Most newbies, and even some of the more seasoned veterans, should know a few triathlon facts. Whether you are unclear about what can get you disqualified, how to improve your time in the Ironman Triathlon, the more you know about the race, the more likely you are to succeed.
Easily Confused Triathlon Terminology
- Blocking is when you stay on the left side of the course in the bike event for too long. You can get disqualified for doing this. The left side is only for passing, and you should do this quickly.
- Drafting is when you ride closer than three bicycle lengths to the biker ahead of you. It is illegal in most amateur races and some elite races.
- T1 and T2 are the terms for the swim to bike transition and the bike to run transition respectively.
- 70.3 (Half Ironman) is a type of triathlon event. It is a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run.
- Ironman is the longest triathlon event. It is a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile run.
Things to Do the Morning of an Ironman Triathlon
- Pump your tires for the last time before the event. Not doing this can lead to a “pinch” flat on the course.
- For that matter, do a last minute inventory on all of your gear. There is always the chance that you missed something the night before.
- Eat a normal breakfast. Do not try anything new, or you will pay the price on the course.
Shop Ironman and Get Advice from Real Triathletes
The Ironman Store and Ironman360.com is more than just the best place to go to shop Ironman equipment and supplies. The staff is also highly experienced in triathlon training and competition. They can give you all of the triathlon facts and advice such as which sports drinks are the best, how to handle that nasty curve in the biking event, and much more.
