I'm New to Triathlon – How Should I Get Started?

So, you've decided to take the plunge into the world of triathlon—welcome!! Whether you're

inspired by a friend, looking for a new challenge, or simply curious about the sport, starting

off on the right foot is key. We help athletes of all levels unlock their full potential, and heres

our tips for where to get started,

1- Choose your distance

Events come in various distances, from shorter sprint triathlons to the full Ironman. The first

thing is to decide what distance you're focusing on - If you're just starting, I'd consider

targeting a sprint distance (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) to build confidence and

experience.

2: Identify Your Strengths and Weaknesses

As you are considering triathlon, usually you've got a background in one of the three sports.

Identifying your strengths and areas for improvement will help shape your training focus. A structured approach, rather than just ‘training more, will ensure consistent progress and prevent injury.

3: Training Plan

Balancing three sports can be tricky, especially with work, family, and social commitments. A

well-structured triathlon training plan will ensure you make the most of your available time while

progressing efficiently. Key areas to focus on:

Swim: technique over anything!! The swim is a tricky sport especially if you’re picking

it up later in life. If you're unsure, a coach can be invaluable for this

Bike: Invest time in bike handling skills, endurance rides, and interval sessions to

build strength. At MBPC we focus on aero drills, pedal technique, and preparing for

the demands of the event you're training for - both in skill development and physical

training sessions

Run: Make sure you build this gradually as there is the greatest risk of injury here- it

is crucial on the run to train specifically for the event and intensity you require come

race day to maximise the training and stay consistent

4: Do you need a coach?

While self-coaching can work for some, many athletes benefit immensely from structured

triathlon coaching. We can help with;

Personalised Training Plans: Tailored to your ability, goals, and lifestyle.

Technique: Improving efficiency in swimming, cycling, and running.

Accountability & Motivation: Keeping you on track and adjusting plans as needed.

Race Preparation: Helping you taper, strategise, and build confidence for race day.

Nutrition: making a plan can make or break the race!

At Matt Bottrill Performance Coaching, we specialise in individualised coaching that

integrates your strengths, corrects weaknesses, and optimises training efficiency. Our

experience in performance coaching ensures you get the best possible start in the sport.

5: Train Smart, Not Just Hard

Many new triathletes fall into the trap of overtraining, leading to fatigue or injury. Focus on:

Consistency: Small, frequent improvements over time yield the best results.

Recovery: Prioritise rest days, sleep, and nutrition to fuel performance.

If you’re serious about making progress and want guidance, Matt Bottrill Performance

Coaching is here to help. Our tailored approach ensures you train smarter, avoid common

pitfalls, and reach your goals faster.

Get in touch today, and let’s start your triathlon journey the right way!

Get in touch www.mattbottrillperformancecoaching.com