Getting Started
The fastest way to get started in triathlon is to contact your local club. They provide coaching and training sessions along with lots of advice about getting started in triathlon.
| Swimming |
Essentials:
Desirables:
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| Cycling |
Essentials:
Desirables:
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Running
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Essentials:
Desirables:
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RACE TIPS Swim Start |
Most triathlons involve a mass start or swim starts where you compete with althetes of your same age group. Please be aware that it can feel like a washing machine if you get caught up in the middle! If you are a weak swimmer, position yourself towards the back of the pack. If you are a strong and confident swimmer position yourself toward the front! |
| Wetsuits | For the general age grouper, if the water temperature is less than 24 degrees, you are allowed to wear a wetsuit. Please refer to TA ruling on wetsuits for further information. This can often bring a weaker swimmer much peace of mind as it increases buoyancy. It can also aid performance by significant amounts due to buoyancy and in cold water it makes things much more comfortable! Please note that external environmental conditions (heat, cold, stingers, distance) may impact on whether an event allows wetsuits or if they are deemed compulsory. |
| Drafting | Drafting is considered cheating in the sport of triathlon with the 7m rule being standard practice. Refer to the TA rules for more information about drafting. Please note in Ironman and Ironman 70.3 races, the drafting zone is 12m. |
| No Jelly Legs | Running straight after cycling is a strange sensation often likened to ‘jelly legs’. To ensure your legs can cope with this feeling, try a short 5-10 minute run after one of your cycles. It’s better to conquer the pain in training, than to shock the system on race day! |
| Transition | A lot of time can be wasted in transition, so make sure you practise a speedy one! Only conduct the bare essentials in the transition zone. Do you really need socks in a 5km or less run? Try elastic laces in your sneakers which are much quicker to put on than tying up regular laces. Don’t forget you need to put your helmet on BEFORE unracking your bike and then keep it on until you have hung your bike on the racks at the completion of your cycle. |
| Enjoy Yourself! | Completing a triathlon is a fabulous achievement, so celebrate it. Pump your fists over the finish line, high five your wife/husband/best friend in the finishing chute and make sure you smile for the finisher’s photo! |
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