Get Inspired: How to get into triathlon

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Media caption,

How Louise Minchin & others caught the triathlon bug

Fast Answers

Why get into triathlon?

Triathlon is a great way to get active by swimming, cycling and running, and it's fun and varied too.

Who is it for?

All ages, from mini triathlons for kids to Swim, Bike, Run, external events - Develop, Explore, Mini and Local for all abilities.

What if I want a proper workout?

Triathlon events come in a variety of course distances and mixing in a bit of competition will push your workout to the max.

Can I take it to another level?

If you want to push it up a gear, consider joining a local club, external to take part in some structured training before racing.

Is there a disability option?

Paratriathlon is very popular with many inclusive events and competitions that cater for most disabilities.

Like running, swimming or cycling? Fancy doing all three, one after the other? Triathlon is the sport for you!

Media caption,

The Brownlee brothers' dad shares tales of the incredible competitive spirit that exists between his all-conquering triathlete sons

Triathlon mainly runs from May-September and there are loads of races and taster sessions to choose from. Find a comprehensive list of races via the British Triathlon event finder., external

Swim Bike Run, external is the best way to get a taste of each part of a triathlon and see if it's for you. Pool-based races are a great introduction to the sport if you are a first timer.

Paratriathlon

Media caption,

Two-time Paralympic swimmer Lauren Steadman tells us about the challenges of switching from swimming to triathlon

Swimming, cycling and running are popular amongst para-athletes so paratriathlon is the perfect activity. British Triathlon is fully inclusive, organising paratriathlon competitions, external through the season.

Some events can also be adapted to be fully accessible if you speak with the event organiser. British Triathlon offer online resources to help find the getting into paratriathlon, external. Use the club finder, external for a session near you.

Youth triathlon

Media caption,

Brownlee brothers hope their Foundation inspires children

If the kids are keen to have a go the British Triathlon event finder, external has children's and juniors listings. Mini tri distances start from 50m swim, 800m bike, 600m run the British Triathlon event finder., external, while Swim Bike Run is also accessible for children.

British Triathlon have also created the Active Skills for Life resources for schools, external.

Coaching and volunteering

Whether you've competed in triathlon in the past or just have an interest in developing talent in cycling, swimming or running, coaching opportunities are available through the British Triathlon Federation., external

All clubs need a chair, secretary and treasurer to help things run smoothly as well as officials, coaches and judges. Whatever role you're interested in, Join In, external has opportunities to volunteer in your area.

Related internet links

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