Naturally not one to do anything by halves, I’ve signed up to compete in my first triathlon. At this premature stage in the proceedings, I’m not sure whether I am motivated by endorphins or whether I am just in the process of going completely mad. There’s only one way to find out.

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When in doubt – run

Late last year, I competed in my first ever running race, the Manchester Half Marathon. For those that are unfamiliar, a half marathon is 21.1km or 13.1 miles of running. Somehow, I actually made it over the finish line in 2:14:53 and still live to tell the tale. See my 2021 blog post here.

Since I loved the October Manchester Half Marathon so much, I’m already toying with the idea of entering the ballot again in late 2022. The half is definitely on my radar, as well as my iconic hometown event – The Great North Run. The latter event is a half marathon which takes place throughout the streets of Newcastle Upon-Tyne and finishes on a beach. While Newcastle is no Bahamas, I am already dreaming of that post-run sea swim.

The plan to complete in another half marathon may still be up in the air. However there is an event that is firmly on my radar. I’m competing in a triathlon. No big deal.

The Triathlon – what is it?

If you are unfamiliar, then a triathlon is made up of a trio of disciplines, neatly packed into one event. Where a half marathon solely focuses on running, a triathlon traditionally centres around running, swimming and cycling. Sounds a bit more difficult, right?

I know, I know. Signing up to compete in this event is pretty rogue. The decision is motivated via a marketing email I received from The British Triathlon at the end of 2021. I opened the email, browsed the contents and thought ‘that sounds good’. I signed up and paid my ballot fee on the spot. Here I am. I’m doing a triathlon.

So, on June 4th 2022, I will be embarking on a serious test of agility as I dive into open water, ride a bike, and run head-first into a finish line. I’ll be moving in these three different mediums for a total of 24.15km, a distance that is further than my current half marathon effort. Gulp. The triathlon I have signed up for is the ‘Sprint’ triathlon, part of the World Triathlon Championship Series in Leeds. If you want more information of what this particular triathlon involves, click here.

The Triathlon – the training

At this moment in time, the triathlon is four months away. Therefore training right now is really, really casual. I am heading to 6am swim club twice per week. I’m pounding pavements on my lunch breaks and have plans for spin classes and irl barre burn. Top of my preparation list however is to get a bike. I need to ride.

As you can see, things are pretty chilled right now. I am well aware they won’t stay like that for much longer. The gears are beginning to grind. Below, I’ve written a bit of a stream of consciousness ‘plan of action’. It’s more of an overview/reference point for myself, but you might find it interesting too?

Plan of action

Buy a bike. Number one priority.
Start cycling two/three times per week. Three/four nearer the event.
Spin class on the regular.
6am swim club – 3/4 times per week.
Open water swimming.
Running – 3/4 times per week. tempo, time trial and distance.

The next couple months are going to be full on. I’m not naive, it’s going to be serious hard work. I’m going to be pushing my boundaries and diving into the deep end. Literally!

End Game

Considering I currently do not cycle and open water swimming isn’t often included in my routine, I definitely have my work cut out to make this triathlon dream a reality. But that’s the fun of it, right? I’m so excited for the challenge!

Keep your eyes peeled for all sorts of triathlon content! I’ll try and keep you all in the loop. 2022 just got real interesting.

Follow my progress via Instagram here.