Unleash Your Strength. Embrace the Adventure. Conquer the Challenge.
Engaging in this event offers a profound opportunity to embark on a journey of personal transformation. If you've found your way to this page, rest assured that with some preparatory efforts, you can wholeheartedly participate in this event.
In our fast-paced modern world, we've grown accustomed to immediate results. However, the human body doesn't operate on such swift terms. Real change and improvement require consistent, sustained efforts over time. Yet, when these changes materialise, they evoke an incredible sense of pride and satisfaction. The person you'll become in the future will be profoundly grateful to the present you for embracing this challenge – a choice you won't regret.
Our training programs serve as valuable guidelines, providing an overview of the steps you can take to prepare for the race and experience the benefits of training, whether your goal is to get fitter, shed some weight, tone your muscles, build strength, or learn new skills.
Training for adventure racing should be both enjoyable and rewarding. Given the multi-disciplinary nature of this sport, you'll never be confined to a single activity for too long. Transitioning between disciplines can even serve as a rest day, allowing certain muscles to recover while you engage others.
Following these programs diligently, and keeping in mind the specific event you're entered in (3-6-9), will ensure that you attain the fitness and strength required to complete the event. Importantly, recognise that the full benefits of the program are intrinsically linked to your lifestyle choices. By improving your diet, steering clear of unhealthy foods, staying adequately hydrated, getting sufficient rest, and minimising stress while infusing more adventure into your life, you'll likely undergo a transformative journey.
The hours and disciplines can be adjusted to accommodate your unique needs. The key is to meet your weekly targets and distribute your sessions effectively.
Beyond structured training, seek ways to infuse more mobility into your daily life. Opt for the stairs, park farther from your destination, and find opportunities to make ordinary tasks more physically demanding. Even the trusty old egg beater can serve a purpose in this regard!
Within the program, the run and bike sections are self-explanatory. However, the paddle section offers more flexibility, recognising that not everyone has access to a kayak. If you do, that's fantastic, be it a kayak, surfski, stand-up paddleboard, or waka ama. If water-based options are unavailable, an upper-body workout at the gym will be beneficial – there's no need to focus on leg work, as your running and biking will suffice. Embracing kayaking is particularly vital for the Summer Challenge, enhancing your event experience.
Given the importance of navigation in adventure racing, honing your map and compass skills is a valuable pursuit. Orienteering serves as an excellent way to acquire these crucial competencies.
At times, weariness or uncertainty may creep in, making you question the value of your training. If you find yourself ill or injured, it's clear that rest is the wisest course. However, if motivation is your challenge, employ the "10-minute rule." Begin your training session, and if, after 10 minutes, it still feels like a mistake, it's perfectly acceptable to call it quits. Those initial 10 minutes won't harm you, and the satisfaction of having tried will outweigh any doubts.
Remember to diversify your training routine and avoid consecutive days of the same discipline. It's worth noting that most cities in New Zealand boast excellent clubs and groups that eagerly welcome newcomers. So, don't hesitate to seize those opportunities.
We look forward to meeting you at the starting line!
Jodie & Nathan Fa'avae