So you don’t know how to train for a triathlon but you want to compete. Beginner triathlon training can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to feel like you’re getting in over your head. Triathlon training demands a lot of both your time and your body, so don’t push yourself too hard right at the start. No one can run, bike, and swim their way through a triathlon without proper preparation. So, before you begin your triathlon training, remind yourself to be patient—this is a process.

Getting Back to Basics

Before you start a hardcore training regimen, make sure to start with the basics. A triathlon consists of swimming, running, and biking. If you don’t know how to swim, or you haven’t ridden a bike in several years, start there. Brush up on the necessary skills before you try putting them to the test during a big race. Especially if you need to get a few strokes under your belt before you start triathlon training, first find a local swimming class at a gym or recreation center to start.

As you begin your triathlon training, try incorporating all three activities into your workouts at least three times a week.

The Race 101

Not all triathlons are created equally, and, if you are a triathlon beginner, do not start out in a race that has an open swim event. An open swim is more difficult than a triathlon pool swim, and if you are not experienced in triathlons or are not a strong swimmer, open swim triathlons are not recommended.

Look at the bike route for the race and make sure that there aren’t too many hills or sandy areas to bike through. During your first triathlon, these difficult bike paths can feel insurmountable, and it’s best to start a little easier and work your way up.

Also be sure to check the race cut off time — the maximum amount of time you are allotted to finish the race. If the cut off time is less than two and a half hours, consider finding something with a larger window of time for your first race. You can always work your way up as your speed improves.

You can find a triathlon locally, or use this site.

Beginner Triathlon Training

Beginner triathlon training can be done in several different ways. Explore all of the available options and pick a method that works best for you. Many individuals use a personal trainer to help them begin their triathlon training. A personal trainer can help you train in a completely individualized way, which sets you up for success.

Not interested in hiring a personal trainer? There are several free triathlon training schedules available online that will help you get up and get going. Try this schedule, one of these, track down your own, or give a triathlon training app a try.

As you start training, make sure you have a support group ready to cheer you on and help you out when the training gets tough.

Take Care of Your Body

You can’t compete in a triathlon if you’re bent, broken, and bruised. When working out, listen to your body and don’t push yourself too far. Make sure to eat a healthy balanced diet while training, and do not deprive your body of any needed nutrients or carbohydrates.

After a training session, care for your sore and tired body. Using tools like a heated massage roller or a heated wrap can help your body relax and recover. A Moji heated massage roller can help you target sore areas of your body and give you the relief you need to keep on training. Our goal is to keep you competing, so give our quality products a try when your muscles start aching.

If you are injured during training, seek medical attention. Pushing through the pain is admirable when your body is healthy, but, when you are injured, pushing through only causes more problems and lasting damage.

If you want to race and excel, you have to put your body first.