By Andy Scherding
Admit it, the idea has crossed your mind. Running is great for the soul, but we think you’ll find triathlon is great for the mind! While you are putting in maximum effort during a triathlon race, your brain is also going non-stop: thinking about what’s happening around you, the upcoming transition to the next leg, and how to pace yourself for what lies ahead.
Even if you’ve decided, “I’m just not interested in swimming” (which, we admit, many runners tell us!) keep in mind there is a triathlon race category known as a “duathlon.” Run, bike, run. And that’s it. We have a duathlon category at both of our Hyannis events — in 2025 the dates are June 7 and September 6. The weather at that time of the year is lovely, and the summertime crowds have yet to come to Cape Cod!
Here are some other reasons to consider a triathlon:
#1 Extend your running life.
Plantar Fasciitis? ITB? Damaged knee meniscus? DOMS? If you haven’t yet experienced these issues, you will — by continued running and the natural effects of aging. But a runner who also bikes and swims builds aerobic endurance and leg strength — while reducing the wear and tear on muscles and ligaments. Stay healthier for a long running career ahead!
#2 Build your core strength.
Running is a high-impact, primarily lower-body activity, while swimming is a full-body activity that’s both non-impact and non-weight-bearing. Swimming “stretches” you out, whereas running “compresses” you. The balance achieved by adding swimming to your training week strengthens your core — which only helps your running as well as the quality of life in everything you do.
#3 Turn yourself into a better runner.
It’s not a coincidence that some of the world’s better age group runners jump into a triathlon from time to time. Studies have shown that the slight addition of regular bike workouts helps in- crease run speed. Runners have set new marathon, half-marathon and 10K PRs within months after adding triathlon training to the mix — even with reduced run training mileage.
#4 The wonders of a wetsuit!
Yes, to swim well takes time and patience. But to get through the 400 yards of the swim leg of a sprint triathlon can be accomplished with reasonable training time in the pool and, simply, a wetsuit. The buoyancy provided by today’s wetsuits gives you the confidence to know you can “float” your way to the finish. And quality triathlon wetsuits are available for as little as $79.
#5 Life is short. Try something different.
Triathlon allows you to keep your first love — running — while adding a bit of variety and excitement to your season. The electric atmosphere of competitors toeing the starting line at the triathlon event will remind you of your very first marathon. Throughout the race you’ll always be thinking about pacing strategy and the upcoming transition to the next leg. When it’s over, the sense of accomplishment is hard to beat!
How to start? Try the upcoming sprint triathlon: 400-yard swim, 9 or 10-mile bike, and 3–4-mile run. Also there’s that duathlon category (mentioned above)! Learn more.
Andy Scherding has absolutely no credentials other than being a 28-year triathlete after 10 years as a pure runner. He’s done it all in both sports, and wishes to spread the gospel!
