New Triathlete

How do I get started in the sport of Triathlon?
Join CTTC and come to a meeting.  We have a very diverse membership that ranges from beginners that are training for their 1st triathlon to veterans that have raced for more than 20 years.  Join the club to take advantage of the collective knowledge, enthusiasm and passion for the sport to help you achieve your goal of completing your first triathlon.

What equipment do I need to train & finish my 1st triathlon?

• Swim: All you need to get started is a swim suit & goggles.

• Bike:  Preferably a road bike, but a mountain bike will work for shorter (sprint) races.  You will need a good helmet.  Other recommended items include: bike shorts, bike jersey, cycling shoes and clipless pedals, sunglasses, water bottle, spare tire/tube, and a tire pump.

• Run: A good pair of running shoes and socks is all you will need.  It will be helpful to buy shorts and shirt made of a moisture-wicking material.

Where can I buy training and race gear?
Click here for stores that can supply all of your needs & offer discounts to club members.

How do I train for my 1st triathlon?
In addition to asking for training & race tips from CTTC members and local retailers, you might consider hiring a coach.  You can ask at one of the local triathlon stores about coaches in the Charlotte area.  Several of the local YMCA’s offer a training program primarily for 1st time triathletes (contact your local Y for more info ymcacharlotte.org ). Here are two websites that can help you get started:
www.trinewbies.com  
www.beginnertriathlete.com

Where are good places to swim, bike, and run in/around Charlotte?

• Swim: The Mecklenburg County Aquatic Center and Mecklenburg Aquatic Club have great 50 meter pools and Masters swim programs with a coach are available. Many of the local YMCA’s have pools for lap swimming & some have specific times when there are workouts with a coach. 

• Bike:  Go to weeklyrides.com for info about rides around Charlotte.  You can also check out the Tarheel Cyclists website or stop by any of the bike shops in/around Charlotte.

• Run: You can check with any of the local running stores to find out where to run or to link up with a running group. McAlpine & McMullen Creek greenways are great places to run without worrying about traffic.

Are there any good local triathlons for beginners?
It’s best to start with a sprint triathlon and there are a large number of sprint races in North & South Carolina. Two popular races close to Charlotte are:
Latta Plantation Park Triathlon  (June)
Lake Norman YMCA Triathlon (August)
If you want to do either of these, be aware that they will fill up immediately when registration opens, generally on Jan. 1.  For information about these races & many others put on by Set-Up, click on setupevents.com