beginner triathlon

When it comes to triathlon swimming, is it better to learn through trial and error or have a coach show you the way? Triathlete’s swim expert weighs the pros and cons of each approach.

New to triathlons and worried your gear won’t measure up? You’re not alone. Here’s how to overcome the most common equipment insecurities - and focus on what really matters.

If chasing finish times leaves you anxious, you’re not alone. A triathlon coach explains how shifting to intrinsic goals - like enjoying the process and staying mentally strong - can transform your race-day experience.

At your first triathlon, you’re going to feel everything (and we do mean everything). Instead of letting it overwhelm you, get curious.

Don't let the excitement of race week distract you from taking time to familiarize yourself with race details in the athlete guide.

Experienced triathletes share their best triathlon advice for beginners or new athletes of any age or ability. Learn their 14 tips.

Looking for a low-pressure, fun, and friendly way to dip your toes into the multisport world? Check out our guide to the best triathlons for beginners in 2025.

We take a look at seven great picks for a beginner (or intermediate) triathlon bike under $4,500.

We take a look at what makes good, basic neoprene and explore what makes the best beginner triathlon wetsuit for under $400.

You can do a triathlon! Follow this road map to cross your first triathlon finish line in just eight weeks.

Your first triathlon is all about one thing: making mistakes and learning from them. (And having fun!) We can help minimize the former and maximize the latter.

For anyone who’s ever stood at the finish line of a 5K, 10K, or half-marathon, and asked “what’s next,” we have the answer.

Can you do a 70.3 as your first triathlon? Yes. But should you? Coach Alison Freeman dives into what you need to know about going all-in on the half distance for your first race.

When it comes to your first triathlon, any finishing time is a good one! But if you're looking for something a little more concrete to aim for, here are a few guidelines for good triathlon times for beginners.

Read on for what to eat the night before your first sprint triathlon, the morning of your race, and during the big event itself.

Our advice on what can be the most overwhelming part of your first triathlon: the clothing.

Learning how to swim for triathlon—and then learning how to swim well—can be one of the biggest challenges that beginner triathletes face. Here’s our guide to making it a little easier.

A look at 15 basic (but essential) gear pieces you'll need for your first triathlon.

To follow a training plan, first you have to understand it.

Your primer on triathlon, from super sprint to ultra.

Sure, there are $10k bikes and $1k race entry fees, but you have more options with far less sticker shock. Check out our expert guide to racing triathlon on a budget.

From triathlon distances to race selection to training, gear, nutrition, and more - we’ve got everything you need to start the journey to your first triathlon.

Fueling and nutrition can make or break your training, recovery, and performance. We've got the ultimate guide to help set you up for fueling success.

Plus seven pairs your feet will love—even as you ramp up the miles.

Laura Cozik, athletic director of the CNN Fit Nation Triathlon Challenge, worked with a group of six newbie triathletes and CNN correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta who are all participating in this month’s Nautica New York City Triathlon. She offers up her expertise for those new to the sport.

Peter Reid breaks down his top eight triathlon training tips.

There are a lot of standoffish bike shops that make entering the sport of triathlon a little intimidating—especially for women. That’s why it was refreshing to see TriBella, a women’s-only multisport store that opened in Denver’s Golden Triangle less than two weeks ago.

This week in "Ask Aaron", Aaron answers triathlon gear questions about affordable aerodynamic upgrades, the proper bike fit for the most power and how to choose a GPS device.

This week CNN is kicking off the 2011 Fit Nation Triathlon Challenge and will announce the six contestants chosen to train and compete with Dr. Sanjay Gupta in the Nautica New York City Triathlon. The following excerpt was taken from the CNN blog "The Chart."

Find out why investing your time and money into a proper bike fit could be the most important thing you do heading into the 2011 season.