Everyone has their excuse for why they can't do a triathlon so instead of me trying to convince each and everyone of you that you're nuts and have to do it, I found this great article on
Active.com! If you would like to
read the entire article please click here, but if you just want a summary with some 2 cents keep reading!
Here is the summary:
Excuse #1: I Can't Swim
Everyone can learn how to swim and if you think otherwise I would love to hear it! Everyone isn't a great swimmer but you can get yourself from point A to B whether its to get you from one end of the pool to the other, from a float to the boat to get a beer, or to save someone's life (bit out there but still)!
The point is that you can swim and however you propel yourself through the water works just fine! If you're afraid you might drown (you probably won't)...no worries there are certified lifeguards at every race!
Excuse #2: I Can't Afford A Good Racing Bike
If you are looking to just finish the race then you can use any bike you choose (minus a tandem, unicycle, or a penny-farthing)! Clearly the catch is that some bikes are easier for a race.
The best advice is to go to a bike store to get your bike measurements and then search for one on craigslist etc. Have the seller meet you at a bike store to get the bike shops advice (most likely you'll have to get a tune up anyways). The other alternative is to rent a bike from a bike shop the week of the triathlon. If you know you are going to become obsessed with triathlons then I would recommend buying a road bike from the get go just be ready to spend quite a bit!
Excuse #3: I Don't Have Time To Train
Training can be integrated into your everyday life quite simply. You could bike to work, get friends together for a run or swim, or just adjust your focus of your weekly workouts you already do. Most people can train for a sprint triathlon in about 8-10 weeks with at least 5 hours dedicated to training, which most people already do!
Excuse #4: A Triathlon Is Too Confusing
Three sports, lots of equipment, where to train, how to train, what to bring- oh goodness! No worries its quite simple...the best advice is to join a team or have a group of people you plan to train with. There is a great site within Active.com that is all about helping newbies into the sport so
click here for more information!
Excuse #5: I Can't Complete An Entire Triathlon
Many people hear triathlon and think -IRONMAN- but no worries I had no clue there were shorter distances starting out and we aren't that nuts. The sprint is truly my favorite and I don't plan to go far beyond that.
Sprint triathlon: 1/2 mile swim, 12 mile bike, 3 mile run
Olympic triathlon: 1 mile swim, 24 mile bike, 6 mile run
Full Ironman: 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26.2 mile run
So now that a few of your excuses have been answered make sure and sign up for the triathlon! If you have any other excuses I'd love to hear them!
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