Limiters

    Limiters are the weak links, the areas that need the most work. Of the three Tri disciplines it is no secret that running is my Limiter. Hell, I can swim two miles almost easier than I can run two miles, and theoretically, swimming 2 miles is the energy equivalent of running 8 miles. Within each discipline we need to identify the Limiter particular to that sport.
    In swimming, my main Limiter could be said to be my weak kick, but when swimming a long course Tri it is best to use your legs as little as possible because the energy expenditure is far greater than the benefit. So, with that set aside, my next Limiter is my speed. I am not a fast swimmer, although I am getting faster. I am a decently efficient swimmer, and definitely a strong swimmer. So my training focus is and has been continuing to improve my technique to increase efficiency. In swimming Efficiency = Speed.
    In cycling, I would say my limiter again is speed. But, here again, speed is not really what you are aiming for in long course Tri, at least not at my level. Next I would have to say my limiter is lack of raw power. I have good endurance for high cadence cycling, but less muscle endurance for hard grinding, lower cadence riding.
    In running, my Limiter is... where do I begin? Basic endurance would be the starting point. The difficulties I run into (no pun intended) boil down to a few things: Having to run at "asthma threshold" which is neither fast nor long, and arthritic knees that get unhappy with me whenever I start to try to increase my running. I don't know that I can do a whole lot about either of these fundamental issues so I try my best to ignore them and work around them. I am trying to slowly, very slowly add time and distance to my runs, letting my knees dictate how much, to a degree. Same with my speed, I have to allow my asthma to dictate just how fast I can run. I will keep at it, doggedly, because this truly is my weakest link. Mostly, I think I need to work on my mental game, teaching my mind that "I am a runner."
    As my training continues, and as I slowly begin to narrow the focus to race specific training, I will address each of my Limiters. I will continue to work on swimming efficiency: long smooth strokes, proper breathing, streamlining, muscular endurance. On the bike I will continue to work on my power, soon getting out for hill training and long, steady state rides. Running, I will work on every aspect, but mostly just building my base, slowly and surely, and letting myself believe that I am a runner.
    It all comes down to endurance, mindset, and racing strategy. In other words: Swim Smart, Bike Strong, and Run Tough. And work on those Limiters.