• 6 AM: Group ride from Elwood Lifesaving Club every day (except Christmas Day), followed by a run off the bike and then a swim.
• 6 PM: Group open-water swim from Elwood Lifesaving Club (if you didn’t swim in the AM). This is self-organised - no coaches will be in attendance, so be sure to line up your swim buddies.

Hell Week is all about delivering a serious training spike for athletes, running from the Saturday before Christmas right through to the Saturday after Christmas (and you can include Christmas Day too, if you’re feeling extra hellish!).

The goal? Simple: do a little bit every day where possible. We know the festive season can be hectic - whether you’re traveling, visiting family, hosting friends, or squeezing in work shifts. The key is flexibility - fit in training when and where you can.

Here’s how some athletes make it work:

• Go All-In: Take time off work and dedicate yourself to Hell Week (but no pressure to do this - it’s optional!).
• Morning Warriors: Smash out your ride, run and swim all in one go during the AM sessions.
• Mix It Up: Combine AM and PM sessions to tick off your training.

However you choose to tackle Hell Week is completely up to you. The only rule is to show up and give it your best shot!

Pro Tip: Speak with your coach about your Hell Week plans. Now’s the perfect time to check in - whether it’s discussing any niggles, how you’re feeling, or what you want to achieve during the week. Clear communication means your coach can help you navigate this high-load period safely and effectively.

Let’s face it - open water swimming can be a little intimidating, even for seasoned triathletes. But with Hell Week upon us and the summer weather heating up, it’s the perfect time to get out into the bay and hone your open water skills.

Whether it’s your first time venturing into open water or you’re looking to refine your technique, we’ve got you covered. Linked below are some top tips to help you build confidence and get race-ready in the open water.

Dive in (pun intended) and let these tips help you make the most of your swim sessions during Hell Week!

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to cycling in a group, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with road cycling rules, safety, and ethics - especially when riding in packs.

Remember:
Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other road users. Whatever vehicle you drive, the golden rule is to treat other road users with respect and courtesy. All road users should drive or ride safely and obey the traffic rules at all times.

👉 Bicycle Network’s Overview of Road Rules

When cycling in Tri-Alliance group rides, it’s paramount to observe our squad’s cycling rules:

• Use hand and voice signals to communicate clearly.
• Ride two abreast in an orderly fashion - avoid half-wheeling or riding too far off.
• Shift to single file when the situation calls for it.

Following these guidelines keeps the group safe, efficient, and respectful of other road users.

Safety starts with communication! Knowing and using common bike signalling gestures helps keep you and your fellow riders safe on the road. Pair these gestures with clear verbal commands for maximum effect.

Important Reminder: When riding in a peloton, the lead cyclist(s) is in charge of signalling first. Every rider should then pass the signal down the line to ensure the entire group is aware.

Watch the video linked below on bike signalling.

Mastering these signals keeps the group moving smoothly and safely - because a well-communicated peloton is a happy peloton!

This year, we’re keeping it easy by using the existing Facebook groups you already know and love: the Symposium and the LC Chat. These spaces are always buzzing with activity, and they’ll serve as the central hubs for all things Hell Week.

Here’s how they’ll help:

• Stay Informed: Check for updates, schedules, and meet-up details.
• Ask for Help: Got a question, need advice, or looking for a training buddy? Post it here!
• Share the Vibes: Upload your photos, share your Hell Week experiences, and cheer on your squadmates.

No need to join a new group - just stick with what’s familiar. These year-round spaces are already filled with friendly faces, so dive in and make the most of them during Hell Week!