By Kevin Estrada
No Zwift, No problem for Filipino Ironman August Benedicto as he farms his way to train despite the Covid-19 pandemic.
The 2019 Alveo Ironman 70.3 Davao Asian Elite Champion got caught on the lockdown in Germany with his family due to the due to widespread transmission of coronavirus.
But he feels that he got lucky. Unlike back home in the country, the Tarlac triathlete pounce on every chance to train when available, especially with the physical distancing being followed by the people there.
In fact, his regimen is still old-fashioned for most of the training as he yet to embrace the technology such as virtual cycling apps such as Zwift.
“Nakakapagtrain din ako. Running and biking outside, pero walang swimming,” Benedicto said last Tuesday during the launch of Alaska Fortified Ironkids-Keep Fit at Home program to celebrate the tenth anniversary.
With triathlete wife Anna Stroh and two children already on his stead, the first Filipino finisher in Ironman Philippines makes up for the absence of races by turning into an unusual role as he juggles his training and family life.
“Nagtatanim ako ng gulay sa aking backyard,” he admitted. “Dahil wala naman tayong nagagawa, pumasok ako na taga-pick ng strawberry.”
For only five hours picking in the strawberry fields, Benedicto saw this as a good chance to retain his training and fatherly routine, especially with the emphasis is to be on standby should the races resume.
“Wala pa naman masyadong races, just make sure na nandun tayo sa fitness level na di natin ma-lose yung pinaghirapan natin.”
Benedicto will come to the webisodes as he will teach the proper way of running.
“Iaayos natin yung running form and running skill nila,” he then said. “Pag mali yung porma ng katawan mo sa takbo, mahihirapan ka.”
Follow the writer on Twitter: @kevinlestrada
