I am about to do a design project in college that will tri and solve a problem. I would like to do something sport related. My parents are getting into tri's and I'm a swimmer. I'm curious as to what the biggest problems/ annoyances with gear (or anything along the lines of that) during a race.
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Tri problems???
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Depends on distance, but I would say the number one issue I saw for people doing the Ironman distance was nutrition. So many seem to hit a wall where they can no longer keep food or water down.
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it's called a tri for a reason, because of the three disciplines. It takes lots of time and real dedication to master and train in multiple sports. The muscles used in each are different, and require some exercise in each. Most triathletes (with a few good exceptions) are not what I would say are good cyclists. They seem to lack bike control and fall way back when the grade changes. I know, I'm grossly generalizing, but that has been my experience. I've never done an ironman, but done a half and if you are a marginal swimmer you lose maybe 5 to 10 minutes on the swim. Marginal cyclists and you can lose 30 to 60 minutes on the bike. Marginal runner and you lose 10 to 20 minutes on the run. The math is easy, since the bike is the longest event, modest improvements in time and output can have big rewards. Yet most triathletes I know spend far more time running and swimming than they do on the bike. I agree with Serotta, on longer events nutritional intake and hydration are big challenges, as well as quick transitions. On sprint distances, not so much. Lollygag in the transition zone and it can mean a loss of 30 to 40 minutes over the race. As for gear, make sure your bike is in top shape, your tires are new, and everything is tuned up, cause a flat can take forever to overcome on a course when you are tired and sweat is in your eyes.
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Hi Joyce,
I would say that for the average age grouper that time management is a big issue. Even though you may only be doing triathlons for the pure enjoyment and not to qualify for any events you still need to dedicate a significant amount of time to the sport. For many this is an issue and can prove very difficult with family members, work commitments and still being able to have a life.
I would also totally agree with Serotta94 that nutrition is a big issue, particularly with the longer races.
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Time-based bicycle interval training in the dark is a pain. I can't read my watch or my cycling computer. A device that would give me audible or visual start, almost done, and done cues would help. I would like to be able to program different work and rest intervals, store workouts, etcetera.
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I have one:
Bring back the Speedo!
These uni/one-piece suits are stupid!
Life is too short to be small. - Disraeli
So, why not be petty? - The Short White Guy™
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