Tip Tuesday

Transition Area and Setup

Transition area and setup can be a daunting task before a triathlon. Here are some tips to ensure a successful setup and execution on race day.

Understand the transition setup – most triathlons will utilize the same space for both transitions so understand that you will be setting up your bike and run gear in the same small space
Locate the entry and exit points for all three sports – know where you’ll be coming out of the water, where you ride your bike out and in of, and where you run out of (the in will be the finish line!)
Locate your row when you enter and exit each sport and find a landmark to help identify your row quickly so you don’t run around trying to find your spot after exiting the water or coming off your bike
Bring a small towel to lay your gear out on
Put your running gear on the backend of your towel
If you didn’t wear socks on the bike, hold your socks over and put the correct one in each shoe so they are easy to access and put on
Set your race belt on your shoes so you don’t forget to put it on
Have your run nutrition ready and placed by your running shoes
Put any extras (hat, sunscreen, etc.) next to your running shoes
Have your bike shoes unstrapped or loosened for each access
Have your helmet upside down with sunglasses sitting inside so you don’t forget either one
Have your bottles in their cages before you start
Have your bike nutrition open and ready to put in your jersey or tri suit pockets
Have fluid and nutrition available to eat after the swim, if needed
Hang your wetsuit over the bike rack to dry out after you have removed your bike
Take a few extra seconds (minutes) to make sure you are ready for the next sport
Practice how you’ll move through each transition before the race (or at home the night before) to help reduce any anxiety you might encounter during the race