Triathalon Training

coloradomomof3

So, I have just signed up for my very first triathalon (sprint). I have wanted to try it for the past five years (since my last child was born). I am nervous, but excited about it as well. Yesterday, I went out for a "run"--I am not sure if what I was doing was actually running, but it iwas faster than a walk :laugh: Anyway, any Fab 40 Ladies ever trained for one and do you have any advice?

lemonhead66

I have never trained for a Tri but I have thought about it. Sounds like it will be a great challenge. I have trained for a completed a half marathon. Even though it was tough I enjoyed the training. I also had a great training partner. I wish you the best and keep us posted on your progress...I just may work up the courage to try it myself.

Motria

Are you a good swimmer? From what I've heard the swim portion can be the hardest - especially because training can't prepare you for being in the water, getting kicked in the head by other people. :noway: Anyway, you're in good company - I know plenty of people who get into marathons and such in their 30's and 40's. Good luck and have fun!

jkmccrea1

I have done a sprint tri and you'll find that there are people who train like a maniac and some who don't train at all. I think it all depends on the type of person you are. Personally I trained, because about the only thing I could do well was ride a bike (and not that fast).

I prepared for my training by reading books and watching videos and then creating a training calendar. I religiously stuck to the training calendar. I will say the toughest part is the swimming. Like "Motria" stated, nothing can prepare you for being in the water (be it open or a lake). I won't bore you with my swimming experience, lets just say, thank God for muscle memory and my stubbornness. If you have the opportunity to take some swim lessons I would do it. I took swim lessons after the fact and really wished I had those few tips I didn't get from reading or watching videos.

All in all training for a tri and then completing it is a wonderful experience.

If you're interested below are the books I read to motivate and teach me a little something:

"Transformed By Triathlon" by Jane Booth
Informative and inspiring

"Triathlon 101" by John Mora
Very informative. Great for beginners

"Triathlon Made Easy" by Zoe McDonald and Lisa Buckingham
Very, very basic. I like their 10 week training schedule because it is simple.

"Triathlon For Women" by Sally Edwards
I love the tone of the book. All around useful information

Good luck!

PJPrimrose

I did a half-marathon for cancer awareness/research. I thought it might help me enjoy running again (nope). I raised a decent amount of money and met some nice people so it was worth it. I am in a sport that I do train for (Tae Kwon Do). I don't want to come across as some kind of expert but I'd advise you to use your first try as a the testing waters of your ability rather than go all-out and risk injury. I agree with getting informed via books, internet etc... for information and see what works for you. Once you find your niche for triathlons then I'd go all-out and become competitive. Best of luck! Those look hard!