Triathlon

How to start tri training as a Runner

The second in our series with Pro Triathlete turned Coach, Colin from APB coaching shares everything you need to know if you are thinking of getting into Triathlon from training to equipment. This is the ultimate beginner guide to all things Tri!

For runners getting into triathlon you´ll be pleased to know that whilst you may have to compromise the amount of running you do to fit in the swim and bike this doesn´t necessarily mean your run fitness will take a hit - if anything it will improve. Try to view triathlon as one sport not three, so the aerobic and strength gains from the swim and the bike will spill over to your running. 

If you currently run 3-5 x per week you may reduce this to 2 runs initially while you build up the swim and bike element. Try to view intensity as a whole over the week, so if you are training 6 x per week now, 2 more intense sessions over the week across all 3 disciplines will be enough. After all triathlon is a strength aerobic sport so c80-90% of the training needs to be at a conversational pace to build the engine!

To save time you can group sessions, such as a 30min easy run into a 30min swim. If swimming is new to you, frequency is important so an approach of 3 x 30min a week can work well. Keep repetitions short and focus on one aspect of the stroke at a time. No matter how big your engine, efficiency in the water is key, and whilst swimming will be the smallest proportion of the race, do not underestimate the energy cost and knock-on effect to bike and run! 

Since swimming and biking are non-impact they off the runner a far less risk of injury and therefore a more consistent training regime. In order to unleash your running, really focus on getting strong in the swim and on the bike and you´ll be amazed how well you can run off little run volume!

What equipment do I need?

• Get fitted for a Bike before you buy

Before you think about buying a bike get a bike fit first! A bike fit is a great start to ensure you are in the correct position, using the right muscle groups, and improving your comfort. The fit will dictate which bike size and brands are best suited to you. Whilst this is an upfront cost it will save you in the long run! The difference in speed from an entry-level road or time trial bike to a top-end one is marginal, but the difference in your position on the bike is huge since c80% of the drag into the wind is you! Improving your posture and frontal area on the bike is free & likely the best return on investment when it comes to speed. 

• Find a Shoe that works for you! 

As for the run, running shoes are individual so try to avoid the ´marketing´ as best you can. If you are comfy in your current shoes with no niggles we would advise to stick for now. Most shoes can handle c500-700km of wear before you´ll need a new pair so getting a couple of the same pairs can work well to rotate the wear rate as you go. Comfort and feeling are key here. If you are really unsure and have past injuries it would be worth getting a physical assessment with a physiotherapist to check what shoe is most suitable for you.  As for a watch, an entry-level Garmin to measure pace will do the job here! 

• Pull buoy & paddles are your new best friends

As for swimming, a pull buoy and small paddles are a good start. The pull buoy can help your body position and breathing so you can isolate other parts of the stroke and can help mimic the position you´ll be in a wetsuit for when you are racing. Paddles will enhance your feel & awareness in the water and over time your power in it. Start with small paddles, to begin with so they do not impact your cadence or aggravate your shoulders. If you are a beginner swimmer it would be worth investing upfront in some lessons to improve awareness in the water or ask a friend to film you above and below the water so you can start focusing on one aspect of the stroke at a time. Turning the unconsciously incompetent - conscious! 

Which Race should I sign up for?

For your first triathlon, pick a short distance at first. Triathlon can be time-consuming so starting with a Sprint or an Olympic distance is a good test to see if you can fit the training into your schedule sustainably before approaching the longer distances. We also advise picking a local race to start with, this takes out the logistics, cost, and stress of travel leading up to the event.

Getting started in triathlon doesn't have to be overwhelming or expensive. By focusing on the essentials and approaching your training as a cohesive whole, you can set yourself up for success in this rewarding sport. Whether you're a seasoned runner or completely new to multi-sport training, these tips will help you navigate the journey ahead. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to Colin—he's here to help you every step of the way.

