KIM LOEFFLER
Country: USA
Perferred Distance: Ironman Triathlon
Best Race Result: 8th Place and top US finisher 2005 Ironman World Championships
How long have you been doing triathlon? 11 years
Additional Information: I have an identical twin sister, Kelly Liljeblad who is also a Pro Triathlete and former 2:32 elite marathon runner.
Are you able to train full time or do you need to work? I am fortunate to have a team of sponsors that allow me to live this amazing lifestyle. I also work at Ontrackhealth.net coaching triathletes and runners and I am involved with several local charities.
Learn more about Kim: www.kimloefflerracing.com
Sponsors: K-Swiss, Powerbar, Zipp, Blue Seventy, Fuel Belt, ISM.
TRAINING AND RACING TIPS
How did you start in triathlon? I ran division 1 Cross Country and Track for the
University of Massachusetts. After college I continued to run but found myself battling frequent injuries. After 2 knee surgeries, I began to look for a new challenge and triathlon was it!
Favourite Training Session? Long hard progression runs.
What is your favourite part of a triathlon? The run.
Where would you like to improve? Swim bike and run! Mostly in the swim
Do you have tips for other women? Get a group of friends together, pick a race, train together and have fun.
What tips do you have to stay motivated and what keeps you motivated? Adding low key tune up races to your race schedule is a great way to break up your training and give you a short term goal to focus on.
How important is confidence in your racing performance? It is very important, and that is why I take my training so seriously. I want to be on the starting line knowing I did everything I possibly could to prepare for the race. When doubts creep in, I remind myself of the great training sessions I’ve had and draw confidence from that.
Any tips for improving swimming? Find a group to swim with and a masters coach who is willing to help with stroke technique.
Any training tips to improve cycling? It’s not just about miles or hours. It’s about quality. Make every workout have a purpose. I’ve had many successful Ironmans, where I trained exclusively on my Computrainer.
Any training tips to improve running? Work on your running form. I’ve been running since the 7th grade and I still do running drills and form work every week. It will make you a more efficient runner, which is key for triathlon success.
Any tips about racing? It is normal to be nervous. It just means you care about your performance. Don’t let your nerves get the better of you. Remind yourself that you have done the training, you want to race and go out and have fun!
Why should more women participate in Triathlon? It is a healthy, social and extremely rewarding lifestyle. You don’t need a fancy bike or wheels, or 3 % body fat. Get your girlfriends together, dust off the old bike and go have fun!
