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FASTER

Demystifying the Science of Triathlon Speed

Published by VeloPress
Distributed by Simon & Schuster

About The Book

Triathlon is among the world's most gear-intensive sports. The gear you select and how you use it can mean big results--or bigger disappointment.

FASTER takes a scientific look at triathlon to see what truly makes you faster--and busts the myths and doublespeak that waste your money and race times. In this fascinating exploration of the forces at play in the swim-bike-run sport, astronautical engineer and triathlete Jim Gourley shows where to find free speed, speed on a budget, and the gear upgrades that are worth it.

FASTER offers specific, science-based guidance on the fastest techniques and the most effective gear, answering questions like:
  • Which wetsuit is best for me?
  • What's the best way to draft a swimmer?
  • Should I buy a lighter bike?
  • Deep dish or disc wheels?
  • Are lighter shoes faster?
  • Who's right about running technique?

Gourley reviews published studies in peer-reviewed journals to show what scientists have learned about swim drafting, pacing the bike leg, race strategy for short and long-course racing, and the fastest ways to handle transitions.

FASTER will change how you think about your body, your gear, and the world around you. With science on your side, you'll make the smart calls that will make you a better, faster triathlete.

About The Author

Jim Gourley is a teacher, a writerand yes, a rocket scientist. His articles on the science and technology of triathlon and cycling have been widely published in Triathlete, Inside Triathlon, LAVA, Peloton, and Bicycle Times magazines.

Product Details

  • Publisher: VeloPress (September 13, 2013)
  • Length: 216 pages
  • ISBN13: 9781937716448

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Raves and Reviews

"FASTER is a fascinating look at triathlon that will indeed make you faster."

– Active.com

"FASTER answers questions you may long wanted to ask but were afraid to…Gourley weeds through an entire market of products so you don't have to…The writing is clear, humorous and to the point. FASTER will empower triathlete consumers while saving them time and money and helping their race results skyrocket."

– Triathlon Magazine Canada

"Getting faster doesn't have to cost more time and money; it simply takes more smarts. Enter Jim Gourley. He actually is a rocket scientist, and he brings his astronautical know-how to triathlons. He explains and compares the effects of triathlon gear and techniques like aero wheels, wetsuits, shaved legs, and the ‘drag flag’ of your race number. Yes, there's science here. But if a triathlon doesn't scare you, you shouldn't be afraid of the basic physics in this book. As Gourley promises, ‘Free speed does exist. You just have to know where to find it.’"

– Experience Life magazine

"An easy-to-read, witty book that will save you time and money."

– Jordan Rapp, 5-time Ironman champion

"Any triathlete who is either racing for a front of the pack finish or just working to be the best they can be would enjoy this book immensely. FASTER puts complicated science in terms that are easy to understand and then links it back to purchasing decisions."

– BreakingMuscle.com

"Like Gourley, I'm a technologist and engineer [but] I don't enjoying reading scientific and technical papers. I'm more of the 'Speed for Dummies' type--just give me the facts and bottom line. No fluff. No boring details. And Gourley's book does just that. He breaks down all the concepts and make them easier to understand. Definitely worth a read and belongs to my book library."

– Minimalist Running

"A fun approach to myth busting and how physics affects us athletes. The cycling chapter brilliantly discusses the physics behind riding. You'll learn a lot about the forces acting on you as you ride, making decisions based on real-world conditions, and what the true value of expensive upgrades may be."

– Crossbikereview.com

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