The Thrill of Your First Triathlon
Posted by The Triathlon Expert in Beginner Triathletes, Miscellaneous, Triathlon Disciplines
I can clearly remember when I had became inspired to train for an complete my first triathlon. I would have to say it was one of the best moments of my life, and can be for you tool.
The fact that you are reading this article means that you are probably toying with the idea that doing a triathlon might be possible for you. Hold that thought, because this site is all about getting you to the finish.
If you are feeling a bit timid on the idea, let me tell you - if you can swim a bit, ride a bike (most children can), and jog around the neighborhood you can do it. With a little planning, training, and enthusiasm, you will be well on your way.
Five Key Steps to Get Started with Your First Triathlon
Getting started on the right foot (so to speak) is very important to your success. To point you in the right direction, here are five good guidelines and starting points to get you pointed in the right direction. This is where I would start my exciting triathlon adventure!
- Devise Your Triathlon Training Plan
Since the triathlon event is a demanding and slightly complicated endevour, I would suggest you spend a little time up front thinking about how to execute this adventure. I think the best place to start is to drop a couple of bucks and get a solid training plan. Many great coaches make a living by putting together success plans that can buy for a nominal fee. - Find a Good Place To Train
I have always liked doing my basic training at a health club that has a pool. Since I am a busy person, I need to get in and get out as quickly as possible. When you have more time (like weekends), definitely get out on your bike and on the road or trail for real-world running. Some people have an open water area to swim, but the pool is usually the cleanest and easiest way to get your basic swimming training completed. - Assemble a Triathlon Bike (whatever you can get)
Despite what you see on TV and the magazines, you do not need a super-charged carbon fiber triathlon bike to complete your first event. In fact, you can use any sort of bike to get the job done. I did my first triathlon on a clunky mountain bike and it was just fine. You can get into the high-tech gear game later - and the worse your gear now, the more you will appreciate new gear later! - Register for the Event Early
Yes, although it is tempting, do not wait until the week before the event to sign up. First, you may find that the event you have worked so hard in preparation for has filled to capacity. That would be devastating! Second, I have noticed that when you sign up and pay the entry fee, you “commit” on a certain level - and it makes sticking to the training easier. - Start Training in Small Amounts
The funny thing about inspiration is that it comes on very fast and can slowly peter out when you push it too much from the start. With triathlon training, it is best to ease into it by only allowing yourself to do short sessions of running, biking and swimming. I have noticed that if I leave the gym wanting more, then I am more enthusiastic to come back and completely avoid injury. You can ramp up your training after you let you body get used to the new stresses.
So, now you have a few tips and guidelines for getting started. These are not just random thoughts, but lessons learned the hard way. I think that the goal of your first triathlon is to have a great adventurous experience, improve the overall fitness of your body, and to fall in love with the sport for a lifetime. If you take it nice and easy, these great gifts will naturally come to you. Enjoy!
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