Triathlon is a sport consistent of 3 key events. Swimming, cycling, and running. It is an ancient Greek word, which refers to an athletic event consisting of 3 events. In order to win, a competitor must be able to participate in all three sports in a manner, which preserves energy and maximizes the result.

The first known triathlon event is believed to have taken place in France during the 1920's and 1930's. It was here that an event with all three sports took place, without any breaks. The first modern day triathlon took place in Hawaii and took place in 1974. This event named the Ironman, consists of a (2.4 mile (3.86 kilometer) swim, 112 mi (180.2 km) bike ride, and a 26.2 mi (42.2 km) run). The first person to complete this modern day triathlon was hailed as the first ironman. Gord Haller completed the race in 11 hours, 46 minutes, and 58 seconds. By 1989 the International Triathlon Union (ITU) was formed. It is now considered the international governing body of Triathlons.

How to compete in a Triathlon

Swimming

In the swimming portion of the race athletes will tend to use their legs less, which helps conserve energy for the rest of the race. The distance of the swim is (2.4 mi (3.86 km). As much of the swimming is conducted in open water, as many athletes will jockey for position while using various strokes. Many triathletes will also use wet suits if permitted and alter their stroke to adapt to the water environment.

Cycling

During the cylce portion of the event , athletes are not permitted to cluster together as many do in other such cylcing races. The distance of the bike ride is 112 mi (180.2 km). Bicylces are adapted to be more aerodynamic to help the riders use less energy when cylcing. Before proceeding to the run portion of the event most athletes will cycle at a higher revolution per minute to loosen their mucles for the long run ahead.

Running

During the run portion of the triathlon a final strength of an athlete is tested. The distance od of the run is 26.2 mi (42.2 km). The distance of a marathon is the ultimate test of a triathletes mental and physical toughness. Many triathletes are amazed at how difficult it is to run after completing the run and swim portion of the event. A lot of competitors will run at a slow pace compared to what they are used to in training. Traitheltes try to over come this dificulty by doing a transition workout sometimes referred to as bricks. This is sometimes more commonly biking and running.