The Facts behind a Triathlon

Source: http://leehuang.blogspot.com/2010/04/urban-triathlon.html

What is a triathlon?
A triathlon is a major sporting event that combines 3 activities in one race; running, biking and swimming. To date, there are 5 variations on the length of the triathlon:



• Sprint - 750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run
• Super Sprint - 400m swim, 10k bike, 2.5k run
• Olympic - 1500m, swim 40km bike, 10km run
• Half Ironman - 1.9m swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run
• Ironman - 3.8m swim, 180km bike, 42.2km (marathon) run

How does one prepare for a triathlon?
A triathlon is not a walk in the park, nor is it something that you can do out of impulse. A triathlete trains for months before an upcoming event and improving his or her physical condition, including cardiovascular strength, mental and even physical strength. A triathlete also needs to consume the right amount of food months and a day before the race.

Since there are 3 parts of a triathlon, the athlete must train in running, biking and swimming. Because there are variations to the length of the triathlon, your training requirements will also vary; a sprint type of triathlon will require you to run 3.1 miles, swim ½ mile and then bike for 12.4 miles.

What are the equipments needed?
You only need a handful of trigear, or triathlon equipment, for a triathlon event. You’d need basic marathon apparel like customized running shirts, 2 to 3 pairs of running shoes, cycling shorts, swimming apparel and biking gear.

There’s no big secret in winning a triathlon; it’s a race where the last man or woman standing wins. If you feel like you want to challenge yourself, then you can join a triathlon event in your state or area; just make sure you train properly so you won’t put yourself in harm’s way.

What are the Different Kinds of Running Shirts?

At first glance, you may think that it’s OK to run with just a simple T-shirt, shorts and then running shoes; but did you know what your comfort is also relevant to how well you’ll do in terms of running? Aside from that, there are also practical reasons why a lot of runners choose to buy personalized running shirts than just wear any other shirt like:

1.) Cotton shirts are usually thick and when it absorbs sweat, it will weigh you down and affect your speed. It can also cause some chafing or blisters.

2.) Customized running shirts are made of materials that wick away sweat and keeps the body ventilated at all times.

So what are the different types of running shirts?

1.) Long sleeve running shirts – These shirts are very useful for running in cold weather; like early morning runs or an evening sprint.


2.) Running singlets – Running singlets, or tank tops, are great because they offer the most comfortable running experience. Singlets are breathable and lightweight, with some designs meant to hold your race number without needing the use of pins. These running singlets are ideal for people who like to participate in races every year.


3.) Marathon shirts – Like running singlets, marathon shirts are simply T-shirts designed to help keep you comfortable and ventilated throughout the entire race.

What to look for in a custom running shirt
You can always choose to purchase custom running shirts, instead of buying branded shirts, to help save you a couple of dollars. If you want to choose this option, you may want to make sure your custom running shirts have all the requirements below:

1.) Your running shirts should be made from lightweight material and should be able to keep you dry.

2.) Tags behind the neck can cause irritation and itchiness so make sure your running shirts have none.

3.) If possible, look for shirts that are made from wicking fibers, like CoolMax.

4.) Avoid cotton shirts at all times.

Now that you know everything there is to know about the different kinds of customized running shirts, drop by MyRaceRagz to get the lowdown on the best personalized running shirts. Visit their website at www.myraceragz.com or click on the Link on the sidebar.