Cramping, gastrointestinal (GI) distress, nausea, vomiting: sometimes a hard workout or a tough race is memorable for all the wrong reasons. You may think these reactions are part of the endless joy of being a triathlete but there are steps you can

it with butter. But potatoes are rich in vitamin C (a powerful antioxidant) and are also a good source of B vitamins and minerals such as potassium (for muscle and nerve function), and magnesium (needed for the production of energy). Thin-skinned red potatoes

's the message from Sam Murphy, author of Triathlon: Start to Finish. "To establish the correct nerve-to-muscle pathways, you need to perform an action lots of times," says Murphy. "Because they practise, elite athletes can run a triathlon almost as fast

Q: How can I avoid getting kicked in the face during the swim start?A: The swim start in a triathlon is a nerve-racking time for most triathletes. It is a mesmerising moment for spectators, as it looks like a majestic monster thrashing away in a

1. Sleep well"In reality, trying to sleep well the night before a race never works," says triathlon coach Rick Kiddle (www.rickkiddle.com). "The best sleep will be the night before the night before. Many athletes can survive with little sleep

Man Triathlon and her local Southwater Relay. "I ride the route beforehand if I can," she says. "I've driven courses before, just to get an idea of what I'm in for. It helps me to know what's around the next corner. I swim regularly in the lake I'll be racing

potential in time for your races.For most of us, summer is a reminder of why we took up triathlons in the first place. Coach Dan Bullock (www.swimfortri.com) says, "It's just great to be outside. When the time comes to get away from the chlorine and straight

you run into trouble during the race, move to one side if you can so you can receive help without causing a pile-up.By remembering these few simple rules and ways of conducting yourself, you'll be helping to make the world of triathlon a happier place