| FAQ's |
Beginner
1. How do I get started in Triathlon?
2. What type of bike should I use?
3. Do I need a specific cycle helmet?
4. Can I swim Breaststroke?
5. What clothing should I wear?
6. What are the different distances in Triathlon?
7. Will I be fit enough?
8. What are the main rules of Triathlon?
9. What is the age range of participants in Triathlon?
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How do I get started in Triathlon?
By looking at this website, you have already made a good first step. Joining your local Triathlon club will offer you the ability to gain an immense wealth of information and experience from seasoned triathletes, usually very keen to share their knowledge. |
What type of bike should I use?
Initially any safe, roadworthy bike will do. As most Triathlons take place on public roads the prefered choice of bike is a racing bike fitted with dropped racing handlebars, and slim road tyres. For the first couple of events just enjoy participating using whatever you have, mountain bike, touring bike, hybrid or racing bike. |
Do I need a specific cycle helmet?
There are many makes of cycle helmet on the market these days. Check that the helmet has a safety approved marking inside the helmet i.e. BSI, ANSI, SNELL. Use a reputable cycle shop and ask them to adjust the helmet for you, to correctly fit your head. An ill fitting helmet can be dangerous, always ensure the helmet fits comfortably and firmly on your head, chinstrap fastened with no excessive loose strap which would otherwise allow the helmet to move around. Please always wear a cycle helmet at all times when riding your bike, it is the most important safety item available for all cyclists. |
Can I swim Breaststroke?
Most novice triathletes do start out swimming breaststroke, it is perfectly okay to do this. In the long term it would be advatageous to learn how to swim frontcrawl as it is a faster and more efficient stroke. |
What clothing should I wear?
In the first instance, any comfortable clothing that you regularly exercise in will do. Lycra type sports clothing is beneficial as it easily dries out after being wet, it can be close fitting so it minimises drag both in the water and when on the bike. Ensure you will be comfortable without either overheating or getting too cold. Remember, all clothing that you have to put on after the swim, all takes time, so decide wether it is really necessary. |
What are the different distances in Triathlon?
There are 4 different standard distances in triathlon. They are:-
Sprint distance:- Swim 750 metres, Bike 20 Km, Run 5 Km
Classic distance:- Swim 1500 metres, Bike 40 Km, Run 10 Km
Middle distance:- Swim 1900 metres, Bike 90Km, Run 21 Km
Long course:- Swim 3800 metres, Bike 180 Km, Run 42 Km |
Will I be fit enough?
Providing you have exercised regularly for a period of time you should be fit enough to complete a sprint distance triathlon. Don't worry about being fast enough, there are always many new people taking part in triathlon for the first time, their main challenge being to complete the distance no matter what time it takes.
If you are in any doubt about your health and fitness, consult your own GP. |
What are the main rules of Triathlon?
The rules of triathlon are quite easy to understand.
For a printed copy of the rules Click here.... |
What is the age range of participants in Triathlon?
Triathlon is open to all ages and all abilities, this is one of the main points that appeals to many people. The youngest age to participate in triathlon is 8 years old, with no upper age limit, in fact there are a number of triathletes in the UK participating in their seventies, there has also been an 80 year old regularly taking part in a number of events. |
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