hether you walk away from this article with one new ker- nel of information or five, spread the word and keep your fellow triathletes healthy and motivated in 2013.
INJURY PREVENTION: MYRTL ROUTINE Weakness in the hip/girdle area affects triathletes in a number of ways. A weak hip area could lead to injuries elsewhere. Running coach Jay Johnson touts a quick routine to strengthen this area and increase range of motion.
The 12 exercises include clams, lateral leg raise, donkey kicks, donkey whips, fire hydrant, knee circles forward and backward, hurdle trail leg forward and backward, lateral leg swing, linear leg swing and linear leg swing with a bent knee. Learn
the Myrtl Routine by watching the video at
http://youtu.be/2GLrKr54yA0. After a few times, you’ll have it mem- orized and on your way to more powerful hips.
MENTAL PREP: THE STRENGTH OF A REFRESHING PAUSE
Most of you are reading this in the wake of the holiday season.
You’re weary from seeking what you thought you should have, had to have, or wanted to have. This is an ideal time, in the midst of distractions and busyness, to completely disengage from triathlon both physically and psychologically. One of the attributes of a mentally tough athlete is the ability to
Clams are one of the 12 exercises that comprise the Myrtl Routine.
switch focus off sport in order to seek balance. Your mind and body need time to reflect, rejuvenate and put life back in perspective. The secret is that it’s not in running, but in resting, that we find
strength. Stress is the stimulus for growth, but it’s during the recov- ery period that our physical and mental muscles grow. — Cheryl Hart