Triatlon @ 300+ Lbs?

princessputz

That's supposed to say Triathlon***

Hello fellow MFPer's;

So my friends and I have signed up for a triathlon coming up September 15, 2012. It includes the following:

750M swim
20.64 KM bike
6.4 KM run

Type: Flat

I'm 340 lbs at the moment but see this as a challenge a big one. I currently swim about a km in an hour (this is leisurely definitely not pushing myself), can bike 10km without dying, and can run at 4mph for about .5km before wanting to die. Is this something that I can accomplish or am I setting myself up for failure?

Also the entire group is about; 340, 360, 280, 240....LOL....

inetgirl

That's a great goal and if you don't finish first who cares...At least your going to try..

SERinDC

I have done a few triathlons and one of the greatest parts about the races is that there are people of every size, shape and age competing. A couple of recommendations of things that helped me are:

1. First build a base in each sport. Run, spin class, and swim (45 min-1 hr) every week from now until the race
2. Gradually increase your mileage and intensity in each sport. Around the end of March start doing outdoor weekend bike rides and add an extra day of running on the weekend (or swimming, depending which is weaker)
3. If there's a Tri Club in your area-- join it!!! There is nothing greater than knowing there's a bunch of other people crazy enough to have this same goal
4. Attend an open water swim clinic (preferably through the tri club) so that you feel comfortable because open water is much different than the pool and can feel daunting at first.

Age and weights are just numbers, but if you put your mind to it, you can do it! Be careful to increase exercise slowly to avoid injuries too. I have found triathlons to be one of the most inclusive and rewarding sports out there. Good luck!

Nopedotjpeg

It's doable for 7 months out. I would look up some beginner Triathlon training programs. I'm betting with all the training, you won't be 340 when it comes time for the tri either.

princessputz

Thanks everyone! I actually signed up and payed the due's....headed off to the gym tonight to start my "training" I'll be getting a book...can't wait!

chelso0o

I did this exact thing at 225lbs in July. 0.9mi swim, 25 miles bike, and 6.2mi run. 7 months is PLENTY of time to build up your cardiovascular endurance.