Tag Archive for: Kerrville Triathlon Festival

How to Get Your Best Race Photos

Look your best in your Kerrville Tri race day photos with these great tips

Lights, camera, action! 📸 In the thrilling world of triathlons, every heartbeat, every pedal stroke, every determined stride is a moment worth capturing. Whether it’s your first race at the Kerrville Triathlon Festival or you’re a seasoned pro, nailing that perfect race photo becomes part of the victory. But how do you freeze those split seconds of glory into a frame? You’ve trained hard for the race; now it’s time to make sure the camera catches you at your best! Dive into our insider tips and tricks, and let’s make those race photos as epic as your performance. 🏊‍♂️🚴‍♀️🏃‍♂️

Swim

1. Think about your form

Looking good, heading into transition at Kerrville Tri

We have professional photographers out along the racecourse to capture your best moments throughout the triathlon. Since you know photographs are being taken, attempt to tighten up your form during the swim. You’ll be pleasantly surprised at how awesome a mid-swim photo of yourself can be!

2. Be ready to Smile

As you are making your way out of the water into T1, you can count on one of our amazing photographers to be there to capture the moment. Pro tip: smile BIG! We love seeing our participants having a great time moving on to the next portion of the tri, and these are often some of the coolest photos we get from Kerrville Tri!

Bike

1. Check your positioning

Giving the camera a thumbs up and a smile on the bike

Flash a quick thumbs up to the camera when you see it along the bike portion!

Bike photos are an awesome chance to get a great close-up race picture. However, no photo is worth losing control of your bike. We know everyone has their favorite riding position to be in when in the saddle. Rather than changing the position you’re comfortable with, simply give the photographer a smile or a thumbs up when you cruise past them! You’ll be very impressed at how they turn out. Keep your eyes on the road and flash the photographer a smile when you pass them by!

Run

1. Position your bib in T2

To make sure your personalized bib can be seen in your race photos, place it in the front-center of your race tri suit or shirt.  This is also important for the automated photosystems to use this to tag your photos. This way you don’t have to sift through thousands of photos to try and find yourself, FinisherPix will do it for you!

2. Stand Tall

After the swim and bike portion, we know you’ll feel tired throughout the run course. This is when we tend to let our shoulders fall forward. But, when you see the photographers up ahead, stand up a little taller! No matter how you feel on the inside, this is a sure way to make you look effortless during the run portion.

3. Lengthen your stride

Running through the Kerrville Tri run course

Look at that stride!

Elongate the appearance of your legs by lengthening your stride for a couple of steps when you see a camera! You don’t want to do this for the entire run portion of Smokin’ Good Tri, but it won’t hurt for a couple of photos when you catch a glimpse of the camera (not to mention, you’ll love how long your legs will look in these photos)

4. Relax your face and think positive

We know, easier said than done, but start practicing now when you go out for your training runs. Make your cheeks soft and say the word “Money.” Give it a try in the mirror and see for yourself. Hopefully, you’ll already be smiling from all the fun you’re having during the triathlon, but when you see a photographer ahead of you relax your face and enjoy yourself! We can assure you, the pictures are bound to turn out fantastic! Giving the photographer a thumbs up, about to cross the finish line!

5. Have fun!

This is by far the most important thing to remember if you want some incredible race photos. If you’re having a good time, it’ll show in the pictures. The photographers are there to capture your accomplishments, so the most important thing to remember is to have fun! You’ll be able to look back at these photos forever, so it’s important to make the most out of your experience.

And there you have it! Your comprehensive guide to looking your best in every snap from start to finish at the Kerrville Triathlon Festival. 📸 Whether it’s a poised swim shot, a dynamic bike capture, or a triumphant run moment, these tips are your secret sauce to memorable race photos. Don’t forget, your biggest asset is the joy of the race itself – let it shine through, and the camera will do the rest. Ready to immortalize your incredible achievement? Pre-order your photos now with FinisherPix and lock in that great discounted price. See you at the finish line, smiling and ready for your close-up! 🏁 🎉

Follow these steps, and get ready to look your best in all your Kerrville Tri race day photos! Pre-order your photos now with FinisherPix to get a great discounted price!

