The question “where should I start my triathlon training program?” should be your first question you should ask yourself. And since this question is your starting point if you want to become a triathlete, it is at the same time most difficult to answer. To somehow guide you on your decision making here are the things you should know:

Like learning a skill, you should know what particular point you are presently in. Are you a beginner? Have you already been doing some of the disciplines in the triathlon? Where is your weak point? Do you know how to swim? Do you know how to bike? Where are your strengths? Have you been doing all these and would only want to have a structured training? Have you just got up from your couch and manage to realize that you want to run, swim, and bike?

All these questions and many other questions related to identifying where to start your triathlon training program should be considered. This would let you identify where to start.

Where to start should coincide with your goal and your reasoning for why you need to train. The truth is, there are hundreds of ways and variations of training you can adapt. If you were unable to identify your goal, you will probably fail.

Set your goal, both short term and long term. In this way you know the limits of your training. If you have no plans of joining the Ironman, then skip the idea of running, swimming, and biking 6 days a week. You will only strain yourself and would eventually lead you to losing interest. If you were only making your entry to the 3 disciplines, then it would not be healthy if you start strong. Move gradually until you reach your goal.

Another reason why you should not start strong if you are only a beginner is the risk of injury. You simply cannot do couch-to-5k in one day.

If in case you have been training for some time and would like to enter a triathlon, you can start from where you are at present. Improve your skill from there but remember, you have to have a goal to follow and achieve.

Whether you are a beginner or have been training for triathlons for some time, one thing remains the same: you must have a goal to follow. And this would give you the idea of what type of tri training program you should choose.

Just because Triathlon involves three different disciplines as the name suggests, doesn’t mean that you have to be an elite athlete to enjoy the benefits of this type of exercise, whether you consider yourself  a “fitness freak” or a “coach potato” .

As a keen sports woman, I have always been interested in keeping fit and recently trained for my first Triathlon.  The training is varied and challenges different muscles and as a result, there is less chance of injury or strains.  If you are not competitive, there is no need to enter a race, just try and vary your exercise.

A triathlon consists of three sections as the name suggests; swim, cycle and run.  If you intend to compete you will need some equipment, namely a swimsuit and goggles, running shoes, shorts and t-shirt and a bicycle and helmet.

It is important to invest some time and money in your running shoes if you want to avoid injury.  It is advisable to go to a specialist running shop, where you will get professional help choosing a shoe that suits your foot.  A pair of running shoes should last about 500 miles.  Some triathletes wear a garment called a “tri suit”.  This is either a one or two piece outfit that is a cross between a swimming costume and running shorts and vest.  The advantage of this is that you don’t waste time changing out of your swimming costume into your running clothes after the swim section of the race.  A good quality bike helmet is essential and will be checked by an official before you race. You will not be allowed to compete without one. If you want to look good too, make sure the kit you buy is in your best colours, that way you will feel good before you even start.

If however you just want to benefit from the exercise and never intend to take part in a race you can easily do the bike and run section in the gym.

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for everybody.  The water supports your body so you are less likely to get strains or pulled muscles.  Very quickly you will find your body is more toned and you feel fitter.  The only disadvantage is that swimming is non weight bearing.

It is important to do some weight bearing exercise to keep bones strong and healthy.  This is where running or walking is vital.  Start gently and built up your speed and distance.  Fitness is quickly improved and bones strengthened.

Cycling is an excellent alternative to running.  It works different muscles and is great way to see the countryside around you.

There are triathlon, running, cycling and swimming clubs all over the world.  By joining one of these you will get the best advice, meet new people and get the motivation you need to keep going.

Remember that any training you do, you do at your own pace and for your own benefit.  Never worry about how fast and furious anybody else is going.  This is about you and your goals.