| SPRINT TRIATHLON TRAINING
Sprint triathlons are shorter distance events. They are an excellent starting point for a triathlete who is new to the sport, and are achievable with a training regime that can be accommodated within most schedules. You might think that training for your first triathlon will be like taking on another job, but you will be surprised at how much you can achieve by maximizing the spare time that is available to you.
DISTANCES
Sprint Triathlon distances vary depending on the event, but they are generally substantially less than the Olympic triathlon distances:
→ 1500 meter swim
→ 40 kilometer cycle
→ 10 kilometer run
Typical sprint triathlon distances are:
→ 400 to 800 meter swim (usually in a pool)
→ 8 to 10 mile cycle
→ 3 to 5 mile run.
Although sprint triathlons are often thought of as a good beginner’s event, there are athletes who specialize in the shorter distances and train specifically for them. And don’t be fooled by the title!
| |
• Although they take less time than longer events, sprint triathlons are still very much endurance events – if you set out at a sprint pace, you might not last long!
|
Sprint distance triathlons are excellent events to get your triathlon career underway, and usually cater very well for beginners. They can also add an important element of focus to your early training without having the goal of large distances hanging over you.
| |
• A sprint distance triathlon will allow you to keep training distances, intensity and time moderate while your body adapts to your new regime, and you develop your ability and technique in each of the 3 disciplines.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
TRAINING
You can begin training for your first triathlon with a low level of fitness, and minimal experience in any of the 3 disciplines. However, before you undertake a new physical regimen, make sure you talk to the experts:
| |
• Talk to your doctor so that you can be reassured that you have taken care of any medical issues. This is particularly important if you have any previous or current injuries or illnesses.
• Make sure that you take advice from an expert such as a Metasport coach, to make sure that the time you spend training is safe and effective.
|
The amount of time you will need to dedicate to training for a sprint triathlon will depend on factors such as the event, your level of fitness, and your age. As a basic figure, a training program of around 4 hours per week over a period of 3 months should be sufficient . More training does not always mean more fitness, and you must make sure that you program in enough time for your body to rest and recover.
The thought of a new training program might seem daunting, and not just in 1 sport, but 3! However, most triathletes starting out are surprised at how quickly they get into their program, and the speed of their fitness improvements. If you have a good, balanced program, like those provided by Metasport coaches you will make steady progress, improve your fitness and overall health, and minimize the risk of injury and over training.
Sprint triathlons are great fun, and can be as competitive as you want them to be. They can also be a great introduction to the sport. If you are training for a sprint triathlon, set your goals, and then build a program that will get you there within a realistic time period. |
