What many don't know is that triathlons come in a variety of sizes, the shortest distance among them being the sprint. Sprint triathlons can vary in distance, but generally they include a 0.5-mile (750 m) swim, 12.4-mile (20K) bike and 3.1-mile (5K) run. In addition to simply being a great gateway into the sport of triathlon, sprint distances have a lot to offer newcomers and novices alike.
In fact, we think it might just be triathlon's best distance.
Bite-Sized
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Not everyone has time to train for an IRONMAN, which requires a great deal of dedication and discipline. A sprint triathlon is short enough to finish without disrupting your life with training, but long enough to give you that swim, bike, run fix.
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Your Next RaceSave Some Coin
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The wetsuits, the bike, the shoes and other gear all add up to a hefty price tag, but the registration costs for a sprint triathlon are considerably cheaper than their long-distance counterparts. That just means more money to blow on your post-race cheat meal.
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Your Next RaceSpectator Power
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Need a little extra outside motivation to keep you pushing toward the finish line? A sprint triathlon is usually spectator friendly, enabling you to catch a glimpse of your loved ones cheering you on throughout each leg of the race.
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Your Next RaceTurbocharged
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Because a sprint is so short, pacing is less of a necessity. If you like swimming, biking or running near your max effort, a sprint triathlon has your name all over it.
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Your Next RaceYou Have Options
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Not comfortable in open water? Many sprint triathlons offer a pool swim leg. It's a great way to minimize your weaknesses and enjoy the triathlon experience.
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Your Next RaceGet Your Feet Wet
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A sprint triathlon is the perfect starting point for those looking to complete their first triathlon. Crossing the finish line a couple times will increase your confidence and teach you the basics of the sport before you increase the distance.
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Your Next RaceLearn New Skills
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Most first-time triathletes are at least competent in one leg of the race, and undertaking a sprint will force yourself to get familiar with the other two weaker legs. Who knows, you may develop a new passion!
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Your Next RaceStay Injury Free
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The low training volume required to get in shape for a sprint triathlon usually comes without the risk of overuse injuries. Like all training plans, ease into it.
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Your Next RaceNon-Athletes Welcome
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The triathlon community is extremely inclusive. Doggy paddlers and walkers are all welcome—crossing the finish line is all that matters.
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