If you’ve watched one of those high profile races on TV like the Ironman Triathlon, you’d know that a triathlon is one of the most challenging perseverance sports around. However, it can also be one of the most rewarding. “It is so satisfying when you cross the finishing line [even if you don’t win it] because it means you’ve just done three sports and more,” says Ashley Liew, captain of the Singapore Management University (SMU) Aquathlon Club. But rewarding as it is, the nature of the race means you’ve got to train to be a Jack of at least three trades. We spoke to some local experts for tips on how to gear up for each discipline and where to find the right kit.

Taking the Plunge
Often, triathletes describe the swimming start of the race as like being in a human washing machine, with a few thousand people diving into the water at the same time. “In Singapore, they stagger the start so that participants take turns; but it’s still frightening if you’re a beginner,” says swimming instructor Augustine Teo. “If you’re a good swimmer, you should be able to get used to it after a while though.” Marco Ferdinandi, a regional director for Pure Fitness (3/F Knightsbridge, 270 Orchard Rd., 6100-3813) and an established triathlon coaching consultant, recommends that beginners learn the proper technique, which can make a real difference to their performance. “A trainer who understands the right swim technique can help you deflect unnecessary injury during your swim,” he says. Being comfortable also helps improve your overall performance. Corporate sales manager of Pure Fitness and a participant in the Asia-Pacific Ironman Championship Dane Cantwell says that there is an endless amount of equipment you can use to help you to swim faster, lighter, stronger and longer. “For the swimming bit of the race, you will need to set yourself up with a pair of swimming goggles, fins and paddles,” he recommends.
Gear up at Royal Sporting House, #B1-23 Great World City, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, 6734-2983.

Taking the Wheel
One important aspect to consider when training for a triathlon is the transition from one event to the other. Cycling on its own may be relatively easy but cycling after a long, cold swim? Tricky. “Preparing to go from a swim to a bike, commonly known as “brick training,” is essential (for participants) to feel comfortable and confident during the race. You would want at least six to eight weeks of transition training before heading into a triathlon,” says Pure Fitness’ Ferdinandi. “My structured daily training plan not only involves swimming, biking and running but also brick trainings or bike-runs, which are crucial in triathlons,” adds Ashley Liew. But before you can get started on your “brick training,” you’re going to need the most essential item—a bicycle. “The bike is probably the biggest money purchase a triathlete will need to make. It’s really crucial that you get fitted properly on your bike at a bike shop that knows how to size you correctly,” advises Ferdinandi. A helmet and cycling shoes are also essential.
Gear up at AttitudeBikes, 118 Telok Kurau Rd., 6344-4579.

The Home Run
Besides running (obviously), a good way to improve aerobic and cardiovascular fitness while getting used to the concept of mass racing is by signing up for jogging or walking clinics. “In a Jog-a-long class at Pure Fitness, the route and pace will be set by the instructor depending on the group’s running level. Another class is Walk-a-long, which is one of those social sessions that involve taking you outdoors for a brisk walk, varying the routes each time,” says Ferdinando. But while group sessions help improve your overall performance in the running bit of the race, there is another transition you should take note of—the cycle-run. “East Coast Park is an excellent place to train for both cycling and running with some nice flat paths. You can even try to combine a cycle-run session there,” Cantwell suggests.
Gear up at Sportslink, #01-07-12 Queensway Shopping Ctr., 6471-2363.

Get in on the action at these triathlon events:

Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore Triathlon
Since its inception in 2006, the Ironman 70.3 series has become one of the most popular and fastest growing triathlon races in the world. There are now 42 events globally, including the one in Singapore held in March, which qualifies athletes for the Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 80.3 in Last Vegas. For more information, log on to www.ironman703singapore.com.

OSIM Singapore International Triathlon
One of the more established triathlons in Singapore, the event presented by the Triathlon Association of Singapore and held in April consists of smaller categories depending on the aim of your workout. There is an under-14 category, a less taxing Mini Triathlon and even a Corporate Triathlon for those who want to attempt a bit of team building. For more information, log on to www.triathlon.sg.

Tribob Singapore Sprint Series
Great for triathlon newbies, the Tribob Singapore Sprint Series has various distances and categories to suit all age groups and fitness levels. Their triathlon event is held in May. Tribob also offers you tailor-made training clinics to prepare you for your big race. For more information, log on to www.singaporesprintseries.com.