Personal Mantras & Why Mindset Matters

“Mind over matter.” “If you can believe it, you can achieve it.” Hokey catchphrases or the real deal?

I say they’re the real deal! As a 30-something mom who loves multi-sport, I know perception turns to reality. Given the importance of having a positive mindset during the training, here are a few personal mantras and go tos that keep me kicking, pedaling, and jogging ahead, one foot in front of the other.

Find the Joy

Training should be fun. F-U-N. Luckily, I am an hour away from quiet country backroads. Once or twice a month, I make the drive to train out in that area, so I can take in new sights like horses, cows, and wildflowers. A change of scenery keeps training exciting.

For me, those quiet early hours or few miles of solitude set me up for the rest of the day. In a loud world of constant online and in-person distraction, 60 minutes of uninterrupted think time are always appreciated for getting my mindset centered.

If silence is not what I am craving, I appreciate a new playlist- will run for new tunes! Ever been jogging then bust a move at a crosswalk? It’s fun!

And some days, company is key.  If I can talk my non-triathlon husband into a few bike miles with me, even better. Find ways to incorporate your family, warm ups and cool downs included. Try stretching with a toddler on your back— hip opening.

Movement is the Gift

If I ever feel stuck in the never ending hamster wheel of training— looking at you long run, I shift perspective. Think back to an injury. If you cannot recall one, you are likely very young, or have yet to start training. Life happens. Shoot, I have broken a pinky toe on a coffee table. Nothing like a setback to remind myself that movement and a healthy body should never be taken for granted.

Race Day is Coming!

Did you sign up yet? I say, do it, then tell 3 people. Make it a definite date, and stay positive. When I feel negativity or nerves creeping in, I reframe it. Race day is the party- the payoff. The icing on the training cake- and a giant celebration  of every hard effort and sacrifice it takes to get there. You are worth it, and you can do it! And remember, tri races are like potato chips- you will never have just one.

Keep these ideas in your back pocket for the next time your mindset could use some re-aligning and keep chugging along, because race day will be here before you know it!

Written By: Heather Henley, Kerrville Tri Ambassador

Ambassador Blog: Training and Racing Over 50

If you bought a 50-year-old Porsche 911 everyone would say you bought a classic car, but when athletes turn 50 people tend to think they become junk heaps.

The athletes themselves know that training at 50+ can be just as rewarding and fun as racing when you are younger and stronger. It just takes a different focus, and your training needs to be modified, to fit your older and more worn body.

Specificity, strength, speed, and rest become the most important part of maintaining a racing lifestyle for an athlete over 50.

Specificity

Specificity is training to fit your racing.  It makes no sense to ride 100 miles if you are training for a 10-mile Sprint Tri, or swim 7 days a week when your swim is 500 yards.  Your training needs to be focused to fit your goals and the races you choose. If your races are long, then long, slow miles are in order whereas shorter races will call for more intense workouts of shorter duration. Your body can usually handle intensity OR distance but not usually both at the same time.

Strength

Every triathlete should be doing 2-3 days of strength training a week.  Triathlon has your body using muscles in a very limited range of motion for long periods of time. Strength training can keep your muscles balanced and help prevent injury.  No need to focus on the physique of The Rock.  Your strength training should be lower weight and higher reps.  Leave the high weight and low reps to the muscle-bound mirror watchers at the gym.

Speed

Speed is often forgotten as athletes age.  They tend to do lots of “Junk Miles” meaning they slog through a slow 20 mile ride or shuffle 10 miles on the run.  Those can be helpful on easy days, but on the hard days, you need to bring intensity.  Go to the track on your hard days and push your speed.  Do some hard and fast 100’s in the pool, or try out fins.  You only increase your speed by doing the activity at a higher pace. Keep in mind that your body cannot handle the same intensity as the younger athletes. Don’t try and keep up with the 30-year-olds at the track.

