Days to the start line

These final few days ahead of the triathlon are key to having a solid race.

In terms of training, go easy on yourself. As we did on the run last night, any efforts you do in the pool, on the bike or running should be short. No multi-minute time trial work at this point. Save that for Sunday. Warm up, do a few builds - or slowly accelerate for up to 20-30 seconds, then back off. Do that four or five times tops. Cool down. Don't train more than an hour at this point.

It looks like it will be summer for us and so plan ahead by keep well hydrated the next few days. No need to go overboard but get in some water. You don't want to start the day with a thirst.

With the heat, it also is a good idea to munch on a few pretzels .. not an entire 1kg bag .. but a few between now and Saturday to add a bit more salt to your system.

Ahead of every race, I go for a very simple nutrition plan. For example, I'll opt for mince beef or chicken versus a steak. Tomato sauce on my pasta instead of four cheeses. And I'll reach for bananas and apples and avoid prunes. In short, go easy on your gut.

Rest. That's key to everything. The most important rest day is Friday. No training. Try to get to bed on time and try to sleep in a bit. Be lazy, it's OK. Your nervous energy may get to you on Saturday night but that's OK because you will be well rested from the previous night. In terms of training on Saturday, the general rule is 10 mins of each - very very easy - simply to keep your body in motion.