by Lisbet Loiselle

Created on: October 16, 2009   Last Updated: October 17, 2009

It seems that triathletes are everywhere you turn, these days. People used to run scared at the mere thought of participating in a triathlon, but with more people of varying shapes and sizes completing them, the task doesn't seem quite so daunting. Now, if we were going to compare "real" triathletes (ridiculously skinny, fast and wrinkled from too much sun-exposure) to "recreational" triathletes, well, that would be a discussion for another day. The fact of the matter is, most any one can be a triathlete. Most any one can cross that finish line, and once they do, they'll realize how exhilarating it is. Are you looking to finish your first sprint triathlon? If so, cheers to you! The following steps will surely guide you in the right direction, and quite possibly get you hooked on multi sport. The only requirements before you start? Drive, discipline, and time management skills. Now let's get going.

1. Get a bike. Which kind is up to you, depending on how well you want to do. If you have one, great. If not, try to borrow one. Please don't go out and buy one until you think you might continue to compete in triathlon. A mountain bike can work, but it will be awfully slow. Ask around if any one has a road bike or tri bike for you to borrow. A road bike would be the best bet for a first timer.

2. Get a pair of decent running shoes. Also, some goggles, swimsuit or wetsuit (depending on if you get cold easily or if it's an open water swim), and swim cap (if you're paranoid about getting your hair wet...which by the way, it will anyway).

3. Find a sprint triathlon training plan. A couple great resources are www.beginnertriathlete.com and www.trifuel.com. Try and find a program that is approximately 10-16 weeks long. This may seem like a lot of weeks of hard work, but they are developed this way for a reason. You will definitely need to build up some endurance, skill, and muscle memory in all three disciplines.

4. Follow your training program as closely as possible. If you miss a workout for whatever reason (you're sick, your child is sick, work obligations, LIFE, the usual), that's okay. Just continue to move on and make each workout that you do a QUALITY workout. Slacking off will get you nowhere.

5. Do not forget about your diet. Keep it healthy, and try to weed out sweets and alcohol as they have a detrimental effect on your body. Since you will be training, your body will perform much better if you fuel it with nutritious food. Check out trifuel.com for great eating and nutrition strategies. Also, the more water you drink, the better. Aim for one gallon a day.

6. Have fun! Be happy that you are staying in shape and ultimately preparing yourself to compete with other like-minded people! The triathlon community is a friendly one and you will meet a lot of great people.

Any one can be a triathlete. If you truly want to call yourself one, take some time to follow these steps. You will be well on your way to a rewarding and adrenaline-pumping experience, and will probably be a happier person for it! Good luck, don't give up, and have a blast.

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