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If you want to push your physical fitness and endurance to its limit, consider participating in a triathlon. A triathlon consists of a swim, bike ride, and marathon run, all completed back-to-back, with no rest in between. Lengths of each race in a triathlon vary, but a traditional triathlon includes a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride, and 26.2 mile run.

Triathlon Training

Training for a triathlon can span six months up to two years, depending on your physical fitness level. The best way to train for a triathlon is to follow a specific training and diet schedule. There are many training schedules available online, so find one that fits your level and get started. In addition, a triathlon training group is a very helpful and motivating way to train for an upcoming competition.

Triathlon Equipment

You don’t want to show up to a triathlon in an old pair of running shoes, swim trunks, and the bicycle you’ve had sitting in the garage for the past 10 years. To truly succeed in a triathlon, you’ll need the proper equipment. A triathlon store can point you in the right direction. As a general rule, you will need:

• Swimming Gear – A wetsuit made from neoprene is ideal for a number of reasons. The material is slicker and smoother than your skin, so you will glide through the water easier. It is also buoyant, and the more buoyant you are, the faster you can swim.
• Triathlon Bike – These are pricey, but if you want to compete regularly they are a good investment. Triathlon bikes are designed to be lightweight and to use less energy in the leg muscles, so you can save leg strength for the marathon.
• Running Shoes – Lightweight, comfortable running shoes that allow for quick turnaround are also crucial for success in a triathlon.

You can succeed in your triathlon with the right training schedule and equipment.