Triathlon FAQ
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is my training program sent to me? Programs are usually sent via email, however they can be sent by fax if required.
2. How long does it take for my training program to be designed? As soon as all required information has been sent to us (i.e. questionnaire, testing results) and payment has cleared, your program is usually designed and sent within 3-5 working days. General programs are sent immediately upon approval of payment.
3. What if I want more programs, do I have to fill out all of the forms again? No, when paying by credit card, we will automatically deduct the required amount every month and send your next program, unless instructed by you to do otherwise at least 5 days prior to the end of your current program. If paying by bank deposit, you just have to pay for the amount of weeks you want and contact us with the details.
4. What format is the program sent in? Programs are sent in a detailed .pdf file booklet, covering aspects such as; session type & length, intensity/pace, recovery time between intervals and sessions, drills and strength training. Our programs require the free Adobe Acrobat reader, which can be obtained by clicking on the "Get Acrobat Reader" image below. If you wish to receive it in Microsoft Word format or by fax, contact us first.
   
   
   
   
5. Are there any fees other than the cost of the program? No, at Training Smart Online we don’t charge any extra fees or administration fees. International users may be charged a small currency conversion fee by their credit card company.
6. How is intensity determined for your training programs? We usually use heart rate, paces/times and ‘feel’ (perceived exertion) to determine intensity. We incorporate more technical methods i.e. power and wattage on the bike, for those that have access to it. When you sign up for e - coaching, we will get you to perform a series of testing protocols to determine your optimal training intensities.
7. Do the training programs include strength and/or weight training? Most training programs will usually have you doing a specific strength routine at least once per week through the program. The end result will be a vast improvement in functional strength that is designed to help you with both your speed and your endurance, and help prevent injury. This varies according to your sport.
8. How do you give me technique advice? With each program, we send you a series of sport-specific technique drills that are incorporated into your training program. Altenatively, you can send us a video of yourself training (i.e. swimming) and we will prescribe specific technique drills for you to perform.
9. How do your programs differ from the free triathlon training programs on the web? Our training programs are based on heart rates, paces, and goals etc that are determined through the results of testing and a detailed athlete questionnaire. Even our general programs are designed in such a way that they can be customised for each athlete, by using percentages of maximum heart rate. To be honest, most of the free programs on the web are not worth the paper they are written on. They are simply not specific enough, don't target the correct energy systems, and don't take into account the indivdual needs of each athlete.