The Essential Triathlete (Paperback)

~ Steven Jonas M. D. (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description

An introduction to the sport of triathlon for athletes of all abilities.

From the Back Cover

Here is an introduction to the hows and whys of downhill skiing, both for the rank beginner and for the sometime skibum who wants to pursue the sport in greater depth. Essential Skiing offers advice on buying and renting equipment, instructs the reader in basic through intermediate technique, and deals with a wide spectrum of skiers with individual needs, from kids to seniors. There are chapters on snowboarding and cross-country, off-season fitness tips, and equipment care and maintenance; the book also speaks of such important topics as altitude sickness and hypothermia. Included, too, is helpful advice on where to ski, both at the major meccas of the world and at the lesser-known gems of downhill excitement. (6 X 9, 200 pages, b&w photos, diagrams, chart)

Product Details

• Paperback: 208 pages
• Publisher: The Lyons Press; 1st edition (May 1, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1558214267
• ISBN-13: 978-1558214262
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,014,298 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

14 of 14 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A great source of inspiration for determined dreamers!, September 24, 1998

By A Customer

A month ago I watched the cyclists competing in the biking segment of the Chicago Mrs. T's Triathlon zoom by a block away from my home. I found myself cheering enthusiastically --I knew it was time I thought about competing in the triathlon next year.

Steve Jonas' book is a wonderful source for people who know little about the triathlon but are drawn to the possibility of ever competing in one. It is written in a witty and light way, constantly reinforcing the message that "yes you can" complete a triathlon -- and that it can even be FUN! Steve provides training schedules for all levels of athletes, from casual walkers to aerobically-fit exercisers. Most importanly, he provides answers to the questions most beginners would be embarassed to ask (can you do the "Coney Crawl" during the swimming segment?).

On the other hand, "The Complete Triathlete" is short and sweet - and it leaves the reader curious to know more. When exactly do I bike? What about technique? How do I supplement my schedule with weight training? For these answers, you'll have to look elsewhere.

All in all, though, I highly recommend this book if you're even dreaming about doing a triathlon one day. By the time you finish Steve's book, you'll be on your way to realistically making your dream come true.

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars For the non ambitious beginner, January 14, 1999

By A Customer

I found this book to be too basic. The book would be perfect for those who are wondering if they can finish a triathlon, not for those who are trying to improve thier performance. Lot's of basic information. No specific advanced info!!

15 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good beginner info, January 9, 2000

By A Customer

I read this book before competing in my first triathlon and found it extremely helpful and supportive. I recommend it to anyone who is considering training for a triathlon. Jonas is great at making you feel like you can accomplish anything. His advice is simple and solid. My only criticism is that he focuses too little on female triathletes. Most of his clothing and equipment advice is male-oriented.