by
Sean Lunny, B Ed. [Kinesiology]
Adventure racing is hard. Really hard. You never know what is going to be thrown
your way, and its impossible to train for all the possibilities. There are some
things that we can do to help us to at least be physically strong enough to handle
most situations.
One
of the things that sets adventure racing apart from the rest is all the different
activities that you may be asked to complete. This ranges from running to rollerblading,
from kayaking to repelling, and mountain biking to orienteering. All these activities
take a special skill. Most adventure racers have a background in at least one
of these sports. The problem that occurs on race day is that they have never tried
to combine the activities before. Going for a run after work is far different
then going for a run after riding your bike for two hours.
For
this reason it is important to add a transition workout to your routine at least
once per week. This means practicing two activities in quick succession. For example
after you have gone for an average ride (not a really hard one) come home change,
have a drink, and head out for an easy run. It is important that both workouts
are in your aerobic zone. This can be found with this easy formula 185-AGE, +,
or - 5. For example someone who is 30 would train at a heart rate of about 155
plus or minus 5. This is your aerobic zone where 85-90% of your training will
take place. The length of the run would vary depending on how much you run regularly
each week. Generally it should not exceed 30 minutes. The reason for keeping both
workouts in the aerobic zone is that you are asking a lot from your body, and
pushing too hard in either workout could be too much for your body, and you may
end up sick or injured. Remember this is a new stress for your body and it will
take time for it to adapt.
Whenever
possible try and copy the combinations you will in counter in your next event.
For example if you know you are going to go from a paddle, to a bike, to a trek,
try doing a kayak/bike workout one week, and the a bike/run the next.
You
can never prepare enough for all the things that happen in a adventure race, but
at least with training you can be physically ready to handle most of the surprises.
If
you have any questions about adventure racing training or fitness please email
me, sean.lunny@mindovermountain Good luck with your training, and remember to
always have fun while your out there.
