Triathlon training is a journey filled with challenges, and my preparation for the Bau Trang Triathlon has been no exception. Today marked my last brick training session before race day—a morning cycling workout followed by an evening swim. While I enjoyed my ride on the Sai Gon Bridge, the session also reminded me of the physical and mental resilience required to push through injuries and setbacks.
Cycling Amidst Sai Gon’s Bustling Streets
One of my favorite parts of training is cycling in the early morning alongside other vehicles on Sai Gon Bridge. The energy of the city waking up and the sense of freedom I feel on my bike are unmatched. However, today was different. My legs were still sore from yesterday’s run, and I could feel the tightness as I pedaled. Despite these discomforts, I embraced the ride, knowing that each session builds not only my endurance but also my mental strength.
Battling Injury: Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)
My training has been especially challenging over the past few weeks due to a severe injury in my left leg. Knee pain is one of the most common overuse injuries among cyclists at all levels, often linked to issues with the patella-femoral joint or related structures such as the iliotibial band (ITB), patellar fat pad, and prepatellar bursa.
In my case, I developed Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS), which causes pain on the outside of the knee due to repetitive rubbing of the IT band against the knee joint. Initially, the discomfort was mild, and I didn’t pay much attention to it. However, as training progressed, the pain worsened, becoming a significant challenge. Eventually, I sought the help of my physiotherapist, who advised me to take several days off from training after treatment. While this was frustrating, I understood that recovery was necessary for long-term performance.
The Challenge of Balancing Training, Work, and Health
Training for a triathlon is demanding, but when combined with professional responsibilities and health setbacks, the challenge intensifies. The past few weeks have tested my commitment as I juggled a heavy workload while recovering from both illness and injury. There were moments when I doubted whether I would be ready for Bau Trang. However, my determination to power through kept me moving forward.
The Importance of Preventative Care in Endurance Sports
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned in my triathlon journey is the importance of injury prevention and body maintenance. Over the past 1.5 years of training for various events, I have built the habit of visiting a physiotherapist every week. These sessions have been instrumental in preventing severe injuries and ensuring my body remains in peak condition.
While I love pushing my limits, I am also mindful of the potential damage that can result from overtraining. Regular maintenance, including physiotherapy, stretching, strength training, and adequate rest, plays a crucial role in long-term performance and injury prevention. If I had ignored the early signs of ITBS, my injury could have become far more severe, possibly jeopardizing my ability to race at all.
Mindset and Gratitude
As race day approaches, I reflect on the journey that has led me here. Despite the setbacks, my body is gradually recovering, and I feel a deep sense of gratitude. I am thankful for my body for enduring the rigorous training, my mind for staying strong despite obstacles, and my spirit for remaining resilient and supportive.
The mental aspect of endurance sports is just as crucial as the physical. Learning to navigate challenges, whether it be injury, illness, or self-doubt, is part of the growth process. I have come to appreciate the power of mindset in overcoming adversity, and this perspective will be invaluable on race day.
Preparing for Bau Trang: The Final Countdown
With just a few days left before the Bau Trang Triathlon, my focus is now on rest, recovery, and mental preparation. The hard work has been done, and now it’s time to trust the process. I am looking forward to the challenge, knowing that every struggle I have faced has prepared me for this moment.
To all fellow triathletes and endurance athletes, remember that setbacks are a natural part of the journey. Listen to your body, prioritize recovery, and embrace the mental battles that come with training. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, and the ultimate reward lies in crossing the finish line, knowing you gave it your all.
Bau Trang, here I come!
