Ari Jurvanen en route to Ironman 2022!
Meet Ari Jurvanen, AFT Research Engineer in Varkaus, Finland. Ari heads to Hawaii to compete in the Ironman World Championship triathlon in October of 2022. From intense ocean swimming to long-distance biking and running through lava fields, only the fittest of the fittest can endure. Ari has spent years training and qualifying for this global event. AFT is proud to support his exceptional efforts to prepare for the competition. An interview follows.
Talk about the Ironman triathlon components and how you train.
Winter in Finland is a perfect time to build basic fitness and endurance for all three Ironman events - running, biking and swimming. In addition to the three components, I often cross-country ski and train in the gym to strengthen my core.
I do one to two hours of exercise after work and up to five hours each day on weekends. Running shoes with spikes are essential in Finnish winter and even early spring. Cross-country skiing is ideal when the temperature is close to zero Celsius. Because you don’t have so much pressure on your knees and strain on muscles and upper body, it is perfect for improving your swimming. Similar moves are involved.
More extended training is the norm at this time of year while keeping the load and power pretty low. Only one or two short exercises are done with higher speed/power per week. This adds up to 10 to 14 hours per week. A 15-20 kilometer run or 30 kilometers of cross-country skiing is ideal.
There will be training that is even more intensive when the competition phase gets closer. Races are an essential part of training to prepare for the main target of the season. This year I have registered for two IM70.3 (half Ironman) races in July and August, and the main event is in full 140.6 IM.
Each time the training is very demanding so it really helps to work for a company like AFT that supports my personal interests and wellbeing.
Do you have a favorite of the three? Are you best at one in particular?
Although I do enjoy all three sports, my favorite is swimming. There is always something to improve, and it is satisfying to make incremental progress. Being strong in biking means that I get closer to being among the best swimmers.
Do you visualize the journey through lava fields and other exotic landscapes of Hawaii?
It is very motivational to read blogs and watch YouTube videos of previous competitions in Hawaii. This gives me an edge for the training program made with my coach. Every week we discuss the progress of monthly plans and make adjustments when necessary.
How does work at AFT benefit from your Ironman pursuit of excellence, stamina, and achievement?
My Ironman training improves my concentration, reduces my stress, and helps creates a positive atmosphere with my colleagues. It also encourages others to exercise and explore their potential. It sends a positive message to customers too, as there are many sporting enthusiasts among them.
How does Ironman help you be better at AFT?
I am always searching for ways to challenge myself both at work and in my personal life. Our AFT team is highly effective – we are very good at modernizing equipment and improving its performance to meet the changing needs of our customers. Operating at peak performance is a goal that I have for myself and the equipment I work on.
Does Ironman training feel lonely at times?
I usually have someone from my club with me for five-hour bike rides on the road, especially when the snow is gone. Sometimes we’re a small group, keeping up the pace together. Enjoying nature is even better with friends. It also helps to have someone yelling out to you at times along a race. My wife is very supportive.
What’s your message to fellow AFT team players at work - and in their pursuits outside of work?
It is always a good idea to take a walk or run each day. A little exercise makes you feel better, think more clearly, and have the energy to contribute more.