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Professional Triathlete turned Coach Colin Norris is here to share his journey within the world of triathlon in our new series Take on a Tri, where Colin will be sharing everything you need to know about Triathlon from 'how to balance life and training' to 'how to best minimize your chance of injury'. Before we jump into the series we wanted to get to know more about Colin's journey in the world of triathlon, what he learned during his time competing around the world, and what made him transition to the world of coaching

When did your love for sport begin?

Growing up, I was a runner, mainly competing in track and cross country. Unfortunately, I was in the same cohort as Mo Farah, who won every race there was! After some troubles with injury, I transitioned from running to swimming in my late teens before leaving sports entirely until I entered the world of work in my early 20s.

What brought you back to sports and ultimately led you to triathlon?

As soon as I started working and tried to sit down for longer than 5 minutes, I quickly realized I needed to burn off some excess energy. I rejoined my childhood track group at Blackheath Harriers in South London. Soon after, by pure chance, I met Trevor Simmons, a sports massage therapist who had already caught the triathlon bug. Given my running and swimming background, Trevor suggested I give triathlon a try!

How did you first manage the transition to training for a tri?

Trevor and I quickly formed a close bond, and he offered to coach me for free with the aim of racing the London Triathlon in 2011. We trained intensely for six months, and although short on cash, I managed with the cheapest bike and borrowed gear from Trevor (luckily we were the same size). I finished 2nd overall, which buoyed my enthusiasm for the sport. We immediately booked future races, and my fire for triathlon was lit.

When did you decide to pursue triathlon professionally?

After finishing 3rd in my age group at the amateur World Championships the following year, I started to believe that with more time to train and recover, I could be faster and maybe even transition to the pro ranks. However, as my training increased, my work performance declined but fortunately, my manager supported my decision to leave corporate life and pursue professional triathlon.

How did your first professional season go?

At the end of 2012, I quit my job, took a loan from my mom’s partner, and moved to Lanzarote where Trevor was based. Despite his warnings about the loneliness and financial difficulties, I relied on naivety, belief, and enthusiasm to get through those tough early years. Trevor and his friend Alan Ingarfield set my training for the following season, using an unorthodox approach to keep it fun. This included long hikes with kettlebells, sea swims without goggles, and running up and down volcanoes. Living on £10 a day, I was wholly committed to triathlon. The 2013 season involved racing 70.3s in Europe with varying success and many mishaps, but ended on a high note with a 2nd place at the National Champs in Scotland, securing my pro license.

Were there any challenges you faced transitioning to Pro?

Reality set in quickly as I ran out of cash and moved back to London, taking various jobs to support my training. During this time, I started coaching a few athletes, building on everything Trevor had taught me. With further mentorship from Mike Trees and Luc Van Lierde I was able to join the ITZU triathlon team, a Belgian professional team that Luc was coaching at the time. This gave me access to all of the resources I needed to really focus on racing to my full potential.

Can you share some highlights from your professional career?

In 2018, I had my best season yet, with five top-6 placings, competing against top athletes like Ali Brownlee, Javier Gomez, and Jan Frodeno. My professional racing career concluded at Ironman Israel in 2022. Though I didn't win a major race, I was considered one of the fastest runners in 70.3, with over 30 top-10 placings at the professional level.

How did you transition into coaching full-time?

I set up APB Coaching in 2015, building on my mentorship from Trevor, Mike, and Luc. My goal is to help athletes get the best from themselves while managing the competing demands of their family and work life. We've built a network of top practitioners in nutrition, physiotherapy, bike fitting, sports psychology, swimming, running, and strength training to support our athletes, from first-timers to National and World Championship medalists.

What can the LDT Community expect from the Take on a Tri series?

I'm here to answer any questions and educate the audience about all things triathlon. Drawing from my experience as both an amateur and professional athlete, as well as a coach, I aim to provide insights and support to help you achieve your triathlon goals. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced triathlete, I'm excited to be part of your journey and help you succeed.

