A lot of people are getting fit. Many put their fitness to the test by entering a triathlon. Traditional triathlons are made up of swimming, biking and running, one after the other. Competitors shoot for the fastest time that includes transition time between the different sports. Experts say participants should have tried their hand at a 5K run or bike ride before hand. Fortunately, there are different divisions based on age and sex.
There are several triathlon shops in Chicago IL to buy the things you will need. Check Urban Tri Gear LLC. They sell items like wetsuits, bikes, and running shoes. Not surprisingly, triathlons have rules. Rule violations cost participants time penalties from one to twelve minutes. Rules that apply to all three sports include:
- No help from any one but an official
- If one leaves the race for any reason, must reenter where they left
- Glass containers are not allowed (results in disqualification)
Most importantly, racers must not do anything to put themselves and others in harm’s way. Swimmers can use any stroke they want to. Also, one can rest by grabbing a boat or buoy. Flotation devices are not allowed while goggles are permitted. Goggles and other necessities can be purchased at Triathlon Shops In Chicago IL. You can lose a lot of points for forgetting to put on a helmet. Remember, safety counts first. It seems harsh but if a bike breaks down, the athlete has to carry it to the finish line. Likewise, racers can only stay in another racer’s down-draft for a few seconds before moving.
Indeed, the running portion has its own rules. Injured participants can only go forward by running or walking. If you can’t do either, you must leave the course. During transitions, change clothes quickly and try to avoid bumping into others. Triathlons are not for everyone. Sometimes, it is a way for people to push their body to its limits. Further, it takes a lot of discipline and individuals may be trying to work on that. For many athletes, it kills some of the boredom by training for three sports, rather than one. Participants will probably be in the best shape of their lives.