Rest

Rest is the most underrated training tool that triathletes have yet it holds so much power. Getting to a workout after a miserable night’s sleep and then pushing yourself is a recipe for injury and no fun.  You should try to get 7-8 hours of good solid sleep every night.  If you get up at 4:30, to meet your running group, you need to be in bed by 9:00 or even 8:30.  You can train yourself to go to be early. Getting your body to adjust to an early bedtime is just like any other training you do.

Racing and training over 50 can be incredibly rewarding. When you pass another 50+ athlete you always get a “hey” or head nod.  They know what you are doing to still be active, and fast, and they appreciate it.  It’s like joining a Porsche Club for classic cars only you have joined the club of Athletes Over 50. These club benefits are the most rewarding you will find.

Persistence can be your secret weapon.

 

Author Bio: Steve Mallett has been racing triathlons since 1984 and has completed over 120 races.  He has completed many 50 mile running races and in 2019 completed the Rim to Rim to Rim in the Grand Canyon.  He loves training with new and veteran athletes.  Steve has the nickname Realtor Runner, is a former USA Triathlon coach, a Kerrville Triathlon Ambassador, and is a member of Team Zoot.

Understanding the Different Types of Bike Pedals

When it comes to choosing bike pedals, you need to consider the best option to meet your needs depending on the kind of riding you’ll be doing. It’s all about personal preference and what you feel most comfortable with. If you’re in the market for some new pedals, keep reading to understand the different types of bike pedals to figure out which ones are right for you.

Types of Pedals:

There are two basic types of bike pedals: Flat and Clipless. Flat pedals are the more common of the two when it comes to triathlon because you wear regular running shoes with this type of pedal. Which is great and convenient for the bike to run transition. Clipless pedals are great for athletes who want to feel more at one with the bike. With these pedals, you’ll need to wear special cleats that clip into the specific type of pedal system that’s compatible with your cleats.

Different Benefits:

Flat Pedals

There are many benefits of flat or platform pedals. Any type of shoe you decide on will work with this type of pedal. They’re great for a quicker bike-to-run transition because, without changing shoes, you eliminate the need to spend any more time in transition.

Flat pedals also reduce any anxiety you may have about falling over during the bike leg. You can put your feet down to catch yourself, as opposed to if you were clipped into the pedals. Lastly, this is the more common and affordable option of the two kinds of pedals. Flat pedals can be found for $10 – $40.

 

Clipless Pedals

There are also many benefits of a Clipless Pedal (clipless means clipped in). Increase your speed during the bike portion by being clipped into your bike pedals. This allows you to take full advantage of your pedal stroke, which in turn allows you to ride faster once you have mastered the push and pull of it.

A smoother more efficient pedal stroke will lead to better average power output. Being clipped in can actually keep you a little safer while riding because it reduces the chance of your foot slipping off the pedal while climbing, descending, or fatigued. There are endless options when it comes to choosing clipless pedals if that is the

You can go clipless right from the start or use flat pedals until you are more comfortable in the saddle. There are benefits to each type of pedal, but the important thing is to choose what is more comfortable for you. Whatever you choose, spend time becoming familiar with your bike pedals to maximize your efficiency on race morning of Kerrvile Tri!

Chain Skipping? This May Be the Reason

Learn what causes skipping chains and what you can do about it

There are two main causes for skipping chains. The most common cause is the misalignment of the rear cogs and the chain itself. The second most common cause of skipping chains is wearing on the chain, cassette, and/or the chainrings. Read below to see what causes each and how you can prevent chain skipping and extend the life of your bike.

 

There are several things that can cause the misalignment of the rear cogs and the chain.

  • Improper cable tension. When the tension is incorrect the chain does not sit in line with the corresponding cassette cog and is trying to jump to the next cog. 
  • Dirty cable. The dirt prevents the cable from moving like it needs to. 
  • Slightly bent hanger for the rear derailleur. Can affect the alignment.

 

Skipping chains will wear on the chain, cassette, and/or the chainrings. The chain is the most likely to wear out first since it is made entirely of small, moving parts. Those parts tend to wear out faster when they are dirty or ridden dry. Chains on most modern drivetrains usually last anywhere from 1500 to 2000 miles. This can change depending on your riding style and how well you maintain your bike. If you keep your drivetrain clean and you tend to spin at a slightly higher cadence then you will get more mileage out of your chain. Follow these six steps to clean your drivetrain.

