What's Next?

Welcome to the Fifth and final installment of a 5 part Beginners Series.

In case you’ve missed the other posts, so far I’ve covered: Is Triathlon for me?, Picking Your First Race, Training for your First Triathlon, and Race Day!

You’ve just completed your first Triathlon. Congratulations! Completing a Triathlon is a huge accomplishment. Make sure to take time to reflect and enjoy that accomplishment. Then when you’re ready, it’s time to review your race experience.

When reviewing a race, I find it helpful to first review areas that you feel were successful. You can write out a list if that helps.  Then look at areas that you need to improve in or require more training in. Review everything starting with “did I get enough sleep the night before” to “did I finish the run strong”. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember, every race is an opportunity to learn. About yourself, about each sport, and about triathlon racing.

Once you’ve reviewed the individual parts, then review the experience as a whole. Did you have fun? Did you gain fitness while training? Do you want to do another Triathlon? Hopefully the answer to that last question is YES. If it was then you’ll have a few more decisions to make.

So now that’s you’ve finished your first, what do you want to do for your second one? Like I covered in the previous post (Picking your First Triathlon) there are so many different types and lengths of Triathlon to choose from. Remember to keep challenging yourself and try to get out of your comfort zone. You might try a longer distance Triathlon or maybe you will decide to train harder and be more competitive.

Another consideration is to add or upgrade your triathlon equipment. You don’t have to want to be competitive to benefit from better equipment. Triathlon specific equipment is usually more comfortable, easier to use and easier in transition. Tri suit, better/newer bike, Tri specific running shoes (elastic laces), run belt, and/or aero helmet are just a few ideas of equipment upgrades.

 Whether or not you decide to be more competitive in your next Triathlon, hiring a coach is always a good idea. A Triathlon coach will be able to help you become a better over-all triathlete. The coach will help identify areas where you can make the biggest improvements and then help you achieve them. A swim coach, cycling coach, and/or run coach are also an option if you just want help in one specific sport.

I hope you enjoyed this 5 part Beginners Series. If you have any specific questions please use the Contact Page and reach out to us. Triathlon can be a fun and rewarding sport. Even if you decide Triathlon is not for you, make sure to put a race on your calendar to stay motivated and keep moving. Exercise is so important for a healthy happy life. Find a sport or activity that interests you and stick with it. Happy Training!

Coach Jay