So, I haven’t scared you away from considering a triathlon yet? If you answered “no,” that’s great. It’s a great training experience and a wonderful sense of accomplishment is gained from completing an event.
The Event
Once you’re satisfied that your swimming, biking and running skills are up to the task, you probably need 12 to 16 weeks to complete training prior to an event. Identify an event that suits your schedule and count back the weeks from the date of the event.
Finding an event that’s suitable to your schedule and skills. If it’s your first time, I recommend the “sprint” which generally consists of a 500-meter swim, a 25K bike and a 5K run.
In Iowa, the event schedule found at http://www.fitnesssports.com/ lists triathlons throughout the state and beyond.
The Plan
Developing a training plan is important.
I have found some great beginning triathlon training plans in the “triathlon training” section of http://www.runnersworld.com/. There is some great direction and plan information for beginners at http://www.sweat365.com/.
Tap Other People’s Expertise
Don’t forget to tap into the knowledge of other triathletes. Triathletes are generally happy to share information and expertise in the interest of increasing interest in their community. If you’re working with a personal fitness trainer, you might consult with them for advice on training for this event. Your trainer might also know some triathletes you can contact.
If you belong to a health club, many of them have groups formed for training exercise. Just inquire with a staff member.
This should be enough to get you started. You will need to consider some other issues as “race day” approaches. Apparel, accessories and the “transition” are just a few. We’ll tackle those in a future entry.
The Event
Once you’re satisfied that your swimming, biking and running skills are up to the task, you probably need 12 to 16 weeks to complete training prior to an event. Identify an event that suits your schedule and count back the weeks from the date of the event.
Finding an event that’s suitable to your schedule and skills. If it’s your first time, I recommend the “sprint” which generally consists of a 500-meter swim, a 25K bike and a 5K run.
In Iowa, the event schedule found at http://www.fitnesssports.com/ lists triathlons throughout the state and beyond.
The Plan
Developing a training plan is important.
I have found some great beginning triathlon training plans in the “triathlon training” section of http://www.runnersworld.com/. There is some great direction and plan information for beginners at http://www.sweat365.com/.
Tap Other People’s Expertise
Don’t forget to tap into the knowledge of other triathletes. Triathletes are generally happy to share information and expertise in the interest of increasing interest in their community. If you’re working with a personal fitness trainer, you might consult with them for advice on training for this event. Your trainer might also know some triathletes you can contact.
If you belong to a health club, many of them have groups formed for training exercise. Just inquire with a staff member.
This should be enough to get you started. You will need to consider some other issues as “race day” approaches. Apparel, accessories and the “transition” are just a few. We’ll tackle those in a future entry.
1 comment:
Good stuff, Coach.
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