From data visualisation to setting milestones, find out the different ways technology plays a part in helping to reduce sports injuries while training
Image via Breakaway Triathlon Club
Many of us have been there—decked out in our favourite workout attire, ready to jump straight into pushing the limits of our bodies.
This however, is a “recipe for disaster” according to Eugene Lee, Head Community Coach at Breakaway Triathlon Club.
Without proper warm-ups to loosen our muscles, we become particularly vulnerable to sustaining injuries. This is especially so after one whole day of sitting in front of a computer hard at work, which tends to stiffen our bodies.
Some of the most common injuries from triathlon training are that of the shoulders, knees, hips, and lower back added Lee.
Image by Malek Roslee, SportPlus.SG
Since 2018, Breakaway Triathlon Club has used various forms of technology to help many recreational athletes develop safe and effective training routines. Their training programs incorporate a data-driven approach and are accessible to individuals of all backgrounds.
Here are four ways a data-driven approach can prevent injuries:
1. Better Understanding and Visualisation of your Training Performances
There are many applications that help athletes monitor their trainings. The best applications can capture time, speed and intensity, among other data points during your training, and present them in the form of graphs and diagrams.
This is helpful for measuring progress in absolute numbers rather than just going by feel, and lets you actually visualise what your body is doing in training. With this, you can understand the limits of your body, preventing over exertion and reducing the likelihood of injury.
The application used by Breakaway Triathlon Club, and many professionals globally, is Training Peaks.
Image via Breakaway Triathlon Club
2. More Structured Way of Achieving Goals
The benefits of using data to quantify your efforts in training also extend to helping you set realistic milestones on your way to achieving larger goals. This can make them more manageable, and prevent you from doing more than your body is ready for.
3. Allows for more Personalised Coaching
Data visualisation also allows coaches to see which specific areas of your training you might be struggling more in. Based on the data recorded, they can curate more appropriate and relevant trainings that target your personal problem areas.
This can make trainings more holistic, increasing your overall fitness and reducing chances for injury.
Image via Breakaway Triathlon Club
4. Using Technology to Improve Techniques in Training
At Breakaway Triathlon Club, the coaches also focus on human movement, using various software to help them evaluate your mobility and stability. After analysing your movements and posture, they can prescribe fixes that ensure you use correct posture during warm-ups and trainings, decreasing the potential for injuries.
Experience all these benefits by signing up for Breakaway Triathlon Club’s digital programs which include custom training programs with a coach.