10 Things To Consider Before Doing An Ironman Triathlon

It is an exciting yet anxious proposition. Doing your first Ironman triathlon! Swim 3.8K, ride 180K, and run 42.195K. Sounds giddy? Perhaps you are heady with excitement for there is lots of drama and action at this personal trial. The Ironman format is a personal test of your guts and gumption, and more. After nine such races, I am still learning from my mistakes and successes.

To make it more assuring, here are some thoughts before you plunge into the long but memorable day:

1)    Never do anything new on race day (NO new goggles, change of eye-wear, brand-new attire, unfamiliar nutritional supplements).

2)    Train as you would race (work out the kinks and identify potential problem areas: climate, terrain, and race conditions).

3)    Test out your nutritional needs on your long runs and rides.

4)    You should do each discipline in its complete distance at least once before the race (ride 180K, and run at least 32K).

5)    Body-lube and sub-block lotion are your best friends (post-race chaffing and abrasion are the prolonged segments of the triathlon).

6)    Learn to assemble, disassemble and service your bike (including how to change punctured tyres and tubes). Ensure that you feel comfortable on your ride (fit).

7)    Treat all injuries before the race (Be 100 percent ready! Regularly stretch, massage, and do your rehabilitation exercises).

8)    If it is about 3-6 months before a race, seek the guidance and expertise of a coach (either face-to-face or online; invaluable for training correctly, periodisation, and mental condition).

9)    Train solo (alone) for the discipline (it is a lonely race at times) and in a pack for the rush (for simulating race pace and working at a higher intensity).

10) Have clear and realistic expectations (completion within 17 hours, safe race, injury-free, PB in one station, sense of achievement and accomplishment, etc).

We will go into detail over the next few weeks. Stay tuned! Send us your questions and our seasoned triathletes will be pleased to help you. Welcome to the Ironman family!


Photo: Team Ironman Singapore, Triathlon Family