Triathlon schedules-Transition with EASE

Most triathletes spend the majority of their time focusing on the three events at hand, swimming, biking and running. However, a proper triathlon schedule should also include proper and efficient transition training. During your event you'll have two transitions to make, swim to bike and bike to run. A poor transition can be a major time suck and really dampen your spirits not to mention your overall time. However, an efficient/clean transition can really boost your morale and give you an edge over your competitors. So let's get started!

Swim-to-bike: This transition should be as clean and quick as possible. Assuming your bike is already equipped with full water bottles, food and the tire pressure has been checked and is ready to go. Something as small as taking off your cap and goggles, or unzipping your wetsuit on the run-up to the bike can save seconds. Wearing a one piece race suit ie tri suit to avoid having to change clothes is one way to save time. Another tip would be to already have your shoes attached to your clipless pedals so that you can simply jump on your bike and place your feet into the shoes while moving. A great trick many triathletes use is to rubber band the heel loops of the cycling shoes to the bike so that they are right side up. As for you sunglasses, you can loop them onto the handlebars and put them on while motion, now the only thing left is the helmet. This should be the only piece of equipment you put on before getting on the bike, for safety reasons and disqualification purposes putting on your helmet is crucial. Placing your helmet on your head and snapping the latch should only take seconds, the fastest athletes may only put on a helmet and grab their bike to run out.


Bike-to-run: While still on the bike you can loosen your shoes and remove your sunglasses, if you have a string attached to the glasses you can simply drop them around your neck. Be sure to come to a full stop, get off your bike, park it then begin your transition. After dismounting you should remove your helmet then shoes. Have your running shoes open and ready to go, lace locks or speed laces are a great way to save time. To help your feet slide smoothly into your running shoes, prep them with a sprinkling of baby powder. Lastly, don't worry about wearing socks. Putting socks on would take entirely too much time, just be sure to practice running without them beforehand to prevent blisters.

Practice: The best way to become quick and efficient at these two transitions would be to incorporate these tips into your triathlon schedule. The key here is to save time and energy and to get you across the finish line quicker!

If you want to find out more, go to this website here: Triathlon Schedules