Michael Black, a cycling coach with Triathlon Ireland, joined Ger Gilroy and Dave McIntyre on Monday's OTB AM to discuss Team OTB's latest challenge and provide some cycling tips for the build-up to the big event.
After the success of last year's Off The Ball triathlon in association with BMW Ireland, some members of the OTB staff are taking on another challenge in 2020 all for the good of Pieta House.
Across six weeks, a number of OTB staff members will be taking on a fresh challenge each week as we build toward a Duathlon to close the whole thing off in the final week.
Joined by Michael Black on OTB AM, the coach with Triathlon Ireland had some advice for those who may be struggling with trying to balance the run-cycle-run scenario.
"When you get off the bike to run," admitted Michael Black of Triathlon Ireland, "it is not a pleasant experience, especially if you've gone pretty hard on the bike.
"Firstly, it will become easier the more you do it, which does seem like a bit of a cop-out admittedly. Secondly though, a lot will depend on your own mobility and flexibility.
"You need to make sure you're sitting on the bike and fitting there properly. Even if you take it to your local bike shop and check if your seat is OK, if your handlebars are OK, and that will take out any doubts that you're doing something wrong."
Comments: Slowly away, in rear throughout, made late progress, never in contention.
First run since September, should improve.
Could be one for handicaps.
Getting ready for #RunandRide4Pieta with @tri_ireland pic.twitter.com/d3nJgg4dx8— Thom Malone (@thom_malone) June 12, 2020
Although it may seem incredibly basic, Michael did have one vital piece of advice for anybody taking part in the #RunandRide4Pieta or any endurance challenge on the bike.
"If you can," he advised, "invest in a really good pair of shorts! It will be the best investment you make in getting a bike outside of keeping it serviced and looking after it.
"If you have a nice, padded pair of shorts that you think are massively expensive, it is the best buy you can get. Your backside is going to be sore until you get used to the saddle, so a good pair of shorts is essential."
Like all the details surrounding this event and what it is in aid of, you can find out more about that on the Triathlon Ireland website here.
BMW are supporting mental health and encouraging you look after your well-being by staying active and fit. The Duathlon Cycle & Run challenge supports Pieta House, and is proudly supported by BMW Ireland. To find out more about how to get involved in triathlons and duathlons, visit BMW’s triathlon site.
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