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When Triathlon Becomes an Unhealthy Compulsion...

Friday, 21 October 2016 23:10

Tenacity is an admirable trait when it comes to chasing your triathlon goals, but how do you know when your commitment has become an unhealthy compulsion?

By Mackenzie Lobby Havie (triathlon.competitor.com)

To be sure, balancing three athletic disciplines requires dedication. When you’re so focused on fitting it all in—or chasing your next PR—it can be easy to become consumed by the challenges (and rewards) the sport presents. While commitment is a good thing, compulsion is not. An addiction to training can have detrimental consequences for your relationships, finances, and physical and mental well-being....

“It’s very unhealthy when you find yourself spending an excessive number of hours alone, sacrificing family or social get-togethers to squeeze in that extra hour or extra interval,” says Gloria Petruzzelli, a clinical sports psychologist and Ironman athlete. “Also, triathlon is not a cheap sport, so many ‘addicts’ find themselves compulsively buying the latest gadget, bike or helmet, and it can really start to hamper finances.”

Persistent injuries are perhaps the most visible sign that you’re overdoing it. Chronic physical ailments and persistent illnesses are a sign you’re over-stressing your body with too much training. READ MORE