FASTER: Demystifying the Science of Triathlon Speed - Softcover

Gourley, Jim

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1937715027 ISBN 13: 9781937715021

Publisher: VeloPress, 2013

Synopsis

Triathlon is among the world's most gear-intensive sports. The gear you select and how you use it can mean big results--or bigger disappointment.

FASTER takes a scientific look at triathlon to see what truly makes you faster--and busts the myths and doublespeak that waste your money and race times. In this fascinating exploration of the forces at play in the swim-bike-run sport, astronautical engineer and triathlete Jim Gourley shows where to find free speed, speed on a budget, and the gear upgrades that are worth it.

FASTER offers specific, science-based guidance on the fastest techniques and the most effective gear, answering questions like:

• Which wetsuit is best for me?
• What's the best way to draft a swimmer?
• Should I buy a lighter bike?
• Deep dish or disc wheels?
• Are lighter shoes faster?
• Who's right about running technique?

Gourley reviews published studies in peer-reviewed journals to show what scientists have learned about swim drafting, pacing the bike leg, race strategy for short and long-course racing, and the fastest ways to handle transitions.

FASTER will change how you think about your body, your gear, and the world around you. With science on your side, you'll make the smart calls that will make you a better, faster triathlete.

About this title

About the Author

Jim Gourley is an astronautical engineer, triathlon journalist, and triathlete. He is a multiple Ironman finisher and a finisher of the Race Across America, one of the most difficult endurance races in the world. Gourley earned a degree in Astronautical Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy and has written on the science and technology of triathlon and cycling for Triathlete, Inside Triathlon, LAVA, USA Triathlon, and 3/GO magazines.

From the Back Cover

EVERY TRIATHLETE WANTS TO GET FASTER. But while training delivers big gains early on, eventually hard work only maintains the status quo. You can try to buy speed with gear upgrades, but costly high-tech equipment doesn’t always deliver the results you’re chasing.

FASTER puts free speed at your fingertips. Aerospace engineer and seasoned triathlete Jim Gourley teaches athletes how to turn knowledge into power by exploring the forces that matter most in triathlon. You will find out how to get the most out of training, gear upgrades, and technology.

Even the fittest triathletes are subject to the laws of physics—like drag, friction, and rolling resistance. By understanding the forces that act on you and your gear in swimming, cycling, and running, you can build up a real advantage on race day. You’ll also get the truth behind the latest trends and fads in technique, training tools, and product design. And, with science on your side, you can make the smart calls to become a better, faster triathlete.

Jim Gourley is a teacher, a writer—and yes, a rocket scientist. His articles on the science and technology of triathlon and cycling have been widely published in Triathlete, Inside Triathlon, LAVA, Peloton, and Bicycle Times magazines.

Edition details

• Publisher: VeloPress
• Publication date: 2013
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1937715027
• ISBN 13: 9781937715021
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 216