Something you may not know about me: once upon a lifetime ago I was involved in Triathlon training. I got mixed up in it quite by accident and before I realised what I’d signed up to, I was getting up at 5am for pool workouts, cycle sessions and running round Richmond Park in the snow!
Triathlon, for those of you who are unsure, is a multi-sport endurance competition combining swim, bike, run, all in succession over a variety of distances.
- Sprint distance – 750m swim, 20 km bike, 5 km run
- Olympic distance -1.5 km swim, 40 km ride, 10 km run
- Ironman distance – 3.8 km swim, 180 km ride, and a marathon: 42.2 km run
Not for the faint-hearted! Those triathlon training days were about 20 years ago and are all but a distant memory!
Since then, I’ve always had a healthy respect for anyone involved in competitive Triathlons. I know a couple of guys and girls who are involved in Tri’s and I’ve been asked if I want to get involved in the sport again. So, when Origin Publishing got in touch last week, to ask me to review their newest ‘bookazine’, it was just what I needed.
My copy of ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Triathlon‘ is a real feast! It’s a nice thick glossy – half way between a paperback and a magazine .. hence the term ‘bookazine’. I must stop and say that this all comes from the reknowned experts over at 220 Triathlon Magazine – what those guys don’t know about Triathlon, ain’t worth knowing!
The first comment I’d like to make is that this isn’t just for beginners. Yes, there’s a comprehensive glossary of
Triathlon terms at the beginning and a nicely designed ‘Essential Gear’ element. But very quickly I realised that there were tons of interesting articles on a variety of issues that will appeal to intermediates as well as beginners. The range of topics is impressive -
- How to fix a flat tyre in double quick time
- All-terrain running
- Tri-specific gym workouts
- Open-water basics
- Swim sessions – broken down into arm, leg, body position & breathing drills
- Transitions
- Nutrition
- How Fit Are You?
- Training Plans
- How to go from sprint to Olympic distance
- Race day tips
- Race like the Pros
- Ironman info
- Long distance survival techniques
…and that’s not all!
This ‘bookazine’ has it all .. brains as well as beauty! With some serious world-class contributors consisting of a mix of highly experienced international coaches and some of the world’s best athletes, you’d be hard pressed to find better advice and tips. Beautifully illustrated with great photographs, action shots and ‘how to’ demos, ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Triathlon‘ is a feast for the eyes too!
Just as you can begin to feel the adrenalin and are feeling that tingling sense of motivation, there’s the ‘Beginner’s Races’ and ‘The World’s Greatest Triathlons’ section .. I found myself seriously thinking of a warm-up at the Eton Super Sprints and, in time, moving on to the Windsor Triathlon!!
Whether you’ve been involved in Triathlons before or whether you’re a complete novice, ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Triathlon‘ will certainly whet your appetite for the sport .. and if you think that this really isn’t for you, don’t forget that every athlete needs their support crew..learning about Triathlon and knowing what your athletic family member or friend is up to can be fascinating and your support at events will be invaluable to them too!
***JUST FOR YOU***
I have a FREE sneak peak for you from ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Triathlon‘
just sign up with the form below and it’s yours!
*I will never sell your name or email address to third parties
Joanna,
Thanks for sharing information on this book about Triathlons. The Motivation, Strength, and determination to complete one is so inspiring. Will take a look at your free excerpt from the book, Look forward to connecting with you more on TSA!
Chris Bernardo recently posted..Saving Money and Time by Working Smart
Hi Joanna,
We’re not super athletes who do or plan to do triathlons, but we have great respect for those who do. Congrats on doing it yourself and running in the snow to train. What great evidence of your commitment. We are glad to see you spread the word for those super athletes giving them the tips they need to make it success and safe.
You are a great resource for other marathon runners!
Committed To Your Success!
Dawn and Dave
Dave and Dawn Cook recently posted..There’s 8 Assets You Gain Thru Network Marketing – Here’s 1
Hi Joanna,
I have utmost respect for you as such a superb athlete. I am quite athletic myself, playing lots of singles and doubles tennis matches, but I have never attempted a marathon. But I do have to say, building an online business often feels to me as if I am running a triathalon. That book sounds really informative for anyone interested in attempting a triathalon.
Dr. Erica Goodstone recently posted..Boundaries of Love
Joanna,
I once wrote an article about Marathon Kids – a free program started by Kay Morris, a runner. Her dedication to the sport (plus her passion in helping children) reminds me of your passion and dedication.
Like Dave and Dawn, we’re not super athletes, though very interested in better health. I’ve always been amazed at the stamina and perseverance of Triathletes. It’s good to know about a beginner guidebook for those wishing to pursue this sport.
Jennifer
Jennifer Akers recently posted..Motivational Radio’s Mission- To Motivate- Inspire- and Educate
Hi Joanna
I love this post…I’ve watched triathlons on TV and I’m always amazed with
the dedication, hard work, mind control it takes to cross that finish line!
Thanks for sharing
Debby
Thanks Debby. Having just watched the Lanzarote Iron-man Triathlon, I’m in awe of these super athletes. Just incredible!
