Triathlons

While we're not all genetically predisposed for greatness on hill climbs, they are a fact of life for cyclists everywhere. So how can you improve your hill climbing skills? Do you need strength, agility or both?

By Jeff Harder

Huge, rippling muscles may look good at a bodybuilding competition, but they usually make for a poor endurance athlete. You can be strong, you can be fast -- but if you're lugging around just a few more pounds, it could make the difference between success and failure.

By Tristin Hopper

There are a number of ways to improve your swim stroke, but the best way is through stroke drills and practice. Even world-class swimmers continue to improve their swim strokes using these simple methods.

By Jamie Page Deaton

Practiced swimmers seem magically better than the rest of us at gliding through the water. Olympian swimmers seem almost to defy physics. What do great swimmers do differently from the rest of us?

By Nicholas Gerbis

Swimmers hold pull buoys between their legs while training to stop themselves from kicking. This strengthens the muscles in their upper bodies. But how do you get used to training with a pull buoy?

By Nathan Chandler

Kickboards aren't only for beginning swimmers -- they're for anyone in the water at any skill level. Even competitive athletes use them. In fact, a kickboard can be a valuable part of your water workout.

By Kristen Hall-Geisler

So you've decided to train for a triathlon. Sure, the swimming, cycling and running will be grueling, but are you set for the really hard part? The part that could end with you lost and searching for your stuff amid piles of gear?

By Craig Haggit

Triathletes tend to be very, very focused on training and competition, but their families can cheer them on and even race with them. It may be a bit intense, but turning a triathlon into a family vacation may be easier than you think.

By Linda C. Brinson

Misery loves company. No, wait, that's not how it goes. Strength in numbers -- that's it! Triathlon training groups are as varied as the athletes themselves, and finding one that's right could be the first step in helping you stick with the sport.

By Lance Looper

Triathlons are unparalleled endurance tests. Because they're so competitive and physically punishing, the governing bodies of the sport have implemented strict and detailed rules to ensure the enjoyment and safety of everyone involved.

By Dave Roos

Most triathletes, before getting obsessed with the competition, start out as runners. But from the sprint distance triathlon to the ultimate Ironman, there are several different ways to train for the running section.

By Gerlinda Grimes

Think you have what it takes to compete in a triathlon? Chances are you do, but before signing up for the next available race, you'll want to be adequately prepared for the challenge ahead.

By Caitlin Uttley

As you might expect, a triathlete has to be in great shape. But even someone in excellent physical condition has to spend weeks training for a competition. What if the weather doesn't cooperate?

By Christopher Lampton

Deciding to run a triathlon, whether it's the sprint version or a full-fledged Ironman, is a major commitment. Making sure your body gets the right combination of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and hydration can mean the difference between a successful race and a painful ordeal.

By Meghan E. Smith

Yoga for triathletes pushes a combination of strength, flexibility and concentration into its routines. The idea is to build up the core muscle groups. Are you using yoga to prepare for the next competition?

By Eric Baxter

Though it takes dedication and endurance to finish a triathlon -- a race consisting of swimming, cycling and running segments -- there seems to be no single path to success. Does running in place on a treadmill help or hinder your racing dreams?

By Marianne Spoon

You're out for a nice bike ride when a challenging hill appears on the horizon. Some say it's easier to stand and power up the incline; others contend you're better off to stay seated and maintain a constant rhythm. Which strategy is best for you?

By Colleen Cancio

In a sport with so many variations, is there a way to find out what's the average time for finishing a triathlon? Let's investigate.

By Laurie L. Dove

Weekend warriors come in all shapes and sizes, and middle-aged Americans sick of sitting at a desk all week are signing up for triathlons in droves. What's surprising? So are their kids!

By Alia Hoyt

Most of us have heard of the Ironman Triathlon, but that's not the only version of the sport. There are several types of triathlons encompassing various distances and even sports beyond swimming, running and biking.

By Laurie L. Dove

In the world of cycling, not everyone agrees on pedal float. Some want more of it; others prefer less. What is it? We're not talking about tiptoeing through the tulips.

By Colleen Cancio

Only a handful of people participated in the very first triathlon, but it didn't take long for this young sport to take off in popularity. What's the story behind the triathlon?

By Sarah Winkler

It may seem hard to believe that something as menial as arm or leg hair can slow you down in the water. Is this simply the stuff of superstition? Or is there something to this ritual?

By Jane McGrath

Athletes play to win. But the very best ones also play fairly. In triathlons, certain gear is out of the question -- and it's all in the name of safety and good sportsmanship.

By Alia Hoyt

Just as different types of cars have different fuel needs, triathletes have different nutritional requirements from the rest of the population. How many protein bars, energy gels and calorie-heavy meals do triathletes need to pack into their training program?

By Julia Layton