How to Measure a Triathlon

Triathlons can be virtually any event that contains a swim, a bicycle ride and a run. Most vary in distance and in order of activity. Here's how to choose one that's right for you.

Things You'll Need

• Aerobic/fitness Shoes
• Cleated Bicycle Shoes
• Padded Bicycle Shorts
• Running Shoes
• Swimming Trunks
• Triathlon Clothing
• Bicycle Helmets
• Biking Shoes
• Sports Drinks
• Children's Bicycles
• Sports drinks

Instructions

1. Know that a sprint distance triathlon is a 0.75-kilometer (K) swim (about 0.45 miles), a 22K bike ride (13.2 miles) and a 5K run (3.1 miles).

2. Consider the sprint distance if you're a beginner, have a limited training schedule, or specialize in short races where endurance doesn't come into play.

3. Understand that an Olympic triathlon employs the distance used at the Olympic Games: a 1.5K swim (about 0.9 miles), a 40K bike ride (24 miles) and a 10K run (6.2 miles).

4. Consider the Olympic distance if you're willing to push your endurance past the 2- to 3-hour mark, or if you're new to the sport and are up for the challenge.

5. Keep in mind that you'll need about 10 to 15 hours of training each week to master the Olympic distance.

6. Know that a half-Ironman event is a 1.2-mile swim (about 1.9K), a 56-mile bike ride (89.6K) and a 13.1-mile run (21K).

7. Note that half-Ironman events are for more serious triathletes with at least one year of racing experience in either the sprint or Olympic distance events.

8. Understand that athletes should commit 15 to 20 hours of training each week for half-Ironmans, which are often used as qualifiers for Ironman distance events.

9. Know that an Ironman event is a 2.4-mile swim (about 3.8K), a 112-mile bike ride (179.2K) and a 26.2-mile run (42K or a marathon).

10. Keep in mind that Ironman training requires about 20 to 30 hours each week; ideally, participants should have several half-Ironman distance events under their belts.

Tips & Warnings

• The Ironman distance is the longest and toughest of all the triathlon distances. The main event is held in Hawaii each year.

• Some races are held indoors for those who aren't comfortable with open-water swimming; the swimming stage takes place in an indoor pool.

• Some triathlons are relay-oriented, with teams consisting of one runner, one cyclist and one swimmer, allowing athletes to break into the event before participating in a full individual race.

• Consult your physician and personal trainer when entering a triathlon. Lots of preparation and commitment are needed prior to participating in such a grueling event.