Balancing Triathlon and Family

As the training season ramps up each year, the word "balance" comes up.

I'll come right out and admit two things: 1. I couldn't do it without a wife as supportive as mine, and 2. Having a kid does make things harder.

I've heard a lot of suggestions for how to achieve balance. Some of my favorites are ones that could apply with or without kids. They're not my ideas and are not always easy to follow, but they're worth repeating.

-Be communicative. Let people you care about know when and where you plan to train each week.
-Be efficient. When possible run or ride from home, pick a pool that's close to home or work
-Be flexible. Involve family or friends, even if it ends up being different than normal "training."