Do I really have what it takes to train and complete a mini-triathlon?

Article written by Niki Dobbyn

We've all asked ourselves this question at one point or another. Do I really have what it takes to train and complete a mini-triathlon? Yes, you do! Triathletes come in all shapes, sizes and ages. A majority of us don't enter these competitions to win the overall race. We enter because we want to win our own personal race. It takes hard work and dedication, but you can also train and compete in a mini-triathlon if you put your mind and body to it. Here are some things to consider when planning for your first mini-triathlon.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?
We all have strengths and weaknesses that we have to take into consideration before we decide on how we should train for a mini-triathlon. Some of us may be great runners and bikers but are terrible swimmers or, some can bike and swim but have never tried running. Others may not be athletes at all but are looking for a new challenge. Be honest with yourself so that you can find the best way to accomplish your goals.

Devise a realistic plan.
Be realistic in planning your training schedule. If you don't know how to swim, don't expect your first workout to be a one mile swim. For your first training session, you may want to work with a coach who can teach you how to drown-proof yourself and swim in a pool. As you learn more, you can begin working on distance swims until you can swim at least 100 yards further than the length of the swimming part of your mini-triathlon. Do your best at arranging a training schedule that you can complete. When you have mastered one workout, move on to a harder workout. If you force yourself into a schedule that is unrealistic, you will be unhappy at the end of every workout. The idea is to work at your own pace and enjoy the process.

Stick with the plan. We have kids, jobs, dentist appointments, car-pools, PTA meetings and household chores that make every day different. Training for a mini-triathlon requires dedication. Find creative ways to combine activities. Ride your bike to work, run a few miles during lunch, swim before work or let your kids ride bikes with you while you run in the evening after work. There are also triathlon groups you can join. Partnering up with a group of dedicated individuals can make all the difference in the world. They will encourage you on tough days and help you figure out creative ways to manipulate your schedule so that you can fit all of the important things in your life into each day.

Considering the advise above will only help you make better decisions in planning your triathlon goals. Enjoy the process and don't criticize the size of your accomplishments from day to day. Give yourself a pat on the back for working towards a big goal! Remember, there are some people who are natural triathletes and compete to win. Then there are the rest of us who work really hard and feel amazing because we complete the race!

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