A Beginners’ Guide For New Triathletes

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A triathlon is an athletic contest that consists of three major events namely cycling, swimming, and long-distance running. A triathlete is a person who participates in a triathlon.

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If you’re interested in participating in a multisport event, then a triathlon is definitely something you should consider. As a beginner, it’s understandable if you know nothing about a triathlon contest. So, here are a few things that you need to know as a new triathlete:

  1.   Get Yourself Some Goggles And A Wetsuit

Most professional swimming athletes do wear a wetsuit when participating in a triathlon contest. As a new triathlete, it’s advisable that you also get one as well to use in any upcoming contest that you will participate in. Doing so will ensure that your body remains warm and protected in the water during the swimming portion of the race.

As a beginner contestant, you can opt for an event that is done in a swimming pool and doesn’t require you to have a wetsuit for a start as you familiarize yourself with the dynamics of the swimming contest. If the wetsuit is a required necessity, you can always approach a friend or a rental store and rent one. The best option, however, is to purchase one and get it done with so that you also have it for the future.

  1.   Get A Good Bike

If you already own a bike, whether it’s a mountain bike, a road bike, or a hybrid, you can use it in the contest provided that it is well maintained and fit for a race. Don’t ride a bike with frayed cables and rotted tires. You may end up injuring yourself.

It’s advisable, however, to consult with a triathlon expert on which bike is best to use for the contest and you’ll be advised on which one to purchase for the best performance.

  1.   Get Some Good Running Shoes

For the running part of the triathlon, you’ll be required to own a good pair of running shoes in order to participate in the contest. Get a pair with good traction, a comfortable fit, a good inner sole for your foot to rest on, and a strong upper that grips your foot well.

Ensure also that the shoe is breathable and has an outer sole that absorbs shock when you’re running. The type of shoe you’ll use will also be determined by your type of gait. It’s therefore important to know your style of running before picking up a running shoe.

  1.   Start Small

Don’t go too hard as a beginner triathlete. Start small and then build up as you progress in the contests. You can begin with shorter sprint distances, that is, 11 – 15 miles of cycling, 3.1 miles for running, and 400 – 500 yards for swimming. You can also go for an Olympic distance event where you take part in 24.8 miles in cycling, 6.2 miles in running, and 0.9 miles in swimming.

Conclusion

There’s so much more to know about triathlon if you are a beginner. The above info, however, is enough to get you grounded and started.

The above-mentioned accessories and gear are an investment you need to make for successful participation in the triathlon contests. We recommend that you get yourself the much-needed triathlon gear first before proceeding to the other steps.

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