Tri Together is a sprint distance triathlon for people of all ages and abilities to swim, bike and run together in support of Leonard Cheshire Disability. For more information visit the Tri Together website.


Fancy a change from running events? Looking for a new challenge in 2012? Don't be put off by triathlon stereotypes, this sport caters for all comers.

Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK and is a great compliment to running training as it involves various distances of swimming, biking and, of course,  running, depending on the event. 

For most runners, Triathlon conjures up images of extremely fit, lean individuals in lycra with expensive bikes and funny shaped helmets. So it's no wonder many people secretly wish that they could do one but are too afraid to give it a go.  If you're tempted then you should know that you're not alone; in 2011 over 80% of Tri Together participants were first timers.

What is a triathlon?

There are various distances in triathlon. A sprint distance triathlon (400m swim/15Km bike/5km run) is ideal for beginners or novice triathletes or those in training for a longer distance. Other distances include standard, Olympic and Ironman. 

Aside from the gear, another common concern about triathlons is that they will take all day, but a sprint triathlon will take normal people just over an hour, going at a steady pace including some walking during the run section. Just about anyone can complete a triathlon of this size. There are even some triathlon events, such as Tri Together, that have a team entry option. Each team can comprise of two or three individuals who can share out each part of the course.

To the newcomer, a triathlon can appear to be a chaotic event. Competitors start at different times and sometimes compete alongside each other in different disciplines. Generally though, triathlon events are extremely organised and cater for different age groups and abilities, all of who are swimming, cycling and running their way to the finish line.  Many organisers also cater for paratriathletes in their handcycles or racing wheelchairs.

Although the distances of each event can vary - the basic structure of a triathlon is this:

Swim

For a lot of people the swim is often the discipline that causes the most anxiety. A 400m swim can be very off-putting to non-swimmers. If you haven't swum for a few years then start slowly with your training. Some swimming pools are quite shallow, allowing you to stand up at any time, something that will take a lot of the fear out of swimming. Start with short stretches of 10 to 15 metres. 



Bike

The bike leg is the easiest section to get ready for; if you are tired you can always free-wheel! Again, start slowly. A basic mountain bike and helmet is all that is needed. If you don't want to go on the roads, another good option is to use the cycles at your local gym.



Run

Yes, it is called a run, but you can actually walk. There is no rule that says that you must run the whole way. In fact, many people will walk some or nearly all of the run section. Make sure that you have some energy at the end so that you can look good as you run across the finish line!

Triathlon Transition

Triathlon is often described as having a fourth discipline, known as the transition. The transition is the point in the race when competitors change from swimming to cycling, and from cycling to running.

Transition 1 (T1) is where your bike is racked in a specially designated area.  Here you can lay out your cycling kit, shoes, socks, helmet and anything else you may need such as food and drink. The transition area is clearly marked and your bike must only be wheeled when inside it, a safety precaution for other competitors.

At the end of the cycle section, you enter Transition 2(T2) - which is very similar to Transition 1. You must dismount from your bike and wheel it back to the designated area and keep your helmet on until your bike is racked. Any clothing changes before your run take place in T2 and this is your last opportunity to take on any light food or drink that you may want before the finish. You exit T2 on foot as you begin the run section.

Beginners training for triathlon

If this is your first triathlon, getting started with your training might seem like a daunting prospect. Which to start with first? How should you split your time? Your overall fitness level will have a part to play, so if you're new to regular exercise, don't jump straight in at the deep end, but build up slowly. As a guide, you should start training at least three months before the triathlon. The sooner you start, the easier it will be in the long run.

If you're thinking about your first triathlon, sign up for the Tri Together triathlon, Shortlisted for the British Triathlon Event of the Year 2011, Tri Together is a sprint distance triathlon for people of all ages and abilities to swim, bike and run together. If you have never done a triathlon before then this is the event for you! 

Entry for Tri Together starts at just £32, one of the lowest entry fees on the triathlon market.  Tri Together is organised by the charity Leonard Cheshire Disability so they do ask that you fundraise a minimum of £220 per person. Your fundraising will help them to continue to support disabled people not only in the UK, but across the world. 

In return, participants will benefit from the support of the Leonard Cheshire Disability events team, who will be on hand from the early stages of training to the end with fitness and training plans, fundraising support and advice, Race recovery goodie bags and free post event professional sports massage and complementary food and drink.

Sign up for your first Triathlon now!

 

Race entry is now open for Tri Together, taking place 19 August 2012 at the Crystal Palace National Sports Centre.

Secure your place by registering online at www.lcdisability.org/tritogether or text 'TRI' to 80878 (standard rates apply).