Beginning a triathlon can be daunting - but it doesn't have to be. Here are three top tips get you going!
1. EASE INTO IT too many do too much too soon.
Please ease into your training. Most triathletes start months in advance to prep for their larger races. To start with only do one workout a day. Do different workouts on different days, swim on Mondays and Wednesdays, run Tuesdays and Thursdays, bike on Fridays, and RESPECT your rest days.Slowly build to two-a-day work outs. I highly recommend practicing your brick training (this is slang for running right after biking, your feet literally feel like bricks). Start with low mileage on bike and run then add as you get more proficient.
2. Join a swim club, whether it be a Masters or swim team.
Find a coach, even if you can only afford a few lessons it will benefit you greatly and give you a good foundation. My Masters Swim Club at Ft. Stewart was amazing.Even though I’ve moved away, I still maintain the friendships I began there.
3. Find a partner.
I have friends that ride their bikes while I run, swim in the lane with me or next to me, or simply come to Spinning® classes with me. Training with a partner makes for a more enjoyable time; you’re more likely to stick to your schedule, be more accountable, and, at least I find, perform better.Training with a partner makes for a more enjoyable time; you’re more likely to stick to your schedule, be more accountable, and, at least I find, perform better.
4. Strength Training.
Are you listening to me, triathletes? STRENGTH. TRAINING.Don’t believe me? Read THIS and THIS and THIS and THIS. Have I made my point?Following this regimen I qualified for the 2014 USA Triathlon Olympic-Distance National Championships in Milwaukee, WI. during my very first tri season.You can do it too!
