A Strategic Shift to Marathon Training

As the brisk London air ushers in another season of athletic endeavors, Olympic champion Alex Yee is setting his sights on a new challenge that diverges from his triathlon dominance: the London Marathon. This decision isn't just a whimsical change of pace; it's a strategic move aimed at enhancing his already formidable running capabilities, which could redefine his future in triathlon.

At the heart of Alex's decision is a desire to push his physiological limits. Known for his prowess in running, Yee has decided to focus on marathon training to improve his lactate thresholds—key indicators of endurance performance. The London Marathon isn't just another race for Alex; it's a carefully chosen arena where he aims to elevate his running speed and endurance to levels unexplored in his triathlon career.

The Science Behind the Strategy

Training for a marathon involves intense focus on increasing one's threshold speeds. For Alex, this means enhancing his LT1 (first lactate or aerobic threshold) and LT2 (second lactate or anaerobic threshold). These improvements are crucial for triathletes, as they dictate how well an athlete can perform under sustained physical exertion. By elevating these thresholds, Alex hopes to not only improve his marathon times but also bring these enhanced capabilities back to the triathlon world, particularly in the running leg of the races.

The Implications for Future Triathlons

Alex's foray into marathon training is more than just personal growth—it's about setting a new standard in triathlon training. The physiological benefits gained from marathon training could provide him with an edge in triathlon, where running often decides the podium placements. His competitors are surely taking note, as this approach could soon become a new trend in triathlon training strategies.

Embracing Challenges and Learning from Setbacks

Alex's journey is not without its hurdles. Marathon training is demanding and requires a different focus compared to triathlon training. However, Yee’s attitude towards challenges is what sets him apart. He views setbacks not as failures but as opportunities for growth. This mindset has been crucial in his past successes and will be a key factor as he tackles the grueling demands of marathon preparation.

Looking Ahead: The 2026 Olympic Cycle

While 2025 is a year of exploration and pushing boundaries in marathon running for Alex, he is already eyeing his return to triathlon later in the season. With the next Olympic cycle for LA2028 on the horizon, Yee’s current focus on running is part of a broader strategy to come back stronger and more prepared than ever. His participation in the London Marathon is not just about personal bests but about redefining what is possible in triathlon.