1. You don’t need to mix all three disciplines into every training day, but periodic “bricks”—biking and then running—are essential. (Do it and you’ll understand the name.)
2. Get a triathlon suit, like Sugoi’s Turbo tri shorts and tank ($55 each). You can wear it during the swim, bike, and run, giving you less to worry about in transition areas.
3. Don’t line up at the front of a mass swim start—you’ll get clobbered by veterans. Save your energy for the bike and run.
4. On the bike leg, ride on the right and pass on the left. And this is your time to refuel, so pocket a few gel packets before setting off.
5. It’s race day—don’t hold back. Ignore heart-rate guidelines (expect to be 5–20 beats above your training rate anyway from adrenaline) and have fun.
Don't let this happen to you—bonking at the Ironman World Championships. Start with a sprint-distance event. Photographer: Andrew Hetherington
Comments
The article states: "Ignore heart-rate guidelines..." That's pretty bad advice to a beginner wanting to finish the race while having fun - and avoiding injury. A little bit of training with a heart rate monitor and you will be able to determine your anaerobic threshold. Then, based on the race distance (time duration), and training quality/quantity, stick to a heart rate level below your anaerobic threshold (how far varies by how well trained you are and duration of the race) to finish strong and enjoy the race. Why burn out in the middle just to hate the second half of the race? Your first race should be fun, not torture.
Flag ThisReally Steve? Anaerobic threshold? Triathon isnt that complicated...its just swimming, riding a bike, and running...something all kids can do. I think most beginners can finish a sprint triathlon without having to worry about their hear rate. There was a time when people could tell they were over-exerting by the way they felt.
Flag ThisThis article is about a guy who did an Olympic triathlon, not a Sprint tri, as a beginner. Yes, JDUB is correct for a very narrow group of people - maybe those between 18 and 30, who are going to do a sprint tri as their first one. But, for the huge number of people who don't fit that category, they should race a smart, fun, race. Because it is your first race you probably can't judge what is too hard for two to four hours of racing (the article has two weeks of training for an Olympic tri). I know some say - "go for it - your injury will heal." But, I say don't get injured in the first place. Race a fun, smart, race. Injuries will only discourage you and will keep you out of racing for a period of time when it didn't need to happen. But, hey... It's your experience. Do it the way you want! Enjoy!
Flag Thisjust do a tri. let it grip you. then do another. and another. the purpose you will find in training and racing will take you to another level.
Flag ThisBalancing the 3 sports is great for your mind and body. You rarely get bored or burned out by doing 2 days a week of each sport. I'd say, though, to read race rules before race day- The Chicago tri rules are you pass on your LEFT while cycling- and you are penalized if caught. Each race is different! Have fun training & racing!! (author, Tri the Journey)
Flag ThisSorry - meant pass on cyclist's RIGHT - which is awkward- and there are some deep cracks in on Lake Shore Drive to watch out for!
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