What is Triathlon?

A triathlon is an athletic event consisting of swimming, cycling and running over various distances.  In most modern triathlons, these events are placed back-to-back in immediate sequence and a competitor's official time includes the time required to "transition" between the individual legs of the race, including any time necessary for changing clothes and shoes.

As a result, proficiency in swimming, cycling, and running alone is not sufficient to guarantee a triathlete a competitive time: trained triathletes have learned to race each stage in a way that preserves their energy and endurance for subsequent stages.

If you are looking for a new challenge or a reason for exercising, there is no better activity than Triathlon.  Because of the three disciplines motivation remains high as there is always something new to learn and improve at.  The cross training required also helps to reduce the chances of becoming injured and the body is challenged both in the upper body as well as the lower body.

The standard distance is an Olympic Distance Triathlon which comprises of a 1.5km swim, a 40km cycle and a 10km run.  However, Sprint Distance Triathlons are usually held along side Olympic Distance events and these are for beginners and those who prefer shorter distance events.  The distances vary in a sprint but they tend to consist of a 400m - 750m swim, a 20-25km cycle and a 5km run.

For those mad people out there who think that an Olympic isn't hard enough for them they can try long course events.  These events are usually termed Half or Full Ironman Events or Middle Distance triathlons.  A half Ironman and a Middle Distance Triathlon is made up of a 1.9km swim, a 90km bike ride and a 21km run.  An Ironman Triathlon is double that - 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and a 42km run.

Triathlon is a diverse sport and as such appeals to many people.  If you fancy trying one for the first time then please feel free to conact either myself or Kathy.