No, you won’t be competing in the 2020 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other reasons Olympic-distance triathlons are the best.
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9 Reasons Olympic Triathlons Are the Best Distance
Written by
Michael Nystrom
Say “IRONMAN” to a group of non-triathletes and they’ll naively associate that 140.6-mile behemoth to a mud run or obstacle race. Tell them you’re undertaking an Olympic triathlon, and you’ll hear “oohs and aahs” as they liken your efforts to those of Michael Phelps and Allyson Felix.
No, you won’t be competing in the 2020 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other reasons Olympic-distance triathlons are the best.
No, you won’t be competing in the 2020 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of other reasons Olympic-distance triathlons are the best.
More to Chew On
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Olympic triathlons are the logical next step after you've gotten your feet wet with a sprint triathlon. The distances essentially double—an Olympic-distance triathlon includes a 0.93-mile (1.5K) swim, a 24.8-mile (40K) bike and a 6.2-mile (10K) run. It's just far enough to challenge you without making your training feel overwhelming.
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Your Next RaceFine-Tune Your Skills
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You can practically will yourself to finish a sprint triathlon with relatively little training, but as you progress into longer distances, more technical know-how is necessary. Transition proficiency will make or break your race, and pacing and nutrition become much more of a priority. Time is of the essence in Olympic distance races, meaning you'll be forced to travel light and be precise with your set-up—all skills that will serve you well as you move on to longer distances.
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Your Next RaceConvenience
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Most local triathlons offer an Olympic-distance option, so once the season rolls around you won't have to travel far to get your triathlon fix. Triathlons start early and you'll appreciate the close proximity on race morning.
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Your Next RaceRelatively Cheap
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Although Olympic triathlons are more expensive than their sprint counterpart, it's still a fraction of the price of an IRONMAN. You can also still get away with entry-level gear, although we predict after a few Olympic-distance races, you'll be anxious for upgrades (but who doesn't like new things?).
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Your Next RaceMore Competition
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Olympic triathlons are a little more competitive than sprint triathlons. The field is usually deeper, and athletes train specifically for this distance. Don't let this friendly competition deter you—finishing is all that really matters, and racing with faster athletes can only have a positive effect on your own performance.
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Your Next RaceTest Yourself
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A 10K is pretty commonplace for most novice athletes, but precede that with a swim and a bike ride and you'll certainly feel the burn as you progress through the race. That little extra suffering makes crossing the finish line taste that much sweeter.
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Your Next RaceEgo Boost
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Sure, triathlon is an inclusive and friendly sport, but sometimes a little ego boost is good for the psyche. Why of course you're sighting the furthest buoys and taking the second lap on the bike and run—who do they think you are, a sprint triathlete?
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Your Next RaceMore Cowbell
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Twice the distance (of a sprint triathlon) usually means twice as many laps. Think you needed the support on the first 3.1 miles of the run? You'll be thankful for your wild and crazy cheering squad as you undertake the final lap.
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Your Next RaceEndorphins on Endorphins
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No matter your fitness level, completing an Olympic-distance triathlon is a true physical test. Once you cross the finish line you'll be exhausted, sore and probably slightly dehydrated, but all the suffering is what makes the training and effort worth it. Before you know it, you'll be toeing the line at your next race.