Triathlon
Triathlon
One of the most common questions I get from a beginner triathlete is, "how much will I need to spend on a bicycle?" Do I have to spend thousands of dollars on a bike for the triathlon?
The swimming portion of the triathlon is usually the most difficult for the beginner triathlete, after all almost everyone owns a bike and has bee riding it since they were a kid. However, a typical beginner triathlete will have questions about the type of bicycle they should have.
The biking portion of the event is one aspect that a triathlete will have to consider making a considerable investment in, which makes the question understandable.
Here are a few tips on how you can get through at least your first few triathlons with any type of bicycle that you currently own.
Tip 1: Ride your Bicycle
This may sound easy, but it is true. You simply need to get used to riding the bike you have. Practice is important, especially if you are a beginner triathlete.
You need to ride on different types of terrain and for long distances. This can help you get used to your bike as well as gain muscles for running.
Tip 2: Build Endurance
For a beginner triathlete, it is important to build your endurance. You will want to train yourself to go a bit farther than the race distance that is required. This helps you build up muscle as well as endurance. Training for longer distances will also help you be confident when it comes race day as you will know you can complete the required distances easily.
Tip 3: Bicycle Comfort
You need to make sure that you are comfortable on the bike you are riding. Go to a bike store and get fitted. You will learn more about your technique as you ride more. Do not be afraid to go in and have your bike altered to suit your needs.
If you are feeling any type of pain or numbness after your ride, you will need to have your bike adjusted. There should be no pain after your ride. Try to figure out if it is the seat height, the seat angle, or any other part of the bike that is causing you pain. A professional at the bicycle store should be able to help adjust the bike to suit your comfort level.
Tip 4: Compete in a Race
A beginner triathlete may think that they need a special bike for their first competition. However, this is not the case. Your first race should be about having fun and finishing and less about competition.
Of course you want to do your best, but riding the bike you have is OK. When you are more comfortable competing in a triathlon, then you may want to look into a more expensive bike.
When purchasing a bike it is important to make sure that you do your research first. Get a bike that is comfortable and built to last so your investment is sound.
Ironman Triathlete and Endurance Swimmer Carolyn Elliott has been a competitive athlete since 1972. She is also a nurse with an extensive background in nutrition. Tips which took her years to discover and finesse is freely shared so that you can get a jump start on your training and competition. She provides triathletes of all level her expertise on the sport.
Triathlon
One of the most common questions I get from a beginner triathlete is, "how much will I need to spend on a bicycle?" Do I have to spend thousands of dollars on a bike for the triathlon?
The swimming portion of the triathlon is usually the most difficult for the beginner triathlete, after all almost everyone owns a bike and has bee riding it since they were a kid. However, a typical beginner triathlete will have questions about the type of bicycle they should have.
The biking portion of the event is one aspect that a triathlete will have to consider making a considerable investment in, which makes the question understandable.
Here are a few tips on how you can get through at least your first few triathlons with any type of bicycle that you currently own.
Tip 1: Ride your Bicycle
This may sound easy, but it is true. You simply need to get used to riding the bike you have. Practice is important, especially if you are a beginner triathlete.
You need to ride on different types of terrain and for long distances. This can help you get used to your bike as well as gain muscles for running.
Tip 2: Build Endurance
For a beginner triathlete, it is important to build your endurance. You will want to train yourself to go a bit farther than the race distance that is required. This helps you build up muscle as well as endurance. Training for longer distances will also help you be confident when it comes race day as you will know you can complete the required distances easily.
Tip 3: Bicycle Comfort
You need to make sure that you are comfortable on the bike you are riding. Go to a bike store and get fitted. You will learn more about your technique as you ride more. Do not be afraid to go in and have your bike altered to suit your needs.
If you are feeling any type of pain or numbness after your ride, you will need to have your bike adjusted. There should be no pain after your ride. Try to figure out if it is the seat height, the seat angle, or any other part of the bike that is causing you pain. A professional at the bicycle store should be able to help adjust the bike to suit your comfort level.
Tip 4: Compete in a Race
A beginner triathlete may think that they need a special bike for their first competition. However, this is not the case. Your first race should be about having fun and finishing and less about competition.
Of course you want to do your best, but riding the bike you have is OK. When you are more comfortable competing in a triathlon, then you may want to look into a more expensive bike.
When purchasing a bike it is important to make sure that you do your research first. Get a bike that is comfortable and built to last so your investment is sound.
Ironman Triathlete and Endurance Swimmer Carolyn Elliott has been a competitive athlete since 1972. She is also a nurse with an extensive background in nutrition. Tips which took her years to discover and finesse is freely shared so that you can get a jump start on your training and competition. She provides triathletes of all level her expertise on the sport.
Triathlon