Vicky van der Merwe is a South African Triathlete and Founder of Stellenbosch Triathlon Squad.
How did you first get into triathlon?
At age 14 I went to boarding school (Bloemhof) in Stellenbosch...at that stage I was swimming seriously- like twice a day. I had to take part in a school athletic meet and afterwards they told me I’m one of Bloemhof's Top10 athletes. I had never trained run, and then had to start as I made the School's top10 team for a meet in Bloemhof. I got absolutely hooked and ended up being a better runner than swimmer, but didn't want to stop swimming...so I decided to add cycling and do Triathlon - an Olympic sport!
What is your strongest/weakest discipline - swim, bike or run?
It varies and goes through phases- depends on injuries, weight etc., but I would say the strongest is running and weakest probably cycling.
Please give us a glimpse into your fitness schedule for instance what would you do on a typical day of training?
My typical day normally starts at 5am. First I have a cup of tea, and then head to the pool at 05:15. I’m in the water by 05:30 and finish by 07:00. After my training I enjoy a healthy breakfast, and then go back to bed for a nap. I cycle at 10am, and grab lunch at 1pm; with some rest in between before I go for a run at 5pm. Then it is dinner time and sleep! Days vary as some days I only do 2 sessions or a recovery day is only 1. Every workout is different every day. I also train at the gum twice a week.
Do you follow a strict diet?
I don’t really follow a strict eating plan; however I aim to eat a balanced diet. I avoid sugar and processed foods as well as try and eat really healthy including lean meats, healthy carbs like brown rice, potato, fruits and loads of salads and veg.
What is your favourite ‘cheat meal?’
Eeeek, carrot cake!
What do you do the evening after a race?
If it was a good race - dinner and drinks with friends and family! Cheat meal time ...
What has been your biggest achievement to date?
Hmm there have been many ups and downs. I’ve raced in over 40 countries all over the world. It was an honour taking part in the Rio Olympics test event in Rio last August. I believe my best achievements still lie ahead of me.
What is your live-by fitness #inspo quote?
“Consistent injury free training” - my coach's favourite quote. Consistency is key!
Advice for someone who wants to do triathlons?
If you put your mind to it you can achieve anything! Join a cool group, meet likeminded beginners and have fun! Training has to be fun.
Is a triathlon only for the super fit or can someone like my mom give it a go?
No, anyone can do it! I coach a group of ladies (moms) who are training for their first triathlon; it’s awesome to see how they improve in a structured environment. Many people have gone from couch potato to triathlete; the sport caters for all ages.
Favourite sport star?
I think it just changed to Wayde van Niekerk - what a humble champion.
A photo posted by TomTom (@tomtomglobal) on May 2, 2016 at 1:00am PDT
Tell me about your partnership with TomTom?
I’ve been with TomTom for 3 years and I still love working with them! They are such a genuine, down to earth, fun group of people who have become like family!
What is the best part of training with the TomTom?
It is simple, you can see how you improve, no need for a Heart-Rate strap and the music on your wrist is a game changer; I love it!! I love simplicity – which is exactly what TomTom believes in too.
What songs are currently on your workout playlist?
Haha...do you really want to know? I'm a big Afrikaans music fan!