Men’s Health has a free on-line Triathlon Training Center that is a basic introduction to sprint-distance triathlons. Basically it provides a suggested six to eight week training schedule based on your self-assessed fitness level. It is a basic schedule and will help many to accomplish the goal of completing a sprint triathlon, but it doesn’t go much deeper. One key aspect to preparing for a triathlon is understanding the mechanics of each sport.
Mechanics are fundamental to getting the most performance for the least effort. Efficiency in form such as swimming or running can make a big difference — especially in longer distance events. Why work extra hard if you don’t need to?
It is hard to get an understanding of mechanics on-line. Reading might help to identify problems in your form, but having a coach work with you and point out subtle changes you can make really makes the difference. For me, that has made all the difference, though I am still struggling to get my swim form nailed down. But I doubt that I would be attempting my second half-ironman distance race if I only trained on my own and followed some pre-defined schedule. Coaches can adapt and create a much better training experience.
Local triathlon clubs are a good start. San Diego is fortunate enough to have an excellent one with the Triathlon Club of San Diego — open to newbies and semi-pros alike! For me, I am active in Team In Training were I get excellent coaching as well as supporting a very worthy cause!
