As a beginner, I had no idea where to invest my time and money when it came to triathlon... there is such a vast array of areas you can focus on... but what will really make the difference?
I struggled with all sorts from the right kit for just getting through the day-to-day, from the correct shoes to suitable jackets. I started with no direction and was at a loss of what to do... just winging it. I got injured and my life was up in the air trying to fit in the obscene amount of training that I thought triathlon training required.
Triathlons are a challenging and rewarding test of physical and mental endurance, and participating in one requires a great deal of investment in terms of time, energy, and equipment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced triathlete, investing in the right gear and training resources can make a big difference in your performance and overall enjoyment of the sport. I know I've found this to be an essential and fundamental part of my training and racing.
What should I invest in?
So, what should you invest in when it comes to triathlon? I will expand on these in other blogs and newsletters, so be sure to subscribe! In the mean time; here are a few key areas to consider:
Equipment: Let's face it...this is one of the more interesting, fun and exciting ways to invest... Number of bikes needed = N+1 afterall. Triathlons involve three distinct disciplines: swimming, biking, and running. Investing in high-quality gear for each discipline is crucial for maximizing your performance and avoiding injury. Some key items to consider include a wetsuit for swimming (make sure it fits well with enough room), a road or triathlon bike for cycling, and a good pair of running shoes for the run.
Training: Investing in your training is one of the most important things you can do to improve your performance in a triathlon. This may include hiring a coach, joining a local triathlon club, or attending training camps and workshops. You may also want to invest in workout gear, such as a heart rate monitor or GPS watch, to help you track your progress and measure your performance.
Nutrition: Proper nutrition is key to success in any endurance sport, and triathlons are no exception. Investing in a healthy and balanced diet, as well as quality supplements and energy gels, can help you fuel your body and maintain your energy levels throughout your training and racing.
Recovery: Recovery is just as important as training when it comes to triathlons. Investing in self-care tools, such as foam rollers, massage balls, and recovery drinks, can help you speed up your recovery time and reduce the risk of injury. You may also want to invest in recovery gear, such as compression socks or a recovery poncho, to help you recover more quickly after your races.
Racing: Investing in your racing is also important, as it can help you perform at your best and have a more enjoyable experience. This may include investing in a good pair of race wheels, a quality racing suit, or a support crew to help you with transitions and other race-day logistics.
If you’re considering investing in triathlon, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Start with the basics. Investing in high-quality gear for each discipline is a great place to start, as it will help you perform at your best and avoid injury. As you gain experience and confidence, you can start to explore more advanced equipment and training resources.
Don’t skimp on quality. When it comes to gear and equipment, it’s important to invest in quality over quantity. Opt for products that are durable, reliable, and designed specifically for triathlons, and avoid cheaper alternatives that may not perform as well or last as long.
Set a budget. Participating in triathlons can be expensive, so it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Prioritize your investments, focusing on the essentials first and then adding more advanced gear and training resources as you progress.
Do your research. Research the different brands and products available, and read reviews and recommendations from other triathletes to help you make informed decisions about what to invest in.
In conclusion, investing in triathlon is a smart choice for aspiring athletes looking to improve their performance and enjoy the sport to the fullest. With the right gear, training, nutrition, recovery
Should I invest in a Triathlon Coach?
Triathlons are the ultimate test of physical and mental endurance and require a great deal of dedication, hard work, and proper training to succeed. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced triathlete, investing in a coach can help you reach your full potential and achieve your athletic goals.
Related: Benefits of an online coach
Related: How to make your own training plan
A triathlon coach is more than just a trainer; they’re a mentor, a motivator, and a strategist. They can help you design a personalized training program, set achievable goals, and provide ongoing support and guidance to help you reach your full potential.
Is a triathlon coach a smart choice?
When trying to make a smart choice, I think of it more from a... will this benefit my life as a whole. Will it make my life easier? Will it reduce friction/ decision fatigue / free up time? Will it give me confidence in what I'm doing? I wouldn't be able to train without the oversight of a well-informed coach that I trust.. let's look at some of the reasons why.
So, what makes investing in a triathlon coach a smart choice? Here are a few key benefits to consider:
Tailored Training Programs: A coach will work with you to develop a training program that’s tailored to your specific needs and goals. They’ll take into account your current fitness level, race schedule, and any physical limitations you may have. They’ll also monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed to help you continue to improve.
Expert Advice: A coach has a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw from, and can provide expert advice on everything from technique and nutrition to race strategy and mental preparation. They can help you avoid common mistakes and overcome challenges, and provide valuable feedback on your performance.
Motivation and Support: Training for a triathlon can be tough, but having a coach in your corner can make a big difference. They’ll keep you motivated and on track, and be there to offer encouragement and support when you need it most. Whether you’re struggling with a difficult workout or feeling overwhelmed by the demands of training, a coach will be there to help you push through and achieve your goals.
Improved Performance: With the help of a coach, you’ll be able to train more effectively and efficiently, and see significant improvements in your performance. Whether you’re looking to set a personal best or simply finish your first triathlon, a coach can help you get there.
Increased Confidence: Training with a coach can also help build your confidence and give you a sense of accomplishment. Knowing that you have the support and guidance of an experienced professional can help you tackle even the most challenging workouts with ease.
If you’re considering investing in a triathlon coach, here are a few things to keep in mind:
Look for a coach with experience and expertise in triathlon training. Ideally, they should be certified by a reputable organization and have a proven track record of helping athletes achieve their goals.
Consider your goals and budget when choosing a coach. Some coaches offer online training programs, which can be more affordable, while others offer in-person coaching, which may be more expensive but provide more personal attention.
Be prepared to commit. Training for a triathlon is a significant investment of time and energy, and working with a coach is no different. You’ll need to be prepared to put in the work and follow your coach’s training program if you want to see results.
Other than ourselves (of course ;) ), here are some other companies that may be of interest:
Pros
Highest level of customisable training available
Can easily adapt and adjust training load or objectives in real-time
Advanced race planning and post-race analysis
Progression over long-term commitment (years not months)
Cons
Highest cost
Not all coaches are good
Who should hire a coach
Someone who has a busy schedule and needs to be able to optimize their time spent training
Someone whose performance has stagnated or who has big goals and aspirations in sport
Someone who communicates well and likes to ask questions
Someone who wants to use their coach as a resource
Someone who has long-term goals over many seasons and years
Someone who wants to race multiple events and disciplines in a season
Who should NOT hire a coach
Someone who isn’t able to follow through with the workouts a coach gives them
Someone on a very tight budget
In conclusion, investing in a triathlon coach can be a smart choice for aspiring athletes looking to achieve their full potential. With the right coach by your side, you’ll have the support, motivation, and guidance you need to train effectively, reach your goals, and enjoy the thrill of competition. So, if you’re ready to take your triathlon training to the next level, consider hiring a coach today!