The most frequent mistakes in the debut of a triathlon

It is your first triathlon and there are many factors and elements that you must take into account. We leave you some frequent errors that the novice triathletes usually commit so you can prevent them.

Forget part of the material.

It is very common that at the time of making the suitcase or the backpack for the competition it is forget part of the material. So that does not happen to you, we recommend you make a list of everything you are going to use and as you add it in your backpack, you will remove it from the list.

If you are interested, you can read the Triathlete Check List

Arrive with stress.

Avoid always arrive with the time stuck since in addition to the own stress that can cause the competition, even more if it is the first one, this will increase your nerves and will dissipate your attention of the important thing.

Look closely at the Dorsal collection schedules and material control to arrive at least one hour before your departure.

Place yourself in a bad position in swimming.

If it's the first time you're going to swim in open water, in a crowded exit, place yourself on the sides of the more delayed rows it will decrease the likelihood of knocks at the start and feel overwhelmed by many athletes.

If you are interested, you can read   5 tips for swimming in open water for beginners

Wrong in the circuit.

The regulation of the competition usually includes a map of each segment where they explain the route as well as the most important points to consider (turns, potholes, dangerous zones, etc.).

It is very important that you take a look before the race and even if you have the opportunity, Take a bike tour of the circuit.

Be disoriented in the transition zone.

Large zones of transition with a multitude of parallel bars can lead to confusion and make you lose time for not finding your bib. We recommend that you look for an external reference that locates you to go directly for it. These references can be buildings or parts of them, advertising banners, in short, static elements external to the transition area and close to your ridge.

Leave used material out of the box.

All the material that you have used you must go leaving it in the box of your box. In addition to a possible sanction can hinder your own transition and that of other athletes.

Skip the assembly and disassembly lines.

Note that You must always get on the bike once you have passed the assembly line (T1) and get out of it (T2) just before you get to the assembly line.

Receive external help

According to the regulations of the Spanish Triathlon Federation, you can only receive assistance from the staff of the organization or officials, as well as other athletes as long as they do not physically help your progress in the journey or that results in an abandonment of the other athlete in favor of your career.

Therefore, rejects all help from the public If you have any mechanical failure on your bike or even if you are thirsty and offer you water.

These little tips will make your first triathlon an experience of enjoyment and you can continue to learn every day of this sport.

Laura García Cervantes

Dra. Science of Physical Activity and Sport

Club Trikatlón Tres Cantos Sports Director

Triathlon and Swimming Senior Trainer

Paratriathlon Specialist Trainer