For young U.S. triathletes with goals to compete in future international competitions, the COVID-19 pandemic has forced them to adapt their training.
With the racing season suspended, members of USA Triathlon’s men’s elite development squad, Project Podium, lose the benefits of competing in an international field and gaining valuable racing experience. But the disruption also has given them extra time to focus more on consistent individual training.
Project Podium, a program designed by USA Triathlon to train top young male triathletes in the U.S., has partnered with Intermountain Healthcare for sport performance and sports medicine support.
The squad’s training is enhanced by one-on-one consultations with members of the sports performance training team at Intermountain Park City Hospital. The team includes sports medicine physicians and physical therapists, certified athletic trainers, accredited sports dietitians, exercise physiologists and performance coaches.
The Intermountain team uses a methodology that emphasizes the importance of a fine-tuned human engine to help athletes reach peak performance. "At times, athletes get distracted trying to lighten the weight of their bike or become more aerodynamic, yet they forget to check ‘engine’ and implement quality training that affects the running of that engine," said Max Testa, MD, a physician with the Intermountain sports
performance program.
The physicians and physical therapists also help ensure athletes stay healthy through training. They can assess and manage injuries, and also devote a great deal of time to preventing injuries through proper warm-ups, customized workouts, proper nutrition, and time spent focusing on recovery.
The best part - the Intermountain sports performance program is not just for elite athletes. Their experts are available to help people of all ages and abilities reach their sports performance goals. Click here to find out more about their available services.
