If you are new to
the triathlon, we hope this
website will aid you in getting the information you are looking for.
Any beginner triathlon
athlete should not be
too interested in results,
but should have a good time.
Here are some suggestions for the beginner
triathlon athlete:
1. Look for a shorter distance race to start
out with. Sprint triathlons or beginner triathlons are usually
advertised locally. It is very common for races to fill up quickly, so
find a race that you would like to participate in. Having a race date
will help you get committed to your training program.
2. Once you have registered for a race, you
should come up with a training plan. You can find some wonderful
beginner triathlon training plans on the internet.
You can find
personalized plans which incorporate how much time you have to train,
how in shape you already are, if you have any prior injuries, etc.
3. Swimming is usually the most difficult
even for triathlon beginners. It is important for you to find a pool
where you can start training for this event. Finding a swim coach to
help you would be even more beneficial.
4. You may be tempted in the beginning of
your training to over train, especially if you are in pretty good
shape. Your beginner triathlon training mileage should be realistic. It
is important to start working on your weakest event first.
5. The transitions in a triathlon are
difficult. It is important that you practice these, especially the bike
leg transition where you go on a run right after your bike workout.
It
is a good idea to know how your body will react to these transitions
– so take it easy when you practice. Make sure when you
practice your transitions that you do it with your gear so you know how
to get it on and off.
6. Make sure you understand the pre-race
instructions. If you don’t understand something, ask
questions. Everyone has to start somewhere, so don’t be
ashamed to raise your hand. Every triathlon is different, so sometimes
even expert triathlon goers ask questions.
7. Most importantly, have fun on your first
race. Be proud of yourself for stepping out of your comfort zone and
trying something new. When you get discouraged remember that you are
learning. Negativity will affect your performance.
If you follow these suggestions, along with
others on this site, you will be a successful beginner triathlon
athlete.