First, find a race that excites you! Think about race distance, weather, travel, and dates. Figure out how much time you can dedicate to training. Do you want to use a coach or rely on yourself to do the training? Have those answers? Sign up & start training!
Of course! We all start somewhere. We can help you get there one step at a time. Maybe you aren't ready for a race yet, but it's not out of the question. If you want to do it, it's possible.
Hard is relevant. You can conquer hard with your training because a race is supposed to push you.
However, the swimming tends to be the most intimidating for newcomers. So, getting comfortable in the water is the first big step.
1. Invest in a swim coach that can analyze your swim and help you correct form.
2. Work on drills that address your weaknesses.
3. Get in the pool more frequently! Make your workouts shorter and more focused.
1. Make sure each workout has a goal that challenges you!
2. Make sure to get regular strength work into your schedule - those quads have to be strong!
3. Make sure the bike is the right size so you can be as efficient & powerful on that bike.
1. Have your form analyzed by a professional. This can help prevent injuries and pick up on weaknesses that may be hindering your full running ability.
2. Make sure all workouts have a purpose or goal. Junk miles don’t make you a better runner.
3. Strength work is important to make sure your muscles and supporting structures are strong enough to take the repetitive pounding.
Investing in a coach definitely has benefits!! These include injury prevention from over-training, focused workouts to reach your personal potential, time management of training with life responsibilities, and individualized plans that are directed by your personal goals. Training without a coach is possible, but can be more time consuming as you have to do the work, research and then be in charge of analyzing yourself or how you’re doing.
Don't break the bank right off the bat. Figure out if you like it. The bare minimum you might even have laying around or can acquire with relative minimum investment. You'll need a swim cap, goggles, bike helmet, a bike (can be road, borrowed or used) and lastly, a good old pair of running shoes!
To start training, you want to have some kind of plan. It can be one that you found online or received from a coach. Make sure you have access to water - know the lap swim schedule! Scope out areas you can run or bike, it might also be a good idea to have access to a treadmill and bike trainer. Make sure you’ve had a physical or know that you’re healthy enough for exercise. Lastly, set those goals with a date and schedule workouts like you would a job or doctor appointment in your planner or calendar!