If you want to know more about the triathlon and how to go about training for it, this page is what you should go through.
The triathlon is a rather young, but popular sport that started in the early 20th century. Triathlon is basically not an independent sport, but is a combination of three different disciplines, namely swimming, cycling, and running. All three disciplines are physically demanding, and one needs to complete all in consecutive sequence without a time interval, to finish the event successfully. In short, the triathlon is not only physically demanding, but it also tends to test your endurance, killer instinct, and an aptitude to strive for success. Overall, you need to be physically and mentally fit to compete and excel in this sport.
Successfully Completing a Triathlon
Swimming
Swimming is the most exhausting discipline of a triathlon. While swimming, you will have to compulsorily undertake the freestyle swimming technique as your stroke. Thus, step one is to undertake a series of freestyle sessions. Basically, you should be able to acclimatize yourself in the freestyle stroke, in order to comfortably swim in the freestyle for a prolonged period of time. A very good method that is used to master the freestyle is the ‘gradual increase’ method. On the first day, try to swim around 100 meters at a maintained and steady pace. Go on increasing the distance gradually to 2,000 meters. You should be able to comfortably swim 2,000 meters without running out of breath.
The key to master swimming for a triathlon is to make your body get used to such a workout. An average human body, with regular levels of fitness, is able to withstand such physical exertions, but at the cost of strength and stamina. To compete in a triathlon, you will need to train your body in such a manner, that after getting out of the water, you should not be exhausted. To make a long story short, accustom yourself to a 2,000 meters swim. Afterward, you will need to start timing yourself in order to complete the said task in the least possible time.
Cycling
The second discipline in the event is cycling. Many people underestimate cycling to be the easiest part of the heat. Cycling might look easy, but it is definitely not as simple as you might think. The reason is that it is supposed to be done after swimming. Cycling should not be taken lightly because, a light approach would reduce the momentum of your body, and it is definitely very difficult to regain momentum again. In addition to that, if you think about cycling from a competition’s point of view, you would be able to regain lost ground, or go into the lead, if you concentrate on the cycling part. The logic is simple, your competitors who are tired, are bound to lose the lead. The best way to develop your cycling speed is to gain control of your breathing and learn to cycle steadily. You must also master the art of slowly increasing your speed.
Running
The key to master this disciplines is to develop a steady pace of running and avoiding any short sprint. Triathlon training basically, promotes any eventual and steady build up of stamina and endurance. Use the maximum span of your limbs. In short, stretch your legs to the maximum possible extent, to get maximum mileage out of each stride. It is also necessary to maintain a constant rhythm and steady pace while running.
Remember, the key to complete a really good triathlon is to be persistent and steady. Increasing and reducing one’s speed is a very bad option. Keeping it constant. It must be also noted that your own killer instinct plays a very important role in the total heat. The more determined you are, the better your performance will be.
Swim 2.4 miles! Bike 112 miles! Run 26.2 miles! Brag for the rest of your life! ~ Commander Collins, USN, promoter and early organizer of triathlon.
