Product Description
Triathlon Training Basics contains all the information that new triathletes need in order to successfully complete a sprint or an Olympic distance triathlon.Written by Gale Bernhardt, Triathlete columnist, member of the USA Triathlon 2004 Olympic Team Selection Committee, and certified Elite Level Triathlon and Cycling Coach trainer, the book contains detailed training plans that are tailored to different levels of fitness in each of the swim, bike, and run categories.Strength training and stretching portions are included to illustrate proper form and the last chapter deals with injury prevention and treatment. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Not bad but.....
This book is OK but is certainly padded with a lot of irrelevant info.The main problem is that there are too many training plans with little to distinguish them.The criteria for "fit" vs. "unfit" are almost identical and the plans themselves seem very conservative.A previous reviewer mentioned the "team" training plans, and I agree that these are redundant.

Another issue is that there is minimal emphasis on swimming; for beginners, swimming is probably the most difficult discipline to get comfortable with, so this seems like a poor approach. There are some useful tips on bike fit and nutrition, yet probably far too much info for a beginner.I strongly recommend the training plans, info and general style of the "Complete Idiot's Guide" ahead of this book.

Not much substance...
I found this book very easy to read...in fact it only took me about 1.5 hours to get through the whole thing.I don't consider this an attribute.So much of this book is dedicated to the training plans!There is really no reason to waste so many pages on training plans when each person only needs to pick one.The other big waste of pages was the overly long and descriptive chapter on equipment.The book is called "basics" - why does it need to go into such detail on equipment that most beginners won't want to invest in anyway?

I was very disappointed in the amount of good substance in this book.Glad I didn't buy it but instead checked it out from the library!

good plans and detail, factually incorrect
This book is good for beginners and does provide several different training plans. While using it to prepare for my first Olympic-distance race I ended up running a Sprint-distance race *slower* than I had before. You race like you practice and this book didn't suggested enough intensity.
That and there is no errata. The "Fit Beginner Plan for an Olympic Distance Triathlon" plan has a couple mistakes in it that can be found by cross-referencing the table to the text.

Disappointing training plans
The training plans in this book for "fit" (there are two sets of plans for each distance: "fit" vs. "unfit") are way too conservative.I found myself using the Olympic distance plan to train for a Sprint distance triathlon.There is no way following the "fit" Olympic distance plan I could have completed that distance.It's suitable for training for a Sprint however but that's not what is intended by the author.

I also find it annoying that so much of the book is dedicated to these different flavors for both individuals and for teams.It began to feel like me that the author was padding the book to make it longer.

Since most folks (like me) would buy a beginner book for the training plans I cannot recommend this book to a beginner to formulate a plan unless you feel like under-training and slogging through your first event.

Exactly what I needed...
I've found other triathlon training books to be either too detailed, or too simplistic.This book really covers a lot of necessary information in an easy to follow manner for the beginner or intermediate athlete. ... Read more

Product Description
An inspiring and thorough guide to the ultimate cross-training and fitness adventure.Here T. J. Murphy, a longtime triathlete and Editor-in-Chief of Triathlete Magazine, offers the aspiring triathlete a clear and simple pathway that will guide him or her toward experiencing the ultimate fitness lifestyle, culminating with the successful completion of a first triathlon. Beginning with the creation of an athlete's mindset, the author guides the reader through essential techniques for swimming, biking, and running, as well as topics such as nutrition, equipment, and racing. Readers will learn how to create a training schedule and eventually enter and participate in an entry-level triathlon. Even the most unrepentant couch potato can be transformed into a triathlete with this inspiring companion and training partner. 100 color photographs ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Too spotty, even for beginners
I was disappointed with this book. As a beginner triathlete I don't need sophisticated information and advice, yet I felt that this book inexplicably left out large and essential areas, such as any advice on how to deal with transitions from swimming to cycling and from cycling to running in races, or any mention of the need for and approach to buying a wetsuit. In addition, the book lacked flow and in places became a compilation of long stretches of text quoted from other experts, word by word. I found two other books directed at beginner triathletes, "The Slow Fat Triathlete" by Jayne Williams (Slow Fat Triathlete: Live Your Athletic Dreams in the Body You Have Now} and "Triathloning for Ordinary Mortals" by Steven Jonas (Triathloning for Ordinary Mortals: And Doing the Duathlon Too), more complete, useful, and enjoyable. The best part of the Guide is the upbeat, you-too-can-do-it attitude -- but luckily you can find such inspiration in many other places.

