As triathletes, we are taught to go, go, go. We swim. We bike. We run. We lift weights. We race.  

Sometimes what we don’t listen to is our body telling us something is wrong, like an injury, hamstring pull or plantar fasciitis, fighting a head cold or a flu bug. Your body is smart. It has been designed to let YOU know when something isn’t right. The body is the most fantastic machine on this earth. It is telling your body to rest and heal.

Here are some questions that you need to ask yourself not only as a triathlete but as an athlete!

1. What are you doing to get better?
2. Are YOU listening to your body?
3. Are you training?
4. Are you resting?

My rule of thumb when it comes to being sick or injured:

• Above the neck (headache, head cold): I try to get out and do something for at least 30 minutes. If it doesn’t feel right after 10 minutes, I turn around/stop, etc.
• Below the neck: It is a rest day for me. Drink lots of fluids. Try to eat what I can and sleep!
• Injury: Depends on the injury and also depends on the severity of the injury. I will try a massage first. If it is worse, I will contact Stratton Sport & Spine.

Remember, missing ONE  or two days from a workout will not hurt your fitness.  Remember, to look at the BIG picture of your training and your racing. Taking off one or two days to allow the body to heal is not a bad thing. It will help.