Avoid some common mistakes when performing in a triathlon.
A triathlon is a combination of running, swimming and biking that tests the endurance of even the most seasoned athletes. It can take place in a park, where contestants can run and bike rugged trails and swim through natural waterways, or at a beach, where contestants swim in the ocean, run through soft sand and bike nearby pathways. However, many first-time triathlon participants find that, despite their best training, they encounter difficulties. This is usually due to common triathlon mistakes made by newbies.
Lack of Sleep
Not getting enough sleep is a common mistake first-timers make when they participate in a triathlon. Your body undergoes a rigorous test of strength and endurance when you participate in this type of competition, and rest is key to physically withstanding it. While you might be excited the night before, you can stave off exhaustion if you've at least gotten plentiful rest for three or four nights ahead of the race.
Equipment Changes
Avoid making last-minute changes to your equipment before the day of the race. Any tweaks on your bike, goggles or training aids should be made three to four weeks ahead of the big dance, so that you have time to break in what you need to and to get comfortable with your equipment. Purchasing new bike pedals or goggles days before the race, for example, is a newbie mistake that can cost you a good standing in the triathlon.
Changes in Diet
Be consistent with your diet in the two to three months approaching the race and particularly in those last days before you compete. Maintain a consistent diet of proteins, healthy carbohydrates and fats and plenty of water. Also, be careful when you engage in the "carb load" the night before the race, which is where athletes eat a bunch of energy-inducing carbohydrates ahead of competition. The wrong foods can send your stomach reeling and your race chances plummeting. Choose healthy carbs and refrain from eating junk food that will adversely affect your performance in the race.
Wetsuit Practice
Many first-timers forget to practice getting in and out of their wetsuits ahead of the race, which can cost them a great deal of time. Practice in the days leading up to the triathlon, getting into the wetsuit and quickly stripping out of it. Get yourself used to undoing the zipper and start with your arms first. Don't waste time getting frustrated the day of the race, if you aren't going fast enough, because this anger causes you to lose energy and momentum. Just breathe in and start again, focusing on getting each component of the suit off so you can move on.
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