Runner Triathlete News [ return ] From Message erin   3/08/2002 15:15:51 Subject: beginners in the sport IP: Logged Message: hey guys, i just wondered what y'all thought was the best way for a beginner to get into the sport. i run now, but really want to do the tri thing and do it the right way. any ideas?? erin Anna Brozick   3/14/2002 00:29:32 RE: beginners in the sport IP: Logged Message: Dear Erin, The best way to get into the sport is to sign-up for a shorter race and commit to doing it. If you feel competent about your athletic abilities, then you should be able to "make-it" through any of the shorter races. If you train mainly as a runner, you should at least try doing some moderate cross training before your first race. I was a competetive swimmer before doing my first triathlon and only had minimal experience riding and running. (I bought my bike the day before the race!) Now, I have competed in four triathlons and have adopted my own cross-training schedule. As a swimmer, I still go to swim practice about 4-5 times a week, run twice and bike once a week. It's enough for me, and I really have enjoyed doing (and improving) the triathlon races. Again, my main advice would be to try a short race and see if you like it. There are a handful of triathlon clubs depending where you live, as it is always nice to have team members to train and race with. Good luck and happy racing! Anna Brozick Brian Hasenbauer   3/22/2002 08:08:09 RE: beginners in the sport IP: Logged Message: As a member of a few different triathlon clubs I think that the best way to get started is to find your local triathlon club or training group and start working out with them. You will be able to find out what races are coming up and find someone to go with, learn a lot of different training philosophies, make some friends and have peers to teach you the basics. Also, you might be able to get some good used equipment and tips on what you need for the race and other tips from your new found friends. Brian Larry Lancaster   3/29/2002 17:29:36 RE: beginners in the sport IP: Logged Message: Erin, Don't get to wrapped up in buying a lot of expensive bike equipment until you get a few races under your belt. Stick with the shorter events. You will learn quickly and less painfully that way. Volunteer at a triathlon or two to get a feel for how the events flow. Try talking some of your friends into doing a couple of races as a relay team. It's a lot more fun and not as intimidating being there all by yourself the first time. Don't forget to join USA Triathlon and familiarize yourself with the rule book. Brian Hasenbauer   3/29/2002 17:34:48 RE: beginners in the sport IP: Logged Message: Also hang around fast guys like Larry Lancaster.. he can show you the ropes. P 1

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