Triathlon for beginners: Record number excited at the first competition!

Triathlon for beginners: Record number excited at the first competition!

Triathlon fever has firmly established itself in Cologne, not least thanks to the great commitment of clubs like TriTeam Soest. On June 19, 2025, an exciting training triathlon took place at AquaFun under the motto “Experience all three disciplines”. With a record participation of 24 starters, the event was a complete success, which shows that interest in triathlon competitions remains unbroken. According to the Soester Anzeiger, many of the participants had previously taken part in an intensive six-week trial course that began at the end of April.

The trial course included training three times a week in the disciplines of swimming, cycling and running. This efficient training ensured that the beginners started well prepared. “The progress of the participants is impressive,” said swimming coach Delia Mantau, praising the motivation and endurance of her protégés. Participant Daniel Hoffmann was also full of praise for the competent support he received.

Team spirit and sense of community

Jan Schmidt, 36 years old, highlighted the sense of community that developed during the training. Such positive experiences are a key factor that motivates new participants to take part in triathlons. Project initiator Detlev Gethmann explained: “The preparation and intensive practice of the transition zones are crucial.” This shows how important it is to focus on all aspects of the competition during training.

The event offered two different routes: Participants could either swim 500 meters, bike 22 kilometers and run 5 kilometers or opt for the bigger challenge of swimming 1,000 meters, cycling 41 kilometers and running 10 kilometers. Tobias Gethmann, who took over the organization of the final event, drew a consistently positive conclusion about the event, which promoted both sporting performance and solidarity.

The path to triathlon

But how do you get started in this versatile sport? According to Men's Health, triathlon is the perfect whole-body workout that not only strengthens endurance, but also prevents muscular imbalances. For beginners, it is recommended to start with the sprint distance: 500 to 750 meters swimming, 20 kilometers cycling and 5 kilometers running. This is ideal for getting to know the sport step by step.

Sports coach Nils Goerke recommends planning at least 3 to 4 training sessions per week, but under no circumstances should you train several disciplines in one day. The right equipment is also essential. A mix of used equipment and the ability to rent equipment can make it easier to get started. Beginners should wear swimming goggles, a roadworthy bike and comfortable running shoes in order to be optimally prepared.

Competition preparation and training plans

In order to optimally prepare for the competition, aspiring triathletes should consider a few important aspects. The Ryzon training plan shows that a good mix of slow rides and more intense sessions is crucial. Regardless of fitness level, continuity is the be-all and end-all. It is also advisable to carry out an athlete check-up in advance for your own safety.

On the day of the competition, it is important to arrive at the venue early so as not to run out of time. A wetsuit under your cycling and running clothing can save time, especially in the transition area. In addition, warming up before the start is essential in order to avoid injuries and get off to the best possible start to the competition.

The increasing popularity of triathlons cannot be overlooked, and the people of Cologne are lucky to be part of this growing community. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced athlete, the appeal of triathlon lies in the combination of different disciplines and the sense of community that goes beyond the pure pleasure of competition.