By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jarrod_Fritsch]Jarrod Fritsch
Do you want to compete in your first triathlon? Are you unsure of how to start your training for your very first triathlon? Do you feel totally confused?
If so, this article will provide you with simple to use tips, strategies and information on how to get to the starting line of your first triathlon. There is no fancy lingo. There are no extensive training plans that must be followed. This article will simply enable you to reach a base level of fitness to get you ready to race.
So let's keep it simple and fun. Your triathlon training must be fun and something that you look forward to.
To complete your first triathlon you simply need to get some general base fitness in all of the 3 sections of the triathlon (swim, bike and run). For your first triathlon you do not need to follow an exhaustive or step-by-step training plan.
In my opinion it is not the amount of training time that we have, it is how we utilize that training time.
Tip 1: Select a Race
The first tip to having a successful first triathlon race is to simply get registered for your first race. There are various triathlon races all of different lengths. A Sprint distance race is usually the best choice for the new triathlete. This involves swimming 0.25 to 0.62 miles, biking 5 to 18.6 miles and running 1 to 3.9 miles.
Tip 2: Equipment
For your equipment I suggest that we employ the KISS principle. The fancy "toys" can come later. For your very first triathlon you just need to have the basic equipment.
The Swim: The essential items here are goggles and a swim cap. A wetsuit might be required if there is an open-water swim in cold water (International Triathlon Union).
The Bike: The essential items here are a bike (any bike in decent condition is suitable for your first triathlon) and a helmet (this is mandatory in every competition). Additional items may include; cycling shorts, water bottle and repair equipment (spare tires, etc)
The Run: The essential item here is to have a well-fitting and comfortable pair of running shoes. It is important that the shoes do not pinch anywhere. In addition, your running clothes should be comfortable and breathable and this should include a hat (preferably a cap made with mesh to allow for breathing).
Tip 3: The Swim
For many, the swim is often the most challenging part of the race, and for new triathletes this is certainly the case. If you are new to swimming, I would highly recommend consulting your local swim club and inquire about swimming lessons or jump online and check out many of the valuable swimming resources on the internet. Swimming is a very technical based sport, so any improvement in technique can take minutes off your swim time and leave you with more energy.
The key is to start your swim training slowly, start with short distances and have adequate recovery time. It is much better to start with shorter training amounts in your early phases of swim training than to overdo it and risk an injury. In a very short time, just two to three weeks, you will be more comfortable in the water and be more confident with swimming.
Your goal is to slowly increase your distance without taking a break. Each week you want to increase your swim distance by approximately 10% until you reach your race distance plus 10%.
Tip 4: The Bike
The cycling portion is the second leg of your triathlon race. A majority of triathletes find the bike leg of the triathlon the easiest part of the race. As with swimming, when you begin your cycle training, start with short distances and build toward the length of the bike leg, plus 10% that you will complete on race day.
The bike section of the race is the first opportunity that you get to hydrate and refuel. You want to train with the same food and hydration items that you will be using during the race. That way there will not be any surprises on the day with your nutrition.
If you have not done much cycling, you want to ensure that you get some practice on the road. You want to make sure that you are able to make turns and have correct balance on your bike.
The last thing to mention about your bike training is to train on the bike that you will be racing with as often as you can. The more you can train on the bike you will use during the race, the more confident you will feel on race day.
Tip 5: The Run
The run is the last part of the triathlon race. There are 2 types of training for the run: Firstly you need to improve your running distance, and secondly you need to learn how to run with tired legs, as you will have just completed the bike section of the race.
Improving your running distance is your first focus. If you are new to running than this process will take some time, so please be patient. Running is the most grueling on the body as your legs have to take the impact as your feet hit the pavement.
Your second focus is run training when your legs are already tired. This is generally achieved with "brick" sessions. A "brick" session is a bike ride followed by run session. The run does not need to be long, you are simply getting used to running after being on the bike. This will improve your stamina, leg strength and it will train your muscles to work after being on the bike.
I wish you loads of fun and success with your triathlon training and I hope you enjoy the experience of training and racing. Remember that the journey of a thousand miles starts with just a single step.
Jarrod Fritsch http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com
Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. Jarrod offers Triathlon Training for Beginners. Jarrod offers a unique approach to training and racing, one that cuts through the "mystery" of how to train and prepare for your triathlon racing. Jarrod understands the needs of the beginner triathlete and offers an approach to training that caters for the demands of a busy schedule.
If you want to learn more about preparing for your first triathlon visit http://www.MultiSportFitnessTips.com/offer and purchase my "Triathlon Training for Beginners" guide. This guide will demystify how to get started in Triathlon and prepare you for your first race.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Training-For-a-Triathlon---5-Top-Tips&id=6300147] Training For a Triathlon - 5 Top Tips
No comments:
Post a Comment