6) Recon the race course. If you live close and have access, ride and run the race course, two to four weeks before the race, at an easy pace. Observe the road surface and take note of the turns and hills. Use this information to help prepare your race strategy.
7) Develop a race strategy. Break the race up into segments and think about what you are going to do during each segment. For example, you might want to draft during the swim, ride between 85 and 100 rpms on the bike, and run a negative split. Visualize yourself completing each segment of the course.
That said, you also want to be prepared for "what-if" situations and be ready and willing to make modifications to your strategy should a change of course occur. That might mean simply taking things in stride.
More: Pace Strategies for Race Day
8) Be prepared. Take time before the race to check over your equipment and make sure it's ready to go. Pay particular attention to your bike including tires, brakes, chain, cleats and shifting mechanisms. Replace any worn or questionable parts but be sure to ride it once after making any modifications.
More: How to Prep Your Bike for Race Day
9) Be smart during race week. Suppress the urge to test yourself during the taper period. The race will be your test.
Additionally, take time to practice your transitions the week before the race. This will help you familiarize yourself with the layout of your gear and the flow of both transitions.
10) Get adequate sleep. The most important night of sleep is two nights before the race. Anticipate that you will not sleep soundly the night before the race, however, be confident knowing that the previous night's sleep was restful.
More: 6 Tips for a Good Night's Sleep
Ready to race? Search for your next triathlon.
