Selecting your first triathlon can be as challenging as the actual race. Triathlons are a strenuous and exciting way to push yourself physically and mentally, but if you’re new to the sport, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a triathlon race as a beginner.
- Distance: Triathlons come in a variety of distances, from sprints to full Ironman races. As a beginner, it’s important to start with a shorter distance race to get a feel for the sport and build up your endurance. Sprint triathlons, which typically consist of a 400 yard swim, a 12 mile bike ride, and a 5k run, are a great option for first-timers.
- Location: Consider selecting a race that is located in a place that is close to your home. This will hopefully help keep costs down but it will be a good way to make sure you’re comfortable with the logistics of the race as well.
- Course: Before signing up for a race, research the course. Look for a race that has a swim course that’s safe and well-marked, a bike course that’s not too hilly, and a run course that’s flat and easy to navigate. The race website should have a section dedicated to discussing the course as well as providing maps for you to review and in some cases course videos too. The Cal Tri Fort Worth course page is a perfect example of all the details on the race course in one location.
- Support: Look for a race that has a good support system in place, including aid stations, medical teams, and volunteers. This will give you peace of mind and allow you to focus on your race.
- Race atmosphere: Look for a race that has a supportive and welcoming atmosphere for beginners. Cal Tri Events is a perfect example with both virtual and in-person clinics to encourage and help ensure every athlete is ready for their race day. The clinics are a great way to meet other triathletes, get tips, and advice from more experienced athletes too.
- Race organization: Research the race organization and make sure they have a good reputation for putting on well-organized and safe events. Don’t forget to check their policies on transfers and deferrals too in case the unexpected happens. For example, Cal Tri Events has free race transfers, deferrals and participant transfers as late as the day before the race. Check out online reviews, social media and ask for recommendations from other triathletes too.
- Race entry fee: Don’t forget to factor in the cost of the race entry fee. Triathlon races can vary widely in price, so make sure you find a race that fits within your budget. But also don’t let the cost of the entry fee be the only consideration, since there may be options like the Volunteer One, Get One program offered by Cal Tri Events where you can earn a free race entry by volunteering.
- Training: Lastly, make sure you have enough time to train before the race. For your first event, the goal should be to complete the race and have fun. Don’t put the added pressure of trying to finish in a particular time. There will be plenty of additional races to worry about hitting a specific time. Not sure how to start then check out California Triathlon’s free training plans and workouts here.
By considering these factors, selecting your first triathlon will ensure the race is both challenging and enjoyable, and will give you the confidence you need to continue competing in triathlons in the future. And don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the experience!