Taking on the Triathlon

A friend mentioned trying one; I declined. Intrigued by the thought I went online and discovered that not all of them are long, people from all walks of life did them, and each one had newcomers.

What a challenge! And to be able to "humbly" announce at every opportunity that yes, I HAVE done a triathlon...

My son caught wind of my intentions and behold, a dad and his teenager had an instant bond. We learned together, we struggled together, and we finished together (at different times of course!). They are not easy, mind you, but believe it or not they can be fun. The fitness they provide is beyond compare and everyone involved is courteous, helpful, and friendly to newcomers and experienced athletes alike.

There are "must–know's" to prepare for a triathlon (some of which I didn't know going in). The following outlines those "must–knows"and also provides resources to make competing in a triathlon equal parts possible, enjoyable, and rewarding!

Sprint Triathlons

The famous Iron Man held each year in Hawaii is comprised of a 2.4 mile ocean swim, a 112 mile bike, and a 26 mile run.( Oh my!) The sprint distance is the opposite end of the distance spectrum but unless you happen to be a competitor in Hawaii the term "sprint" does not do it justice. The much shorter distance (depending on the event) can be as short as several laps in a pool, followed by five or six bike miles, and a run of a mile or two.
In addition there are many race lengths in between the two, as well as duathlons that skip a segment (usually the swim) and off road varieties that include trail running and mountain biking. Most races also offer a team event which is the same race but with each section completed by a different team member. This can be an excellent team-building opportunity for businesses and other organizations.

Breaking It Down Step By Step

The first step is to find and pick a race and since there are many, finding one close by should not be a problem. Links are provided at the bottom that will allow you to explore many aspects of racing as well as additional tips for preparation.

The Swim

Practice

Remember this: if you have little swimming experience, no points are awarded for style. The object, especially in your first race, is to get from Point A to Point B. It does not matter if you splash around, sputter, or float, all you need to do is survive. Local pools often have "masters" swimming programs that are geared toward improving adults swimming technique. If none are available near you, ask local swim coaches, lifeguards, and even teens on swim teams for advice, most are more than willing to help and are pleased that others have an interest in their sport.

The Race

Open water events take place in lakes or the ocean and though many fear them, they are quite safe because officials are positioned in kayaks or other small craft that provide a rest stop if you need one (this is allowed if you don't advance) and will get you out of the water if you are overwhelmed. The nice thing about open water swims is that no one is able to really see how horrible you swim (at least that was a bonus for me). In open water swims, stay out of the crowd and swim at your own pace. Pool swims are the equivalent of swimming in a washing machine minus the soap— lots of splashing. It is a good idea to practice in as busy a pool as possible before the race (swimming in a lane during a swim team practice is perfect iavailable.

The Bike

Practice

Riding the bike is as fun now as it was the first time you threw a leg over one as a kid. It is the most expensive part of racing but it doesn't have to be. All forms and styles of bikes can be seen at races so any that you have or can borrow will work. A viable option is to practice on whatever bike you have and rent one from a local bike shop before the race (just be sure and rent it a week or more in advance to get used to it).

The Race

Pace is very important in the bike leg and best described as starting slow and finishing fast. On the bike is the time to get fuel into your body which is easiest by having a sports drink or two already mounted on the bike and sipping it throughout the leg.

The Run

Practice

Running is hard on the body and requires a slow increase to prevent injury. If you have never run or are just getting back into it, start by walking your race distance. Gradually incorporate periods of running by running for one minute and walking for three. Decrease the walking periods gradually until the entire distance can be accomplished running. Then work to run it faster AND practice "bricks", the term used to describe the feeling of riding the bike and switching to running; you will be glad to do!

The Race

Pace is again important; go at your own and as with the bike start slow and finish fast. Walk if you must but return to running when possible.

Transitions

This is the place where you switch between events, it is sometimes assigned or it can be first come first serve, in either case it stays the same throughout the race.

Practice

As silly as it seems it is vital to do this with a clear mind (on race day it will NOT be clear!).There are many ways to arrange items and it is personal, just remember to position everything to prevent confusion and to be as quick as possible.

The Race

After setting up your area mentally rehearse your plan then physically rehearse the steps into and out of the transition area. Many a racer has lost precious time by not being able to find their stuff!

Resources

USA triathlon http://www.usatriathlon.org/
Find events by state http://www.trifind.com/
Beginner dedicated forum http://www.beginnertriathlete.com/discussion/category-view.asp
A very popular online community for all levels http://www.trifuel.com/forums/index.php
U.S master Swimming, swim resources, find programs by state http://www.usms.org/

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