Beginner Triathlon Training In California

A relative newcomer to sports, triathlon began at Mission Bay, San Diego in 1974. Sponsored by the San Diego Track Club, the event saw a meager 46 athletes compete. In 1978, the first Hawaiian Ironman Triathlon ran with only 15 athletes participating. ABC's Wide World of Sports covered the Hawaiian Ironman in 1982, giving the sport credibility, and churning up the public's interest in this new sport, which has continued to grow ever since.

Weather

California has Mediterranean weather conditions with warm, dry summers and cool, rainy winters --- which makes the state ideal for triathlon training and competition. Although not a year 'round sport, triathletes continue to swim, bike and run during the cool, yet soothing mild winter temperatures.

Water

California is renowned worldwide for its 840 miles of coastline, with some of the most beautiful beaches and ocean waters in the world. Triathletes can use the Pacific Ocean year 'round to train and race in the open waters, including the famous bays found in San Francisco and San Diego. The many lakes throughout the state, such as those found in Mammoth, Tahoe and Big Bear offer smooth freshwater for new triathletes to gain the confidence, skills and experience of open water swimming without waves, underwater currents and sea creatures found in the ocean environment.

Unique Races

California offers its triathletes a diverse selection of races through the year. With its unique name recognition, the Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon is such a race. Beginning in the San Francisco Bay, just off shore from the old prison, the race is one of a kind. Other unique triathlons include those held on the island of Santa Catalina and at the United States Marine Base of Camp Pendleton.

Triathlon Clubs

Athletes new to the sport will appreciate the camaraderie that a triathlon club offers its members. The LA Triathlon Club, located in Los Angeles and the Golden Gate Triathlon Club, located in San Francisco both offer their members many opportunities to learn the sport of triathlon, and improve their swim, bike and running skills. In addition to clinics, group swims, rides and runs are offered allowing newbie triathletes an opportunity to train in a group. This is especially useful for open water swimming, where the buddy system is highly recommended for safety reasons. Members of most triathlon clubs are also recipients of race and gear discounts.

Terrain

California has a plethora of terrain for training. This is an especially beneficial when training for the cycling leg of a triathlon. California is the place to climb, according to the Daily Peloton, a cycling web site, which calls California a paradise of climbing for cyclists. The Santa Monica Mountain Range is an example of climbing terrain located near a major city center --- Los Angeles. The various terrains in California also offer off-season cross training opportunities, such as skiing and rock climbing.