest sporting events."30 Years of the Ironman Triathlon World Championship" perfectly captures the essence of the event through spectacular photography and superb illustrations. Discover the soul of the race, the emotions of the athletes, spectators, and volunteers.This will become an essential companion for anyone who has competed in the Ironman, or one day dreams of crossing the finish line.This book is a visually stunning celebration of 30 years of the ultimate endurance race - the Ironman Triathlon World Championship. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

For the special Ironman
My daughter has done one Ironman and is now training for her second at Lake Placid, NY.These are extraordinary athletes who deserve every encouragement and bonus you can give them.
It was on her Xmas list and I was honored to get it for her!

Beautiful book!
I purchased this as a gift for someone who completed the ironman this year.
She loved it so I think that says it all!
The pictures are beautiful (its a little smaller than I thought it would be - 10x10 I believe)
Thats actually a PLUS. I had thought it would be one of those huge unbookshelfable books (yes I just made that word up!)
... Read more

Product Description
Imagine being able to compete in a triathlon in just three short months!You can, with this all-encompassing, easy-to-use training program!The 12-Week Triathlete gives the most exciting, encouraging, and up-to-date exercise information for the fitness enthusiast.Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned triathlete, this book offers a complete program that will help you strengthen, tone-up, and both physically and mentally prepare for the big day. It will appeal to both men and women and includes:

• 12 weekly training programs
• nutrition information
• logs
• sport specific question & answer sidebars (biking, running, and swimming)
• information on weight-training, endurance training, speed work, and more
• basic questions about competing: Can you eat during a race? How do you line up your bike so you can jump right on it? What's the best way to quickly shed your swimsuit?

Customer Reviews (24)

triathlon training
This is a well-written, clear guide. Holland sounds very reasonable-- I wish more of my previous coaches growing up shared his views on training and injury. The specific timelines he presents are easy to follow and/or amend if you need it. This is exactly what I wanted for my first few triathlons.

Solid beginner's book
Pretty solid beginner's guide - covers most everything you need to know to get started. I would have liked a little more detail in the work out plans - particularly the swimming portion. Would also be great to include an electronic version of the work out plan for easy tracking. I spent a few hours creating it in Excel.

Great practical triathlon advice for the beginner & good sets of workouts
This book is an easy read and a great resource for a beginner triathlete, not only for the specific workouts provided, but good practical race day suggestions.It might be too simple for an experienced triathlete, but does offer a set of workouts for olympic & half-ironman distances as well as sprint events, so I think they could find value too.Good advice on goal-setting also--I learned some new ways to set goals that I hadn't thought of before.This book is a great value and will inspire confidence for the beginner that they can train & complete a triathlon!

Working man's triathlon training guide
I have been out of Triathlon for 12 years. The first time around I just swam, rode and ran with no guidence. I did all right, but I needed a plan this time. I have aging knees a 55 hour a week job and 5 kids to care for. I had no time to mess around or mess up.

This book is very basic, really for the beginner, but the plans are good and his methodology should work well from what I can see and guage from my own current and past experience. I sometimes look at the shortness of the workouts and wonder, "is this enough?", but done correctly I believe it is, at least for my expected outcome. I got back into triathlon because I love it and because I want to stay healthy (not because I expect to place in my age group). This book has some solid info for doing those two things.

Good for beginner
Twelve weeks seemed too short for a half or full Ironman to me, but I am a beginner so we will see 3 months from now.What I like about the training plans is there is a train to finish plan and train for perfomance plan for each distance.The strength training chapter is good because it has lots of pictures. The chapter on swiming is limited because he suggests you buy a training DVD, which I had done previously. ... Read more

Product Description
Ironman Hall of Fame Inductee Bob Babbitt And some of the world's best photographers lovingly share images and stories from what many consider the Toughest Day in Sport, the Ironman. With a foreword from legendary sportscaster Jim Lampley and an introduction from Ironman creator Commander John Collins, this beautiful book chronicles an event that started out with 15 crazy entrants in 1978 and now, 25 years later, is considered the ultimate goal for athletes worldwide and the ultimate showcase for endurance sports. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Not that good.
Do NOT buy this book.If you buy it, please buy my used one listed in Amazon Used Books. Pardon me for my english in my writing.It is second language for me.

