Top 10 things to know for the Beginner triathlete
When you start combining swim/bike/run into the one event, it can be a scary experience. When you ask people why they got into the sport of triathlon you often hear things like “I had too many running injuries”, “New year’s resolution”, “To celebrate the big birthday”.
Most of the time, you are starting with a discipline in your head but often have idea on what to expect.
So here are a few key things we think you should know:
Start easy, begin training for a short event like a sprint instead of going straight for the big dance like an Ironman.
You don’t need all the gear – just the essentials such as:
Goggles
Swimmers/ clothing
Running Shoes
Spare pair of shoes as your runners will be checked into transition
Helmet
Bike - A “normal”, non race bike is fine – even if it’s borrowed!
Plan to rest, no need to swim/bike/run every single day of the week. Days off and sleep is where the magic happens, during this time, your body recovers from what you have put it through and adapts to come out the other end a fitter human.
Nutrition and hydration are important and making sure you are fuelling your body correctly (so you have the energy to train and race) makes it all the more enjoyable.
Development counts too! Please take note of how others set up their development, practice putting on those cycle shoes when your feet are wet, it is ok to put your socks on in triathlon. How do those legs feel running off the bike, are they heavy? Fatigued?, The more you practice, the easier this becomes.
Practice bike handling skills, sometimes races can have tight corners. The only way to become confident with handling this while other riders are around is to practice. Find a turn, start broad and keep getting closer to the corner as you get confident.
What do I wear under my tri suit? On the bottom half - nothing, tri suits are designed to be worn close to the skin and you will be thankful when you finish with no chafing. The top half for women is a little different; however, some tri suits come with built-in support. However, if you do want a bit more help you may want to add in a crop or swim top, make sure you have tried it when wet and that it does not create chaffing.
Master your mental chatter, sabotaging yourself before you begin is a natural defence mechanism. Confidence is fuelled by self-talk, figure out what your weak points are before race day and have a response to tell yourself when those thoughts start flowing right before a race. Sometimes it helps to remember the reason you started triathlon in the first place.
What if you get a flat tyre? Learn about your bike, practice-changing a tube before race day, so you feel comfortable.
Biggest tip – don’t try anything new on race day.
Welcome to triathlon, the community is stoked you have joined us - see you at the finish line.
Author – Head Coach Amanda Moore