Triathlon Tuesday 2nd Edition

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Here are Four Triathlon books on my shelf that I find invaluable as I start out in my triathlon hobby:

1. The Well Built Triathlete by Matt Dixon

Matt’s book focusing on training.  He builds on his training philosophy of four equal pillars of Training, Recovery, Nutrition and Strength.  He has specific training plans and approaches for each pillar.

2. The Triathlete’s Training Bible 3rd Edition Joe Friel

This book is the bible of triathlon and should be on everyone’s bookshelf.  Joe’s book is a comprehensive reference guide on everything you need to know about triathlon including, gear, training approaches, execution form for the swim bike and run, and nutrition.  If you were going to only buy one book I would recommend this one.  Joe is also the founder of trainingpeaks.com

3. Triathlon Training Fundamentals: A Beginner's Guide To Essential Gear, Nutrition, And Training Schedules by Will Peveler, PhD

This book is for the true beginner.  It starts with all the basic information you need to get started successfully. Will breaks down the swim, run and bike along with all the gear and training philosophies.  

4. Triathlon 2.0 Data-Driven Performance Training by Jim Vance

Jim worked closely with Joe Friel during his competitive triathlon career and is now a coach.  Joe’s book focuses on gathering and interpreting all the data we capture during our training.  He distills all this data down to actionable information that allows you to personalize your training.T

Training Article  Strength Training Article The One Hour Workout for Speed and Power - I find that dedicated, focused time for strength training is hard when you are spending so much time training the run, cycle and swim.  Dedicated strength training is critical and here is a one-hour session I found that really pushes me.

The Garmin 920XT is the training watch I use.  This watch handles anything a triathlete can throw at it both in and out of the water.  Here is a post on some unique features of the 920XT you may not be aware of. The accessories I have:

1. Heart Rate Monitor (included)
2. Triathlon Heart Rate Monitor – gathers heart rate in the water and then transfers when out of the water.  It does not provide real time heart rate monitoring. 
3. Quarter Turn Bike Mount Used to mount the computer without the strap onto a bike mount.  I sue this on top of my between the arms water bottle mount.  You don't need this for the bicycle mount kit below. 
4. Quick Release Mounting Kit
5. Bike Speed Sensor and Cadence Sensor  - This is needed if you want to use your bike on a trainer and want to track speed, distance and cadence.
6. Garmin Forerunner Bicycle Mount Kit  Allows you to mount your watch, with strap, to your bike. 

Foam Roller Recovery Tools – I use two different foam rollers for recovery.  One is the smooth 36-inch roller and the other is the intense 12 inch rumble roller that really gives a deep message.  Foam rolling really help loosen my legs and back.  I foam roll regularly.  Here is a post I wrote on foam rolling.