This book is not such a good one. Bob Babbit writes a better magazine called Competitor.I guess I expect too much of him and the book fall short on expectation.

I buy book because he make an ad in his magazine I pick up in California.This book not so good.

The Ironman Triathlon World Championships Desk Reference
If you know who Bob Babbitt is, you don't need any other reason to purchase his book.In that case, I will assure you that it is everything you could possibly expect from the editor of Competitor Magazine and then some.As you read the captions and relive the moments in each year's race summary, you can't help but smile with gleeful anticipation of your next trip to the finish line.If you have difficulty explaining your compulsive addiction to your family and friends, this book will help bridge the gap.The pictures are stunning not only in their completeness but also in the quality with which they have been reproduced.You might remember the scene from a videotape or broadcast or maybe you were even lucky enough to see it live.But never have you seen the athletes leap from such glossy pages with the detail and ferocity that they do from Babbitt's creation.

Still, perhaps you don't really know who Bob is.Honestly, I didn't realize he had been inducted into the Ironman Hall of Fame in 2001 until I saw the list in his book.I understood his mantra and I have always been happy to digest his publication whenever I stumble upon it.But, I never really assimilated what was so unique about Bob Babbitt until the night I spent with my nose glued to the pages of his book.I read every word, cover to cover.This was the night before a relatively important half Ironman race.I should have been sleeping, but I was transfixed.

I had always wondered why so many have said that Bob Babbitt has given back more to the sport than anyone else.The answer to my confusion lies entirely in the perspective that this humble and humourous man so graciously shares with anyone and everyone.Yes, you can get all of the factual history from Tinley's voluminous musings.And you get get the buzz of Kona from reading Mike Plant's Iron Will.You can be an armchair pro by reading about Brad Kearns' adventures.You can obsess about every detail of each workout in your schedule with Joel Friel's guidance.But none of these experiences give you the cumulative clarity and insight you get from Babbitt.

Babbitt's true gift to all of us is his understanding of how we view the giants and dwarfs of our sport, how we obsess about the great battles all the way from the front to the back.Babbitt can see exactly how we respect the grueling journey, the brutal conditions and obscene distances that make Kona so much more than just another race.Sure, Phil Liggett can bark through the leaderboard with his charming accent and amusing wit.Mike Riley can keep a crowd dancing for hours.Both of them are legends of our sport and without them it just wouldn't feel authentic.But neither of them can bring the experience home to your coffee table after the fact the way Babbitt has.While it may be impossible to dislike Babbitt and his clearly selfless ambitions, it is even more difficult to put on his glasses and not see Kona more clearly than you ever did before.You simply cannot read his words and not feel the excitement and drama he wants to share with you.

There are only two pages of the book that really don't belong, 48 and 49.They exist as a sad testament to the reality that nothing about triathlon seems to make any financial sense.Those two pages, however, are overwhelmingly offset by 126 and 127.Relive those 80's haircuts, see Jurgen in his Zorro shot, and revel in the cheesy humor that Babbitt has gotten all too good at through the years.If you want one reason to convince you of Babbitt's greatness, flip to this pair of pages and stay a while.In a sense, it's a mild spatterring of his life's work.It's also an extremely abbreviated list of the major players in Kona.But look beyond the faces, hair, gear, and race attire and you'll see Bob Babbitt waving at you from the pages of his book.He is inviting you to share his vision for a moment, making you feel like the most honored guest he has ever known as he serves up heaping portions of grit, determination, courage, and desire.

I put together the best multisport race of my life the day after reading this book.Thanks Bob!

