About to do my first tri- can someone fill me in on what to wear, what the transition phases are like, etc.

Running Shoes/Running Gear Other

8 years ago 02/01/2016 10:28am EST

I'm about to do my first sprint tri in March and was a little confused on the proper attire, etc. I don't own any "jammers" or tights that I want to swim in, was planning on just going in running shorts, then biking and running in those as well. Would this be taboo? Seems like I could save time by not having to change as well.

In results from last years race that I'm doing I see the fastest transition 1 was one minute 19 seconds and the average time was about 2 minutes 30 seconds. This seems a little slow? I'm planning on getting out of the pool, throwing on a singlet and shoes, and getting on the bike. Any advice is welcome.

8 years ago 02/01/2016 10:40am EST

re: slam

Might want to check and see if the pool is heated. If not and you live in the north, you will want to get a wet suit. Biggest first time tri mistake is freezing on the swim. Running shorts do create a good bit of drag in the water and are not fun to try to bike/run in when you are soaked. Just think about what it would be like to go for a bike ride after taking an ice bath. A pair of tri shorts is worth a few bucks for the comfort. Otherwise, just do it. Triathletes all have their different little tricks for getting in and out of the transition areas. You will just learn by watching others and trying out what you think will work for you. The more important transition for a new triathlete is the actual physical transition of going from swim to bike and bike to run. Getting used to that takes a lot of work. Figuring out whether you like quick laces and other tri gear is far less important.

8 years ago 02/01/2016 10:44am EST

re: slam

the swim is in a pool?

just buy Tri shorts (like cycling shorts with less padding)

wear shorts over them if you are like thejeff

1:19 is not exactly slow

or just go naked

8 years ago 02/01/2016 11:06am EST

re: sjsjsjsjsjzjzj

Yes it's in a pool, only a 300 yard swim, 9 mile bike and 5k run. It's a sprint.

Anyway, thanks for the advice. Tri shorts sound like a good idea. I guess I'm just a little confused with why the transition times are that high, I guess it just takes longer than I initially thought it would. Maybe I can make up some time there.

8 years ago 02/01/2016 11:41am EST

re: slam

Transition times include everything from entering the transition zone to exiting the transition zone. Depending on the particular course's transition zone layout there may be some significant "running" distance to get to the bike and to get the bike out in addition to time spent putting on shoes and shirt.

8 years ago 02/01/2016 12:13pm EST

re: slam

Bill Bowerman urinated on Phil Knight.

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About to do my first tri- can someone fill me in on what to wear, what the transition phases are like, etc.

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