What I Wish I Had Known Before My First Triathlon

Preparing for your first triathlon can be as daunting as it is exciting. It’s not just a race; it’s a multi-discipline challenge that requires careful planning and strategy. Here’s what I wish I had known before I tackled my first triathlon:

Preparation: Arrive Early—Really Early

Unlike a typical running race, a triathlon involves much more pre-race setup. Aim to arrive at least three hours before your start time. Why? You’ll need to:

• Set up your bike and gear in the transition zone.
• Put on your wetsuit (if required or allowed), which takes longer than you might expect.
• Familiarize yourself with the layout of the event. Often, the swim start is far from the transition zone, and knowing the routes in advance can save you valuable time and stress.
• Being early also gives you a chance to soak in the atmosphere and calm your nerves.

Swimming: Avoid the Chaos

The swim can be the most overwhelming part of a triathlon. I quickly learned that the inside of the loop (closest to the buoys) is where most of the chaos happens. You’re more likely to be hit by flailing arms and legs, which can zap your energy fast. To avoid this:

• Position yourself slightly outside the buoys. It’s a bit longer, but it’s worth the calm.
• Look for your "magic feet." These are the feet of a swimmer who is slightly faster than you with a steady kick. Stay behind them and let their movement pull you along. Just be respectful and avoid disrupting their rhythm.

Biking: Hydration is Key

The bike leg is the perfect time to replenish the fluids you lost during the swim. Unfortunately, I learned the hard way how crucial it is to secure your bottles properly. Another athlete knocked my bottles loose in the transition zone, and I ended up riding the entire course without water. Don’t make the same mistake—double-check that your hydration system is secure before the race starts.

In addition to hydration, focus on maintaining a high cadence with low resistance. This approach helps preserve your energy, so your legs don’t feel like lead during the run. Aim for 75-90 revolutions per minute, adjusting gears as needed to keep the effort manageable.

When approaching corners, remember to brake before entering and shift your weight to the outside pedal while leaning slightly into the turn. This technique ensures stability and allows you to exit the corner with more speed. Practicing these maneuvers during training can make a significant difference on race day.

Running: Keep It Simple

The run is the final stretch of the triathlon, and by this point, fatigue will be setting in. For longer distances, such as a half-ironman, I like to carry my own water and a small snack, like half a banana, to keep my energy levels up. For shorter events, like a sprint triathlon, your essentials are minimal—just your running belt with your bib, sunglasses, and running shoes. That’s all you need to hit the ground running.

Transitioning from the bike to the run can feel awkward as your legs adjust, so start at a comfortable pace and focus on finding your rhythm. Remember, every step brings you closer to the finish line!

Conclusion: It’s About the Experience

Did you know there are no Olympic records for triathlon? That’s because every race has its own unique conditions, making direct comparisons impossible. To me, this takes off a lot of pressure. A triathlon should be about enjoying a day in the great outdoors, testing your limits, and having fun.

So, go into your first race with an open mind, a solid plan, and the intention to soak up every moment. You’ve got this!