I recently conducted an interview with professional triathlete Brad Seng. Brad has competed in various races to include the Ford Ironman World Championship held in Kona, HI which consists of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile run. Besides being a triathlete, Brad is also a motivational speaker and coach. Thanks Brad for participating in the interview!
1. Could you provide a brief background on yourself and how you became interested in fitness
My athletic background is in soccer having played through college. As a kid, I had dreams of playing professionally, but made it as far as the competitive men's beer league post college. Health & fitness has been a part of my life as long as I can remember…from summer games during my childhood of kick-the-can & capture the flag to soccer and eventually triathlon.
2. How did you get started as a triathlete?
I initially took up running shortly after college entering local 5 & 10k races working my way up to the marathon distance. Approaching the young age of 30 I started racing local sprint triathlons for fun and bragging rites with my buddies. I had seen images of the Ironman World Championship on television and I thought to myself, "Hey, that's pretty cool. I want to do that." This "hobby" soon became something I started to take more seriously and I began working with a coach, Zane Castro, out of Austin, TX. He has been instrumental in my development as an athlete.
3. As a triathlete, I imagine you must have a grueling training schedule. What is a typical day like for you?
The training can at times be more demanding than the event as my body absorbs various amounts of intensity & volume during training blocks. Most days include two training sessions and it is not uncommon for me to train in all three sports. I typically train 4-8 hours per day when prepping for an Ironman event which includes the three disciplines of my sport (swim, bike, run) as well as other components such as strength training, getting proper rest, fueling my body between sessions and training the mind.
4. Nutrition is key in terms of health and fitness. What is your current nutrition plan like?
My coach often reminds me, "When you're done training, you're not done training." In other words, once the physical work is done it is critical to complete the session with a timely refueling process. I do not count calories or adhere to a super strict diet, but simply try to avoid as many processed foods as possible. I consume a balanced diet of lean meat/fish for protein, healthy carbs and healthy fats. In addition, I eat a lot of fresh fruit, veggies and raw nuts. I love to eat and do enjoy my treats (cookies, ice cream, dark chocolate). Triathlon, especially long course events, demands a sound nutrition plan while training & racing as well as a refueling plan between sessions to repair muscle damage. Of course the portable power of the Sport Bean keeps me rolling while training & racing!
5. Healthy eating habits are a huge challenge for many people. What is your advice for maintaining a healthy eating lifestyle?
For many people food is viewed as good or bad with various emotional attachments to certain foods. I view food as fuel for my body. A few things I try and do include eating seasonal fruits & veggies, shopping mostly on the outside perimeter of the grocery store (interior aisles typically have the more processed foods), planning ahead to pack healthy lunches and avoid fast food options. I really am a food junkie and enjoy all sorts of cuisine. That being said, live to eat and enjoy some treats in moderation J
6. Do you use any nutritional supplements? If so, what kind and why?
I supplement every day with a multi-vitamin, calcium, iron and whey protein smoothies after my more demanding workouts. These help my body recover and repair muscle & tissue damage. I don't think our typical diet can provide us with all the necessary vitamins & minerals. Several years ago I had a stress fracture at the top of my femur which is why I now supplement with calcium. The iron supplement helps ensure I maintain a healthy level of stored iron.
7. What do you do to stay mentally strong for your sport?
As I mentioned this is an important part of my training and racing. It is the one area often overlooked by athletes. In training my psyche I include such things as visualization, goal setting, positive self-talk/mantras & having a race plan written out on paper. Come race day, these practiced skills prove to be very valuable!
8. Which part of a triathlon is the most challenging for you?
With my athletic background in soccer, running comes most naturally to me and is my strength. The bike has been the area of greatest challenge for me. It has taken me several years to develop the strength and learn how to ride, understanding the relationship between power, speed and cadence. It continues to be a big focus for me in my development.
9. What is your advice for people who find it difficult to fit in exercise into their daily routine
Life can get busy. Exercise should not become a stress in one's life, but rather an opportunity to be free from other life stresses. Set small goals and be realistic with what your body and schedule allow. Choose an activity you enjoy and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Eventually, the exercise simply becomes a habit which fosters a healthy lifestyle.
10. Are there any fitness myths you would like to debunk?
More is better. It's easy to fall into the trap of thinking one needs to be doing just as much as the person in the magazine or the fitness buff at the gym.
11. Are there any upcoming events or anything else you would like to share?
My next big race is Ford Ironman Lake Placid on July 25th in Lake Placid, NY. Triathlon lends itself to a very healthy lifestyle and I am always amazed to see the variety of body types and ages at events. You can learn more about my racing at www.bradseng.com and read up on my team, Team Sport Beans/NTTC, at www.nttcracing.com.
{ 7 comments… read them below or add one }
Great interview; It’s always great to hear from these awesome professional athletes! I love when he advices people that more is not necessarily better when you’re working out. I hope he does well in his next race.
Great tips from a real athlete. I think it’s definitely important to try to find time to exercise, but as Brad said, there’s no need to overdo it…unless you’re a triathlete I guess…4-8 hours of training per day is intense!
Very true that exercise should not be viewed as a stress in your life. If it is, then its time to switch it up and try something different!
Excellent interview! I found it very informative and interesting. I agree with brad 100% when he says find something you like and stick to it, don’t stress out about training. What worked best for me was getting my wife involved with my training, we have now run 4 half-marathons together and plan to do our first tri next spring! Not to mention the time we get to spend together is a breath of fresh air from work and the kids.
Great interview, I got alot out of that! Sounds like a really commited and motivated individual.
Great job, Brad! I hope I have the same energy as yours. I’ll take your advices.
great post, this is useful stuff from a pro athlete, thanks for sharing:)