10 Things I Wish I Knew Before I Joined My First Triathlon

I still remember it like it was yesterday. Days before my first triathlon in Ayala Alabang, I was a nervous wreck. Given that I’m confident in the swim part because I play Underwater Hockey, my run sucked. I couldn’t even run 1k without stopping. As for the bike, I was riding a hand me down MTB with converted wheels (changed it to slick tires).

Triathlon is a blend of endurance, agility, and mental fortitude, stretching across the sport of swimming, cycling, and running. My first dive in this sport commenced in the now defunct venue of Ayala Alabang, during the sprint triathlon hosted by the Triathlon Association of the Philippines (TRAP). The experience was a blend of exhilaration, challenges, and profound learnings. Here’s a rundown of ten pearls of wisdom I wish I knew before the starting horn echoed:

1. Preparation: Preparation is the cornerstone of a successful triathlon experience. This encompasses not only the physical conditioning but also understanding the race course, transition areas, and the rules governing the race. A meticulous study of the race manual, along with a reconnaissance visit to the race venue to familiarize oneself with the layout, can significantly alleviate race-day nerves. Additionally, drafting a detailed plan for race day, from wake-up time to gear setup, nutrition, and post-race recovery, can provide a structured blueprint, eliminating unnecessary stress.
2. Gear Selection: Selecting the right gear is pivotal for a comfortable and efficient race experience. A well-fitted wetsuit, a reliable bike, and the right pair of running shoes are fundamental. It’s advisable to test the gear in training to ensure comfort and functionality. Moreover, researching and investing in quality gear that aligns with personal comfort and the race requirements is essential.
3. Transition Training: Transitions are a critical yet often overlooked component of triathlons. Efficient transitions can save valuable minutes on race day. Practicing the changeovers between swimming, biking, and running, understanding the layout of the transition area, and having a systematic approach to gear layout and changing are aspects that, when honed, can contribute to a more streamlined transition.
4. Nutrition Strategy: Nutrition is a crucial fuel that powers the engine throughout the race. A balanced diet in the weeks leading up to the race, paired with a tested race-day nutrition plan, is fundamental to maintaining energy levels throughout the event. Understanding the types of nutrition, the timing, and the quantities are critical facets that require thorough planning and testing.
5. Pacing: Pacing is an art that can significantly impact race performance. Understanding the importance of pacing to conserve energy for the latter part of the race is crucial. Utilizing training days to practice pacing strategies, learning to listen to the body, and understanding how to distribute energy across the three disciplines are vital learnings that can contribute to a better race performance.
6. Community Engagement: The triathlon community is a reservoir of experiences and knowledge. Engaging with seasoned athletes, joining local triathlon clubs, and participating in community training sessions can provide invaluable insights, a sense of camaraderie, and a more enriched preparation phase.
7. Mental Conditioning: Mental resilience is a pillar of triathlon success. Developing mental resilience through practices like meditation, visualization, or even engaging with sports psychologists can be instrumental in preparing for the emotional rollercoaster that a triathlon can entail.
8. Equipment Maintenance: Routine equipment maintenance is fundamental to ensure all gear is in optimum working order, which can prevent unexpected issues on race day that could potentially derail months of preparation.
9. Adaptability: Triathlons are unpredictable by nature. Whether it’s a change in weather conditions, a flat tire, or unexpected physical discomfort, learning to adapt and having a contingency plan is vital.
10. Enjoyment of the Process: The triathlon journey extends beyond the race itself. Embracing the training process, the community, and the self-discovery along the way is what makes this sport truly enriching. Learning to find joy in the daily grind of training, the camaraderie of the triathlon community, and the self-discovery along the way is what fosters a long-term engagement with the sport.

The Ayala Alabang Sprint Triathlon was not just a race; it was a learning school which catapulted my triathlon journey. Each aspect of the event unveiled lessons that continue to resonate as I geared up for more races and eventually joined (and finished) my first IRONMAN.

Like what they always say, it’s always about the journey.

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