Every triathlete usually has a “weak” discipline. Swimming is often difficult for beginners, as fast swimming is not innate to humans and requires good technique. Swim-specific flexibility and coordination training with various buoyancy aids will improve basic speed and therefore long-distance speed.
Cycling should be one of the strongest disciplines, as more than half of the total competition time is spent in the saddle. The “round” pedal provides a balancing power transmission. The most sensible way to implement this riding technique is with kick pedals. The entry and exit should be practiced until the process is automated to avoid falls. Also for time reasons it is worthwhile to practice the changes between the sports. For competition, they are like a fourth discipline.
When running, it is important to increase performance by only about ten percent per week. It is considered beneficial to master forefoot and heel running. That way, if you have overuse problems, you can continue running with the other technique. Which style is the first choice, each athlete must try out and decide for themselves.
Basic equipment
In about three months, a beginner can become fit for the first short distance competition. To do this, you can not get around a certain basic equipment. If you want to spend a lot of money, you have plenty of options for this. But not everything is necessary at the beginning.
For swimming, well-fitting swimming goggles that do not fog up are essential. The goggles should stick to the eye sockets like a suction cup when pressed briefly. Furthermore, you need a swimsuit or pants. For the competition there are special swimming pants with cycling insert. You only need a wetsuit if it is prescribed by the organizer.
The most money you can spend on the bike. Professionals use carbon bikes with a special handlebar attachment to offer as little resistance as possible to the wind. For the beginner, however, a normal road bike or mountain bike will suffice. A comfortable, well-fitting bicycle helmet is a must. Breathable cycling outerwear can also be used for running.
When running, it is important to invest in the right shoes. For this, you should seek advice from a specialist retailer. Triathlon is time-consuming and organizationally demanding. It is best to join a training group where beginners can benefit from the experience of others. And once the fascination has gripped you, the first competition that you finish as a “finisher” is not far away.