 

When the chain wears, it no longer sits evenly on the cassette cogs and chainrings. As this goes on the chain will eventually start to jump since the chain wears much faster than the cassette and chainrings. If you let your chain go too long it will start to wear down the teeth of the cassette first and then the chainrings. If the chain is replaced before it is too worn the cassette and chainrings will outlast the chain many times over. You’d much rather want to replace your chain than the cassette and chainrings.

 

Pro tip: Use this bike tool to measure chain wear at home. 

 

Increase Your Run Mileage with these Tips

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Build your endurance and become a better runner when you increase your run mileage

It’s been said that running is addictive. It’s also the final leg of triathlon, when you’re most exhausted. We want to go fast, push the boundaries, and better our overall time. Running longer distances is one way to learn about mental fortitude and finish your next triathlon strong. With swimming and cycling, your goal to increase your run mileage can be overwhelming when you look at the goal by itself. But we’re here to help every step of the way! Follow our guidelines and the tips below for the best way to increase your run mileage. It’s the best way to grow as a runner, reduce the chance of injury, and work towards your big goal! Pro tip: build this into your overall training plan for optimum results. Pro tip: get a new pair of shoes before you increase your run mileage if your current pair has too many miles.

Do the work – (EVERY DAY)

This is self-explanatory! Whether it’s a rest day or your longest run ever, you have to do the work. You don’t need to set records or PR every time, but you do need to be consistent. That’s how you’ll build your running stamina and teach your body to run further and further. If there’s a day where you just can’t squeeze in a run or workout (because life happens), don’t stress. Don’t try to make it up the next day. Squeeze in a foam roll or stretch session if you can and keep moving forward with your plan! Pro tip: check out these 6 motivational tips if you need a boost.

REST – (1-2 times per week)

If your training plan calls for a rest day, TAKE THE REST DAY. This allows your body the chance to recover from the previous swim, bike, or run. If you get the itch to do something, make it active recovery. Foam roll throughout the day. Set aside time for deep stretching. Take an online yoga class. Those three options will speed up the recovery process and get you ready for the next day.

Build your running stamina – (2-3 times per week)

As you increase your run mileage, you learn to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Every new long run represents a new PR for your longest run. As you hit new distances, it’s important to remain focused on form and technique. Don’t get sloppy! Remain as efficient as possible at the end of your run. Focusing on your form will allow you to generate power efficiently. This will also help with your body’s ability to consume oxygen. Brick workouts are another great way to build your stamina. Running after cycling or swimming will introduce your body to running when you’re tired. Brick workouts will prepare you for race day.

Increase body strength – (2-3 times per week)

You’ll need to prepare your body for running longer and longer distances. Break up running workouts with weight workouts. You don’t need heavy weights. Focus on lighter weights with higher repetitions. You want to push the body, burn fat, and build lean muscle. Working muscles differently than when you’re running is critical. It helps prevent the overuse of the same muscles. No weights? No problem. Focus on body resistance exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, squats, and lunges.

Set smaller goals – (1 time a week)

On a weekend morning, when it’s coolest, push yourself to run further than you did last weekend. Do this alone if needed, but running with a friend has tremendous benefits. When preparing to increase your mileage, setting that small goal of going longer than before teaches your mind and body it’s capable of completing longer distances.  You’ll eventually see that last week’s distance that was difficult is now easier. Over time, what was once thought impossible will become your warm-up. Slowly but surely increasing your mileage will put you in a prime position to run further and further. Pro tip: one speed workout a week will help you on your long runs.

There are many other factors that can impact how you increase your run mileage: diet, hydration, nutrition, cross-training, injuries, etc. Those items can be built-in and managed as you progress. Just remember, you don’t just wake up and run longer distances. Persistence and consistency are needed. Do you listen to music when you run? Add these 5 songs to your next playlist!