Quickfire Questions

1. Favourite event you’ve ever done

Alp d’ Huez long course triathlon 

2. In one word what motivates you?

doubt 

3. Favourite hype-up song for training?

Bicep - Glue 

4. Trainer of choice 

new balance fresh foam 1080

5.  Favourite pre or post-workout snack?

Jacket potato cheese & beans

Triathlete and Hits Radio DJ Hattie Pearson is here to share her best triathlon tips for beginners. From her top hacks for gearing up without it costing a fortune, to keeping motivated and of course, crossing that finish line, here’s the lowdown on setting yourself up for triathlon success. Over to you, Hattie. 

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1. Set your goal and go smash it!

Choose an event that’s suitable for you and that you think you’ll enjoy. Book something that’s challenging enough that you’ll feel you’re pushing yourself, but nothing too difficult that you’ll end up injured because, where’s the fun in that? Find an event that’s local to you to save on travelling and additional stress. There are hundreds of events nationwide. 

After doing one sprint distance triathlon in 2021, I knew I wanted to up the distance; that’s when I applied to be part of Team Outlaw and got a place to compete in my first ever middle-distance triathlons at Outlaw Half Nottingham and Outlaw Half Holkham. I loved every minute!  

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2. Beg/borrow/buy second hand

Triathlon can be — but doesn’t need to be — expensive and very addictive. I’m telling you now, because once you’re in, there’s no looking back! Starting out, you definitely don’t need all the gear. Think of people you could potentially borrow from if you don’t have specific items. There is so much second-hand kit available online too; think of all those now-unwanted lockdown purchases. You could find an absolute steal and save yourself a fortune. I did my first triathlon on a hybrid bike with a rusty chain!

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3. Safety first 

Make sure you’re safe! Open water swimming comes with risks, and that’s why it’s always important to do it as part of an organised group. 

In terms of the cycling element, you’ll see bikes that are worth thousands of pounds that look like spaceships, but as long as yours is road worthy and safe, it doesn’t need to be anything special — put a baguette in a basket on the front of your bike if you really want to! Oh yeah, and don’t forget your helmet! You don’t need to spend thousands on a new bike; just hop on the saddle, give it a peddle and see whether you get the bug.

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4. Group training FTW

Whether it’s your local park run, your regional triathlon club or some colleagues from work who like riding their bikes at the weekend, try to find others to train with. Triathlon is a solo sport when it comes to race day, but when you’re putting in the hours of training, you want to have fun and making it social makes it less daunting. From joining communities like 10IronWomen and Manchester Triathlon Club, I’ve made friends for life and learned so much from more experienced athletes who are willing to share their tips.

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5. Smile for the camera!

Don’t worry about your time or pace on your first time out. You’re a newbie to the sport and there’s no need to put added pressure on yourself to be doing as well as Colin from accounts whose been doing triathlons for 30+ years! Bring supporters along with you. Recruit your friends or family to be there cheering you on and soak up the atmosphere. You’ve put in some hard work and the very least you deserve is a hug at the finish line and a lift home! 

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Hattie Pearson is a HITS Radio DJ and an ambassador for Outlaw Triathlon. You can use her discount code  – HATTIEXOL24 – for 5% off your race entry and Outlaw will donate a further 5% to Hattie’s chosen charity, Fund Her Tri.

https://www.instagram.com/hattiepearson/

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Fancy trying something new? Triathlons may be the thing for you in 2024. The challenge of mastering three disciplines to complete a triathlon attracts people of all ages and abilities to try the sport that combines swimming, biking and running. Getting to the stage of crossing the finishing line of this exhilarating sport involves physical and mental strength – and it’s totally worth it!

Professional triathlete and British Triathlon accredited coach, Natalie Lawrence shares five tips on how to get into a triathlon and why you might like to get started:

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1. It’s a hugely rewarding achievement

Sometimes the best rewards come from stepping out of your comfort zone. Overcoming self-doubt and feeling a little scared means that being consistent with training and getting to the finishing line will be even more rewarding. For beginners, I recommend starting with a super-sprint, or sprint distance race. These are typically short swim legs of around 200-400m and they’re based in the pool or open water. See if you enjoy it before investing more time (and money) into the sport. Then you could try a longer, more challenging event. Events like the Outlaw Triathlon Series offer long distance events as well as sprints, aquathlons (swim-run) and aquabikes (swim-bike), which are ideal for a first event. Not only that, but you can watch more experienced triathletes do their thing, too

