Pittsford Triathlon - Beginner Group Training Program
Frequently Asked Questions
(please feel free to contact us to add to this! )
Q: How do I know if I can do this?
A: Anyone can do this program! It is designed to take a relatively inactive person through a 12 week training program to complete the Pittsford triathlon.
Q: What if I can't make all the meetings?
A: Very few people will be able to commit to all the meetings - things happen in life! You will be emailed the handouts and any useful notes from the meeting if you could not attend. And remember you always have email access to your coach!
Q: Are there any minimum requirements?
A: Generally NO but it would be useful to know how to swim at least 50-100yards as this is not a "learn to swim" program. Otherwise no fitness requirements. If you are a "couch potato" you can still do this - however we suggest that in the month before the program you start to get a bit more active. Jackie can help you with this if you like.
Q: I am overweight and all the athletes I see are skinny and energetic. Surely I won't fit in?
A: The wonderful thing about triathlons is that there are NO BARRIERS to age or size. Triathletes come in all shapes and sizes and there will be many "first-timers" at this triathlon (or any Sprint distance triathlon). A fantastic benefit for those with a few pounds to lose is that 2 of the 3 sports you train in are non-weight bearing so you have exercise without the extra stress on your joints. You may even lose a few pounds too.
Q: What happens if I can't run?
A: We start the "run" training slowly with lots of walking, then inserting a few minutes jogging. Many people use a walk/jog strategy even in the race itself. Of course if there is a medical condition that may prevent you running then please contact your physician to discuss first.
Q: I have some background/ experience in one or more of the sports but have never done a triathlon and would like to try it. Will the training be OK for me?
A: This is fairly common and the training programs will be adapted individually for those with experience/ fitness in one or more of the sports. You will still benefit from all the triathlon general and specific knowledge that we cover and practice.
Q: How much training is involved?
A: The time for each workout is not long and starts smaller, gradually working up to completing the course distances. Anybody should be able to fit these in their schedule. However, please plan to be doing something most days of the week to get the most out of this program
Q: What equipment do we need?
A: This will be covered thoroughly at the first meeting but the basics are comfortable clothing to swim, bike and run in. Plus access to a bike and helmet. A hybrid/ mountain bike is perfectly acceptable and there will be a few of them.
Q: Is the cost for the whole 12 weeks?
A: Yes, we have kept it low because we want to encourage beginners into this wonderful sport! You will have to register for the triathlon separately though. Details will be given as soon as they become available.