As Nebraska approached its largest triathlon ever, an estimated 676 athletes continued preparations to swim, bike, and run through Omaha. Most of the participants aren't elite athletes, just exercisers looking for a new challenge to help stay in shape.
They say if they can do it, you can, too. Are you ready to jump into a triathlon?
It does take training and knowledge and as Paul Crisman, Leslie Murrell and Julianne Weiss geared up for the challenge, they shared some ideas about what works.
Weiss said, "It's important to have the experience of the distances. It's important to do brick workouts where you do two pieces at a time, a bike and a swim, a swim and a run."
Crisman told us, "The transition from the bike to the run, you get jelly legs. And once you get used to that it seems to be a little easier."
"The main thing is making sure you're hydrated," Murrell said. "And have an energy source like a protein bar or gel. You need something to refuel."
Knowing what to expect is key for a newbie. Prairie Life fitness offered triathlon training and seminars, breaking down all the details, like how to transition from biking to running.
Prairie Life's Dayle Nervig said, "The best thing you can do is network and find out the people who have done it and listen to them. And find out what's the difference between a hybrid bike and a race bike. Why do shoes make a difference? Do you want a wet suit or not?"
Once you find out what works - practice.
Paul, Leslie, and Julianne struggled to make time for training but it'll all pay off on race day, no matter what their finish time.
Julianne said, "I think the big thing is just competing against yourself - the feeling; the sense of accomplishment."
For more information about the Omaha Triathlon, you can visit the Web site at omahatriathlon.com
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