As we all start to get into the summer and biking and running outside is a lot more fun then being in the gym we seem to let the little things go, strength training. From the swimming and biking you tend to use more chest, shoulder and parts of the back (lats), but the traps and rhomboids (center of the back) get forgotten. So when you start to feel your shoulders getting tired start working the traps and rhomboids. Doing exercises while on a balance board (Indoboard) not only improves the muscles that you are working but "core" muscles as well. The muscles of the torso stabilize the spine and provide a solid foundation for movement in the extremities. These core muscles lie deep within the torso. They generally attach to the spine, pelvis and muscles that support the scapula. When these muscles contract, we stabilize the the spine, pelvis and shoulders and create a solid base of support. We are then able to generate powerful movements of the extremities.
Remember you are doing hundreds of miles a week, between swimming, biking and running, so through out the high reps and light weight (after you have mastered the movements, don't jump into anything until you consult your doctor or NASM Trainer) and lets get down to business!
"The most effective type of strength training program for a triathlete incorporates a single, very high intensity set for each muscle group. This stimulates the desired strength increase without building huge muscles or using up too much time or energy that we need for swimming, cycling, and running. Strength training is an important supplement, but it is a supplement. Spending hours in the weight room won’t improve triathlon performance." read more...
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