How To Train For Your First Triathlon | An Introduction To Triathlon Training

GTN are going to be bringing you a series of videos to help you train and prepare for your first triathlon! You’ve entered your first event...but where do you start?

As a minimum, we would recommend 12 weeks to realistically prepare for, and complete a triathlon. That’s not to say that it’s not possible in less time, but to turn up feeling relaxed and confident, then this length of preparation should do the trick. So, we’ll be gearing our series of videos to a 10-12 week training time.

As triathletes, you have 3 sports to juggle and this can be quite challenging. If you work out six times in a week, you might swim twice, bike twice, and run twice, but your longest bike ride might be one hour, whereas your swims might last 30 minutes each and your runs, 40 minutes.

If you have a background in swimming, you can probably get away with doing a little less on your stronger discipline, and spend a little more time on your weaker disciplines. At least to bring them up to a point that you’re more comfortable with them. You can of course play to your strengths, but that’s for a later date, for now we want to make sure you complete your first triathlon comfortably.

Whilst training for your first triathlon, it’s mostly about completion. So following a gradual and sensible plan that keeps you consistent with your training is the key.

We like to explain it as if you’re building the foundations. You can’t move on without those foundations, otherwise it will all fall apart. So, whilst it’s tempting, the harder and faster stuff could be more detrimental if you do it before you’re ready to.

We’ve got three sports. That means three different sports to buy kit for. But, unless you really want to, there is no need to take out a mortgage for a new bike and other kit for your first triathlon. We’re sure you’ll love the sport, but until you’ve done an event it’s worth holding off on spending a load.

If you found this video useful, don't forget to give it a thumbs up and share with your friends!

Music: Epidemic Sound
Flashing Lights - Daxten
Smashing Punks 8 - Stefan Netsman
Suffer City Blues (Instrumental Version) - Suffer City
Keeping It Together 5 - Gunnar Johnsén
Once I Was A Cat (Instrumental Version) - Suffer City (1)

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The Global Triathlon Network (GTN) is the best triathlon YouTube channel, with videos for anyone who loves triathlon: from seasoned Ironman racers to first timers – and everyone in between.

With the help of our pro and Olympic medal winning team, we’re here to inform, entertain and inspire you to become a better triathlete; including videos on:

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Join us on YouTube’s best triathlon channel to get closer to the sport and to become a better, faster and fitter triathlete.

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[dqzj]

i should probably learn to swim first....

[briankieffer]

Thanks GTN...after 3 months of training, completed my first Tri today...an Olympic distance (Columbus, OH...USA). Turning 50 tomorrow. Thanks for helping me achieve my goal!!

[lg.studio]

Give the editor a rise. I love the dynamics of these past few videos. Big thumbs up.

[tristanmaubec]

I would say rather than tri-suit for initial triathlon/s is to use Triathlon shorts and cycling jersey.
You'll get more use out of the cycling Jersey in day-to-day use and it has zip in front to allow cooling when on the run!

[ForgottenKnight]

As a beginner I can tell you for sure that you don't need a Cervelo bike to complete an IronMan.

[alixandraparsons]

I'm a seasoned triathlete, but am always curious on different people's tips for beginners... And while watching the video I noticed you both rocking different On models for the run portions. I am the rep here in the US for Southern California for On and it was a pleasant surprise to see that! Really dig it, guys!

[motomtbingg]

I come from a backround of all these things (swimming i need practice)so im good doing my first one in a week soooo excited

[enekoalvarez]

This was a motivation for me. Two weeks for my 2nd tri! Can't wait!

[JogieGlenMait]

Wow, this is one special show. In terms of editing ang writing.

[lteee]

Ive just started. Went swimming twice last week, went for a good run today. On monday nights theres a guy that teaches me front crawl. Slowly getting the hang of it. Am not in a rush to do first competition anytime soon, I will probably wait til next year

[firemanhey]

Love the editing on this video, really snappy and flows nicely. More like this please!!!

[upward_onward]

First time watching your channel, my interest is in Road cycling... you won a subscriber.

[lingzhao]

Watching these videos gives my courage to take the first step

[qwertyuiopasdfgh]

just became sober and started training for a triathlon a year away. i used to race bikes, swim competitively/water polo and was always good at running. threw at all away 10 years ago for booze, smokes, other drugs, ready to reclaim my health and athleticism.

[aaronbontrager]

Can't wait for the training videos! Perfect timing since I just began training for my first tri. Looking forward to your guys wisdom and insights!

[TheArcass]

Sounds like this is going to be a great series. Looking forward to it!

[michbiker]

The area I live in just held their first Tri today. I'm motivated to jump in to the fray next year. Thanks for the excellent advice.

[bwilli]

Any videos or suggestions on bigger or overweight people trying to lean down and build up for a triathlon. Btw, I absolutely love your videos. Very informative and funny at times. Keep up the good work.

[harrybeckwith]

These videos are always great! Really well presented.

[ajayb]

Good luck!! to all your are doing a triathlon