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Triathlon FAQ's
HELP! I am new to Triathlon!
Welcome to one of the most gratifying sports known to man or woman! If you are thinking about participating in your first triathlon ‘British Triathlon’ recommends choosing a novice event. These events are scattered nationwide and usually consist of a 200m-400m swim, followed by a 10km bike and concluding with a 3km run. In Triathlon typically the swim element is in open water but many of the novice events are swimming pool based. The best advice we can give you, is ask club members for their support and advice.
What are the typical Triathlon distances?
Triathlon distances are listed in the order they are participated in swim/bike/run. The distance may vary slightly from event to event.
Super sprint - 400m/10km/2.5km
Sprint distance - 750m/20km/5km
Olympic Distance / Standard distance - 1500m/40km/10km
ITU – Long Distance – 3k, 80km, 20k
Half / Ironman 70.3 – 1.9 km/90km/21k
Full / Ironman distance - 3.8km/180km/42.2km
How do I find an event?
Whatever your fitness goals, The British Triathlon’s website has the nationwide race calendar – so pick your event – and off you go!
www.britishtriathlon.org
As a beginner, what triathlon training equipment / gear do I need?
- A wetsuit is recommended for open water swimming
- Swim Cap
- Goggles
- A bike – Preferably a tri bike or a road bike
- A cycle helmet
- Running shoes
What should I eat or drink during a triathlon?
There are no set rules for race nutrition. Over time you will discover which race distance you prefer, how long you will be racing for and how fit and efficient your body is, all these factors contribute to finding nutritional harmony.
Most triathletes participating in Sprint and Olympic distance races favour carbohydrate drinks and sports gels, if you are doing a Half-Ironman or Ironman event you will need a more substantial supply of calories, including a mix of protein and carbohydrates. Drinking to suit the race conditions is important. High5 and Nuun have a great range of Electrolyte replacement drinks and tabs.
Most triathletes will have tried a variety of sports nutrition during training, therefore ensuring they have the ideal solution when it comes to the race. Most of the gels and bars we stock can be purchased individually, so you can try a selection without buying a box load! This way you can see what you find palatable, enjoyable and give your body what it requires.
Don’t forget, the team at Multi-Sports Store live and breathe triathlons, so feel free to call or email us for advice.
What is the difference between a tri bike and road bike?
Some of the differences include:
- Areo bars - A triathlon bike or tri bike has additional aero bars. Although these bars can be purchased separately and can be added to most road bikes.
- Seat geometry – a triathlon bike is designed to be more comfortable when ridden in an aerodynamic position using aero bars
- Tri bikes are designed with bar-end shifting, they can be reached without moving the hands from the aerodynamic position
- STI shifiting - Road bikes usually have STI shifting, which is when the brakes and gear (shifting) are integrated on the handlebars
- Tri bikes often have deep rim or disk wheels, which are more aerodynamic.
Is Triathlon an Olympic sport?
Yes, the multi-discipline sport made its debut at the Sydney Games in 2000.
Where are the Triathlon World Championships held?
The World Championships held annually in Kona, Hawaii in October for Ironman and Clearwater, Florida (November for Ironman70.3)
