The triathlon is one of the greatest tests of physical strength and endurance. A triathlon consists of a swim followed by a bike ride and run. The length of each portion can vary depending on the specific event. Regardless of length, it takes a lot of training to get the body into the condition it needs to be in to complete a triathlon.
Beginner triathletes should gradually increase the number of minutes and miles that they swim, bike and run each week. It’s best to increase by 10 percent each week so that you don’t risk an injury. For example, if you run two miles the first week, the second week you should run 2.2 miles.
Stretch carefully before starting your workout, this also helps reduce the risk of injury by warming up your major muscle groups. Also, listen to your body. Get lots of sleep during your training phase and if you feel run down at the start of your workout, don’t push too hard.
During swimming training, you can always revert to an easy stroke like a breast stroke if you feel tired. Do several swims at the length you will actually face in your triathlon so that you know are capable of going the distance. This also applies to the run and bike portions.
If possible, get familiar with the course before your triathlon. Even if you can’t train on the course, go through it at least once so that it is not all foreign to you on the day of the race.
Do not ramp up your training sessions during the two weeks prior to the race. At that point, your body is as ready as it is going to be for the triathlon.
You shouldn’t make major changes to your diet either. If you’ve been following a sensible diet plan throughout training, you’ll have sufficient energy to get through the triathlon.