Sam Long has revealed his plans to use the scorching temperatures and gruelling schedule of what he calls the ‘month of hell’ to train ahead of the T100 in London.
The American, who is currently number 1 in the PTO world rankings after five podium finishes in 2024, also has two second places in the T100 Triathlon World Tour but wants more.
The 28-year-old “Big Unit” reveals his plan for success on Instagram and hopes that the rapidly rising temperatures in the American Southwest will help him become the very best this season.
Give it your all or go home
Originally from Boulder, Long now lives in Arizona, where temperatures reached highs of 48 degrees Celsius last summer, and plans to train there ahead of the T100 showdown in London on July 27-28.
Long explains his decision by saying he hopes the benefits will be both psychological and physical as he pushes his body to the limit.
“The month of hell is here: I have named the next four weeks: Why? The daytime temperatures rarely fall below 25 °C and the maximum values are up to 40 °C. Even at 9 a.m. these high temperatures are still felt. Getting up every day is set for 4:45 a.m.
“It’s a month in which I want to improve. Not just to train for the next race, but to improve my physiology and mindset in the long term. To become a tougher man. To teach my body to handle heat better than ever before.”
Your monthly dose of endurance sports expert knowledge – from gear reviews to hot tips and insights.
INCREASE YOUR ENDURANCE WITH PREMIUM EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES
SHOPPING ONLINE
Not satisfied with second best
After making up big deficits out of the water and fighting his way back onto the podium at both the Singapore T100 and Miami T100, Long was remarkably within touching distance of the leading group at the San Francisco T100 last month.
Unfortunately, he was unable to capitalize on his excellent position in California and finished eighth, about two minutes behind race winner Marten Van Riel.
Looking ahead to London, Long assured his fans that despite his personal best on the west coast, he will continue to improve his swimming skills over the next four weeks.
“This (Hell Month) will also be very much about continuing swimming development through increased volume while maintaining and improving technique. Let’s go!”
London T100 Sam Long T100 Triathlon World Tour
