Triathletes have a bigger challenge than just the cyclist, the swimmer or the runner since they have to compete in all three sports consecutively.  Very often, an athlete will excel at one or two parts of the competition but have room for improvement in the third, and this will very often keep an athlete from giving the very best competition during a triathlon.  For those who feel that the running part of the triathlon is their weakest leg, here are foot care tips to help you.

Clean your feet of sand after swimming.  Even if you feel behind and are struggling, take the few seconds to rinse off your feet before you take off cycling or running.  You might shave off a few seconds by not worrying about it, but even the tiniest granule inside your sock can prove to be an annoying and painful distraction as you run.  And in the worst case scenario it will start to bother you enough that you’ll have to stop during the race and empty your shoe and sock and wipe off your foot.  You could also end up with a blister from the rubbing.

Take care of your feet away from the race, too. It’s not only important to train your feet to pound the pavement, pedal and kick, but you should pamper your feet between training sessions. Clip your toenails carefully so that they’re short but not too short.  A nail clipped too short can become sore and make it more difficult for you to race.  Rub moisturizing lotion into your feet.  Dry skin on your feet might only seem like an annoyance when you’re barefoot, but dry skin can crack and become painful, which can keep you from doing your very best during the triathlon.  You put your feet through a lot of punishment during a race, so massage your feet often and take great care of them to avoid these problems.

Keep your shoes dry. When you run or cycle, your feet probably sweat. So your socks will get damp and the insides of your shoes might get a bit moist, too.  Choose running shoes designed to wick moisture and let it evaporate quickly, and socks designed to absorb moisture and keep it away from your feet. Good running shoes are key for any type of race, of course, but make sure you put the shoes where they can dry out properly between uses.  You won’t only avoid odor but you’ll avoid putting damp shoes on next time you go to run.

Don’t have a pedicure right before a race. You might think a pedicure is the ultimate solution to keep your toenails groomed well and your feet soft.  But professional pedicures can make one or more of your toes a little bit sore that day and for a few days, depending on how aggressive your pedicurist might be.   A pedicurist might work on your cuticles, pushing them back, and making the skin around the nails a little tender. Treat yourself after the race, instead.

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Originally posted 2009-01-08 15:02:43. Republished by Old Post Promoter

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Running, Swim Bike Run, Triathlon Tips

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annoyance, athlete, blister, distraction, dry skin, foot care tips, granule, massage, pavement, running shoes, sessions, socks, sports, swimmer, toenails, triathlon, wick moisture, worst case scenario