I just completed a personal best time in the Gansu triathlon in Western China. As I was going through the process of preparation and observing my team-mates from Shanghai Triathlon Club, I realised that there were many useful lessons in preparing and competing in an endurance race.
I am going to share these lessons in detail over the next several tips, here is a summary to get you started:
Lessons from Triathlon Races:
1. Do your best - The only way to learn is to stretch yourself.
2. Enjoy it - Remember to look up and enjoy the process while it is unfolding.
3. Run a race of one - The only person you are competing against is yourself.
4. Finish healthy - Identify your bottom line target.
5. Finish with a personal best - Set up some stretch targets.
6. Win the mind game - Prepare for the mental challenges ahead.
7. Consistency is the key to good preparation - Understand what it takes to succeed.
8. Stress free preparation - Lay the groundwork for a good on-the-day performance.
9. Test the conditions - Experience the environment ahead of time.
10. Know the rules - Some broken rules are going to ‘cost’ you.
11. Develop self-awareness under pressure - Keep a clear head at all times.
There are lessons in any project that requires careful preparation and execution. Have a look out for future tips as I expand on these lessons and show how they can be relevant for activities other than sports.