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2. Make friends and discover new communities

Triathlon is a lifestyle sport that can fit into the time that you have available. Having four young children myself and running a coaching business, I schedule time for training so that I don’t feel guilty for interrupting family life. Triathlon is a friendly and sociable sport, so you’re likely to meet lots of like-minded people. Finding your tribe can help you to feel more connected and self-confident, which you can achieve by being part of a club or group, or simply just through chatting to others at events. Many of my lifelong friends have come from the sport and I continue to make new connections the more I’m involved in the community. 

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3. Invest in your lifelong fitness and health 

The commitment of working towards a big goal has physical, mental, social, and emotional benefits. By spreading training across three disciplines, you create a broad fitness base using different muscles and energy systems. Spreading your time across swimming, cycling, and running also reduces your injury risk and provides an endless source of learning. I recommend strength training alongside triathlon as it is important for injury prevention, rehabilitation, and overall strength and power improvements. All this training, of course, must be supported with good nutrition and recovery. Once you’ve mastered these aspects, you’ll not only be a good triathlete, but will have improved your long-term positive health.

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4. It doesn’t have to cost the earth 

Triathletes can be flashy with their shiny bikes and fancy gadgets. However, it doesn’t have to cost the earth, especially at beginner level. There are events where the swim takes place in a pool, so you just need your regular swimwear, and if you already own a bike, you have a head start. Many events can be completed on mountain or hybrid bikes. You need a cycle helmet and, of course, a pair of running shoes – but you might not need much new equipment to get started. As you progress in the sport (note: it’s very addictive), there are plenty of second-hand triathlon bargains, as well as free training advice and programmes available on the internet. When you start, the hours you put into training are much more important than the pounds you invest into gear. It would be worth investing in a coaching plan as you progress, to give you the best tools for achieving your multisport goals.

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5. You are never too old to Tri 

It’s never too late to start! This is the beauty of triathlon; it welcomes and caters for all ages. Whether you’re a beginner or want to compete for your country at the world championships, there are age groups up to 90+ at all triathlon events! If you are fit, healthy and up for the challenge, there’s nothing to stop you from taking on your first triathlon. Plus, you never know who you’re inspiring along the way.

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Natalie Lawrence is an ambassador for the award-winning Outlaw Triathlon Series, which features events from sprint to long-distance. She combines professional sport with being a mum to four young children and running a coaching business for all levels of triathlete: www.nlfitness.net

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From duathlon recommendations, to race day shoes, breathing techniques, bike repair courses and more, here is what you've been asked us this month.

p.s. please click here if you want to submit your own question.

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Question | 1

Do you know where I can find a list of in-person (not online) basic bike maintenance classes? I'd just like to learn how to look after my bike properly, and check it is safe every time I go out. (Chloe, The Midlands)

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Answer | 1

Great question. Admittedly none of the team actually live up in the Midlands currently, however we have done some research and found some options below that are local bike shops offering a variety of bike maintenance courses for different skills.

• Birmingham Bike Foundry - a great small class option for covering the basics (which seems to answer your brief!)
• Future Cycles Training in Leicester: - these look like they offer a great range based on different levels so you can always do more with them as you advance
• Women in Tandem - While this isn't a course but a network of women who are into cycling, they offer a variety of  free 'Dr Bike' sessions where I'm sure you could learn how to fix any issues your bike has.  

From Lisa, Let's Do This team member, seasoned runner and aspiring cycling enthusiast

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Question | 2

I am keen to avoid swimming! Can you recommend suitable duathlon events for me - First timer - so sprint event preferred initially, ideally with closed roads or v minimal traffic for the bike element near London [Mark]

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Answer | 2

I think a great option will be Dorney triathlon/Duathlon - it's a great location with the iconic Dorney lake (famed for rowing in the 2012 Olympics) which sees both the run and cycle happen within the grounds (so no traffic)! There are plenty of options to compete with both the standard and sprint distances and even a relay if you wish to team up and tackle the disciplines. They also have swim/bike options and the full triathlon to really complete the menu for all things multi-sport!

