Realizations of a Triathlete's Wife

CEBU, Philippines – With the frequent holding of Cobra Ironman 70.3, since 2012, Cebu has become a triathlon hub. Several other triathlon races have also been organized here. No doubt the tri-bug has since bitten a lot of Cebuano athletes - including my husband.

His first race was in March last year during the 2nd Talisay Triathlon. That started it with him, although of course he trained for a time before joining the race.

I'm happy about his involvement in triathlon. It's a good relief from stress at work and, of course, good exercise too. And the value of exercise to one's health is common knowledge.

But it is also a challenge for the triathlete's spouse, like me. At some point, you yourself have to embrace the sport too, for the sake of your relationship with your husband. And, yes, it has worked for us.

In my almost two years now of supporting my husband's interest in the sport, I have learned certain lessons. My own experience, I hope, may help other wives in adjusting to the demands of their triathlete husbands' world.

1.  Understand the Sport.

Like any sports, triathlon requires long hours of training. There ae going be those Sunday long rides and simulations. He would be out as early as 4 a.m. and is likely to miss on some family time. In our case, I understand that it's the only time my husband gets to train with his team since he maintains a Monday to Saturday job. We have an agreement that he would be home by lunch after his Sunday training. No matter how beat up he is after training, he would really make an effort to join the family for lunch and Sunday mass.

I need to look after his other needs to support him in his sport, like proper nutrition and restful sleep. I make it a point to prepare nutritious meals from time to time. Prior to his race, I would make sure that he gets enough sleep by simply setting up fresh bed linens and sheets.

2.  Be Your Husband's Cheerleader.

I always try my best to be there with him during his triathlon races. It has been our mantra that "A triathlon event is a family affair." I would sometimes drag my daughters to cheer for their dad during races. I know how big a boost it is for him that we are there. It is challenging at times, as we also have to endure extreme weather conditions - under scortching sun or pouring rain - just to cheer and take photos of our triathlete.

3.  Discuss about Expenses.

It's a fact that triathlon is an expensive sport. An entry-level tri-bike would cost between 50- to 60-thousand pesos. Then there's the helmet, running shoes, tri-suit, bike cleats and other gadgets and gizmos to complete the ensemble. That's not even to mention the steep registration fees to triathlon races. Many wives, for sure, would complain about how triathlon-related expenses take a toll in the grocery budget and the family's budget in general. Work together on prioritizing expenses. Be open to and always communicate with each other.

4.  Pray together.

The triathlete's wife and other family members also get the jitters at the start of the race. Accidents can happen during the race. It helps assuage everyone to pray together shortly before the race. On my own, I would mentally recite the Holy Rosary and call on all the saints to give my husband a safe race. Every time my triathlete gets out of those rough waters or arrives at the transition area, I feel great relief and thank the heavens above.

5.  Celebrate Victories.

Since my husband is part of Team Hard Multisports, we usually celebrate with the entire team after a successful performance. It's always fun listening to the team members talk about their race experiences over pot-luck food and a few beers. My husband and I also have our own little way of celebrating an improved personal record or injury-free race. Most of the time, we would eat out at our favorite pizza place or buy a tub of ice cream for the family to share.

My husband's sport has brought about a positive impact on our relationship. I have become sensitive to his needs. I have learned to embrace triathlon and support him all the way without any reservations. For his part, my triathlete has learned to respect the non-negotiables, such as family and career.

In the end, I think the key is to take each other's individual interests as collaborative endeavors. After all, husband and wife are one. It is true with triathlon - as with all other matters in the life of the couple.