How to Stay Motivated on the Indoor Trainer

Crush your rides on the indoor trainer and stay motivated with this advice

Indoor trainers are a great way to stay fit and on top of your training. You can catch up on your favorite show, keep an eye on the kids, or avoid cycling in inclement weather. Using your indoor trainer is a great way to avoid air pollutants and the dangers of traffic. Hop on your indoor trainer and keep working towards your goals and continue to track your progress. You can set your own pace and follow what’s on your training plan. Select the resistance levels and choose your mileage to mimic an outdoor ride. During unfriendly cycling weather, indoor trainers provide a great way to maintain your training schedule. The tips below will help you stay motivated when riding your indoor trainer.

Pro tip: train with what’s most optimal for you and your budget. Learn about the difference between trainers and rollers. The advice below can apply to both of them!

Set a goal for your ride

Whenever you swim, bike, or run during training you should have a goal set. Whether it’s time, distance, or level of difficulty, accomplishing a small goal will help with your larger goal. You should do this whether you’re cycling outdoors or using the indoor trainer. Target your ride, distance, intensity, and resistance levels to help you accomplish your goal.

Take a break

Breaks work wonders and can make your triathlon training session more engaging. Simply get off for a few minutes. You can stretch, hydrate, grab something to eat, and get back to riding. Your body will feel more refreshed after a quick break. A break from the indoor trainer can be just like stopping at a gas station on your long ride to refuel.

Listen to your favorite upbeat music

Let’s be real. Music helps improve our focus. Pick up the earbuds or headphones and switch on some adrenaline rush inducing tunes right away. Listening to music is much safer on your indoor trainer than the open roads. You should never listen to music when cycling on the roads. You need to listen to your surroundings and be completely aware of what’s going on. But if you’re on the indoor trainer, add these 5 songs to your playlist and crank it up!

Catch up on your favorite TV shows

You can multitask with ease. This is one of the distinctive benefits of using an indoor trainer. Busy schedule keeping you from the latest season of your favorite show? Turn it on during your workout and the miles will fly by. If your training calls for a longer ride, click play on one of these sports movies on Netflix. This way you don’t have to mess with changing the channel or choosing another episode on your long ride.

Virtually ride with others through an app

Ride with your friends on your indoor trainer with a cycling app like Zwift.

Training in the digital world has its perks, especially if you’re riding indoors. If you can’t ride outdoors, there are many apps that allow you to complete a tough workout or ride virtually with your friends. You can even cycle anywhere in the world! This is a great way to stay motivated and switch up your indoor trainer routine. If you plan to use the app Zwift, check out this helpful guideline to get started.

Reward yourself

Just like any training, make sure to reward yourself. This will help keep up your motivation. Rewards for crushing smaller goals should be the same whether you’re outdoors or not. Your big goal is rewarded by crossing the finish line. Make sure you reward those smaller goals to keep chasing the larger goal! You could book a massage or get take out from your favorite restaurant.

In the digital era, indoor training has become far more engaging than we can imagine. You can catch up on your favorite shows, ride anywhere in the world, or challenge your friends. You’re also able to mimic various elements of your training plan, including resistance, difficulty, and duration. This helps you maintain your training and stay on track. Make sure you reward yourself when you hit those smaller goals on your way to your bigger goal!

Why Triathletes Should Work on Bike Skills

Improve as a cyclist and ride as safely as possible when you master these bike skills

It is not “just riding a bike.” Everyday bike skills will not make you a better cyclist, but they can provide the foundation for you to improve. For triathletes, you can’t take advantage of speed if you don’t master certain bike skills like shifting gears and handling turns. In triathlon, every second matters. If you can get better at handling your bike, then you can potentially shave minutes off your time. Ride safely and improve as a cyclist when you master these bike skills. Pro tip: for added safety, memorize and follow the cycling rules of the road.

Practice these bike skills

Be energy efficient

Cyclist rides in an aero position, smiling at the camera, during the 2018 Kerrville Triathlon. Credit Ed Sparks.

