I want to do a mini triathalon in 6 wks. I can do a 5 k and the cycling but am a novice swimmer. Am I nuts?

Question

I want to do a mini triathalon in 6 wks. I can do a 5 k and the cycling but am a novice swimmer. Am I nuts?

Answer 1

Some might say yes.  If you can get with a masters swimming program in your area, check any of the USA Swimming teams and you find a list of them on usaswimming.org, that will probably be your best bet.  The swimming will still probably be tough, but not as hard as it would've been. Good luck!

Answer 2

The truth is that most people that do these mini triathalons aren't the strongest of swimmers either. Most of them are good on bike and running, but don't swim as well, which shoudl work to your advantage.

Answer 3

six weeks is enough time to get good enough to be able to finish the swimming portion. just make sure you go at least 2 or 3 times a week during the weeks before your triathlon. i just did my first one this year and it was great! swimming has gotten to be my favorite part. just remember, the most important part of your first triathlon is finishing!

Answer 4

no! thats awesome!  if you think you can do it then you can... i know that sounds corny but its true...   good luck!

Answer 5

I think you can do it. The swimming leg is fairly short in triathlons.  The key is to know your abilities and not to push too hard or panic in the swimming portion. I would go for swims to gauge how tired you are after your swim, and try to find a comfortable pace that is not going to kill you for the rest of your race.