Lessons Learned from Training for My First Triathlon

When I signed up for my first triathlon, I honestly had no idea what I was getting into. Well, maybe that’s not true. I knew I’d need to swim, bike and run. I also knew I was a complete novice with a lot to learn.

To paint a clearer picture. Here's where my journey began:

The extent of my swimming experience was diving into a pool. I dove in college (very poorly), so I hard experience in water. I just didn't know how exactly to swim well. When I signed up for the triathlon, I couldn’t swim a lap. Don’t get me started on flip turns. I still don't know how to do one. When I swim laps, I slowly make my way to the end of the pool, touch the edge, and then literally turn my body around and kick off the wall to start another lap.

My road bike was strictly used for commuting. I bought it years ago to get to and from work. It's a beautiful bike, but I don't have a clue what I'm doing when it comes to gears.

Running was my best discipline, and even that felt hard. When I began, I was thrilled when I completed a 10k. I enjoy running, but miles haven't always been easy.

Something inside me wanted to push my limits though. I’ve always loved training, and a triathlon felt like a different kind of test. I needed a goal to reach - and a triathlon felt like a good challenge. 
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Here are a few things I learned along the way.

It's a Mental Game

One of the biggest lessons I learned is that racing is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. When my body wanted me to stop, I learned I could keep going. I constantly felt like I was negotiating with myself. “Keep going” became my mantra, repeating it to myself when my mind told me I should stop.

Trust me, you can keep going. I would make little bargains with that inner voice. "Just make it to the next stoplight," or "run for one more minute." I would always push more, and eventually, the negotiations got easier. I learned to shut the voice off all together.
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Brick Workouts are Essential 

I picked up a new vernacular during my training. Terms like brick workouts were completely foreign, but they are essential. When you’re training for a triathlon, you’re basically training three different disciplines simultaneously. Why train for one sport, when you can train for three?

Running right after biking felt awkward at first, but brick workouts made transitions smoother. I started off feeling like a drunken giraffe learning to walk for the first time. Eventually, I knew what to expect and could break through that initial discomfort. You learn what it feels like to start running on wobbly legs, how to steady your breathing after getting out of the water, and how to use different muscles at different points throughout the race. 

Don't Forget Strength Training

My training plan didn’t just include runs, swims, and bike rides. I incorporated strength training to build muscle. My muscles learned to function when they were tired. Honestly, I love lifting, but I shifted my routine just a bit. Before triathlon training, I wanted to build muscle, and so my workouts usually included heavy weights. During training, I focused more on functional movements and mobility. I shifted my mindset and didn't worry so much about upping the weight I could lift. Instead, I fatigued my muscles and incorporated cardio after.

Find the Right Race

My first race was a sprint triathlon. For me, that distance felt like a perfect introduction to the sport. I picked a sprint because it seemed attainable (500-yard swim, 17-mile bike and 5k run). I researched local triathlons and chose the Lake Tye Triathlon because the course looked beginner friendly – no swimming in currents, a flat bike course and a quick 3.1-mile loop around a lake.

Practice Like Race Day

Most triathlons don’t allow you to wear headphones, so get used to running without music. I started training with upbeat music tracks, but then I realized I wouldn’t have that motivation on race day.

The same is true for what you wear. I bought a triathlon suit to wear during the race, and I made sure to practice brick workouts wearing my new attire. i didn't want to feel stiff or awkward wearing something I hadn't broken in or learned how to move in.

One consideration is a wet suit. If you plan on swimming in a wet suit, I’d recommend practicing transitioning out of it. For my next race, I’m going to add that into my training plan. I like the idea of added buoyancy, so that’s one change I’m planning on making.

You Need a Support System

The reality is you’re going to need time to train. Life is already busy, so squeezing in running, swimming and bike rides aren’t always going to be easy. Be sure you have your loved ones on board before you sign up. If you can’t make time to work out, you’re going to fail. I felt very lucky to have a family cheering me on every step of the way.

Takeaways:

1. You can keep going when your mind wants to quit
2. Brick workouts are key
3. Strength training helps
4. Find the right race for you – and your strongest discipline
5. Practice like you race
6. Embrace the fun of a new challenge

​Signing up for my first triathlon was daunting at first, but it turned out to be one of the best experiences of my life. I found a new sport, much to my family’s chagrin (I’m only joking a little), and I’m so glad I did.
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I can’t wait for my next race.