Why Your Training Plan Isn’t Enough: The Missing Piece to Smashing Your PB

Have you ever felt like, no matter how hard you work or how much training you do, you aren’t achieving the results you’re capable of?

I’m not surprised.

You’re probably falling into the same trap I’ve seen so many triathletes fall into: ignoring their nutrition.
While an excellent training plan is crucial for triathlon success, you’ll never achieve your full potential if you overlook the fourth leg – nutrition.

Today, I want to share some of the most common nutritional pitfalls I’ve encountered in my years of working with beginner triathletes, Kona winners, and everyone in between.

1. Inadequate Fuelling

Many triathletes under-fuel due to a fear of carbohydrates or a history of dieting. This can lead to low energy availability and poor performance. It’s crucial to fuel according to your training load and needs, not your fears!

2. Poor Recovery Practices

Recovery isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a vital part of your regimen. Your recovery nutrition plan should be just as well thought out as your training plan. Ensure you’ve got appropriate nutrition planned for both ends of your training sessions, or you won’t be able to perform at your best.

3. Over-Reliance on Supplements

Supplements should be exactly what their name suggests—supplementary. Focus on eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables. Don’t rely on flashy supplements or misleading marketing claims.

4. Inadequate Hydration

Everyone’s sweat rate and hydration needs are unique. If you’re relying on generic advice to stay hydrated, you’re likely falling short. Tailor your hydration plan to your body’s specific needs and consider factors like heat and humidity.

I’ve witnessed first-hand the transformative power of proper nutrition for triathletes.
For instance, Steve Duquette achieved a 64-minute personal best at the Sunny Coast 70.3 after making targeted nutrition changes. Lynn, another athlete I’ve worked with, reclaimed her energy levels and qualified for Worlds with just a few simple diet adjustments.

If you’re ready to refine your nutrition and elevate your performance, consider joining the Triathlon Nutrition Academy. Inside, you’ll get personalised guidance, community support, and access to a recipe database to streamline your nutrition journey.

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