Great for Beginners!
As a person considering a first triathlon, I found this book to be a very good introduction to the world of the triathlete!It is a very simple, basic approach to finishing your first triathlon.TJ Murphy points you to many other training and equipment resources, and gives you a basic training outline to get you started.

If you are looking for indepth training advice, this book is not for you.However, if you are not a stranger to exercise and need that little extra encouragement to jump start, then buy this book.

I got the book from the library to preview, but feel it is worth the investment to buy now. ... Read more

Product Description
Train Hard, Enjoy Yourself, and Excel!Congratulations! You've reached the starting line for achieving the physical and psychological triumph of your life training for a triathlon. Whether you're training for your very first triathlon or simply looking to improve your performance, this book has it all. Inside, 19-time Ironman finisher Sally Edwards coaches you mile by mile through the exhilarating sport of triathlon. You'll learn how to work out at a pace that's perfect for you and discover the wonderful physical and mental rewards of regular training and exercise. Triathlons are for everyone, including you! This book will help you prove it by teaching you how to: ·Overcome the mental and physical barriers ·Train properly and improve steadily in each sport ·Find the equipment suited just for you ·Develop a performance-enhancing nutritional and workout strategy ·And much, much more! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Fantastic book
The positive reviews on this book say it all - it's a great book if you're looking into training for a triathlon.Wonderful.

All you need to know to "complete a triathlon!"
For both the novice and the experienced, this book offers triathletes all they need to know to finish the race ahead of the pack. There's detailed information on how to rate yourself physically in swimming, bicycling, and running and refine your skills at each; how to improve fitness for peak performance; develop a training program; keep a training log; cope with hazards and avoid injury; select the right apparel and equipment; eat properly in training and during the race; and condition the "mental muscle" as well as your heart--There is a great section on training using your heart rate monitor that is particularly informing for those just getting started with a heart rate monitor--all in all, I thought it was very complete, precise and to the point--Lots of good tips and helpful information for the Newbie and more experienced.I keep it handy for referencing and recommend it to those who are new to the sport or looking for ways to improve.

Great reference and motivation inside
I became hooked on this book when I did my first Triathlon last autumn.I felt it gave me the information I needed and the upbeat way it was presented just added to my excitement.I can tell that the author is completely in love with triathlon and wants to see others have the same kind of fun she does.I keep this book handy and have referred to it several times this spring as I train for the three tri's I plan to do this summer.The book is my main triathlon reference and I very much recommend it.

Overview of the basics to get you into Triathlons!
As a newby to the sport it was nice to read a book that gave me an overview of what I could expect.I had only done 2 races when I read this book and it really helped me understand what I was doing right and wrong.If you want an overview of the sport and are planning to do your first race this is a MUST BUY!!

Sally does a great job of explaining all the ins/outs of the sport and provides a good base of knowledge.She provides resources to more information on specific subjects which is helpful.

Dissapointed
I was fooled when I read the back cover and Scott Tinley's recommendation.The book is total fluff.Ms. Edwards tries so hard to cover everything, she ends up covering nothing in any worthwhile detail.I spent less money on the Triathlete's Training Bible by Joe Freil and it was worth so much more.For beginner triathletes, there are much better books. (Swim/Bike/Run by Wes Hobson and even Triathlon 101)For current triathletes looking to improve, stick with Joe Freil's Bible. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Faith is something you can't see but it lives in your heart
I read this book at my lowest point... I found the authour and now I am writing the screenplay about his life and his book. This is a must read. There is alot of real life stories not in this book thats why I am writing a movie it's unbeleivable his story. ... Read more

Product Description
The Total Immersion Way for Anyone to Master triathlon or Open-Water Swimming ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Yes, The Best Book On Swimming For Triathletes I have Read
Like many people, I was skeptical about this book. How could I truly learn to swim better from reading a book. But after reading this and practising the techniques I am a believer. I am a triathlete, albeit a 50 year old slow triathlete. But I began as a swimmer, so I am very comfortable there. I am not fast, but love the water. But this book has made me a better swimmer. It's in the economy of stroke. This book will teach you a way of swimming that's more like yoga or TM than those swimmers you see flailing their arms and being out of breath. This won't happen overnight, but as the author says, if you practise at this long enough you will get better.

