The cycling portion of a triathlon is the longest distance of all the three disciplines. This is because you can travel further and faster on a bike than you can if you were swimming or running. There are several standard triathlon distances, although individual races may stray from the official distances and use their own distances.
Sprint Triathlon
The cycling portion of a sprint triathlon is 20 km. The ride comes after a 750 m swim and before a 5 km run. Sprint triathlons are ideal for beginners because they offer distances that are challenging yet still achievable. You can expect to complete a sprint triathlon in between 50 minutes and two hours, according to triathlon coach Ben Greenfield. As you get fitter, you can work at reducing your time in a sprint-distance triathlon.
Olympic Triathlon
The Olympic or standard triathlon distance is 40 km for the cycling portion, along with a 1500 m swim and 10 km run. As the name implies, this is the distance used for Olympic events. Olympic distances can offer a new challenge if you have completed a sprint triathlon.
Ironman Triathlon
The Ironman is the ultimate endurance challenge for any triathlete. You will be required to cycle 180 km after your 3.8 km swim. This is followed by a 42 km run. The first Ironman triathlon took place Feb. 18, 1978, on the Hawaiian island of Oahu. Entrants had to cycle the 185 km route around the island, following the Round Oahu Bike Course.
Other Distances
There are several other official triathlon distances including the super sprint triathlon, which features a 10 km cycle ride. Middle distance triathlons feature an 80 km cycle ride, while long distance events have 120 km cycle routes. You could even try a half Ironman, which features a 90 km cycle ride.
Considerations
When you take part in a triathlon event, you will be required to wear a cycling helmet for the duration of your ride. You will be required to provide your own bicycle, however a tri-specific bike is not a requirement. You can wear a tri-suit for the duration of the event, or you may find shorts and t-shirt more suitable if you are new to the discipline and don't want to spend a lot of money on clothes. Cycling shoes are another piece of clothing you may consider, although they are not a necessity.
Member Comments