Derek Kite - US Professional Triathlete
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How long did it take to learn how to swim?

I've been swimming all of my life, recreationally (never competitively), and have always been tough.  This wasn't the problem.  I had to learn to make my body and mind ready for 1500 meters in the open water - this was the key. 

 

I have been doing anywhere from 25,000 to 50,000 yards per week with some coaching and form work.  I'm not even close to where I need to be.  It may take a couple of years, but I'm up for the challenge.


Do you offer online coaching?

Yes!

Currently, I offer USAT certified triathlon and duathlon coaching as well as USATF certified run coaching and consulting. 

For more information on any program and/or to sign up, please visit www.eti-kite.com or email me at eti@q.com.

 


What does "brick" mean?

The "Brick" workout: doing a bike to run workout without any rest. This teaches body how to race. I used to tell my Pepperdine cross country team; "you have to train how you race." In other words, You can't train for cross country by constantly running on the track. your body and legs will never learn how to run on hills, grass, dirt, etc.


Do you offer coaching online?

Yes, please visit www.eti-kite.com or email eti!q.com for more information.


What's a typical schedule for you in the middle of a season (ie not base)?

My typical middle of the season week includes 3 weight room sessions with a lot of upper body exercises. 5 run workouts ranging in length/intensity/type, 4-5 rides, and about 8-10 swim workouts. A typical week might look like this: Monday – weight room session, swim in the AM (speed), run (speed workout), swim in the PM (easy) Tuesday – swim in the AM (easy), bike (moderate), run (brick), swim in the PM (easy) Wednesday – weight room session, swim in the AM (speed), run (drills), bike (easy), swim in the PM (easy) Thursday – swim in the AM (easy), bike (high intensity hill repeats), swim in the PM (easy) Friday – weight room session, swim in the AM (speed), run (long), swim in the PM (easy) Saturday – bike (long), run (easy brick) Sunday - Off

The schedule for each individual is different based on their level, level of commitment, goals, background, etc.


Is it wise to train with people (esp. friends) in which you often compete?

I highly recommend training with people, especially friends. When I was at Lubbock Christian training with Kenyans, it was amazing to see how hard they fought against each other during workouts, and how good of friends they remained afterwards. However, it's always good to get out on a weekend ride or run and test your abilities with people that you don't know. I know that friendly competition is the only way you can get ready for races.


My swim has stagnated in the past years. Any suggestions for me to improve?

The best advice I can give is three-fold:

1. Speed (learn how to sprint all over again).

2. Strength (the weight room will keep you strong, help to increase your speed, and minimize injuries).

3. Keep your workouts fun.  Variety helps the monotony, especially if you have people to swim with, so find a master's goup or some (willing and able) friends in which to swim.


Derek Kite - US Professional Triathlete
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