Welsh Triathlon is the body responsible for the
fast growing sport of triathlon, which typically comprises a swim,
followed by a cycle ride, followed by a run.
Competitors race against the clock, which starts as they enter
the swim and stops as they cross the finish line after the run. The
transitions - the points in the race when competitors change from
swimming to cycling, and from cycling to running - are often
referred to as the 'fourth discipline' in triathlon because they
can make or break a triathlete's overall performance.
Kit
To get started you need just a few basics. Don't go spending a
fortune on expensive gear until you're sure it's the sport for
you.
Swim
- Swimming costume (some novice events are in swimming pools)
- Full length wetsuit - even in the British summer you'll need
this if it's an open water swim
- Swimming hat
- Goggles
Cycle
- Bike
- Cycling helmet
- Tight-fitting cycling clothes - which are worn under your
wetsuit
- Trainers to cycle in (cycling shoes are not essential)
Run
- Clothes to run in (perhaps the same kit that you cycle in)
- Trainers
Distances
The standard triathlon distances are (listed as
swim/bike/run):
Super sprint 400m
/ 10km / 2.5km
Sprint distance 750m / 20km /
5km
Standard distance 1500m / 40km / 10km
Middle distance 2.5km / 80km /
20k
Ironman distance 3.8km / 180km / 42km
Clubs
To get involved in triathlon, it's best to join a club. There'll you find members of all shapes,
sizes, abilities and ambitions. There are around 350 affiliated
triathlon clubs in Great Britain; they provide camaraderie, advice
and access to a coach.