I’m excited to share 6 triathlon hacks that are great for newbies and seasoned pros alike.
Embarking on my first triathlon at the age of 39 was a daring and exhilarating leap into the world of endurance sports. The decision to pursue this challenge was accompanied by the realization of my novice swimming skills, adding an extra layer of complexity to the journey. Undeterred by the potential obstacles, I was determined to overcome the perceived limitations and conquer the forthcoming triathlon season. To prepare for this demanding endeavour, I wholeheartedly immersed myself in swimming lessons in September 2015, diligently honing my abilities and refining my technique.
The pivotal turning point in my preparation came with the invaluable insights gained from an intensive 8-week Triathlon Clinic. This formative experience not only equipped me with essential skills and knowledge but also served as a catalyst, propelling me towards participating in and completing a Try-A-Tri and a Triathlon Sprint. Though acknowledging that I am far from being an expert in this realm, I am excited to share a mosaic of transformative Triathlon Hacks that have significantly shaped and enriched my journey. These unconventional yet effective hacks have not only enhanced my performance but have also contributed to the overall enjoyment and fulfilment of this remarkable pursuit.
Table of Contents
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Triathlon Hack #1: Lick Your Goggles
One of the unexpected challenges I faced was foggy goggles during the swim leg. To combat this, a fellow triathlete shared the quirky yet effective hack of licking the inside of the goggles. Skeptical at first, I gave it a shot during the Iron Girl Triathlon, and to my surprise, it worked like a charm. The saliva prevents fogging, providing clear vision underwater. This hack isn’t limited to open water swims; it’s equally beneficial for indoor pool workouts.
Triathlon Hack #2: Use Baby Powder
Wrestling into a wetsuit can be a struggle, with the material clinging to the skin. Enter baby powder—a game-changer. Liberally sprinkle baby powder down the legs and arms of your wetsuit before putting it on. This not only eases the sliding process but also saves valuable minutes in the transition area.
Triathlon Hack #3: Gear Down Your Bike
Transitioning from the swim to the bike can be a precarious moment, especially if you find yourself teetering on your bike at the “bike on” line. To avoid this, shift your bike to the easiest gear before racking it. When positioning your bike on the rack, point it toward the bike exit. This way, when you mount your bike, you’ll have a smoother start in the right direction.
Triathlon Hack #4: Pee In Your Wetsuit
While it may sound unconventional, peeing in your wetsuit is a common practice among triathletes. The nerves and anticipation on race day often lead to multiple bathroom breaks. Save time and skip the long lines at the Port-a-Potty by taking a “warm-up” early on. It might make you reconsider that wetsuit rental, but the time saved is worth it.
Triathlon Hack #5: Roll Your Socks
For those opting to wear socks during the bike and run legs, streamline your transition by separating and pre-rolling your socks at the transition zone. Placing one sock in each shoe ensures a quick and efficient sock application, saving precious seconds that can make a difference.
Triathlon Hack #6: Wear Lock Laces
Observing fellow participants fumbling with shoelaces during the Iron Girl Triathlon motivated me to invest in Lock Laces. These (affiliate link ->)elastic laces with locks on the end eliminate the need for tying and untying shoes. Simply slip into your running shoes effortlessly, saving crucial minutes in transition. A small investment that pays off in convenience and efficiency.
Whether you’re a triathlon novice or a seasoned athlete, integrating these six hacks into your routine can enhance your overall experience and performance. Have you tried any of these tips? Share your thoughts in the comments below. If you find them helpful, spread the knowledge—pin this post on Pinterest or share it on Facebook. Your feedback and support make the triathlon journey even more rewarding.
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Great info, thanks for sharing.