Hi Jennifer,
Programs designed to get kids involved in sport should have lots more support. I wish I’d been involved in sport as a child, it was only as an adult that I realised what I’d missed out on. … Just trying to make up for lost time now!
Hi Erica,
Thanks for stopping by. Yes, I know what you mean, business can be every bit as demanding and also requires dedication and commitment. Tennis is a lovely sociable sport – sometimes running can be a bit lonely… particularly in the winter when it’s cold and icy!
Best wishes
Joanna
Hi Dawn and Dave,
What I loved about the book was that it was a good read; interesting without taking itself too seriously. Although Triathlon can seem a scary sport, the articles never preached but instead made me want to know more. It’s always good to find out about new things .. who knows what we can achieve if we don’t enquire!
Best wishes
Joanna
Thanks Chris. It is absolutely amazing the potential that each of us has. It’s up to us to find out where our talents are and where they will take us!
Joanna
Hey I have not heard or even tried triathlon before. Reading about it, it sound like a very competitive sport. The people that are into it probably have a very good stamina. I remember watching these multidisciplinary sports on TV. I just wonder where they get all the energy to go through this.
I have a lot of respect for you for having gone through this.
Thanks for sharing,
Loic
Loic recently posted..Dog joint pain- 7 things you can do to alleviate the pain
Thanks for stopping by Loic. If you’re interested, Triathlons get good coverage these days on TV. I watched the Lanzarote Ironman Triathlon this weekend – incredible to see how tough those athletes are and in such heat too!!
Joanna
I admire any who do these things. However if it can’t be done sitting down then I’m outta there. Maybe fifty years ago I would entertain this stuff but time has moved on for me. Don’t let me stop you though because it is important for maintain an healthy body.
Nelson recently posted..“He was Voted Most Likely To Not Make It”
Joanna,
Enjoyed your review….and know someone who may find the publication helpful. I’ll be sure to pass it along!
Robin
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Hi Nelson,
My late Grandfather (there’s a photo of him ‘In Memory’) used to say “Why do anything standing up when you can sit down, and why do anything sitting down when you can lie down!” .. he found that fishing on the river bank was his type of exercise. I spent so many idle afternoons and evenings with him, just watching our lines, waiting for a bite, admiring the Kingfishers and occasionally exchanging comments. Sometimes, it’s just as important to stop and take it easy and watch the world go by.
Always good to see you here Nelson
Joanna
Robin, I’m so pleased you enjoyed the review. Thanks for passing on the publication too!
Best wishes
Joanna
Joanna, I have been into fitness all my life, but I have never competed. I do know the hard work and dedication that these athletes put into their training and I have the utmost respect for them! I will take a sneak peak at the guide. Great post! Thanks, Joseph McDevitt
Joseph McDevitt recently posted..How To Add An Opt-In Form To Your Facebook Profile
Wow! Joanna I have huge respect for you and your accomplishments.
Hi Joanna! I’ll be getting your sneak peek! I used to be heavily involved in martial arts – have only been moderately active the last few years – but want to get more active. I would love to know some of the secrets of better swimming technique!! Thanks for sharing such a great review!
–Lori
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Hi Lori,
Your enthusiasm is fabulous! My sons are involved in Karate and my husband is very keen on martial arts also…great conditioning both physically and mentally! It’s rare that I’m so impressed with a fitness publication and only regularly subscribe to Runners World but ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Triathlon’ really bowled me over. The performance help sections are really informative and nicely illustrated.
Best wishes
Joanna
Thanks Joseph for leaving a comment, it’s always good to have feedback. Some of the hardest competitions are those we have with ourselves!
Joanna
Hi Joanna
I have tremendous respect for you and anyone who can push their body to such lengths. My life has gotten much closer to this world through my business, so I understand it a lot better now. I have learned about things like VO2 Max testing, lactic acid threshhold and so on. It’s truly awesome. Thanks for the Magazine, I will pass it on to everyone! As a matter of fact I will probably post it on my sports blog.
Thanks
Laura & Larry Morris
Thanks for sharing. Very good collection of interesting articles and comprehensive glossary for triathlon training. I recommend this book for those interested in attempting a triathlon.
Hi David,
Thank you so much for stopping by and endorsing ‘The Beginner’s Guide to Triathlon’. I’ve just checked your website out – wow.. fabulous!
Great to have you here.
Best wishes
Joanna
Great post Joanna!
Great blog too!
Not for the faint-hearted! I love mountain biking but this looks too hardcore for me.
I wish you all the best!
Aidan Gibson
Aidan Gibson recently posted..Mobile Marketing For Your Business
What an interesting read for me because I have a new friend who is a Triathlon athlete, and has just decided to train for the Ironman. This gave me some new information about what he goes through. Thanks! And great to meet someone from TSA.
Carolyn
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Hi Carolyn,
Great to meet you here. It’s an amazing sport and, as I mentioned in the post, being a supporter is just as importer – it’s good to learn when to cheer someone else on from the sidelines! I’m sure you’re fantastic at supporting your new friend .. the Ironman is a really tough challenge!
