Critical Tips for a Beginner Triathlete

Introduction:

Every sport needs some basic rules and tips for success. Triathlon is no exception. In the wake of modern technology and triathlon gears, every triathlete needs to have a solid knowledge and background of the game.

Know Triathlon Rules:

It is said ‘learn the rules like a pro to break them like an artist. The purpose of rules is to define what is permissible or not permissible to follow during in-game circumstances. Rules oversee whatsoever from wearing proper uniforms, to making the transition from one phase of the game to the next, etc. The triathlon includes Swimming, Cycling, and Running. The target is to complete all sections in the shortest possible time. Certain rules are mentioned below.

• Rules Related to Race Types:

• A triathlete has to go in the order of swimming, cycling and then running as a rule of the game.
• Every triathlete will have an identity number, and a corner will be assigned to that number where all the logistics like towels, bike shoes etc., are to be available.
• Race organizers can have a session of information sharing. In this meeting, hazards or difficulties of the track may be discussed.
• If a triathlete wants to swim or make a rehearsal before entering into the game, he or she is allowed to do so.
• Once the race starts, every triathlete will be released into the water through different waves by the signal of a gunfire.
• Once swimming ends, then cycling starts, and running at the end.
• Usually, there are four different types of races which may vary in length.

• The first one is a sprint, with a maximum length of a 750-meter swim, 20-kilometre bike ride, and 5-kilometre run.
• International/Olympic has a 1500 meter swim, 40 kilometres bike ride, and 10 kilometres run.
• Half-Ironman Race/70.3 Triathlon Race: 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike ride, and 13.1-mile run.
• Full-Ironman Race: 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride, and a full marathon of 26.2 miles.

• Rules related to Gadgets: 

• No triathlete is allowed to use headphones.
• Triathlete number has to be visible.
• If the water temperature is below 60.8 degrees Fahrenheit, wearing a wetsuit is mandatory, but if it is above 84 or above, it is a rule not to wear a wetsuit.
• Wearing a helmet and chin strap in the cycling segment is a rule. The helmet needs to be approved.

• Rules related to Transition:

• A triathlete has to dispose of trash in the designated area.
• Transition is not a resting time. It is a rule to consume less time in transition period.
• It is advisable to remain for a shorter period in transition.

• Rules related to Cycling:

• Remain in your lane and keep a distance of three cycles behind the next rider except passing the next.
• While passing the next cycler, the cycler has 15 seconds and moves in the left zone.

Nutrition & Food:

Triathletes consume energy, therefore it is critical to maintaining a good and healthy condition. To be in perfect shape, you need to use a balanced and required diet. Medical sciences and nutritional guides are helping you to choose your diet. For example, focus on getting your carbohydrates from the natural source—select sources which are rich in fibres, minerals, and vitamins. Fruits, grains, beans, and multiple kinds of vegetables have better nutritional value than processed foods like pasta or other processed food. Take food that you feel gives you calories that are to be consumed rather than retained in the body, and you become overweight. Take a good breakfast, light lunch with salads, and take fruits or salad for dinner. The crux of the matter is maintaining a balanced diet pattern to be healthy, muscular, and in shape.

Gear it up: 

Once you know the rules and practice a balanced diet pattern with the practice of the game, you are free to enter the game. Make the right choice of things. Equip yourself with the approved standards and things. SUMARPO, a much friendly brand for triathletes, can help you know more about a perfect setup at the start. If it is a cycling race, make sure you have an easy-to-use bike with easy gears. Some tracks may be soft some may be harder. Make sure to have a start with a smooth gear and then go for a harder one.

Keep the faith:

Be confident and have a faith in yourself. The Spirit of the game is to focus on the target with confidence in your strength. Some moments may come where you will be disappointed, but never think about it.

Keep the transition simple:

Go with a mindset that transition spots are not resting spots. While intending to have a transition, leave your bike in the correct gear for an easy start. While making transitions, make sure to start as quickly as possible because time matters.

Find a coach for your training plan guidance:

Having a coach, in the beginning, is a better option. The coach will share the experience with you. A coach acts as your accountability standard. A coach is usually helpful in your down moments. Select your coach carefully. Your coach should have sports-specific knowledge as well.

Equipment checklist:

Before entering into triathlon, make sure to know all the equipment of all the triathlon segments. Using the right type of triathlon gear would make your journey much easier. Prepare a checklist and choose the best products available in the market according to the checklist. For example, use an entry-level wetsuit N-Joy for an easy start.

Conclusion:

For a perfect start as a triathlete, understanding rules, with firm commitment and faith, and using the right equipment is mandatory, of course, but above all, it is always advisable that competition may result in a win or loss, but compete is more important than winning it. You may have a tough time at the beginning that would never mean to stop there. It simply may challenge you if you can do it or not.