FAQs

Common Questions Answered

We’ve compiled a list of common questions and answers about our SwimBikeRunFun activities & triathlon in genres. Browse the section, and if you can’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

Is #SwimBikeRunFun Only For Experienced Triathletes?

Anyone can do a triathlon. There really are no prerequisites for it. No matter your age, body type, ethnicity, or type of gear - ANYONE can Tri!

The only thing you need is some time to prepare. And the right motivation to actually get out there and do it. 

Does not matter if you are unfit, don't know how to swim, and you're 50 lbs overweight. And it especially doesn't matter that you don't have a fancy bike and wetsuit, and expensive shiny objects you see "serious triathletes" sporting. 

#SwimBikeRunFun puts on FUN triathlon and duathlon races and connects you with all the basic gear and training plans you will need to succeed.

What Are Typical Triathlon/Duathlon Format & Distances?

Triathlons can be swim, bike, run in any order.

Duathlons are categorized by short run, bike and same/longer distance run. 

<all distances below are in miles>
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Mini/Sprint Races

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Swim     0.2 - 0.6

Bike       5 - 18.6

Run       1 - 3.9

Olympic/Intermediate Races

Swim     0.7 - 1.2

Bike      18.7 - 31

Run       4 - 8

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Half-Iron Races

Swim     1.2

Bike      56

Run       13.1

Ironman Races

Swim     2.4

Bike      112

Run       26.2

USAT Membership and Racing

A USA Triathlon (USAT) card is a membership card designating membership in USA Triathlon. 

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USA Triathlon (USAT) is the national governing body for the multi-sport disciplines of triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon and winter triathlon in the United States. USA Triathlon’s 50,000-strong membership is composed of athletes of all ages, coaches, officials, parents and fans striving together to strengthen multi-sport. USA Triathlon’s mission is to provide leadership and structure for the growth and development of excellence in multi-sports. 

Some of the benefits of membership include discounts on hotels, travel, coaching, clinics, and race entries, gift certificates for sporting gear and complimentary subscriptions to USA Triathlon Times and Triathlete Magazine.  As an added benefit, membership also provides athletes with extra accident insurance during participation in USAT-sanctioned events.  A signed waiver is required with USAT membership.

All USAT-sanctioned races require you to be a USAT member or sign up for a one-day USAT membership.  This fee can be placed towards USAT yearly memberships within 12 months of the one-day membership.  To sign up for membership you can visit the USAT website at www.usatriathlon.org or you can sign up at any USAT-sanctioned race.  Membership is good for 1 year.

Always bring your card to packet pick up of your next USAT-sanctioned race to show proof of membership in USAT.

Do I Really Need A Triathlon Bike For Triathlons?

Many new competitors start out on a road bike. You can ride on a mountain bike if you choose. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to invest in a road bike or triathlon bike if you plan to be in the sport for a while. If you plan to purchase a bike, a proper fit goes a long way toward making sure you’re comfortable on the bike and can go as fast as possible. Be sure to get a professional bike fitting at your local bike shop

What’s The Minimum Amount Of Equipment I Need To Do A Triathlon?