Triathlon Training Schedules: Laying the Foundation for Beginners


Are you in a hurry to get ready for your first triathlon? Be warned: triathlon competitions usually take most athletes weeks to months of training sessions to prepare for.



This tiring, grueling competition typically varies in distance and as thus requires the right type of triathlon training schedule to provide these athletes with the right amount of stamina, strength and energy to compete. This article discusses important factors to be considered by beginner triathletes when developing appropriate triathlon training schedules for the race they are planning to participate in, current level of their athletic development, and amount of time they have to prepare. 


Current Level of Development:


The first place to start when laying out a triathlon training schedule is conducting an honest evaluation of your current fitness level and preparedness to compete in such an event. This is one area where it is extremely helpful to get external or outside help- preferably from an experienced triathlete or coach, since a solid current level of fitness assessment is necessary in order to come up with an effective triathlon training schedule plan. 


Triathlon coaching is a fantastic option you can choose to opt for, rather than going it alone. Scheduling a session or two with a professional triathlon or endurance trainer or coach can help set you on the right path to developing a realistic base of your current level of endurance before setting out to train for your ever first triathlon. 


The Race:


Once you have established where you stand with regard to your current abilities you need to know what to do, and where you are going with your plan. Knowing where you are going involves you asking yourself questions like: What challenges am I faced with in the triathlon I’m preparing for? Is the race being conducted in a pool or open water? What is the distance of the race? What does the course look like (especially the swim)? Answering these questions helps you plan as much of your training as possible in conditions close to those of the actual environment, settings, and situation in which you will be competing. 


Time:

All triathlons are competitions or races against time- much more than they are against other athletes. Therefore, your triathlon training schedule and sessions should be conducted in a manner that is appropriate. If you are like most triathletes, you probably have a day job, other social obligations and maybe even a family. Somewhere between all the other responsibilities or duties you may have, you need to find time to consistently devote to your triathlon training schedule. This is at times quite a challenge to some, since certain things need to be given up in order to make time for both training and training recovery. 



Be prepared: 


I remember how it was for my first triathlon- preparation was the key to my success and enjoyment of the race. The most important elements for trainees are to know where they stand, where they are going, and to be prepared to put in the work and sacrifices necessary along the way. It is generally a good idea to read up on the triathlon training process as much as is possible so as to know what to expect. You will avoid potential disasters this way, and be more likely to have a great time (as well as a great personal time!).