What is Triathlon?

Triathlon is basically an endurance event that consists of multi-sports namely swimming, cycling and running in quick successions over varied distances. The triathlon participants are better known as “Triathletes”. These triathletes compete against each other in order to achieve the best course completion time which includes timed “transitions” between run, swim and bike components.

A beginner should be totally aware of the Triathlon training schedule and programs, before opting for one. Some of the steps given below which help a beginner provide a solid jumpstart and help him follow the triathlon training schedule that suits his needs. They are as follows:

Step 1: Signing-up for a Race- Most of the beginner triathletes tend to develop a vague idea about a race that they might want to compete in the future, without actually signing up for one. Committing yourself to a race is the first step that needs to be taken in order to send a clear message to your subconscious. This will help you follow the triathlon training schedule with proper dedication and efficiency.

Step 2: Analyze your swim skills- Swimming is one sport that depends more on from than the fitness levels. And because of the technical nature of the sport it is highly advised to invest your money on a on a good swim expert or a coach, who can provide you with proper guidance and help you improve your strokes by analyzing you in water. Checking strokes by videotaping yourself is also a preferable option.

Step 3: Running/ Walking Intervals- If you are a novice and not used to running for very long periods and distances, you should utilize and follow the run/walk intervals. This helps you built stamina and get used to the rigorous running sessions. Try out this method- To start, walk for 5 minutes at a brisk pace. Then run till you start losing some breath. Once you feel a bit exhausted, start walking again and regain your breath. Repeat this procedure 3 to 5 times by timing your run and walks each time. The next time you step out, try walking 30-40 seconds less than what you ran and continue to shorten the walk every time. After you reach a ‘steady-run’ mark, start to increase your running capacity by 10-15% every week.

Step 4: Choosing a Bike- When it comes to choosing a bike, there are plenty of options available and you are bound to get intimidated by them. But it is recommended that a beginner should always start with an old mountain bike. After getting some practice, you can move on to buying a new road bike. Ebay, Craiglist and Roadbikeclassifieds can help you gain some great deals on the used road bikes. If you are not comfortable with those “skinny tires” straight away, you can opt to practice on soft surface like local golf course or a park. This will help you attain better skills and confidence.

Step 5: Workouts- Practicing swimming, running or biking doesn’t really help you work all muscles. You need proper workout schedules to build the other crucial muscles and help you stay fit and uninjured. Hitting the gym for 30-40 minutes and 2-3 times a week will do well. Muscles such as lower back, abdominals and outer hip muscles should be focused on in order to build a perfect foundation for Triathlon event.

The above 5 Triathlon Training Schedule Tips will surely help you boost in the right direction and help attain perfect skills and efficiency during the event.