Get ready for your First Ironman!
The triathlon that we have been watching on news channels and sports channels for years now has finally come to India. The participation of Indian population in sports worldwide has increased to a very good extent. To a non-athlete, combining a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run in a single-day event is not easy at all.
Preparing for an IRONMAN is time consuming, expensive and exhausting, but there’s perhaps nothing more rewarding than hearing “YOU ARE AN IRONMAN” as you cross the finish line.
From registering to racing, here are a few points that can help you decide and train for it to achieve the powerful title of IRONMAN
What do you want to achieve?
Everyone completes an IRONMAN for their own reasons. For some, simply surviving the swim and finishing within the 17-hour cutoff is a win. Others might be attempting to PR, win their age group or qualify for Other matches. Be realistic with your goals, both for race day and while training. IRONMAN is a tough day no matter how you look at it, so first timers should set realistic, obtainable goals to limit any unnecessary pressure.
Which IRONMAN should you choose?
All standard IRONMAN races are 140.6 miles, but this doesn’t mean all are created equally. There is a big difference since the places vary, the climate varies, the swimming can be in the sea or a river, and also the running course, sometimes can be flat or hilly.
How long of a training runway do you need? A little planning can make a huge difference come race day.
This Ironman has a sea swim with a running track near the beach and most areas are shaded. Though the temperature would be around 29-32•C.
Warm and humid climate is expected. Training according to the weather is this important.
What should you expect on the swim?
The swim is easily the most daunting phase of the race for first timers. The key is to race at your own pace—don’t try to keep up with the swimmer next to you or go out harder than you trained for. Also, be warned that you’ll likely be touching nearby swimmers as you progress through the course, sometimes even getting unintentionally kicked or hit. It’s just part of racing, so know it’s okay to pull off to the side to take a breather and float it out for a bit if needed.
What to expect during the transitions?Transitions are tough. There will be hundreds of athletes in the changing tent at the same time with volunteers running around to help as needed. The best way to keep your peace of mind is to take a deep breath, stay organized and don’t go too fast. Remember to carry everything you will need, before you head out.
What should you expect on the bike?
Focusing on pace and nutrition is key; be aware of your energy levels and adjust your nutrition accordingly. Don’t forget—you still have a marathon to run.
What to expect on the run?
You’ve completed the swim and the bike, and all that’s left is the marathon. You might feel little heavy after biking but remember within a few miles of running, after the warm up is done you will start to ease up. But maintain a slow pace for quite sometime because it’s going to be a loooog marathon.
Know your body well. Hydrate it and provide enough nutrition to keep going on because the title of ironman is not very far. After finishing the race, enjoying the win, continue to refill the body properly.
Hoping we have lots of winners for this IRONMAN, all the best..!!
