So.....You've Gone and Done it!!!!

It’s official you have signed up for a triathlon BUT now what? It’s months away, so you can wait until January to get started, right?

It all depends on the distance of the race and when it is.  One essential element of any successful triathlete is to dedicate the time necessary to properly train for a race. Regardless of your experience or fitness level, it's important to start training long before your first race of the season. This can mean the difference between feeling good and finishing strong, struggling to get over that finish line or a DNF (did not finish).

We share in our blog “When Should I Start Training for a Triathlon” when we suggest you start training for your triathlon. Check it out.

Once you figure out when to start your training the next step is to decide whether you are going to do it alone (self-coached), with a coach or with a club (group coaching in person or virtually).

Here are some things to think about when trying to decide what is a good fit for you.

Self-Coached - this is a great option if…

• You have a busy work/life schedule which will make it difficult for you to make it out to group practices

• You are self-disciplined

• You have some experience in triathlon

• You have a good training plan that you can follow

Private Coaching - this is a great option if…

• You have a busy work/life schedule

• You have no experience in triathlon

• You are doing a Half-Ironman or Ironman race

• You have had injuries in the past

• You are looking for an individualized program geared toward you

• You are looking for accountability

Group Coaching (in person or virtual) - this is a great option if...

• You have a flexible schedule that allows you to make it out to practices

• You need to improve your technique in swim, biking or run

• You want tips on how to execute a triathlon

• You are motivated by others and appreciate having training partners

• You are self-coached or private-coached but like training with others

• You are looking for accountability

If you have decided that group coaching is for you, how do you choose a club/program when there are so many good ones available?

The most obvious and probably the most important thing to consider is whether the class schedule and times work for you if you are choosing an in-person program. This is not necessary if you are choosing a virtual program.

The second most important thing to consider is whether the club has members who have been or are currently at your level.  We are pleased and proud to say that our club caters to all athletes regardless of where they are in their triathlon journey.

Our winter programs are about to begin. We have 7 swim practices/2 locations, as well as our Virtual cycling and 70.3 Ironman Program accepting registrants. Full details and prices can be found on our website here.

Are you ready to start your triathlon journey for 2023?  

Julia Aimers
CSEP Clinical Exercise Physiologist
CSEP High-Performance Specialist

Certified Triathlon, Cycling, Yoga and Swimming Coach
USA Cycling Level 2 Coach
Training Peaks Accredited Coach