Beginners! Here are Some Important Things to Know Before You Start!

*** Check out the new page on Triathlon Strength Training ***

*** The WJCC Workout Page has been Updated on 23 Mar 09***

Beginners face a whole host of questions when trying to start training for their first triathlon. Sometimes though it helps to take a step back. By that I mean learn the basics about the sport. What exactly happens at a race? The link below will give you a good overview.

What is a Triathlon?

A TRI NEWBIE'S STORYI remember my first race. It was a 6 hour mountain bike endurance race. I brought tons of food & water for the long day ahead. I road 35 miles that day. Now fast forward to my first triathlon. It was an XTerra off road tri. The event was a 500 yard swim, 12 mile mountain bike & a 3.1 mile trail run. A tough race to be sure but nowhere near as long as my previous race! I did however bring the same amount of food & water as I did for the endurance race. The other major difficulty was that swim start. I was totally unprepared for getting bumped around in the open water as you would expect for a person without any formal training!

How did I get through it? Why I did what any other well intentioned newbie would do: I guessed! I practiced the race distances, I purchased a wetsuit because I had a coupon for it. I ran in hiking boots. You get the idea. I want to help you avoid all of that craziness. These links will help you get off to a good start.

How Do I Start?

What Equipment Is Needed?

How Do I Find My First Triathlon?

FAQ's for Beginners