Completing a triathlon may seem like an extreme challenge, but if you can swim, ride a bike and run, even at a casual level, you can achieve it. The sport is beginner-friendly, inclusive, and highly fulfilling.
The triathlon as we know it today has been around for almost 43 years, with its inaugural organized event held in 1974 at Mission Bay, San Diego, California. Back then, 46 participants paid only $1 to enter. While prices have increased since then, triathlon events are now held in every state in the US and almost every country worldwide, with various distances available. For beginners, the popular choices are a sprint, super sprint, or relay triathlons, with relatively shorter distances for each segment.
Why do a triathlon?
If you're reading this, you're interested in triathlon. You may have been running for a while and are looking for a new challenge, or you may miss the competitive spirit of your school swim days. You might enjoy long bike rides but want to add some socializing. Whatever the reason, triathlon can offer all of that and more. Even though triathlons are competitions, the athletes - even the pros - are incredibly supportive, encouraging, and motivating. The events themselves are often weekend-long affairs with a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
Triathlon training is an excellent low-impact cross-training workout that can provide variety to your routine. It's a great way to modify your training if running bothers your joints. You'll avoid burnout and improve your flexibility and endurance by spreading your effort over three disciplines. Moreover, triathlon is a sport that you can enjoy for a lifetime. Beginners can see significant progress in their first few seasons, which can be a huge motivational boost!
While bike shops may seem filled with expensive bicycles, you don't need to invest heavily to participate in a triathlon. Any bike will suffice for your first few events, and you probably already own or can borrow the other essential items.
Triathlon Distances
Triathlon offers a wide range of options for athletes, with four main distances and numerous variations. One example is the growing popularity of even shorter super sprint races.
The measurement units used for each distance can be a mix of imperial and metric, with no apparent pattern. It's a unique blend of measurement systems!
Below are the most common triathlon distances:
- Sprint: 14 miles
- Olympic: 31.9 miles
- Half: 70.3
- Full: 140.6
In addition to the main distances, many triathlon events offer variations and alternative disciplines to cater to diverse interests.
One such option is Aquabike, which involves completing only the swimming and biking portions of the race before heading to the finish line. This is an excellent alternative for those who cannot or prefer not to run.
Another variation is the Duathlon, where the three segments are completed in a run-bike-run order instead of the traditional swim-bike-run.
For those who prefer to exclude cycling, there's Aquathlon, which only involves swimming and running.
Off-Road or Cross-Country Triathlons, on the other hand, replace paved roads with trail running and mountain biking.
Relay Triathlons are also available, allowing teams of two or three members to compete and complete each segment.
For athletes who love winter sports, Winter Triathlons feature running, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing, all performed on snow.
Moreover, many races include a particular category or event for athletes with disabilities called Paratriathlon.
How Does it Work on Race Day
Triathlon requires significant logistical planning and packing, but race organizers strive to make the process as easy and efficient as possible.
Checking in/packet pick-up
Before the race, participants must collect their race number, swim cap, bike and helmet stickers, and gear check bag for post-race clothing. The check-in may occur the day before the event or on race day itself, and the bikes and gear are stored in a central "transition" area.
The Swim
The race begins with the swimming leg, which may occur in a lake, river, ocean, or pool. The start can vary depending on the event, with some races commencing in the water while others begin on a beach or with a jump off a platform. Swimmers can use any stroke but must follow a marked course to complete the leg.
Transition to the bike (T1)
After finishing the swim, participants head to the transition area (T1) to retrieve their bikes, change into their shoes, fasten their helmets, and walk to the designated "bike out" area.
Transition to the run (T2)
Upon completing the cycling leg, participants enter T2, dismounting their bikes, changing into running shoes (if necessary), and putting on their race numbers. They then proceed to the run leg.
The Run
Finally, participants cross the finish line at the end of the run leg and can celebrate their achievements. After refueling and enjoying the moment, participants must return to the transition area to retrieve their gear and bikes.