Objectives The training load practices of triathlon coaches are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to explore and describe these practices to create an opportunity to compare their alignment with evidence-based practices. Design The study employs an online survey and descriptive statistical analysis to investigate load practices. Method: 63 Australian triathlon coaches with 12 or more months of experience were surveyed. They held tertiary qualifications (27.7%), were AusTriathlon accredited (25.3%) and coached mainly age-group athletes (94%). Coaches` use of subjective and objective metrics for prescribing, measuring, and monitoring training load and communication frequency with athletes was examined. The survey investigated use of subjective metrics (e.g., s/RPE) and objective metrics (e.g., Time/Distance/Pace) for prescribing and monitoring load, frequency of monitoring sessions, and communication with athletes. Results Most coaches prescribe load using subjective metrics (78% of coaches) and objective metrics (76%). Load is measured/monitored by 81% of coaches using objective metrics, with subjective metrics less commonly used (62%). Less than half (43.5%) monitor every session/day, while most monitor load only weekly (51.6%) or monthly (4.8%). Communication about load occurs mostly every 4 weeks (38.7%). Conclusions Coaches` load practices only partially align with evidence-based recommendations. The use of subjective measures to monitor load is not common, neither is the consideration of acute and chronic loads. Many coaches communicate infrequently with their athletes. The potential consequence is health risks to athletes that could be addressed before they are missed. Coaches can make better use of technology to help them manage load.
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