From James, Let's Do This team member and seasoned triathlete

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Question | 3

Hi - I have a question about breathing and running. What’s the best breathing techniques for long distance running? I.E. half marathons. What exercises can you do to practice this? Thank you

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Answer | 3

For breathing keep it rhythmic and regular -breathe in for two steps and breath out for two. So it’s a constant in in, out out. If you start panting or irregular breathing then you won’t get the oxygen in.

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From Frankie, Let's Do This team member and runner / triathlete-extraordinaire

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Question | 4

When training for a half marathon do I need to incorporate additional protein into my routine? If so, when is best / any brands you recommend? [Emily, Surrey]

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Answer | 4

When doing any training, the 'gains'/'improvements' come from your recovery. When you exercise whether that's running, lifting weights, cycling etc your muscles get broken down and the key component in their repair is protein. This doesn't mean you need to be smashing protein shakes every time you work out or even every day but a good rule of thumb is to eat around 1-2g of protein per kg of bodyweight. Personally, I'm 62kg and all I do is ensure I have 20-30g protein in each meal (through meat/fish, beans, lentils, scoop of protein powder in my morning oats etc) and that works for me. On an extra hard day I might have a recovery shake that has 20g protein but it's not the be all and end all. Best tip: fuel your body properly with good, whole foods, lots of carbs, plenty of fruit and veg etc - now is not the time to be trying any sort of fad diet!

‍Please note I am not a registered nutritionist or dietician, this is just my advice from years of training for triathlons, running, hockey etc. Please speak with your GP or registered dietician if you are going to be making any drastic changes to your diet

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From Frankie, Let's Do This team member and runner | triathlete-extraordinaire

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Question | 5

Do I need to buy a separate pair of trainers for race day? How much of a difference will they make? [Sara, Dorset]

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Answer | 5

Rule number one in racing - nothing new on race day and this includes clothing, footwear, food and drink! However, it is recommended to have a separate pair of race trainers for race day only and even a 'shoe rotation' during your training. Each time you wear a pair of trainers, it compresses the foam and insole making it less absorbent to the impact when you are out running which could in turn lead to greater risk of injury. You need to give your shoes time to relax after each run.

Personally - I have a few pairs of shoes I use in my rotation;

Saucony Triumph 20 - slow, long runs

Saucony Endorphin Speed 3 - tempo efforts

Saucony Pro 2 - track or interval/max effort work

Nike AlphaFLY (carbon plated) - race day only (I always wear for an effort 5k before I race in them so they're not brand new on race day).

Each brand of shoe has their own version of the Saucony ones listed below - Brooks, ASICS, Adidas, Nike etc. It's about finding the right shoe that works for you. Now I admit this might be a bit on the extreme end of shoes and you can easily do your training in one pair, you just need to find the best 'everyday trainer' from your preferred brand.

To go back and answer the question properly, no you do not need to buy a new pair of trainers for race day but, it will make a hell of a difference on tired legs if you have fresh shoes! Barely used foam and padding and a lighter shoe will give you a spring in your step and it'll help stop your legs feeling as tired at the end of the race. If you opt for a carbon plated shoe, you could be looking at anywhere between 2-5% faster - there's a reason all the top athletes and professionals choose these types of shoes for race day!

From Frankie, Let's Do This team member and runner | triathlete-extraordinaire

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Think of us as your active-lifestyle agony aunt. From gear recommendations to running hacks, we’ll answer all your event-related questions. Our favourites will feature across our social pages and in these newsletters.

To get your questions answered, either DM us at @letsdothis_ or email in at askusanything@letsdothis.com.

The best ones we’ll share here on our blog, in our newsletters and across social media to help others in our community. 

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To view the latest questions and answers from our community, click here.