The definitive book on triathlon swimming
This is the best book you can buy on swimming. Period. In fact, most triathlon training books refer the reader to Terry Laughlins Total Immersion (TI) program, which is explained most clearly in this book. (Don't buy the out-dated book entitled "Total Immersion." I've read it; it's good; but it doesn't fully reflect the author's most recent ideas on swimming drills.)

When you buy the book, you should also order the video "Fishlike Freestyle," which shows all the drills beautifully executed by top-notch swimmers. (In fact, the "models" in the video make the drills look TOO easy.)

If you read the book, follow the program, and execute the drills according to the video, you'll become an excellent swimmer. It might take you several months or even a year or two, but eventually you'll do it. Personally, I'm still working at it--slowly--but a friend of mine went from being a terrible swimmer to being a beautiful, smooth, fast fishlike triathlete in the water by following the Total Immersion program. Several other of my triathlete friends have used the Total Immersion program with excellent success. You can spot these swimmers for the grace and fluidity as they glide effortlessly through the water.

If you're serious about swimming or triathlon, this book is a must buy. ... 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

Product Description

Product Description
Starting with the evolution of the triathlon into the Ironman Challenge, the title discusses gear and specialised equipment, how to tailor training to swimming, cycling and running. It gives advice on nutrition and diet, handling injuries and, most importantly, features six week-by-week training programmes specifically devised for each of the three disciplines over various triathlon distances. ... 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
In the busy pace of our modern lifestyle, athletes, whether a neophyte or an erudite, want the latest information on sports nutrition and they want it Now! But with sensationalist media headlines, endless advertising, and growing Internet information, what is the athlete to believe? Clearly, the need for the qualified health professional to disseminate scientifically, substantiated sports nutrition information is not just desirable, it's critical. This book is a guide to healthy eating for everyone who wants to lead a healthier life. Part one is an introduction to basic nutrition and shows you how to go from eating a poor diet to a healthy diet, while part two transitions the reader into what needs to be done to actually eat for training and competition. ... Read more

Product Description
This text is for every athlete - whether hobby, competitive or performer - who aspires to be a successful triathlete. The author's five-stage programme offers information and complete training plans for each of the triathlon distances - the novice, short, medium, ultra and the Hawaiian-Ironman. Topics covered include: basics of triathlon training; performance measurement; training exercises; planning the training; stretching; power training; mental training; women in triathlon; tips for training and competitions; complete training programmes for all five stages; equipment; nutrition; duathlon; and an essay article regarding "Character" by Professor G. Kroeger. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Finally!An outstanding "manual"
This book is absolutely awesome!We finally have literature that treats the sport the way it is supposed to be treated, as an internationally-recognized and serious event.It contains all the nuts and bolts on how to be successful at practicing it.It provides the necessary technical info in a language that any international reader can understand.Finally, a book that presents useful info using the prevailing standard modern units of measurement that are the only ones recognized and accepted for the practice and organization of such events.A must for the serious practicioner!

Mixed!
This book was packed with great info. From complete workout plans for various distance triathlons to fantastic advice. The problemis that it is rather hard to read.If you cancope with a German/English style you cangetalot out of this book. ... Read more

Product Description
The Total Triathlon Almanac-5 is a comprehensive logbook and a basic training primer. Building on the four earlier standard-setting editions, it is light weight and "pared down to the bones"-a flexible year-long training companion.

The almanac saves time for the experienced athlete. For the newer participant, it is a foundation for establishing a successful program which conforms to current advances in exercise physiology, training and race preparation. For all, it's an indispensable year-round organizer, record keeper and information source.

The weekly log pages now have twice the room to write.

Includes motivational full-page color pictures of world-class triathletes in full racing action by the Official Ironman Triathlon Photographer.

You will learn from world class triathletes and triathlon authorities how to:

Prevent burnout and injury
Live healthier and race faster
Train with a heart rate monitor
Improve your strength, speed and endurance
Assemble the building blocks of a training program
Prepare, taper and peak for a race of any distance
Develop a mental training program called "Mind Power"

Contributors providing training and racing information for this edition include:

Mark Allen, a six-time winner of the Ironman Triathlon World Championship
Eric Bean, an Ironman Triathlon World Championship age group winner from 1998, a 2003 Collegiate National Champion and the current Stanford University Triathlon Team coach
Thomas Hellriegel, a multiple Ironman Triathlon winner, including the Ironman Triathlon World Championship
Joy Leutner (nee Hansen), a former world-class Olympic distance triathlete
Dr. Phil Maffetone, nutrition coach to numerous top athletes
Paula Newby-Fraser, an eight-time winner of the Ironman Triathlon World Championship and the only woman to break nine hours in Kona; has achieved an incomprehensible 24 career Ironman victories across the globe
Seppo Nuuttila, former coach of the Finnish National Track & Field Team and several Olympic and professional endurance athletes, including rowers, runners and triathletes
Dave Scott, a six-timer winner of the Ironman Triathlon World Championship ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

