Triathlons are races in which athletes complete three sports in quick succession. The race is a test of endurance, since each sport tires you out for the next one. The most common triathlon race involves a swim followed by a cycle course and then a running race. The term "Clydesdale" refers to triathletes who are above a certain weight. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise or training regimen.
Athlete Classification
Most triathlon races are split into professional and amateur categories -- the majority of competitors fall into the latter category. Some races will act as qualifiers for national triathlons with, for example, the fastest 10 percent of racers qualifying for nationals. Prizes are usually awarded in male and female categories, further broken down by age. The fastest male in the 60 to 69 age group will usually be expected to finish in a longer overall time than the fastest female in the 20 to 29 age group, for example.
Weight Classification
Certain triathlons further categorizes athletes by weight. In recognition of the fact that a heavier athlete will usually be slower than a lighter athlete of the same gender and height, separate prizes and awards may be given to heavy-weight athletes of each age group and gender. USA Triathlon, the sport's governing body, defines a "Clydesdale" athlete as a male weighing more than 200 lbs. The female equivalent category is known as "Athena" -- women over 150 lbs. are considered heavyweight for triathlon purposes. Other races may set different weight divisions and categories.
Training Considerations
Swimming and cycling are great ways to exercise for weight loss. As part of your triathlon training, these sports offer low-impact forms of exercise in which your weight is well supported. However, you will also need to complete significant running training before a triathlon. Running is hard on your joints, particularly the knees, hips and ankles. Any extra weight you are carrying increases the strain on these joints. Supportive running shoes are essential, and you should bear in mind that heavier athletes wear out running shoes more quickly.
Race Day Considerations
If you are heavy, your risk of heart attack is likely higher than that of a lighter-weight triathlete. In particular, the open-water swim can be relatively dangerous, and the majority of triathlon-related fatalities occur due to heart problems in the water. Do not hesitate to ask for help from race officials or lifeguards if you feel unwell during any point in the race. Also consider starting the race near the back of the pack of racers, so you are not in the way of faster athletes at the front. Lastly, remember to have fun and don't feel intimidated around non-Clydesdale athletes -- most experienced triathletes are welcoming and supportive of newcomers to the sport. They will more often than not shout words of encouragement as they overtake you on the bike or run.
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