I’ve mentioned this many times before: I want to run my first triathlon. This isn’t something that I just ‘want to do before I die’, I’m pretty sure I will do one before this year is over (good thing it just started!) It all started a few years ago when I started to run again after a few years off after running cross country and track in high school. I started off running a few 5Ks and slowly worked my way to 10Ks, half marathons and even a few full marathons which would surprise all of my high school running buddies because they all knew how much I hated running. Just to clarify, I didn’t hate running, I just didn’t see the need to train by running so many miles (40-50 a week) just to race for 3 miles. Once I got into marathon training mode, I finally understood the need to build up those base miles. I felt like I had accomplished everything I wanted to (outside of qualifying for Boston, but I feel like I’ll have a better chance when I’m much, much older).
So this is where the triathlon goal comes into play. I knew I would be able to knock out the running part pretty easily and I had purchased a road bike to start training for the cycling portion too. But the part I had the most trouble dealing with and still do is the swimming portion. I am a terrible swimmer! I can swim, but my technique is very bad to the point where I can barely complete one full lap in the pools. I tried taking swimming lessons, but didn’t improve enough to feel comfortable to compete in an actual race.
But once I master all three sports, I will need to find the right equipment. There are many places that offer triathlon gear; you just have to find the one that has the brands, sizes and equipment that fits your needs. If aren’t feeling motivated enough to start training for your first triathlon, maybe it would help to buy the gear now and sign up for a race in the near future. That way you’ll have to start training or get beat when race day arrives.