As summer draws to a close, we’re getting close to that annual “off season” we triathletes partake in each fall and winter. It’s the time of year for dabbling in a new sport and flexing different muscles that we don’t have time to use when the weekly schedule is consumed by swim, bike, and run. Mountain biking can be the perfect sport for the offseason because it allows you to spend time off the roads with the added bonus of improving the (dreaded) triathlete bike handling skills.

OutRival Racing Coach Courtney Kutler walks you through the essentials for race day preparation. This is the third in a three part series.

Meet OutRival Racing Athlete Connie Roberts coached by Dawn English.

OutRival Racing Coach Dawn English takes you through five injury prevention exercises. These exercises can be done anywhere - all you need is a resistance band.

OutRival Racing Coach Courtney Kutler walks you through the final three weeks of pre-race preparation. This is the first in a three part series.

OutRival Racing Coach Courtney Kutler walks you through the final three weeks of pre-race preparation. This is the first in a three part series.

Join OutRival Racing Coach Reem Jishi as she takes you through the third progression in this full body TRX series.

Meet OutRival Racing Team Member Ken Campbell coached by Jackie Miller.

Looking for a good pre-race warm up routine? exercises to help with flexibility post-workout? developing mindfulness? QT2 Systems Coach Tim Gerry takes you through his favorite yoga poses.

Signing up for your very first full Ironman is an exciting and scary time! If you are considering crossing the threshold over to the 140.6 distance, here are some things to consider. While Ironman can provide personal fulfillment and a sense of a great achievement, be aware of the time and financial costs involved before hitting the confirmation button on the registration page. Training will start off manageable, with anywhere between 5 to 10 hours a week. At the height of training, an athlete may get into the 15-20 hours per week range. (For some maybe more!) Does your career and family life allow for this type of time commitment? If not, maybe now is not the right time. If yes, then it is a good idea to sit down with your family, significant other and boss to explain WHY you want to do this, WHY it is important to you, and the time and money involved in this endeavor. If they know what to expect and the reasons as to why it is important to you, it will make it easier on everyone and you will find yourself with a good support system.