Becoming a triathlete is as simple as doing the exercises that are included in a normal triathlon. Most people have done all of those activities at one point or another during their lives. Therefore, it becomes simply a matter of putting them all together into one comprehensive plan that can eventually be performed one right after the other.
For those who want to be a triathlete, the best way to begin is to start training for a triathlon event. Unlike marathon training, triathlon training involves more than just running, though that is also a key component of the process. However, those triathletes who decide to focus on one area more than the other may be hurt in the long run. The key is to train the body for all exercises and conditions one expects to encounter.
Becoming a triathlete can be just as physically taxing as the demands required to run a marathon. However, the body is pushed in different ways over the three disciplines. Most triathlete training schedules recommend, at least at first, only doing one exercise per day. In other words, one day will involve running. The next day may call for swimming and the next day may be on the bicycle. As the triathlete gets more skills and endurance, the exercises may be combined all into one single day's routine after a while.
Once the training has begun, the participant is, at least in some form, a triathlete. While they may not be a professional triathlete or one who gets a substantial amount of fame, that is not the goal of the vast majority of participants. Rather, they want a personal challenge and a good way to stay fit. Triathlons offer that in all cases.
For many, though, the ultimate goal is to race in a real competition. While the participant's goals may not necessarily be to win, the most encouraging part of the event will be participating in a real triathlon. Often, beginner triathlon events are held in conjunction with more serious competition. In those cases, the athletes who are in the more serious competition may serve as role models or inspirations for the weekend warriors.
If the hobby continues, the amateur triathlete may decide to move up to more serious competition. In those cases, the entry fees may be more, but the payoff can also be better. In some cases, winning a major triathlon race can be worth a substantial amount of money.
