How to Train for a Triathlon
Triathlons have come a long way since 1974, when 46 people competed in the first swim/bike/run race, held in San Diego, CA. If you’ve decided to try this exciting, addicting and challenging sport, you’re in good company—today, more than 2 million people participate in triathlons each year. To get ready, you’ll need a well-designed training plan that will increase your performance in all three areas, while also helping to keep you in healthy shape as you train. As always, be sure to consult with your doctor before starting any new training routine. Triathlon Distances Triathlons feature a wide range of distances. While this article focuses specifically on the introductory sprint distance, here’s a quick breakdown of all triathlon types: Sprint (16 miles): This is a great option for anyone new to the sport. Distances vary, but typically the swim portion is about 0.5 miles (750m), the bike is 12.4 miles (20km) and the run is 3.1 miles (5km). Olympic (51.5km...