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‍A few things to bear in mind:

• While we will endeavour to get back to as many questions as possible, we sadly can’t commit to answering every question submitted.
• By submitting the question you give us permission to publish your question alongside your first name + city.. If you would prefer for us to anonymise your question please let us know.
• As none of us are trained physios or medics, we can’t offer any advice relating to injury (preventing or rehab) and/or health
• The responses and recommendations shared are on behalf of our team members who are passionate participants in the various sports we offer on the platform - they don’t necessarily reflect the views of Let’s Do This.
• We are not paid for any of the recommendations we provide
• Let’s Do This are not responsible for any action(s) taken in light of the answers received.
• We reserve the right to block / remove comment and posts that are not in keeping with the tone of our channel and that we or others may find offensive
• Please limit your questions to only running / cycling / triathlon events, equipment or training- related questions. As much as we want to be there for you, we’re not qualified to answer questions beyond this scope

There is a huge variety of middle distance triathlon events around the world. Whether you’ve signed up for an official half Ironman or an independently organised event, you won’t be able to get away from the 1.9km/1.2 mile swim, 90km/56 mile bike, and 21.1km/13.1 mile run that all 70.3 triathlons require. 

Here we’ve chosen our favourite middle distance triathlons, from beginner-friendly routes to the world’s toughest courses. We’ve included 5 from Europe, 3 from North America, 2 from Oceania, and 1 from each of Africa, South America and Asia. Sadly, there isn’t yet a half ironman in Antarctica, but we’ll be sure to keep you posted if ever there is one. 

Find your next 70.3 event

1. Ironman 70.3 Vichy, France

Course: Swim: 1-loop in lac d’Allier; Bike: 1-lap figure-of-eight, 900m/2953ft elevation gain; Run: 1-lap, c.40m/131ft elevation gain

The historic rowing lake forms the focal point of this scenic race, surrounded by Vichy’s iconic center and pretty parks, and the bike course journeys out to spectacular views of the Auvergne volcanoes. After competing for the full 113km, you might want to exploit the fact that Vichy is known as the Queen of Spa towns, and treat yourself to a sports massage. 

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2. The Brutal Half, Wales, UK

Course: Swim: 2-loops in Llyn Padarn lake; Bike: 2-lap, 1514m/4966ft elevation gain; Run: 1x5.mile lap of lake, then up and down Mt. Snowdon, 972m/3190ft elevation gain

There are not many full distance triathlons that can boast almost 1000m of elevation gain on the run section, let alone a middle distance triathlon. There’s no doubt where the race got its ‘Brutal’ name. Climbing Wales’ highest mountain after the chilly lake swim and arduous bike will be a serious challenge for your legs, heart, and mind, but you’ll be able to brag about finishing for years to come.

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3. Challenge Walchsee Middle Distance, Kaiserwinkl, Austria

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Lake Walchsee; Bike: 2-laps, 1140m/3740ft elevation gain; Run: 5 laps, 132m elevation gain

Part of the Challenge Family race series, this race is popular for its friendly atmosphere, stunning surroundings, and challenging bike course. The swim takes place in the pure waters of Lake Walchsee, and then the bike journeys up into the tough Wilder Kaiser mountain range. The scenic Kaiserwinkl region rewards the climbs with spectacular views, and then the run around Lake Walchsee is mercifully flat.

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4. Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire, UK

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Chasewater reservoir; Bike: 1-lap 756m/2,481ft elevation gain; Run: 2.5-laps, 176m/578ft elevation gain

Set in the heart of the West Midlands, this 70.3 benefits from the stunning surroundings of the Cannock Chase area of outstanding natural beauty. It is a particularly good course for beginners, with a relatively flat, rolling course. The run pays two visits to Stafford Castle, before finishing in the historic Market Square where you are guaranteed a warm reception in the town centre. 

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5. Half X Triathlon, Cumbria, UK

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Lake Windermere; Bike: 1-lap, out and back, 2800m/9186ft elevation gain; Run: 1 lap out and back, 1079m/3540ft elevation gain

This race claims to be mile-for-mile the toughest triathlon in the world, and looking at the stats it’s hard to disagree. The bike route is quite frankly brutal. It takes in 6 of the UK’s steepest road passes, all of which have sections of gradient over 20% (and some up to 33%). If that hasn’t emptied your legs sufficiently, then the run section is unlikely to leave anything left in the tank, with four significant climbs through the Lake District, culminating at the top of Fairfield Peak.  

