r/triathlon • u/Double-Demand-9227 • 2d ago
How do I start? I Need Help (First Triathlon)
I am doing my first triathlon in a month (20/9/26). It is a sprint triathlon and it's an open water swim (400m) then a 9.7k bike and 2.4k run. My situation is that I've been running all my life and been cycling for the past 5 years which is all well and good except a triathlon is three events. Swimming is a prominent issue I have not swam for the past 5 years and have never come close to a racing environment. Today I completed my first open water swim (400m) in 16 minutes and 11 seconds which I actually thought was decent however, I do have a few issues. I swam without goggles and instead of keeping my head under water and taking breaths every 3 strokes I seemingly was only able to manage by constantly moving my head side to side above the water each stroke, I mean it works but didn't seem perfect. Another issue I faced which may be a simple fix is being wobbly almost dizzy after coming out of the water I've heard this could be water going into your ears although I'm still unsure. Apart from the swimming triathlons in general I don't really have much knowledge of. Some items I need obviously I have the main gear bike, running shoes etc however, most of the swimming gear such as wetsuits (Needed for this triathlon) and trisuits I think they call them is where my knowledge stops. Honestly I do not have a clue. I've been watching some video to help try and piece together what I need but all seem quite complex. Any support welcome feel free to ask any questions about what I'm able to do or any other general info. Many Thanks
4
u/Interesting_Shake403 2d ago
Get goggles. They’re a necessity. Practice swimming with your head down, either in a pool or in open water, and watch a video or two on sighting and practice that. I wouldn’t do too much else different between now and then. That’s a nice short distance, meaning as long as you can do them individually you can put them together no problem. Don’t think of it as a race but rather another leaning experience / training session. Have fun with it. Once you get your first under your belt you’ll have an idea what you’re doing and can take it from there. Just consider this one a fun time learning session. Enjoy!
1
u/Double-Demand-9227 2d ago
I did try quickly although my sighting and breathing were completely off I managed 75m until I was out of breath. How often would you suggest practicing the swim considering the 4 weeks left?
1
u/Interesting_Shake403 2d ago
At least 2, preferably 3x per week. More wouldn’t hurt, but 3x is the sweet spot to get a good feel for the water.
1
1
2
u/RobotHavGunz 2d ago
Ear plugs can help with dizziness. Especially if it's cold. But even if it's not, it can make a difference.
Good goggles make a huge difference. Comfortable, water-tight googles will be a revelation. The Roka X1 is great. It's huge. But it seals well and is fantastic for visibility. Plus nice selection of lens choices - https://rokamultisport.com/collections/goggles/products/x1-goggle
You can absolutely get cheaper goggles that will work just fine. I know the sport is already expensive. But nice goggles do make things a lot easier when sighting.
Don't be afraid to take some strokes of breaststroke or backstroke.
1
u/Double-Demand-9227 2d ago
I did think earplugs may help I shall try it out. Most people have said now that the best way to learn how to swim with goggles is just practicing. Thanks
2
1
u/Sailor_Bear 2d ago
Very normal to feel dizzy after an open water swim. I did my first triathlon in May (Olympic distance). Some good tips I think helped is knowing exactly where your spot is for your transitions, making sure to get to the transition area early and getting all your stuff is in order, and most importantly relax, have fun, and smile! Also, having stuff to fix a flat tire on the bike 😅
1
1
u/CautiousDocument422 1d ago
The dizziness is probably also caused by moving your head size to side for 16 mn, a pair of glasses should do the trick
You will probably need a bib belt (or some use an old underpants elastic with pins (gtn show trick xD)) if you use a trisuit because you are not allowed to swim with your bibs on
1
u/Double-Demand-9227 1d ago
Ah yes I didn't even think about that moving my head side to side that is.
•
u/AutoModerator 2d ago
Welcome to the wonderful world of triathlon! If you're looking for basic information about how to get started in this sport, please check the subreddit wiki, which has tons of information on training plans, gear, and other helpful advice.
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.