The best I've used
So far of all the logbooks that I've used I like this the best.It is simple, logical and easy to use yet gives me something to quickly find past training history from.While I've looked around at others I still can't find one that I like better, so highly recommend this one.Hopefully they follow this one up with another one just as good this.

The Total Triathlon Almanac-5
The Total Triathlon Almanac-5 is the best training log I have used in my 30 plus years as an endurance athlete and coach. It is actually much more than just a training log. It's a valuable training tool, packed with training and racing tips from Mark Allen, Dave Scott and several other all-time triathlon greats. This information, combined with Tony Svensson's inspiring photos, make the Almanac-5 a great source of motivation as well. This is simply the most comprehensive training logbook and resource available.

Don Fink, Author of "Be IronFit: Time Efficient Training Secrets for Ultimate Fitness."

WOW! Just when you thought it couldnt get better!
I have intensively used the Almanac 3, 4 and now just got 5 off the presses! It is truly an amazing work. I was thinking of sending the author suggestions but all my suggestions have made it into the new book! Unlike a lot of other triathlon resource guides, the info is easy to understand but provides enough depth to make it really useful. Also, you can tell that a great deal of thought - from a real athlete - has gone into the structure of the log pages.

I am a VERY picky user and I must say that this log is a home run. I highly recommend it. It will keep you focused, informed and inspired for your triathlon training and racing.
... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
"The Book" is the coaching, training, and racing philosophies of Endurance Nation — a virtual triathlon team led by coaches Rich Strauss and Patrick McCrann. In a little over one year, more than 420 members have used the unconventional Endurance Nation approach to achieve incredible fitness gains and killer race results.

From physiology to methodology, from workouts to case studies, The Book covers all the topics you will need to master in order to maximize the return on your triathlon training. Don't re-invent the wheel...and don't waste another year of training.
... Read more

Product Description

Product Description
Follow Jane Booth's humorous, honest and surprising journey from a woman who couldn't tell the front from the rear of her bike helmet to an athlete capable of competing in an Olympic-distance triathlon. Celebrate her every victory, from a skirmish with a wayward wetsuit to conquering her fear of falling off her bike. Race alongside her as she battles to finish a race that lies at the outermost edge of her abilities. And share Jane's unexpected discovery of how endurance sport changed her attitudes, her aspirations and her whole approach to life. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (17)

Been there
A great read.Well written and very witty.Having only done a few triathlons myself, I fully understood where Jane was coming from.I think as new triathletes we all share the same frustrations, experiences and elations as it all comes together.Well done Jane.I would certainly recommend this book to friends.

super book!
Had great fun reading this book, as a Bay Area native it was like going home again!

Quick, entertaining read
I loved this book.As I prepare to complete my first triathlon, I found this book to be informational and inspiring.It is so much more than just a book about training for a triathlon.I have passed it on to my husband, who also enjoyed it.Now we've passed it along to a friend.

Book Sucked!!!
Couldn't get past the fifth chapter.I left the book on the airplane on purpose!I love triathlon's and heartwarming stories but this was not either.

Great!
I thought this book was great, I couldn't put it down until I was finished. She tells her story of her start with triathlon from the beginning, it was informative, it will make you laugh out loud, if you do triathlon it will make you remember your start and if you thought you could never do something like triathlon she just might help you decide different! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Wow
Inspirational and full of history. That is something hard to find in today's literature. At first I thought a book that was written in 1987 about triathlons may be irrelevant. The sport has come such a long way from where it began.
Yet I was greatly surprised to find this book is based on timeless things. Competition, determination, will, strength, excitement, endurance...all this and more.
I have yet to do my first Iron but this book sure pushes me to. At the least it makes me want to get up out of my comfy chair and TRI!

Awesome Inspiration
I loved the first edition because it mentioned one of the early competitors training for the iron man while living out his van and training himself and others at a health club.This was an inspiratiion to me as an ex-marine/student who lived in his van while attending college and working out/showering in the gym.

