When you enter your first triathlon event you’re bound to have a lot of questions. We’re here to help you learn how to prepare for a triathlon with our top tips for a triathlon event.

We’ve got the lowdown on what to do for your first triathlon and what not to do for your first triathlon! 

From training and preparation pointers to race day advice and post-race hints, we’ve got all your beginner triathlon tips here in one place. 

If you’re new to triathlon you might also be interested in our Triathlon Tips for Beginners and Transition Tips.

Before – Top Tips on preparing for your first triathlon 

So, you’re a beginner to triathlon and you’ve entered your first event. You’ve told all your friends and family and now, the serious business starts, preperation for your first triathlon!

Here’s our six top tips  

1. Research your race.  
   No, you don’t need to know all the previous winning times etc, but it is important to read all the information given to you by the race organisers. You’ll find all the information you need on the event organisers website, and you’ll normally get lots of pre-event information sent through to you via email. Make sure you read it in advance of the race as their will be key information about timings, the course and how to get there. 

2. Check out the course.  
   This is easy if you’re local, but you can check it out online if you’re not. You don’t want to get caught out by a pesky steep hill when you’re not expecting it! Or end up doing one lap too many for the run.  

3. Make a plan.  
   Training plans are super helpful to keep you motivated. You can also join a local Triathlon Club to help with this and to practise transitions. 
   It’s good to make a plan for the day too. Work out what time you need to get there, what you need to do and where you need to be. Even if it’s just a mental plan it will help you feel more confident. 

4. Know what you want to get from it.  
   When training is tough or you’re feeling anxious it’s great to ‘know your why’. Have you signed up for the challenge, to try something new, to get fit, or maybe to raise money for charity?  
   Whatever your motivation, don’t forget to focus on it when you need to. 

5. Check your kit.  
   Make sure your bike is prepped and serviced. Check your trainers are worn in but not worn out! Make sure your trisuit or wetsuit fits and is comfortable to swim in. Think about what else you will need for the day and have a checklist to run through to make sure you haven’t missed anything.   
   Extra tip: Don’t forget a spare pair of shoes – your trainers will be left in the transition area ready for your cycle and run! 

6. Don’t forget to purchase a race licence before the event. 
   If you’re taking part in a British Triathlon permitted event all participants need to have a race licence to take part. This provides you with a level of insurance cover for the duration of the event, which is a requirement for everyone who takes part. If you’re looking to get cover for a one off race then a British Triathlon Race Pass is for you. If you’re going to do more than one race we’d recommend British Triathlon’s Core and Ultimate Membership. These both provides you with unlimited race licenses plus insurance for both racing and training for a whole year, amongst a host of other benefits.  

During - Triathlon tips for race day 

Being well prepared on race day will help with any pre-race nerves. To keep yourself calm and centered we recommend you: 

1. Give yourself plenty of time.
   If you can, get there the day before to collect your race number and get your bearings. If you’re arriving on the day, give yourself lots of time to get set up in the transition area and make it to the front of the toilet queue! 
   Extra tip: Get your bearings in the transition area. Have a really clear idea of where your bike is in relation to you coming in after the swim. 

2. Listen to the race brief.  
   Even if you’ve already read the race information the race brief is very important. There may be last minute changes or certain things you need to know to stay within the race rules. Take this time to calm your breathing too! Do a last check that you know which direction you’ll be setting out in for the cycle and the run. 

3. Prepare your set up for transition 
   For your first triathlon our top tip is to stay calm and not overthink it! Don’t get swept up in talk of getting through as fast as possible. Look at where your bike will go and do a walk through from entrance to exit, so you have a clear idea of your route. Things look very different when there are lots of other people and their equipment in there on race day. Check out our Transition Tips article for more information but mostly, take your time, listen to the stewards, who are there to help and think of it as time to breathe. 

4. Do a gentle warm up.  
   Don’t focus on what others are doing here. Warm up the way that feels right for you. Get your heart rate up a little and your muscles working. This is a good chance time to have a friendly chat with other competitors too. You won’t be the only first timer here! 

5. Acclimatise.  
   If you’re swimming in open water and it’s possible, get in the water a little before the start to give yourself time to acclimatise. You can also think about your positioning here. Races often start off in a bit of a flurry, you can keep out of this by keeping back from or to the side of, the main group of swimmers. 

6. Don’t set off too fast.  
   Your first triathlon should be all about the best experience possible. Try not to get swept up in the crowd and just go at a pace which feels comfortable for you. If you find you’re struggling, simply drop your pace. 
   You’ll want to keep some energy in reserve for the end of the race and that finish line photo! 

After – You’ve completed your first triathlon! 

You made it you’re not a triathlon beginner anymore! How good does it feel to cross that finish line? It’s time to step back and enjoy what you’ve achieved. Here are some top pointers to help you make the most of it before you go home: 

1. Get a pic!  
   Don’t forget to capture the moment. Whether it’s a #medalmonday moment or a #finishlinephoto pop a tired smile on your face and enjoy the moment. 

2. Celebrate with your support crew.  
   Sharing the joy is half the fun. They’ve been there with you while you trained, probably got up early to watch you eat porridge on race day and they are still here at the end. Make sure you say a big thank you to your friends and family. 

3. Take advantage of any post-race perks.  
   Whether it’s a chocolate bar in your goodie bag, a post-race massage or a rehydration station, don’t forget to get your perks before you go. 

4. Don’t forget your kit.  
   Check you’ve got everything from the transition area and bag drop. And make sure you dispose of any litter responsibly. 

5. Book your next triathlon!  
   You’re a triathlete now…what’s your next race going to be?

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