With summer just around the corner and the Victorian Triathlon season also about to start, there is no better time to take on the challenge of entering a triathlon.
While many see completing in a triathlon as no easy feat – with the classic or Olympic distance a 1500m swim, 40km ride and a 10km run. There are shorter distances (sprints) to help you ease into the sport, including beginner programs like TRIActive, to help build confidence and get a feel for multisport.
However, there are also significant health benefits by taking up the sport because triathlon has a unique advantage of providing several benefits to overall health and wellbeing.
Complete body workout
If you’re looking for a total body workout, training for a triathlon will help to strengthen multiple muscle groups. Swimming focusses on strengthening the upper body while cycling and running build lower body strength. Combined, you’re able to build strength and tone your body all in one.
Stay trim and toned
Slimming down is another benefit thanks to the cross-training style of training, which burns fat from the body. This, coupled with eating a well-balanced training diet, will aid in weight-loss, give you a clearer head and produce more energy.
Lower the risk of illness
Regular exercise helps to lower the risk of illness and disease such as high blood pressure, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis and depression. The combination of swimming, cycling and running helps to improve overall health and wellbeing.
Reduce the risk of injury
Sticking to one exercise can place stress and repetitive strain on parts of the body which can lead to common injuries like strains and sprains. Triathlon training takes constant stress off certain areas because while you are pushing yourself in three different sports, each focuses on different parts of your body to offer a more balanced fitness regime.
Enhanced mental health
Research linking physical activity with enhanced mental health and wellbeing has been well documented. Being involved in a sport helps to reduce stress and depression and can help to improve your mood, concentration and sleeping habits. Improved health and wellbeing also enhances your perspective on what you can achieve and how far you can push yourself.
Improved confidence
Anyone who completes a triathlon should feel incredibly proud. Be it your first or your twentieth; it’s a remarkable achievement. Competing an event helps to improve self confidence and that can-do attitude. It also gives you that feel-good feeling and high-fives all round!
So what are you waiting for? Reach out to your nearest Triathlon Club and see how triathlon can benefit your health and wellbeing.
