Tune Up Tuesday Week 3

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A common question asked by athletes new to triathlon is, what is a transition area and how do I handle one? At MultiSport Canada our goal is to make your triathlon experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible and hopefully with this information on transitions as, well quick tips on how to handle them, you will have enough knowledge under your belt to tackle transitions like a pro!

Transition areas are points between the swimming and cycling, as well cycling and running stage of a triathlete.  The area is designed to allow athletes to switch from one discipline to the next. The swim/cycle transition comes first and it is where athletes change from swim into biking gear, grab their bikes, and begin riding once out of the transition area (there is no riding in the transition zone). The second transition area is cycling to running, here is where you will leave your bike and run your way to the finish line!

Transition areas are not that scary if you know what you’re doing.  Here are three tips to ensure that when race day comes you can be as efficient and prepared as possible:

  1. It may seem odd, but decide what you are wearing prior to race day and then find a pool or lake to practice changing from your wet swimming gear into your biking gear. Whether you are wearing a wetsuit or tri suit on race day, it is best to be prepared and comfortable with the movements you will be doing ahead of time.
  2. Before any race you should always do a walk through, especially of the transition area. This way you will know where your bike will be once you finish your swim so you can avoid running around in search of it.
  3. Lastly, remember to take your time in the transition area because it can be a hectic and congested place. But, as long as you are focused and take your time, you will be out of there faster than if you had rushed.

Transitions are unfamiliar to people who have never done a triathlon before, but that shouldn’t make them hard. Practice and take into consideration these easy tips and watch yourself perform your best when race day comes!