It's not often I can do this but the following is an excerpt from an upcoming book (currently only available as a pre-order), Triathlon 101 (Human Kinetics, due out March, 2009). In this updated edition reprinted with permission from Human Kinetics, Triathlon 101, you'll learn the five training phases for triathlon success.

For some reason, triathlon attracts many who want to dig into the science of how to train, researching questions like, "Why do I need long runs AND short fast runs?" "Why should I train my core so much if I am not in a sit-up competition?" "Swimming is really the only technique-oriented sport, right?"

It all starts with base training. Marc Evans writes about base training in Triathlete's Edge. The following is an excerpt from his book reprinted here with permission from Human Kinetics.

I've rarely talked to a runner who has not had a knee problem at some point in their running background. The following excerpt from "Healthy Runner's Handbook" does a terrific job of explaining some of the sources.

"The knee is the largest and most complex joint in the body. Given the enormous stresses to which it is subjected during running, it is natural that knee injuries are common among runners. The potentially debilitating consequences of a knee injury reinforce the need for a focus on prevention.

Knee overuse injuries include patellofemoral pain syndrome (kneecap pain), meniscus wear and tear, tendinitis conditions both above and below the kneecap, bursitis, and loose bodies in the knee.

Overuse knee injuries are usually caused by excessive running, but

If you're planning a triathlon this year in the summer, or in a different location than you are used to, please read this excerpt to plan for the adjustment your body will make. It's an excellent excerpt from John Mora's Triathlon Workout Planner. This excerpt is reprinted with permission.

"Once you know your target zones, you must still do a little tweaking of the range numbers in order to further individualize your training for improved accuracy and efficiency. All training has to be individualized, and these adjustments take into account the different characteristics of each sport, outside conditions, and any illness or overtraining symptoms that

Trifuel has a really good post about how to start your training if you've been off a while.

As an update, my back is feeling better, my calves are feeling better, I am controlling my intake better, and I have done one of each swim bike and walk/run in the last week. As "W" might say with squinting eyes, "better."

Here are a few good sites on triathlons and training if you are coming back to it or are a newbie: