What comes to your mind when you hear the word “triathlon”? Would it be elite athletes, adrenaline-boosting or a physically demanding activity? It’s a sport that combines running, cycling, and swimming. Training for triathlon is done separately for each sport and it’s a great way to boost fitness and self-confidence.
The perks of triathlon
Whether you want to add variety to your workout or to achieve complete fitness, you can benefit from triathlete training in the following ways:
- Full body conditioning: Training program for triathletes combines cycling, running, and swimming, which means it works all major muscle groups. When you start training, you’ll achieve a different fitness level with greater muscle conditioning, better health, and faster movement.
- Reducing risk of injury: Comprehensive training means you don’t overwork a particular muscle, which lower the risk of injury.
- Avoiding burnout: You have three activities to focus on, so when you get tired of one, you can try another. Don’t feel like swimming? Go for a run. Tired of biking? Go for a swim.
Train like a triathlete
If you’re planning to compete in a triathlon, here’s the gear you’ll need:
- Swimsuit
- Swimming goggles
- A mountain or a road bike
- Cycling helmet
- Running shoes
- Shorts
If you don’t feel like competing but just want to train, you can try all the activities at the gym and your local pool.
It’s always best to train for each individual sport at least twice a week. The trick is to improve your weak areas. If you’re a good swimmer, focus more on cycling and running. Once you’re trained on your schedule, start going longer distances to keep improving your performance.
The right training program
You can design the right program according to your specific needs, keeping your age, gender, goals, strengths, and weaknesses in mind.
Here is a sample training program for someone who is physically fit and active. You can adjust it in accordance with your fitness level.
| Day of the Week |
Swim |
Cycle |
Run |
Weights |
| Monday |
30 mins |
30 mins |
No |
No |
| Tuesday |
No |
No |
1 hour |
No |
| Wednesday |
Rest |
Rest |
Rest |
Rest |
| Thursday |
No |
30 mins |
30 mins |
Yes |
| Friday |
1 hour |
No |
No |
No |
| Saturday |
No |
No |
1.5 hours |
No |
| Sunday |
No |
2 hours |
No |
No |
It is true that triathlon is not easy, but it comes with a huge range of benefits. It trains your body and gives you a chance to learn new skills. It also challenges your body and mind and boosts your physical as well as mental health. You can concentrate on one sport at one time and shift your focus to others later. Also, you have the freedom to decide whether you want to hit the gym, go around the block, or swim in the local pool or your own backyard.
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