I had an idea to train an do a triathlon in October, but I am lost on how to begin. Does anyone have suggestions? Books or websites or general advice?

I am a slacker. I have runner and swimmer and biker friends. I asked who was the local groups in town and then started from there. Can you check to see if you have anything like that? I don't know if you have already, so I apologize if that was stupid.

Let me know so I can give another suggestion.

Caitlin at healthytippingpoint.com has many awesome beginner triathalon posts.

http://www.healthytippingpoint.com/category/so-you-wanna-do-a-triathlon

Here's a start!

I did my first triathlon with Team In Training; it was great because it raised money for charity (The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society), and it was a structured program with "homework" and group training sessions, and importantly, varied training in each sport to correspond to your fitness/skill level in each discipline. I learned a TON about training and went on to do several more triathlons on my own.

If that's not your bag, Triathlon Geek offers training programs for sale, and I believe US Triathlon magazines also sells some. There are also often local triathlon teams you can join that offer group training sessions. Finally, I am pretty sure there are even online triathlon coaches, so if you want someone to help you plot out a plan and answer questions and give you feedback.

Go for it--I think triathlons are the best. I haven't done one in a while but I'm hoping I can get back to it after surgery.

Enjoy!!

I had an idea to train an do a triathlon in October, but I am lost on how to begin. Does anyone have suggestions? Books or websites or general advice?

First thing is find a local triathlon club. Don't be intimidated. Everyone in these clubs started out as a newbie at one time and are very happy to help and work with you. I can also provide assistance if you direct message me. I might not respond immediately because I'm in training for an Ironman but I will get back to you. I'd be glad to help. You'll love it!!

Edited June 23, 201412 yr by massindex

Agreed! Tri it! LOL.

beginnertriathlete.com has free training plans and lots of info for (go figure) beginning triathletes. They also have good training tracking logs and plenty of information about all things tri. Their paid plans are very reasonable. Also, I second finding a local team to train with.

Good luck! I'm doing a sprint tri on August 2nd.