My motivation to write this review on an out of print book, was because I would be the first to review it, but I have always referred to the author when people questioned my ability to thrive on a van-lifestyle.My goal was to buy a house by paying for it in cash, but my life has taken a different turn. In any event I am almost 40 years old, in great shape, and have only paid rent for six months in my life.

Thanks Mike Plant for the inspiration. ... Read more

Product Description
What you need to know for having a great time in your triathlon.- Expert opinions- Training plans- How to avoid injuries- NutritionAnd much more ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Amazing book for first time triathletes!
Gloria Safar's book Triathlon for girls like us is an incredibly helpful guide for those of us wanting to experience a triathlon. I enjoy running, biking and swimming but never entered into any races before. I wanted to challenge myself to try but knew I needed lots of advice to help me through the training process. This book offers an in depth look into training with many practical tips along the way, and it kept me motivated during some of the harder times. If you want to try a triathlon you are in good hands with this insightful book. Highly recommended!!

Gets you in the spirit to "Give it a tri!"
I love biking and swimming, and have completed short-distance races here and there, but I'm no athlete.Thus, I knew it would take some extra motivation to convince myself I'm capable of a triathlon.Gloria Safar's Triathlon For Girls Like Us has pushed me to take on the challenge, and demonstrated that if you train right, your first triathlon does not have to be a daunting and grueling experience.Gloria imparts more expert advice on getting in shape, modifying your diet, and outfitting yourself with the right equipment than I thought possible on the subject. She will alert you to potential setbacks you might not have thought of, but her invaluable tips, down-to-earth tone, and personal anecdotes are inspiring.Though she herself is an athlete and personal trainer, Gloria reminds readers that she is still just a "girl like us," and understands the various backgrounds, challenges, and constraints faced any woman embarking on a triathlon.With this book as my guide, I'm confident that my first tri will be a success!

Easy read
I thought Gloria's book was well-organized and easy to follow. The flow charts make it very simple to understand. I've been training with Gloria for about 10 years. When I first met Gloria I ran "some" today I can say I am a runner. I have run 8 marathons including Boston; all of which were great experiences because I followed Gloria's schedules and advice. Her simple training schedule has guided me and kept me injury free. I am sure anyone who reads this book and follows her guidance will be successful.

need to read it and you will want to begin inmediatly with triathlon training
Gloria's book is an excellent motivation for those women who already make triathlons and a challenge to make one for those who have not yet tried it. It is easy to read and has many nice photographs. If you are a couch potato just read it and you will want to put your running shoes or your swimming suit on, get your bike ready and go out for training ... You can even engage Gloria as your personal trainer. I have just done it, and she is sending me training plans for my next ironman end of August in Louisville. I am sure, that with her help I will improve my best time. Do not hesitate and buy Gloria Safar's book right now. I is worth having it. I assure you! Have fun, Silvia Rose

A must have for women preparing for a triathlon
Gloria's, Triathlon For Girls Like Us! is an amazing and informative book.Having been given the opportunity to train with Gloria, she really exemplifies and uses the methods which are printed in her book during exercise sessions.Throughout the nine chapter book she gives various training scenarios based on a woman's physical status and triathlon goals.Training for each portion of the race is broken down into simple, easy to read suggestions to insure maximum benefits. Since nutrition is an important part of training, Gloria provides essential information based on a woman's needs and what type of food will best suit her training requirements. Gloria also answers several questions and discusses different scenarios that a woman may encounter while training.Overall, Gloria's book is a must have for any woman even thinking about participating in a triathlon. ... Read more

Product Description
Triathlon Training: Cycling is essential reading for cyclists who want to improve their lap time, athletes who want to incorporate cycling into a multi-sport programme and anyone considering training for their first triathlon. Practical, effective and easy to understand, it contains all the information and advice that serious cyclists need to improve their technique and achieve great results. It includes: easily explained and implemented cutting-edge cycling techniques road and track training techniques for speed and safety fitness, competition, strength and flexibility training programmes mental training and motivation; effective equipment use. ... Read more

Product Description
This volume aims to guide, educate, and inspire women to get the most out of their sporting endeavours - whether just starting out, a seasoned competitor, or at the very top of the game. "Triathlon for Women" looks at all aspects of fitness and skill development, how to make the right nutritional choices for your body, and the physical and mental preparations needed for racing. This volume goes beyond the regular science and theories behind triathlon training, and gives a more complete mind-body-spirit approach that will enhance enjoyment for all women triathletes. ... Read more