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6. Ironman 70.3 Mont-Tremblant, Canada

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Lake Tremblant; Bike: 1-lap 900m/2953ft elevation gain; Run: 1-lap, 476m/1562ft elevation gain

Despite its challenging terrains, this is one of the most visually stunning triathlons on the circuit. Lake Tremblant has calm, pristine waters, the bike course passes through forests and mountains, and along beautiful rivers, and the run takes you through Mont-Tremblant Old Village, past a waterfall and along the banks of the lake. It’s no wonder that triathletes come from all around the world to compete in this bucket list 70.3.

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7. Ironman 70.3 St George, USA

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Sand Hollow Reservoir; Bike: 1-lap, 1078m/3537ft elevation gain; Run: 1-lap out-and-back, 386m/1267ft elevation gain

This 70.3 is famous for having the iconic red rocks of America’s Southwest as the backdrop. The bike route takes you up through Utah's Snow Canyon State Park for a challenging climb adorned with breathtaking views, and then the run mixes the nature of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve with city views and a finish in downtown St George. 

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8. Savageman 70, Garrett County, USA

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Deep Creek Lake; Bike: 1-lap, 1078m elevation gain; Run: 1-lap out-and-back, 386m/1267ft elevation gain

The swim and run sections of this triathlon are stunning and relatively simple, but the main draw of this Maryland event is the bike course. There are several tough ascents, especially the Westernport Wall, where you can earn a named brick in the road if you complete the climb unscathed and which has an average gradient of 25%, peaking at a dizzying 31%. What goes up must come down, and many of these climbs lead to technical descents. 

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9. Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney, Australia

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Penrith Lake; Bike: 2-laps 422m/1385ft elevation gain; Run: 1.5-laps out-and-back, 63m/207ft elevation gain

This course gives you the best Sydney has to offer. The event takes place from the Sydney International Regatta Centre, which was home to rowing and canoeing in the 2000 Olympics. The swim is in the famous Penrith Lake in front of grandstand support and the bike course is flat and fast, with stunning views of the Blue Mountains. All of this, before the run takes in the Nepean River along the scenic Great River Walk. Running a half ironman has never been so pleasant. 

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10. Ironman 70.3 Taupo, New Zealand

Course: Swim: 1-loop in Lake Taupo; Bike: 1-lap 344m/1129ft elevation gain; Run: 2-laps out-and-back, 34m/111ft elevation gain

Swim in Australasia’s largest freshwater lake, cycle surrounded by mountains featured in the epic Lord of the Rings films, and enjoy the highest ranked ‘Overall Run Experience’ of all Ironman 70.3 events. This iconic course is one of the flattest on the circuit, so is a great opportunity for a PB, making it a favourite amongst professionals. 

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11. Ironman 70.3 South Africa, Buffalo City

Course: Swim: 1-loop in East London’s harbour off Orient Beach; Bike: 1-lap 1497m/4911ft elevation gain; Run: 2-laps out-and-back, 281m/922ft elevation gain

Despite being on the Wild Coast, the swim is protected by breakwaters so the waters should be calm. The bike route is challenging, with rolling hills, but you are then rewarded with a run section that offers stunning coastal views and enthusiastic crowds. This is a great event for those wanting to mix their exercise with tourism, as there is plenty to be seen in the surrounding area before and after race day, such as Nahoon’s Bat Cave and miles of beaches. 

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12. Ironman 70.3 Maceió, Brazil

Course: Swim: 1-loop at Pajucara Beach; Bike: 1-lap c.100m/328ft elevation gain; Run: 3-laps out-and-back, c.70m/230ft elevation gain

The northeast of Brazil is one of the most beautiful settings for a triathlon event imaginable. The clear emerald waters and white-sand of Alagoas' coastline give Maceió the name ‘Water Paradise’. The course is gentle, allowing athletes to take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, and there is sure to be an unforgettable beach party once you finish. 