Joanna
Hi Aidan, thanks for taking the time to leave a comment and I’m so pleased you like my blog
Keep up the mountain biking…you never know where it might lead to 
Best wishes
Joanna
Joanna, you seem to be an outstanding athlete and I applaud you. You are an inspiration to all of us and by all means keep up the great things that you do.
Lori Robertson recently posted..Rejection – How To Never Get Rejected Again
Great Post Joanna. I myself have never been into that but I do know a few people who would love that magazine and love to challenge and learn more. Thank you for sharing your great in site. I look forward to you next post.
Julie Elliott recently posted..Happy 4th of July
(from TSA) you have an awesome blog here, great ad positioning as well and its a pleasure to meet you. I love the term “bookazine” I work in public and media relations. Check out the site I’m listing here and you’ll see an online “magazine” I’ve been helping put together for years. I look forward to networking with you more. Feel free to connect with me through the contact page of the site or email. My skype is the1cbiz – God Bless Ya! Curt
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You might have gotten me to actually TRI a Triathlon
I am a runner and work out several times a week. I have yet to run a marathon or triathlon but coming here it may be right around the corner for me!
In Success,
Howie Perks
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Hi Howie,
You must let me know if you decide to take the ‘plunge’! Thanks for stopping by and hope to hear more from you soon.
Best wishes
Joanna
Hi Joanna,
I am sure the the fitness results from competing are amazing. I look forward to learning more from your site.
Always balancing,
Rafael
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I am not going to do a triathlon. I did a marathon years ago and that was enough for me, but I honor those of you that do. I have some friends that do and I’ll pass this along to them.
Michael
Love the post Joanna! My nephew is starting a magazine for the non-faint of heart as he travels the world looking for the best rock climbing walls, hiking trails, swimming areas, etc. Would you be interesting in submitting articles for his magazine? Would love to connect you as you’d likely add a lot to his magazine with your background. Just let me know.
By the way, as others have already said, I too respect anyone who can push themselves like that. Just did a 5 mile run with my 15-yr-old and although I did fine making it to the finish line in 98 degree heat, I said I’d never do it again. Hmm….you have inspired a totally different thought in me today.
Abundant Blessings,
Kellie
Kellie Frazier recently posted..Pillar 7
Great Post . Thank you for sharing your great in site. I look forward to you next post. TSA member
Jorge Vazquez recently posted..Manhattan Midtown East
I am going to the gym! Lol
Thanks for the motivation. I have been a bit of a slacker and said I am going to read just one more post before I go and this just so happened to be it.
You have given me the kick in the butt, thanks!
Have a great day!
Joe
Joe Malinowski recently posted..The Jonny Carson Method
Glad to be of help Joe, LOL! Hey, we all need motivation and I’m no different .. gotta get my ‘derriere’ moving if I’m going to complete my next challenge!
Let me know how you get on.
Best wishes
Joanna
Running a Triathlon makes me tired to think about, but what a feeling of accomplishment it would be. My daughter and I have committed to walking in the 3-day Breast Cancer walk next year and we’re putting together a team right now. We’re going to build a blog for the event where folks can donate to our cause. (Yikes, you have to raise a lot of money). I know we can do it !!!! Thanks for the motivation!!!
Debbie Wood recently posted..Want Beach Money – Jordan Adler Can Help!
There are so many people that need this information Joanna. It’s my dream to be able to do this. Do they still do it at 53 years old? Do they have to cross the finish line? Just kidding. Thanks, and I’m glad to read your stories.
Rick Salas recently posted..How to overcome obstacles easily with the right mindset
Joanna,
These are great tips even if you are not planning to compete in a triathlon.
I need to get something going and these are great ideas. I was in better shape
when I was 265 lbs. Now that I am 215 lbs., I am lighter but lost alot of muscle
and was a flash on the football field, lol.
Thanks for sharing!
Tommy D.
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Joanna,
Congratulations on having the mental discipline to get involved in triathlons and for sharing it with us. I’m more a yoga guy, yet I firmly believe that whatever disciplines we apply in our lives in the physical realm, we can carryover to success in the other areas.
Thanks for sharing,
Adam
Dr. Adam Sheck recently posted..The 3 C’s of Relationship- Chemistry- Compatibility & Commitment
I have several friends that have participated in triathlons. I have to say I am bowled over by the level of commitment and training required. I don’t know that I would have that kind of dedication, but I do have it in other areas, so I guess we just all have our passions.
I look forward to connecting with you again.
Live with passion and purpose,
Vanessa
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Joanna,
My hat’s off to youl I love sports and exercise but not at your level, I lke hiking, swimming and biking and do it at least 5 days a week. rebecca
rebecca russell recently posted..3-WAY STREET TO MLM SUCCESS!!!
Very interesting article, thanks. Keep up the good work.
I’m mightily impressed Joanna AND a marathon.
Howard Hughes recently posted..My Responseability
Only crazy people do triathlons!!! I can run a few kms and used to be hooked on doing a run every day, I have done an 8km fun run but that is about it. I just don’t get how you can keep going any further. Did enjoy the pig out that I thought I deserved after wards though I still remember it. I thought keeping fit was meant to help you loose weight.
Belinda
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