New to Triathlon? Start Here!

Triathlon is a multi-sport race that includes swimming, biking, and running, completed in that order. It’s one of the fastest-growing endurance sports in the U.S. and is open to athletes of all backgrounds—from first-time racers to experienced competitors. Triathlon is a regular Olympic sport and continues to grow at the collegiate level.

Race Distances

Triathlons come in a variety of distances, making it easy to find one that fits your experience level.

• Sprint Distance
  550-yard swim – 15.5-mile bike – 3.1-mile run
• Olympic / Standard Distance
  1-mile swim – 24.8-mile bike – 6.2-mile run
• Longer Distances
  Including Half Ironman (70.3) and Ironman (140.6)

The official collegiate distance is Olympic/Standard, but Sprint races are offered throughout the season and are a great entry point if you’re new to the sport.

How Long Are the Races?

Race times vary based on experience, fitness, and conditions, but most athletes can expect:

• Sprint Distance: ~1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
• Olympic Distance: ~2 hours 30 minutes to 3 hours 30 minutes

Do I Need to Be Good at All Three Sports?

Not at all! Most triathletes come from a background in just one sport—and many start with no experience in any of them. Our team welcomes athletes of all abilities, speeds, and experience levels. The goal is to learn, improve, and have fun.

What Is Transition?

Transition is often called the “fourth sport” of triathlon. It’s the time between each leg of the race—and your clock keeps running.

• T1: Swim → Bike
• T2: Bike → Run

We’ll teach you how to set up your transition area and move through it efficiently and confidently.

Swim Basics
Not a strong swimmer? No problem.

You can use any swim stroke you’re comfortable with—including doggy paddle. Practices focus on building confidence and efficiency in the water, and team leaders are always happy to help.

Wetsuits are optional at most races and are typically allowed when the water temperature is below 78°F.

Bike Basics

Helmets are required—always.

Touching or riding your bike without a helmet during a race results in disqualification. Helmets are also required at all practices.

What kind of bike can I use?

Mountain bikes are allowed and commonly seen at races.

Not allowed: recumbents, trikes, tandems, or beam bikes.

Triathlon bikes are not required—most beginners race on road bikes