Beginning Triathlete - Important Triathlon Training Tips

 By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=David_M._Waters]David M. Waters
Are you a beginning triathlete looking to get ready for your first race? Perhaps you have done a few triathlons already and you are looking to be better prepared and to improve your performance. Being well trained and well prepared are vital to your success and enjoyment of this great fitness event.
As a beginning triathlete the very first thing to do is to plan and select a race to compete in. Perhaps a Sprint triathlon or one that is categorized as a Mini triathlon will be best suited for you. The official Sprint distances as determined by the International Triathlon Union and USA Triathlon are 750 meters (.47 of a mile) for the swim, 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) for the bike and 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) for the run. The very best approach to triathlon training is to set up a structured workout schedule and then stick to it. This will yield great fitness benefits as well a satisfying feeling of accomplishment as you successfully complete each week of training. Planing your triathlon program about three months prior to the race is a good idea. Be sure to tapper by resting the last few days before the race.
Most triathletes will always tell you which of the three activities is their weakest event. It is a good idea to give that discipline more attention then the ones you are better at. Do not make the mistake of thinking that you just need to swim lots of laps, bike great distances and run many miles. The quality of your training is more important then the quantity. Keep in mind that it is very important to avoid over training. Your body's fitness level improves by adapting to the stress you apply. This adapting and recovery actually takes place from your rest (days off or easy days), proper nutrition and adequate sleep. Also you should listen to your body to avoid any overuse injuries.
One of my favorite training tips for the beginning triathlete involves the beginning of the run. During a triathlon race you will definitely be pushing yourself hard on the bike and then when you start the run your legs will feel very odd. The start of the run is often considered the hardest part of a triathlon by many folks. Your quadriceps muscles are very fatigued and your legs are used to doing the circular motion of peddling, not the running stride. After running for several minutes your legs will actually feel much better. In some of your training sessions try going into a run immediately after a bike workout. This does not need to be long run or even considered one of your running workouts but just long enough so you can get your legs used to this difficult "cycle to run" motion change.
Another very useful tip to get ready for a triathlon (as well as many other activities) is to perform mental practice of the event. While in a relaxed setting mentally visualize yourself going through everything you will encounter, from the very start to the finish line. Think about how you will feel and how you will perform. See yourself achieving your race goals. Plan in detail your transition activities. Come race day it will be very helpful benefit to have already completed the race in your mind. Now your body just has to perform what is already programmed in your brain!
Also be sure you know the race course. Knowing what to expect on the course (turn-arounds, transition areas, hills, water conditions, etc) will help immensely. The USAT website has triathlons rules listed and these are also something you need to be aware of. By following these simple tips the beginning triathlete can be well prepared for your next event. Have fun and be safe!
Do you want to really be ready for an upcoming triathlon? Get the maximum fitness benefit from your training efforts, be well trained and prepared by visiting [http://www.squidoo.com/training-for-a-sprint-triathlon]Training for a Sprint Triathlon.
David Waters has a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from the University of Massachusetts and is the author of The Fitness Center Handbook.
In addition he is an expert outdoorsman with extensive experience in fishing, hiking and camping. He is also a founding member of [http://www.nahannicampingandfishingclub.com]The Nahanni Camping and Fishing Club.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Beginning-Triathlete---Important-Triathlon-Training-Tips&id=6156478] Beginning Triathlete - Important Triathlon Training Tips