The purpose of this e-letter is two-fold. First I would like to share information on training/racing techniques that I have developed in my fifteen years of racing/coaching. If you think there is something valuable in here that others could use, please pass it on. If there is something that you would like to see in here,send me an email. I have developed a large network of great resources and I if I don't have the answer, I will know someone who does. Secondly, this e-letter will be my personal space to brag about the athletes I coach and give them the praise they deserve--after all--it's the athlete that does the hard work.
    Train Smart,
    Coach Mike

"Only those who risk going too far, can find
out how far one can go." - T.S. Eliot

From the Mailbag

Question of the Month:
      Weight training seems to be the first thing that gets cut from triathlon training when time gets tight. I find that I'm much healthier when lifting. People typically do 2 weight session a week sometimes 1 or even none. Optimally, if time were of no consequence, what is the optimal amount of lifting sessions and/or time?"
Answer:
      As a coach and an athlete I find that weight training is the first to go when time gets short, so I have seen this dilemma often. I’ll address your question first and then give you some ideas to work some strength training into your program so that you can work some important muscle groups during the week.
      The optimal number of times you should weight train is dependant on the time of year, how close you are to your A race, and which training cycle you are in. For example, if you are training during the Base phase and are working on endurance it’s a great time to hit the weight room 3 times per week.

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