Know (and Follow) the Rules
First-timers are often surprised at the number of rules there are in triathlons. Many of them are self-explanatory, but you'll still want to know them so you can avoid rookie mistakes like drafting or littering penalties.
The best place to learn the basic rules of any triathlon is the USA Triathlon Rulebook. Races often have their own rules, so it's important to also look at your race's rulebook, too.
Here are some rules first-timers often get penalized for:
- Your front wheel must be no less than 7 meters apart from the back wheel of the bike in front of you. If you pass, the pass must be completed within 15 seconds and the cyclist being passed must fall back to a safe draft distance upon being overtaken.
- You must mount and dismount your bike at the designated spots outside the transition areas.
- Your helmet has to meet Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) standards. It must also be secured before leaving the transition area.
- You're allowed to hold on to a lifeguard's flotation device to rest, but you can't use it to help with your forward motion.
- You must properly rack your bike in the transition area before exiting T2.
More: 11 Triathlon Rules You Should Know
Look at the Course Map
Checking out the map ahead of time seems like a no-brainer to some, but it's not uncommon for newbies to go off-course. There will be signs on race day, but the frequency varies, so don't count on them.
Swim courses are notoriously confusing for rookies. Find out if you'll be swimming counter-clockwise or clockwise. Additionally, pay attention to the transition areas. This extra preparation can save you time and avoid the dreaded feeling of not knowing where to go.
Checking out a course ahead of time is a great way to tailor a training plan. Knowing the details of the course will give you the opportunity to incorporate things such as hill training into your regimen. Lastly, find out where the aid stations are so you can plan your hydration and nutrition accordingly.
More: How to Find Valuable Lessons in Your First Race Results
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