Checking in with Ben Kanute in Arizona, USA

With racing on hold around the world, and no clear timeline on when triathlons will return, we checked in with some of our deboer Team athletes to see how they are staying occupied through this uncertainty.

Ben Kanute

  • Ironman 70.3 Champion

Where are you located right now?

I am in Phoenix, AZ with a couple training trips possibly planned for Denver and San Diego.

What are the current training rules in your area?

There are not many restrictions except for the heat. I am taking it upon myself to stay socially distanced and safe. I am training outside in the mornings for bike and run, and the rest inside. The pools are open as they are outdoors as well.

How is your training different right now?

The main difference is that without races we are able to adjust training a bit to focus more on my weaknesses without have to also be race ready.

How is the local triathlon community dealing with this?

I think a lot of people have taken to exploring the outdoors and adjusted their training to more adventures than specific workouts. I know a few impromptu races have come up with the local clubs, but nothing too out of the ordinary.

Any races on the horizon that you have some optimism about actually happening?

I am hoping a few races will pop up in the next couple months. I am most likely staying in North America to limit travel and exposure to keep myself and my family safe. With Courtney being pregnant we are being very protective of our little girl who is due in December.

How are you managing your fitness and training load with so much uncertainty?

I am just focusing on what I can accomplish. I am ready to race when I have the opportunity, but in the mean time, I am just working on bettering myself.

Any skills/challenges, triathlon or not, that you've taken on over the past few months?

I am doing a lot of small projects around our new house. We did them move ourselves, painted our room, and have spent time researching and leaning about pregnancy and being new parents.

To follow Ben Kanute you can find him on Instagram.