What Distance Triathlon Should I Race? By Julia Aimers, Head Coach Team Triumph Triathlon Club This might seem like a simple question to answer. If you have never participated in a triathlon before it seems logical that you would start with a shorter distance race like a super sprint or sprint. But, this is not always the case. There are many variables to consider when deciding what distance race you should take part in such as….. Your fitness background. If you come to the sport from an endurance swimming, cycling or running background, then participating in a short distance race might not fuel your competitive or physical abilities Your time constraints. If you have a demanding job, or a young family, or an active social life that is important to you, they will determine what training you are willing to commit to. Your personality traits. There is a great article by Triathlete Magazine that talks about which distance race might be a good fit based on your personality traits. You can read it here. Equipment. If you have a good road bike and are a decent swimmer already, you could potentially participate in a Training Partners. If you have a friend who has done a All this to say…..I don’t know what distance is the best for YOU, but I can say that although I do know of one or two people who started their triathlon career with an Ironman, it is not what I would recommend, and if you are considering racing Half Ironman or Ironman that hiring a coach is a very strong recommendation. See you at the races. Julia Aimers is the Head Coach and Founder of Team Triumph Triathlon Club established in the year 2000, in Ottawa, Canada. She has coached beginner triathletes to Kona qualifying athletes. Team Triumph is a Multisport and Social club dedicated to challenging your sense of adventure
A year ago I could only tread water and had not run since childhood. With the amazing Virtual Olympic course, support, guidance, and tips from of all the folks at Team Triumph I've ended the season with my first Olympic distance triathlon under my belt and am hooked! Really looking forward to the 2025 season and even to the hard work over the winter to prepare. Karen Houle
I wanted to let you know that the Perth triathlon was a great experience, I somehow placed third in my age group! What a supportive group of participants (including Team Triumph athletes), cheering bystanders and volunteers.
Thanks to your swim lessons, I learned the technical basics and gained confidence to get back in the pool after decades. And it was really special doing this with Ann Laidlaw, my bestie for many years. We did a couple of additional swims with Kevin and Team Triumph people, also a great way to continue learning and practicing good technical form.
I will continue with lane swimming and who knows, maybe there's another triathlon in my future!
I love the accountability and the structure of the Virtual 70.3 Half Ironman training program. I don't think I would have gotten this far without the program. The accountability is huge for me!
Deborah Jackman