Upper Body Strength Training Exercises for Triathletes

If you've overlooked upper body strength training or just don't think it's critical to your success on race day, think again.

Upper body strength is important for all three disciplines of a triathlon. The lats, biceps and pectoral muscles are used to create power in your swim stroke, and the back and shoulders are used to generate arm swing during the run and to stabilize the bike on climbs. Weakness in any of these muscle groups will affect your performance.

Instead of making the mistake of concentrating on lower body strength, use the following sample exercises and workouts to incorporate upper body exercises into your training routine.

* Note: When strength training, use the same principles that you would use for your long runs or rides. Add weight and sets gradually and complete the exercises no more than two times per week.

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