Let’s assume that this is your first year in triathlon or this is your first year stepping up to a standard distance event (1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run). How should you plan your races so that you have a fun packed season? The first step is to set yourself one or two priority races or “A” races. These are the events where you would like to perform at your very best (to beat your mates or impress the mother-in-law perhaps?).
For most triathletes a gap of 4-6 weeks between priority races is ideal if you have more than one. This allows you time to recover and regroup after your first race, before building up again and “peaking” for your next important race. Of course, you can sprinkle in less important races in between but if you are a novice triathlete it is good to leave a couple of weeks between events. A series of events such as the Castle Triathlon Series, are spread through the year will take you and the family to some wonderful race venues.
If this is your first season, then the place to start is with a pool based sprint distance triathlon (400–750m swim, 20k bike, 5k run). These events are also brilliant season openers for more experienced athletes.
Your next priority race could be another sprint distance where you want to improve your time, race in open water for the first time or you may chose to move up to the standard distance.
Now that you have chosen the keystones of your season you can fill in the time before and between these events. Make this a season of new experiences by taking part in single discipline events such as 5k and 10k off road and on road running races, cyclosportives (50k-100k cycling challenges) and open water swimming events. These activities not only add some variety to your training but they also give you “racing” experience so that you are more used to being in a race environment when it comes to your most important triathlon.
Plan ahead and involve the family where you can. Plan your races so that you can enjoy your family summer holiday without “training stress”. An end of season event in September such as the Hever Castle Triathlon allows you to have a holiday and still prepare well.
Now that you have your races sorted out you need to think about your training. Take a look at our Masters Program. Join our Year 1 athletes as they take on their first season in triathlon.
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"I think the concept behind the Masters Programme is excellent. I find the sessions easy to follow, particularly the swim sessions." Masters Year 2 Athlete