How I did it: 1) Get a bike. I had no idea what I was doing and ended up getting a bike that does not fit me. This is BAD. Have someone who knows bicycles to help you out.
2) get out of that shell and join other people training. For my cycling,I know I needed help. So I joined this cycling group and it went from there. I had rides where I was left completely alone (the first few since I didn't know anybody) but after a while i made some friends and now I'm a 'regular'.
3) Work on your swimming technniques. I am self taught, but I read a LOT on swimming, scoured websites such as swimsmooth and read many swimming books and DVDs. I also had a a coach to assess how I am doing for four classes just to correct my techniques.
4) I came from a running background before injuries prevent me from running so much, so the running was alright with me. IF you were not a runner, i suggest to learn to like running. As the last leg of the triathlon, you need to be able to stomach running when you're already tired.
5) I was off for 3 weeks due to a bad viral fever and muscle injury, so I worked on stretching and strengthening and hard yoga sessions just to keep fit.

Lessons & tips: 1) Don't overlook other aspects of health: nutrition, sleep, stretching, strengthening, food. I injured myself badly and always feel tired while training and its simply because of lack of sleep anf improper warmup. Always warm up, get enough sleep and HYDRATE often. If possible, have some supplements.
2) Massages and bodyworks help. I try to get my legs massaged after every tough workout.
3) Eat properly. Get the fuels in!
4) Have friends to train with. I become friends with all the cyclists and runners and swimmers so it helped me with the motivation.

Resources: 1) total immersion
2) triathlon books  - specially triathlon for women
3) a swimming instructor (but this is optional)
4) Beginner triathlete.com

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May 05, 2010, 08:06PM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer