Would You "Tri"?

By: Susan Hickey

Would you rather run, bike, or swim?  Can’t decide?  Then how about all three!  Would that be worth a “tri?”  Consider a spring triathlon to provide a new, challenging experience.  Triathlon is a sport with a unique structure that inspires many to leave their comfort zones and venture into uncharted waters – pun intended!  If this sounds appealing, our Dayton YMCAs offer shorter distance triathlons, where the swim takes place in a pool.  It’s a great chance to get your feet wet, literally.

A triathlon consists of a swim, bike, and run portion, in that order.   Typically, the swim portion takes place in open water, like a lake.  That requires specialized equipment and skills.  Some triathlons, though, are either entirely indoors, or start in a pool, which can be less intimidating for a new triathlete.  A swimsuit works fine for just starting out, and women can wear a sports bra underneath to save time in transition.Transition is literally just that – the time required to prepare for the next segment of the race.  Between swim and bike, the triathlete needs to dry off sufficiently, and don appropriate clothing, including shoes and socks.  Additionally, the triathlete might apply body glide to prevent skin irritation and chafing. The triathlete also might plan to eat something for energy. After completing the bike portion, there is one more transition period before the run begins.  The triathlete will need to doff his helmet, potentially change shoes, and then start running. 

Other considerations for a beginning triathlete include nutrition, both for training and during the race.  There are many types of fuel to consider, from sports drinks to chews to gels.   A triathlete would want to trial different types and see what suits her best prior to race day, because everyone’s bodies process foods differently.

Training for a triathlon is challenging, because there are three different skills to master.  In addition to running, biking and swimming, experts recommend “brick” workouts – that is, a swim followed by a bike, or a bike followed by a run.  Brick workouts are important to help introduce the body to the back-to-back stresses that can be encountered on race day.

Triathlons are a great challenge for someone who enjoys swimming, biking, and running and would like to experience a different type of racing.   Fortunately, here in Dayton at our YMCAs we have well-organized sprint and indoor triathlons to help introduce people to the sport.   On May 13, Coffman is hosting a sprint distance triathlon that starts in the pool for a 300 yard swim, and then moves outside for a 10 mile bike ride followed by a 5K (3.1 mile) run.  If this has piqued your interest, check out www.speedy-feet.com and search Coffman Sprint Triathlon to sign up!  If you don’t feel quite ready, then spend some time over the summer developing your skills, and plan for one of our indoor triathlons in the fall/winter timeframe. Sign up for some adult swim lessons to help you improve your skills, or join your friends for a spinning class.  Triathlon is a fantastic way to improve your fitness, build strength, and gain confidence.