BTC at the Bridgetown Triathlon - 2008
Have you been thinking that you’d like to do a triathlon? Maybe you saw Canadian Simon Whitfield’s inspiring performance at the Olympics last summer or maybe you just want to ‘go for it’. Whatever your reason, a question we often get asked is — How do I complete my first triathlon?
First, its a good idea to set a goal. It could be a specific event — how about participating in the Riverport Duathlon (run, bike, run) this October? A favourite at our club is either the Tri-a-Tri (300M swim, 10K bike, 3K run) or the Sprint (750M swim, 20K bike, 5K run) at Bridgetown the first weekend in August. Or maybe your goal will be to swim, bike and run at least once per week this summer. Whatever you decide, post it on your fridge and make the commitment to see it through.
Next up is the equipment. For the swim, you will require a bathing suit, goggles and a brightly colored swim cap. Any bike will do as long as it is safe to ride plus you will need a CSA certified helmet. For the run, it is really important to have a good pair or running shoes. Duathletes only have to concern themselves with the bike and run gear.
To prepare, you have to ease into a regular swim, bike and run practice routine. You get stronger by gradually increasing the amount of time you spend with each discipline.
Easy does it — one of the most common mistakes is to start too quickly and hurt yourself. To improve in multi-sports like duathlon and triathlon, it is very important that you consistently practice and for this, you have to be healthy!
Many newcomers find it very helpful to join a triathlon club. They benefit from:
- the experience of others
- the motivation from the energy of a group practice
- it provides an opportunity to connect with other people involved in multi-sport
The Bridgewater Triathlon Club’s summer practice schedule starts the first week in May and provides a weekly program to help new and returning athletes prepare for the 2009 season.
Good luck achieving your goal!
More:
