Answers to Commonly Asked Questions about Triathlons

• Sprint: This length varies a little based on the race course. The swim is often in a pool (typically 300-500 meters), bike is usually 9-12 miles, and run is a 5K.
• Olympic/International Distance: This distance is essentially double a sprint. The swim length can vary based on race course (anywhere from 600-800 meters), and swims are typically in open water. The bike is usually 24 miles, and the run is a 10K.
• Half Ironman: 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run.
• Full Ironman: 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run.

How much do I have to train to prepare for my first triathlon? Just like anything, the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. Many people training for their first triathlon are concerned about the number of training hours required to cover three different sports. While it sometimes can be challenging to fit in training for three disciplines, sprint and Olympic distance triathlons can be achieved with just one workout a day. Two-workout days aren't really necessary until you start training for longer races.

Yikes! I'd have to swim?! How hard is that?! For many of us, we haven't done 'laps' since we were young. Believe it or not, for many people, the swim ends up being the easiest part. It is the shortest distance, it's over first, and goes by faster than you think. With just a little practice, the learning curve on swimming efficiency can be huge. While your first swim workout after 20 years might feel horrendous, if you stick with a consistent swim workout schedule, you will notice big differences rather quickly. Consider that a 300 meter swim takes most people 5-7 minutes. That's not very long, but still requires some practice beforehand.

What kind of gear do I need to compete in a triathlon? For most races in the area, the gear list below will be sufficient to get you to the finish line successfully! Fleet Feet Sports Knoxville can help out with everything but the bike. Our staff is also a great resource to help you choose the right products for your needs.

     The Swim:

• Triathlon apparel is your best bet. Triathlon apparel includes tri shorts and a tri top and are designed to be worn the entire race. The shorts are chlorine-safe and have a thinner chamois than bike shorts. It is not recommended that you try to swim in a pair of bike shorts- it will make for a soggy bike ride and run. For guys, in many races it is a race requirement that you wear a top. Also, tri apparel saves you from having to race in a bathing suit and once you get dressed for the race that morning, you never have to change.
• Goggles
• Cap is provided by the race

     The Bike:

• A Bicycle: You have a couple of options here. Buy a new bike (entry-level used bikes start around $650), buy a used bike (various costs), or borrow a bike (free!). For your first race, any bike with gears will be fine. It is important, however, to have a bike that fits your body; regardless of the bike you use, you should try it out several times before the race to ensure you are comfortable riding it on the road.
• Bike Helmet: It's a race rule, gotta have it!

     The Run:

• Good pair of running shoes and socks

    Other Gear:

• Body Glide: This silicone substance will help prevent chafing during the race. You'd be surprised what a wet pair of shorts can do to your thighs without the right lubrication.
• Race Belt: This saves you from having to pin your race number on your shirt after the swim (afterall, it's made of paper and you can't swim in it). The race belt holds your number and you clip it on after you get out of the swim.
• Nutrition: Your body needs some fuel after 1 hour of physical activity! Gels, SportBeans, drinks - you have lots of options.
• Waterproof sunscreen

Which races are good for beginners? Race Day Events has some great races in the Knoxville area that are perfect for beginners: Foothills Sprint Triathlon on May 28, 2007 and Tellico Sprint Triathlon on July 1, 2007.  Visit Race Day Events website for more information.