Triathlon Training: Distances

triswimGoals are exceptional to have, but you should only be setting goals that are truly realistic. If you are setting training goals that are well beyond your capabilities, then you are going to end up getting hurt and failing as a result. With this in mind, keep it in mind that a triathlon is a sport where moderation is the key above all else. You need to utilize both patience and rest as important keys to your triathlon training plan.

Unlike with other types of sports, if you do every single workout at the maximum level of intensity as well as duration, then you are going to end up overtraining your body to the point of fatigue, injury and sickness. Do not get me wrong, there are times for maximum intensity in detailed triathlon training programs, but never all the time, no matter what.

Here are some of the common distances for triathlons:

Swimming:

  • Sprint – 0.5 Mile
  • Olympic – 0.93 Mile
  • Half Ironman – 1.2 Mile
  • Full Ironman – 2.4 Mile

Biking:

  • Sprint – 13 Mile
  • Olympic – 24.8 Mile
  • Half Ironman – 56 Mile
  • Full Ironman – 112 Mile

Running:

  • Sprint – 3.2 Mile
  • Olympic – 6.2 Mile
  • Half Ironman – 13.1 Mile
  • Full Ironman – 26.2 Mile

When you look at these common distances for triathlon competitions, you should see that the next levels double in distance, then you should make the assumption that you should only be covering two different consecutive distances in a single season. The rationale here is that we cannot simply continue to build on our endurance base unless we are giving ourselves the proper level of rest and maintenance as well.

If you are a total beginner, then you should begin training for a sprint race. Progress to Olympic at the end of the same year if you have no injuries upon re-evaluation.

If you are established an endurance base at the Olympic level in the first year, and maintained that endurance base over the winter, then you can progress to the half ironman in the next year. You my even be able to progress to the full ironman, but you need to be careful that you are not overdoing things and possibly putting yourself in danger of getting hurt in the process.

Building and maintaining a truly solid base over a long period of time is going to be vitally important for you to achieve before you build yourself up to the next level. When you build up a deep base like this, you will be drastically reducing your risk of sustaining an injury. You cannot keep building yourself up without some time for maintenance, no matter how strong or tough you think that you are. Strong and solid foundations are what is truly going to get you to the ironman distance, or whatever other goals you happen to have at the time. Keep in mind: There is no hurry, and Triathlete training is all about maintenance and patience, so do things the right way if you want to achieve your goals.

Photo Credits: LumenOpera

Originally posted 2009-09-07 03:49:54. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

Blog Traffic Exchange Related Posts
  • swimmer1Planning and Preparing for your Swimming Triathlon Make sure that you plan long ahead of time by making a list of the materials that you are going to need in order to participate in the swimming portion of your triathlon. Here is a list of basic supplies that you are going to need for your training regimen......
  • biketrainingTriathlon Training 101 Are you planning on training for your first triathlon? This is not an easy task for anyone to master if they do not know the ropes. There are three completely unique disciplines that are involved, and you are also going to need to be lifting weights and training in other......
  • bikingtriathlonYour Triathlon Training Schedule The most important part of your triathlon training schedule will happen in the planning phase. It is important that your plan is well thought out and the time table is well defined for your training schedule to work well. Those who are training for a triathlon must begin their training......
  • weightsWeight Training for the Triathlon If you want to compete successfully in a triathlon competition, then you need to be willing to put time and effort into strengthening your body. However, this is quite obviously easier said that done, because training for three different events and training for cardiovascular fitness, strength, endurance and good technique......
  • trirunPreparing Yourself for the Triathlon Run Running in a triathlon is unlike any other running you have done in your life. This is because the triathlon run is completed after you have already swum and rode a bike. You will be tired and ready to stop, but you will need to dig in and find a......
Online Stores
amount of time athlete bicycle bikes cadence capabilities competitions cyclists distances endurance exercise finish line fitness flexibility goggles good time handlebars legs money muscles pace pool runners running shoes sessions shape sprint stamina stroke swimmer swimmers torso training regimen transition triathlete triathletes triathlon triathlon bike triathlon events triathlon race triathlons Triathlon Training water bottle wet suit workout