Riding in an aero position allows you to be more energy-efficient. Credit – Ed Sparks

When you ride fast, aerodynamics play against performance by way of air and wind resistance. Proper body positioning on the bike can reduce wind resistance and make you more energy efficient. The smaller you can make yourself on the bike, the less wind resistance. If you can continue to maximize your power output in this position, you’ll save more energy for the rest of the ride and the upcoming run. Pro tip: minimize the amount of time you’re sitting up and stay in the aero bar more to reduce wind resistance.

Shifting gears

The difference between a pro and an everyday cyclist is their ability to shift gears at the most appropriate time. This is a skill that most triathletes may take for granted.

Below are the three secrets in exploiting situations using gear shifting skills

  • Climbing: Don’t go to an easy gear directly. Shift gears in their sequence as the climb advances to maintain momentum and efficiency.
  • Change gear after accelerating: You know from experience that it is easier to rev a fast gear than a heavy gear. Increase the tempo of the gear to shift into a heavier gear to overtake or a similar maneuver.
  • Heavy gear: While riding with a group, change to a bigger gear for a steadier pace that saves energy.

Passing other cyclists

Cyclist takes the corner for the final turn before transition at the Kerrville Triathlon. Credit Ed Sparks.

Get out as wide as you safely can when handling a corner. Credit – Ed Sparks

As a USAT-sanctioned event, Kerrville Triathlon abides by all of their rules. The passing rules should be followed on training rides too. 

  • Keep three lengths between the cyclist in front
  • Pass on the left, never the right
  • Complete within 15 seconds

Handling corners

Mastery over this skill can help you maintain as much speed as possible. Follow the below steps to maneuver corners like a pro.

  • Launch into a corner in an open curve
  • Hook the peak point of the bend
  • Get out as wide as you safely can
  • If you need to slow down, do it before entering the corner
  • Never apply brakes while in the bend

Hydrating

Cyclist rides during the rain with her hydration bottles visible during the Kerrville Triathlon. Credit Ed Sparks.

Make sure you have plenty of hydration with you for longer rides. Credit – Ed Sparks

This is often the toughest skill to master for most cyclists. When practicing this, start off at a slower speed and build your way up. If your bottle is in a rack below you, get some speed and stop pedaling. As you coast, focus on your balance. With the hand you’re most comfortable with, reach down and grab your bottle. Maintain balance of the bike with the other hand. Drink and place the bottle back. Repeat as necessary until you become more familiar. Increase speed and add pedaling as this move becomes more natural. Pro tip: this blog further breaks down how to hydrate while you ride and highlights the best items for just that.

Fixing a flat

Don’t get caught stranded because of a flat tire. This information is valuable whether you’re racing or on a long training ride. To fix the flat tire of a bike, follow the below procedure. Make sure you’re prepared for anything and when you have these essential items in your saddlebag.

  • Remove the wheel from the bike and take out the tube
  • Closely inspect to find the puncture, check for embedded objects
  • Replace the tube with a spare or patch it up
  • Put everything back and continue riding

Set aside time every day to practice these bike skills. You will get better over time, especially as you become more familiar and comfortable with each skill. Before you know it, you’ll show others the tricks you come up with to make cycling easier for yourself.

How Long Do Running Shoes Last?

Learn how long running shoes last and see if it’s time for a new pair

Running shoes are designed to be tough. They protect you from many surfaces, give you hundreds of miles, and support your feet and joints. However, they suffer repeated pounding and won’t last forever. On average, you will need a new pair of running shoes every 300-500 miles. This amount varies with each runner. While some runners may need to change their shoes every 300 miles, several others may not require a new pair after 500 miles. All miles aren’t the same and there are many factors that determine the lifespan of your running shoes. Pro tip: keep your motivation high with these running quotes.

How to tell if your shoes are worn out

Normally you can tell your shoes are worn out by simply looking at them. As the shoes break down your body will also tell you it is time to get a new pair.

Wear on the bottom: your shoes won’t perform their job if they’ve lost their tread or there are tears or holes in the fabric. The cushion will also decrease over time. As that happens, your body will feel more of the impact during your run.

