Mastering Recovery - The Real Competitive Edge in Endurance Sports

At 65, Dr. Jim Taylor proves recovery is the real competitive edge.

This fall, he represented Team USA at the World Triathlon Championships in Wollongong, Australia — earning silver in the Mixed Relay and finishing 7th in the Sprint. Jim credits Firefly for helping him recover smarter and arrive at the start line feeling as strong as he did decades ago — proof that age is just another split time.

What are your top 5 tips for someone who is looking to take on a new challenge?

1. Learn as much as you can about the challenges including physical demands, time commitment, training, and competitive experiences.
2. Seek out information and support from others who have faced this challenge before.
3. Set clear outcome and process goals.
4. Create a training program that will prepare you for the challenge.
5. Define success your first time facing the challenges as: 1) Arrive at the start healthy, 2) Enjoy the experience, 3) Take pride in your effort, and 4) Want to do it again. Not about results!

What are your top 5 tips for better recovery?

1. A well-designed training program that balances volume and intensity with rest and recovery that is built in, not added on.
2. Proper nutrition before, during, and after training.
3. Listen to your mind and body that communicate to you when you’re tired and when you’re rested.
4. Sleep, sleep, sleep!
5. Oh, one more thing: Use your Fireflies early and often!!