Ever wondered what it takes to be a triathlete of Newman University Athletics? Senior Julia Myers, a business data analytics major, shares a behind-the-scenes look through an interview and daily photo documentation.
In Julia’s words
I have always enjoyed running, but swimming and biking have always seemed a lot more daunting to me.
I was first introduced to triathlon at Newman through my roommate, Marlie Wagner, who has been a student-athlete all four years. During my freshman year, the triathlon team needed a manager, so I signed on.
With this year being my senior year, I decided to take it one step further and become an athlete and compete.
I decided to try it, because why not? I knew I would have a lot of regrets if I didn’t. I also love the team, and it is fun to be involved with the team and to push yourself a little further each day.
Q: Being a triathlete goes beyond just scheduling time for practice. Can you walk us through your day-to-day routine during training season?
A: My day-to-day routine varies heavily depending on what I have going on for work, school and practice. But in general the most important thing is to get good rest, eat well and have a good schedule for each day. I try to write down everything I have going on each day in a planner, and this helps me organize my days.
I also try to get up at 6 a.m. most days, and then depending on the day go to work or study in the morning before class. I then usually spend the rest of my morning and early afternoon in class, work or studying. We practice daily from 3 to 5 p.m. After practice, I eat dinner, which usually leaves me a few hours to study or relax depending on the day.
Q: How many miles do you clock in for swimming, cycling and running?
A: The distance expectation depends on the race. For most of our indoor meets, we swim between 500 to 750 yards, 6 to 12 miles on the bike and then a 2- to 3-mile run.
For our upcoming nationals race, we will all be doing an Olympic distance, which is a 1500 meter swim, 26-mile bike ride and a 10k run.
Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of being on the triathlon team at Newman?
A: Being able to see myself improve, even in the small ways. For instance, I try to set attainable goals for myself for each race and although it does take time, I have seen improvements in my races.
I also think it is really rewarding to be pushed by my teammates and Coach Jeff Lovgren and to be in an environment where everyone is so supportive and uplifting. We all try to support each other through everyone’s difficulties and triumphs.
Our trips to and from races are always such a bonding experience, and always a good time. I have for sure made lifelong friends through triathlon!
Q: What advice would you offer someone who’s never tried it but is interested?
A: If you are willing to put in the work you should definitely do it! I am so glad I joined as an athlete for my senior year, and I have no regrets. It’s a great opportunity to join an amazing team where you can push yourself and have a great time doing it!
Here’s a look at two days of practice as the team prepares for nationals on April 1.
Monday, March 14
7:55 a.m.
Driving out to Butler County for our run workout.
8:53 a.m.
Running hills in Butler County.
10:30 a.m.
At the downtown YMCA, about to start our swim workout. This is a picture I took of my friend/teammate Makayla before we got in the water.
12:16 p.m.
Eating lunch in the Jabara Black Box Theatre before weights and yoga.
2:12 p.m.
End of practice for the day after weights, featuring our weights coach Brandon Strausser.
3:44 p.m.
A post-practice treat with my roommate and teammate Marlie Wagner to celebrate National Pi Day.
Tuesday, March 15
7:35 a.m.
In the back of the van, on the way to Douglass, Kansas, to do a long bike ride.
11:16 a.m.
At the end of the long bike ride getting ready to pack up and head back to Newman for weights.
12:21 p.m.
Everyone packed into the van and heading back to Newman. Everyone was really tired at this point.
3:24 p.m.
Smoothie from Songbird Juice Co. to celebrate the beginning of spring break!
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Follow along with Newman Triathlon’s adventures
From out-of-town races to long swims in the lake, it’s never a dull moment with members of the Newman Triathlon team.