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13. Israman 113, Eilat, Israel

Course: Swim: 1-loop at Royal Beach; Bike: 1-lap 1895m/6217ft elevation gain; Run: 1-lap, 99m/325ft elevation gain 

After swimming in the Red Sea, the bike route heads on to route no.12, with steep climbs overlooking the Gulf of Eilat and Arava Valley. The first half of the run is entirely downhill, which sounds pleasant but will be a test for your calves, before the course flattens out along the coast and enters the sailing club for a raucous finish. The main challenge on the course is the weather conditions: several sections are particularly windy, and in previous years the race has seen rain, hail, sand storms, and extreme cold.

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The list of best 70.3 triathlon events:

1. Ironman 70.3 Vichy, France
2. The Brutal Half, Wales, UK
3. Challenge Walchsee Middle Distance, Kaiserwinkl, Austria
4. Ironman 70.3, Staffordshire, UK
5. Half X Triathlon, Cumbria, UK
6. Ironman 70.3 Mont-Tremblant, Canada
7. Ironman 70.3 St George, USA
8. Savageman 70, Garrett County, USA
9. Ironman 70.3 Western Sydney, Australia
10. Ironman 70.3 Taupo, New Zealand
11. Ironman 70.3 South Africa, Buffalo City
12. Ironman 70.3 Maceió, Brazil
13. Israman 113, Eilat, Israel

So you've signed up for your first Half Ironman. The prospect of a 1.9km/1.2 mile swim, a 90km/56 mile bike ride, and a 21.1km/13.1 mile run, for a total of 70.3 miles can look pretty daunting at first glance, but now the wait is over. The question remains - what can you expect on the run up to the event?

The most important thing here is just to trust in your training and preparation. Doing your first middle distance triathlon will be one of the most challenging and rewarding endurance experiences. Remember, everyone around you on the day will be willing you on; from fellow competitors to marshalls and supporters.

The good news - you’re in the hands of one of the best organisers out there. Your job is just to make sure you follow their process and you’ll get super support throughout the event.

Find your next 70.3 event

1. Pre-race admin:

The day before the race you will have to register, take part in the pre-race briefing and drop your gear at transition. Make sure you plan your movements for the day and have a clear idea of what clothing and nutrition you want to leave for the race day. It’s best to visit these places only once in order to avoid queues and hanging around!

2. Race briefing:

The race briefing is your best friend. The organisers will let you know about any last changes to the course or helpful tips about what to look out for and what to expect when you’re out racing. These are crucial for putting your mind at ease for the challenge ahead. Take a notebook in for any important facts you need to remember.

3. Help is always around:

Whether you’re on the swim, bike or run, Ironman always have helpful marshalls that deal with any problems. Rest assured that at every point during the race help won’t be far away to deal with any problems that arrive. Your job is just to trust your training and enjoy the day.

4. Use the official tracking app:

The app is a fantastic tool for those supporting from afar to keep track of you in real time through each stage as well as being a useful way for your supporters to find a spot to cheer you on throughout the course!

5. Make the best of the aid stations:

You will burn up to 5,000 calories by completing a half ironman, so it’s important to keep your body fuelled Throughout the day you will go past plenty of aid stations stocked with everything you need. From energy gels to isotonic drinks, be sure to make the most out of the nutrition on offer to make the experience as fun and competitive as possible.

6. Be prepared for one of the best finish line experiences

Make sure any supporters on the day are ready for you at the finish line. It’s one of the best race finishes you will ever experience and a high five from them as you run down the red carpet will be something you won’t forget. Don’t worry about turning off your sports watch and focus on the moment.

7. Make sure to put some money aside for the merch

Having completed a pretty serious feat of endurance, you'll want a couple of mementos. After finishing,  you'll pass through the merchandise tent - there’s some pretty stylish finisher’s items that you can buy to show off what you’ve done. Make sure to keep some money in the bank for those!