Before getting started you must first choose a target race. A good place to start is to pick from one of the many sprint distance triathlons throughout BC. If your swimming skills have you concerned, you may want to consider a race that involves a pool swim or a short distance open water swim that you can comfortably complete.
Once you have chosen a race, it is time to assess your basic training and fitness background to determine your current level of fitness. This will enable you to ascertain whether you are confident in your ability to train on your own or whether you need the assistance of a coach for one or all of the three disciplines involved in triathlon.
If you decide to seek the assistance of a coach, it is crucial to research the background of all likely coaches so that you can be assured the coach you hire will have some knowledge or experience with triathlon as well as expertise within their specified sport. The type of coaching assistance you choose will depend on your personality type and the kind of training you are committed to. For example, some people prefer to be "assigned" their workouts and they are then free to do them on their own. Others prefer to be more involved in the planning of their schedule. Others still may need specific one-on-one instruction in person to master the technique of the skill they are learning. Before you begin your search for a coach, evaluate your needs and comfort level of involvement otherwise you may find yourself disappointed with the coach you hire. Lastly, shop around to ensure you are getting the coaching services you need at a reasonable price. If you are new to the sport of triathlon, you may only need to hire a coach who will take you through some general training workouts and help you develop a training plan and later in your triathlon season you may desire more specific training to match your new goals.
Andrea Score
Good Luck and Happy Racing!