Discomfort or pain: if you feel aches or experience discomfort even after a few miles, it means your shoes have aged. This mostly happens when the midsole foam loses its bouncing ability, making you feel like there’s nothing under your feet. 

Blisters: you may develop blisters if you wear a pair of worn-out shoes.

How long do running shoes last?

Typically, running shoes last anywhere between 300-500 miles. There are runners that replace their shoes every four months, but a general rule of thumb is to replace them every six months. Keep in mind this depends on how many miles you run and where you complete them.

Track your miles

You can easily track the mileage through smart devices. A smartwatch is the perfect example. There are also apps developed for runners. Simply register your running shoes, manage and track with the click of some buttons! Pro tip: MapMyRun syncs with various Under Armour running shoes that have Bluetooth connectivity.

Tips to make your shoes last longer

Get a separate pair for different activities. If you cross-train or run trails you should have separate pairs of shoes for different activities. Do not use your running shoes for walking or wear them during a strength workout. Running shoes won’t last forever and having different pairs can extend the life of your shoes. Pro tip: learn about brick workouts and how changing into running shoes can help you practice transition.

Get fitted by a professional

Get help from a knowledgeable person at your local running store when buying a new pair. They can determine the best pair or the best fit for you based on your arch height, foot size, and need. 

Take care of your shoes

Avoid exposing your shoes to extreme temperatures. After each run, clean and store them in a dry place. A little care will go a long way in extending their longevity.

Common Misconceptions about Triathlon

Don’t let these common misconceptions about triathlon keep you from your next adventure

If you’re new to triathlons or can’t decide if you want to participate in one, it’s probably because you have some questions. We’re here to debunk common misconceptions about triathlons. With all the craziness of everyday life, adding triathlon training can seem nearly impossible. Whether you don’t have the time, resources, or you doubt your abilities, we are here to tell you that you can do it by breaking through these common misconceptions about triathlon.

It’s too expensive

The great thing about your first triathlon is you probably already have all the gear you would need! Let’s start with the basics. A swimsuit and goggles are all you need for the swim portion. We will provide you with a swim cap based on your age group and/or division. You may think you need an expensive racing bike, but any bike that will get you from A to B is just fine! If you don’t have a bike, that’s okay too – you can rent one or borrow one from a friend. Top it off with any bike helmet and you’re all set! For the run, you just need shoes, which you should already have. That’s it! You’re ready to tri. Pro tip: if you plan to buy a bike, make sure you follow our dos and don’ts of bike buying.

Training takes too much time

A sprint distance tri does not require as much training as you may think. Depending on your current swimming, cycling, and running abilities, you will know what areas you need to focus on. With that being said, you can train as little as 3 to 5 workouts a week (2 swims, 2 bikes, 1 run) to get you race-ready. Focus on your weakness and complete more of those workouts as needed. If your days are limited during the week, incorporate brick workouts and complete two disciplines in one day.

Must be a super athlete

Triathletes come in different ages, shapes, and sizes. If you can swim in a straight line, ride a bike, and put one foot in front of the other, you can complete a triathlon! According to USAT, the average age of triathletes is 38. The second-largest age group of participants is 40-44. It’s never too early or too late to start your tri journey. The Debra Zapata Sprint triathlon is ideal for beginner triathletes. It gives you a chance to get comfortable with the sport before attempting a long-distance race. Pro tip: learn about the different distances of triathlon.

Have to be able to swim, bike, and run

If you want to participate in a tri, but cannot complete one of the legs for any reason, you can still race! Get together a relay team of 2 to 3 people. You can divide up the work while still getting to experience a tri. We also have an Aquabike option available if you know you cannot complete the run portion.

You need a coach

There are endless options of free training plans online created by professional coaches for every distance triathlon. Once you find one, stick to the training plan and trust the process. Having a coach is great if you are trying to improve your time. But with all the resources out there, a coach is not necessary for your first tri. 

We’ve broken down common misconceptions about triathlon and now it’s time to get started. But before you do, read about other people’s first triathlons and learn about their experiences. High Five Events’ very own employees Laura, Tina, and William recount the experiences of their first triathlons, the good and the bad!