What type of triathlon is right for you?

Julia Bryant

When I did my first triathlon a few years ago, I didn’t really know what I was getting myself into. If you’re not familiar with triathlons, they’re races involving swimming, biking and running. I walked down to the water with my parents before the first leg of my first race and had no idea what was about to unfold. It turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences in my life, and now I’m hooked.

Whenever I tell people I do triathlons, they always ask why I would ever put myself through that. They see things like Ironman competitions on TV and assume that’s what I do. But there are many other types of triathlons besides full Ironmans. In Maryland, as well as Virginia, there are a bunch of different races; sprint triathlons, Olympic-distance, half Ironman races and Ironman races, all with varying degrees of difficulty.

So which one is right for you?

Sprint Triathlon

Swim: 0.5 mile

Bike: 12-14 miles

Run: 5 kilometers

Training Level: Beginner

This is exactly what it sounds like — a sprint. It’s quick compared with the other races and is my favorite type of race. Perfect for any beginner, sprint triathlons allow you to get into the swing of things without having to train too hard.

Olympic-Distance Triathlon

Swim: 1.5 kilometers

Bike: 40 kilometers

Run: 10 kilometers

Training Level: Beginner/Intermediate

Races nearby: Columbia Triathlon (May 17)

Iron Girl Triathlon (Aug. 16)

This is for those who don’t mind a bit more training and rigor. It’s about twice the length of a sprint triathlon, but it is still one of the shorter ones. Even a beginner, with the right training, will do just fine.

Half Ironman (Also referred to as Half-Full)

Swim: 1.2 miles

Bike: 56 miles

Run: 13.1 miles

Training Level: Intermediate/Advanced

Races nearby: SavageMan 70.0 (Sept. 20)

EagleMan 70.3 (June 14)

This is for the more experienced triathlete. It is double the length of the Olympic-distance triathlons, and you have to train your butt off well before race day to ensure you’re ready.

Ironman

This is the ultimate test of individual strength. Like the half Ironman, this is for the more experienced triathlete. Many Ironmans have times you have to meet to qualify for the race. Coupling speed requirements and sheer distance, an ironman is a long-term goal for those just starting out.

Swim: 2.4 miles

Bike: 112 miles

Run: 26.2 miles

Training Level: Advanced/Expert/Qualification-Only

The overwhelming feeling of accomplishment after crossing the finish line is something I hope everyone can experience. Don’t get discouraged by all of the training and the length of the races. Pick whatever is the most comfortable for you. Triathlons have been some of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Get out there and go tri!