The Go To Book
Forget about the coffee table,t his book is one you should keep by your bed side and dream of the Ironman.
In one book, the author manages to capture the characters and color that define the Ironman Triathlon-this will become the quintessential history on the event and it earns the 25th anniversary title.

From the historical race figures such as Dave Scott and Mark Allen to the Judy Molnars, this book reaches the common reader and fanatic. The pictures are great, I am going to take mine with me all season and have people autograph their pages...Enjoy it!

Beautiful and Amazing
This is truly a coffee table book - the photographs are stunning and the stories are amazing. The Hawaiian Ironman is a special race and this book conveys all the beauty, drama, joy, and pain that make up the unique experience of the race.
Leave this book on your coffee table and you will be touched again and again by the memorable images and inspirational stories. The people who have finished this race are truly amazing individuals and they are colorfully profiled in this book. A must have for anyone who dreams of calling themselves an "Ironman."

Ironman Experience
In short this book is superb , anyone that has had anything to do with the Ironman and especially those that have finished the Ironman will relish this book . The book provides a wonderful historical documentation of the Ironman through words and photos . The photos are wonderful and the stories contained within are written in Bob Babbitts unique quirky style . The book also lists the the placegetters of every race since the inaugral race of 1978 .

Put it along side Tinleys historical photo book .Well worth getting this one ! ... Read more

Product Description
"Forever fit through triathlon" and "Movement is Life- Life is Movement". These mottos are of particular importance for the group of people who count as masters in international sport circles i.e. those who have already turned forty and therefore have a different sports profile to the twenty-year old.The Master handbook accompanies all triathletes- beginners and advance alike- in their bid to success sport. Detailed instructions and realistic training plans both for triathletes who still go out to work and for those who have retired are the central themes of the book. All triathletes who wish to be successful are provided with the necessary advice for swimming, cycling and running training as well for triathlon competitions. Further tips and advice complete this book, e.g. fitness for masters, pulse measurement, achieving one's goal despite performance limits, regeneration, equipment, nutrition, stretching not to mention numerous anecdotes from training and competition. ... Read more

Product Description

The perfect trathlete training guide—whether you’re a beginner or are simply looking to improve your performance

Customer Reviews (22)

A Breath of Fresh Air
I have read a lot of triathlon training books. This is by far the best one out there. For once, someone tells the truth about the dark side of triathlon training, when it turns from a fun hobby to a demanding and self-absorbed obsession.
I wish every triathlete had to read this book and had to take stock of what triathlon means to them and whether they are motivated purely out of love for the sport or out of a competitive, compulsive nature. Triathlon is an awesome sport and a great lifestyle as well, but the popular focus on strict training schedules and ever-increasing race distances is not healthy for many age-group athletes and their families. This book helps the age-grouper or pro remove themselves from the rat-race mentality of many triathletes and instead focus on their own internal motivations and desires. I highly recommend it.

Very good addition to your training library
After racing my first triathlon in the summer of 2005 I picked up the book and have read it a couple of times. I really like the approach of the author towards the enjoyment of the sport and training in general.

As an age grouper, with work and family obligations like just about everybody else, training and racing really have to be planned to be enjoyed and striving to avoid the "no pain no gain" philosophy.

It is a very good read for a novice triathlete, and his reference to Dr. Phil Maffetone and Arthur Lydiard sparked an interest to read their books and articles too.

By following a stress free plan with plenty of rest and an adequate balance between life and the sport, as suggested by the book, one can expect to remain injury free and have several and enjoyable racing seasons. I can consider myself lucky to have read it early and have stayed healthy for the past 5 years, allowing me to compete in 7 triathlons and several 5K and road races in this period of time.

Must-Have For Novice Triathlete Library
You're serious about trying a triathlon. You've started collecting URLs, articles, books. You're getting a lay of the land.

"Breakthrough Triathlon Training" is a must-have for your library.

