Daley Training
Right then, by now you've probably found the challenge of your dreams and you're likely to be fantasising about hot climates or cheering crowds. Well, not that I want to burst your bubble or anything, but you've got a lot of training to do before that glorious moment.
Don't worry though, below are a few tips that can help make your training more effective - and fun (You knows it!).
Also if you've got some advice of your own, you can share it with your fellow believers by emailing Barnardo's event's team, who will happily upload it for everyone to read.
Together we'll be ready to take on the world - and win. Hurrah!
Marathons, Triathlons, and quests by foot or bike
For competitive cyclists
Your gears are there for a reason - use them!
Right, you're likely to experience some pretty diverse terrain on your challenge, so make sure all your training isn't done on a lovely, flat tarmac road. Go ‘off road' and practice using your different gears.
Also, if you pedal in high gear for long periods, you can increase the pressure on your knees. This could lead to overuse injuries such as ‘biker's knee'. So, when training for your challenge, make sure you shift to lower gears and faster revolutions to get more exercise with less stress on your knees.
For adventurous trekkers
Train every which way but how (and that doesn't mean just renting the DVD).
With our most challenging treks, you never know what you might be asked to do (well, that's not strictly true, we've given you an itinerary for a reason). So you need to be as physically prepared as possible. This means varying your training. Run, skip, swim, cycle, take up yoga and hit the weights (not literally, they'll win every time).
Then, before the actual event try to do at least one weekend trek of seven hours each day across the most difficult terrain you can find within your area. Trek across rocky and hilly areas - possibly try sand as well as grass. But be safe - you don't need to experience covering long distances in the back of an ambulance.
For amazing marathon runners
Take a break!
No, you're not getting the easiest tip of all - but it is just as essential as any of the others. Training hard seven days a week will not necessarily make you cross that finish line any quicker. You're not a machine (though some of you might wish you were). So, try pacing the park or conquering those hills three times a week instead.
OK, OK, as running is close to my heart, I'll give you another tip...
Feed your running addiction...
It's a good idea to ‘carb up' before training or taking on the actual event. Pasta, rice and potatoes should all be at the top of your shopping list. Many sources say you should aim to eat about 70 per cent carbohydrates, 15 per cent protein and 15 per cent fat.
Chicken tagliatelle with cheese, you say? Lovely
On a more serious note...
For level four challenges, you'll be spending a long time on the road or in the saddle. So, you'll need to put in hours of training. You can make your training programme more interesting by varying your surroundings, so there something nice to look at while you trek, run or cycle. You'll need plenty of music on your MP3 player too, so get downloading now. And don't forget, recovery is just as important as training, so give your body ample time to recuperate from each session.
Disclaimer:
If you are concerned about your health you should talk to a doctor before starting to exercise. Do not exercise if you have any physical problems that might influence your ability to become more active. Stop exercising and call your doctor if you feel dizzy, nauseous, short of breath, or if you feel pain in your chest.
