Triathlon Tips
The sport of triathlon simply keeps growing, with more and more triathletes keen to start either their first sprint distance race, or progress to the Olympic distance course
Putting dry socks on wet feet, tying special knots in trainers, changing from cycling shorts into your running shorts, drying your hair, stopping to eat or have a drink, its all been done and watched as the clock ticks on, there is no need to do any of these. Spending just 1 hour on how you're going to get changed from the swim to the bike, and the bike to the run, will save you not seconds but possible minutes.
Transitions are an event which change at every race, speak to the organizers and find out where you can place your bike, and where you can first start pedaling and also where you have to come off.
On your last part of your swim, you should be thinking about what you need to do in the transition, either goggle and swim cap off from a pool, or start to take the top part of your wet suit off as you you are running to your bike.
Once at your bike, pull your leggings down on your suit, aiming to step out of them whilst putting on both your helmet and glasses.
If you are an advanced triathlete, then you should be starting with your cycling shoes already inserted into your pedals. Don't try to perform this routine for the first time at the race, either have your cycling shoes next to your bike, with all straps open, or if wearing trainers aim to get some lace locks or elastic laces so that you can slip on your shoes quickly. If the run from the swim to your bike is quite far, it's a good idea to put your trainers on as soon as you get out of the water, however make sure that they will not be removed.
Remember when you come in off the bike, do not unclip your helmet until you have dismounted before the cycling cut off point, and crossed over the line, their are many rules in triathlon designed for your safety, by breaking these rules you may incur penalties or simple be disqualified. Simple ask an official about the rules, or turn up at the race briefing, a must for all novice triathletes.
For a basic beginners triathalon program, click through to the next page.