Yes, the repetitious messages may drive you a little nuts. But as with any successful advertising or propaganda message delivery, the signal gets through. Curse Brad Kearns for telling yet another story to make the same point. But after you've tossed the book onto the couch and you're out running, biking or swimming? You'll REMEMBER his points.

And his points are great.

Just yesterday...

I'm trail running with weights. Typically I run into the park, do two of my "standard loops," and run out. 75 minutes. Great aerobic workout.

Yesterday, per Kearns' philosophy I ran the 2nd loop with the mindset, "I'll go round, but in a way that if I choose to run a 3rd loop I'll be able to." And so I did.

At the end of loop 2? I felt great. I decided to run a 3rd loop which I only occasionally do. And -- I did loop 3 with the attitude, "Who knows, I may decide to do a 4th loop."

At the end of loop 3? I went for a 4th loop. I've never done this before. I've never run that distance, nor run for that length of time (2.5 hours).

And if felt great.

Brad Kearns' is onto something and I don't think it's coincidence that his triathlon book has an intro by Lance Armstrong while other books don't.

To repeat my message: this book needs to be part of your library. It'll give you the right mind-set for training. You can get all the OCD info you need elsewhere. But unlike those with only the OCD minutiae, you'll have a much better sense of how to apply it and apply it in a healthy manner.

Dr. Kirtland C Peterson

"Breakthrough"?
I agree with one of the previous reviewers who summed up the book -- the basic advice is to listen to your body, but other than that, it really doesn't offer that much.Worth reading if you're tired and plateauing (i.e., overtraining), but other than that, doesn't offer much.

Great!!
After reading many so so books on training for triathlons this book spoke to me. Being a beta type personality I loved the macro, kicked back approach he took to training. It was just what I'd been looking for. Keeping it fun.Thanks, Brad ... Read more

Product Description
The first triathlons were highly competitive but casual--in contrast to the major media events that many of the races are today. TRIATHLON takes a fascinating look at the evolution of the sport through essays, interviews, and photographs dating back to its very beginnings. 50 color and 200 b&w photos and illustrations. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

An entertaininghistory for the insider
This appears to be the only publication, apart from Mike Plant's wonderful book Iron Will, that records the early years and development of triathlon. Both the text and the multitude of pictures (with very amusing captions) bring to life the events and colorful characters that shaped the sport. There are many personal (often very entertaining) anecdotes, some scraps of personal philosophy, and references to athletes and others whose names will likely be known to few people outside the sport. There is no attempt at a careful chronology, or thorough analysis of the development of the sport over time, and there is an inevitable emphasis on the Hawaii Ironman race. There is also little narrative thread; instead it is the kind of book one can haphazardly dip into for inspiration and entertainment. This book provides a highly idiosyncatic historical perspective on triathlon, which will certainly be enjoyed by experienced triathletes who have done or are contemplating doing an Ironman race. A thorough history of triathlon remains to be written, but it will likely be a lot less entertaining than this book is.

Engaging, funny book with great pictures
I picked this book up this weekend at the Columbia triathlon.Tinley was there, and was signing the book.I haven't read the whole thing yet, but so far it looks like a great history of this somewhat unusualpasstime.

Tinley has been there pretty much from the start, and hiscollection of anecdotes and photographs from many sources (Mike Plantespecially) tells the story very well.Tinley's writing has improved sincehis early days (some of the articles in "Finding the Wheel's Hub"are pretty tough to read), and, hey, he's Scott Tinley!If you're atriathlete, you should have this book on your shelf next to your traininglog.

Excellent book but poor proofreading.
This is an excellent book with one really annoying problem.The proofreading is some of the worst I have ever seen.Lots of misspellings and typos as well as poor grammar.I would love to give this book fivestars but it is so difficult to read that I cannot.Great pictures andTinley is simply an awesome guy.If you are at all into triathlon you musthave this book.Just be prepared for major typos. ... Read more

Product Description

Describes the history, equipment, personalities, and contemporary practice of the triathlon.

... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

informative, but long
as a triathlete myself, I picked this book up to see how my world was written, and I come away with a middling feeling.It was interesting, withtriathlon history in it, but the book was drawn out too much in my opinion. It was like reading a textbook. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Introduction to the Sport
Yes, this book is written for children at the elementary school level or slightly above who are just becoming familiar with the sport. Definitely not for anyone currently participating in triathlons and looking to further their knowledge or to uncover new techniques. In that respect, I think this is a solid introduction to our sport and one that may encourage more folks to get involved, especially at the very youngest levels. If the purpose of this book is to raise awareness of our sport, than I applaud it for its effort and success.

A Good Book for a Triathlete's Child
This is a 60 page picture book, without very good pictures. It's probably a good book for a library to have in the Children's section, however if you're actually old enough to do a triathlon, then this book is not for you. An actual caption next to one of the pictures: "Goggles and a swim cap are essential for the swimming portion of the triathlon." Hmmm. What a gem. Also good: "A triathlon is composed of three events: swimming, biking, and running." Really. Another caption. P.6. Not making it up.

What little information the book contains is so vague that it's virtually useless; buy Triathlon 101, Triathlete's Bible, or any one of a half dozen or so other great books if you'd like to actually do a tri. And it contains no information about an "ironman" that you can't get within a click or two from any search engine.

Anyway, I'm being a little harsh here: I think the book really is intended for kids, and I just bought it by mistake, so it's not really fair for me to ridicule it. If you're a librarian in charge of the kids section and are considering buying it, I guess it could be sort of useful. ... Read more

Product Description
Joe Friel and Inside Triathlon team up to deliver an indispensable training log for triathletes. Along with color photos, fifty-two undated one-week diary spreads record every facet of a triathlete’s daily workout, including duration, weather, distance, time, heart rate, and weight. Weekly summary and race section pages are included to clearly document progress. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

tri prep
I bought this journal hoping to have a great place to record my workouts. That is not what I got. The space is limited, and I feel like I need to take a class in journaling the Joe Friel way. I only bought this journal, because I had read one of books and loved it. I quit trying to use this journal and went back to my old fashion way of using a regular journal.

Revised Edition is useless
A diary is supposed to allow me to record my personal information.By adding the irrelevant photos and so-called motivational quotes, they have reduced the space for my personal information even further.

I used the first edition for four years.At least I was generally able to squeeze in the essentials of my workouts.However, the new edition has less space available for each day, and still only room for two workouts.The space for each workout is much less than adequate, and forget ever trying to squeeze in a record of more than two on any day.

Do you ever workout more than twice a day?Then, skip this product!

Good diary, cannot write on flap!!
I am a new multi-sport athlete who LOVES to collect data. This diary is perfect; it doesn't provide tons of space for each day, which forces me to think about what I really want to include. My main complaint - it has an outside flap, on which you are to write your goals and objectives. I have tried many different pens and cannot get any to write on the foolish thing, so I have HALF of each of my goals and objectives on the flap and then they trail off to nothing. Less than motivational!

Besides that, though, the diary is very nice. I already have Friel's Triathlon Bible, though - without it, I would be pretty much lost. He DOES give brief explanations of how to plan a season in the diary, but not much more than that.

OK, but used to be better
I've been using the Inside Triathlon journal for 4 or 5 years, and have been pleased with it.The most recent edition, however, has a new format that I just don't like.The editors stuck goofy pictures at the top of each page, and took space away from the notes section.There is now hardly enough room to even describe my route, let alone describe the workout in any meaningful way.I am so disappointed that I doubt I'll buy this journal again.

Simple Steps to AMAIZING RESULTS
Magnificently simple approach to training for a triathlon or just staying in shape. A MUST HAVE!!! ... Read more