What's a sprint triathlon and why should you do one?
Let me take a stab at what your inner monologue is saying after reading that title -- "Me? A triathlon? Ha! This Kristen girl is a nutter!" Well, first of all, yes, I've done sprint triathlons, and I love them (check out the gallery below for proof). But, while I'm fit and I work hard, I'm definitely a regular gal, which is why I want to encourage you to consider taking part in a sprint triathlon this summer.
Sprint triathlons are fairly short -- the swim is between 1/4 and 1/2 mile (I've always done the 1/4 mile ones), the bike ride is between 10 and 20 miles, and the run is right around 3 miles. If you've been working out regularly and have decent cardio strength, I imagine you could complete each of these tasks separately. And, if that's the case, all you have to do is put them together!
It won't be the easiest thing you've ever done, but in my experience most of the participants are more interested in having a good time than in winning. so as long as you come with a good attitude, you'll be good to go. Are you intrigued? Want to learn more? Check out USA Triathlon for lots of information on the sport and Beginner Triathlete for tips on getting started. Or, drop me a question in the comments section. The season is starting soon, so start training now!
Gallery: Sprint triathlon
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
3-01-2008 @ 5:07PM
ap said...
I completely agree! My friends and co-workers all think that I'm either crazy or amazing for participating in sprint triathlons. Really, if you're already fit, it just takes some organization of training sessions and motivation to work a bit harder. I think that the swim is hardest for most people if they haven't been in a pool since they were a kid, but there is no harm in swimming slow and then focusing more on the bike and run; if you want to get more serious later, then you can take lessons (I know lots of women who have). Beginner Triathlete has great training programs to help with the organization part and once you've done your first race, the motivation comes really easily because it's so much fun. If you're female, Danskin (http://www.danskin.com/triathlon.html) runs a number of races around the country that are definitely aimed at support and fun (competitors range from serious triathletes to women in their 70s & 80s; it's great).
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