I come across a lot of fun, informative, thought-provoking tri stuff all week long so I thought I'd pull a few things into a regular weekend post and see if it's of interest. The stories will be fairly current, but some of the videos and images may not be. So fill up your tri coffee mug and take a peek, and let me know what you think!
FYI
The Ironman: Triathlete Executives' Ultimate Stats Feat - Bloomberg Businessweek, December 13, 2012 by Elizabeth Well - discusses the Ironman Executive Challenge Program that provides VIP Kona spots for $9000. One quote that sticks out for me: "Ironman is the new golf!" This is sure to be a controversial topic especially with many of us at the other end of the economic spectrum. Here's the WTC/IM write-up on the 2012 Kona XC participants that gives a different perspective.
Running in Reverse - The Well, New York Times, December 6, 2012, by Gretchen Reynolds - touts the advantages of running in reverse and cites an impressive backward 5k record. I've done short bits of backward walking as part of a warm up (good calf stretch) but may have to play with a bit of this next time I'm on the track!
USA Triathlon has begun sending out emails to those who have already qualified for the 2013 Olympic Distance Age Group National Championships in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on August 10, 2013. Registration opens February 1. Races after July 18, 2012 count so this race will likely sell out quickly again.
The Data on Stroke Rate and Efficiency - The Swim Smooth bloggers describe a 2010 research study on swim stroke rate that found swimmers tended toward a slower stroke rate, yet a moderate stroke rate increase did not significantly increase the physiologic cost. However, slowing the stroke rate more (increased gliding) DID reduce efficiency and physiologic cost. The conclusion section makes a compelling argument for triathletes to bump up our swim cadence - no stroke dead spots, more efficient in choppy water, requires less kicking.
Funny
"The Treadmill Video" - This is OK Go with their song Here it Goes Again choreographed on a set of treadmills. I find this video mesmerizing!
Ideas
Triathlon twists on the holiday --
Stats
FindMyMarathon.com provides info on the number of marathons and number of finishers for 2010-2012. I knew fall was big for marathons, but had no idea that October was so far in the lead for the 26.2's!