Have you heard about the Couch to 5K program? It allows one prepare for his first marathon (5K) in 6 weeks if he follows the program – a set of exercises and diet plan. The same thing goes for preparing for a triathlon (moreso, even!). Nobody goes straight from a couch potato to a triathlete. The process takes time and effort. However, you can accomplish your goal if you put in the time and effort and follow a good plan of beginner triathlon training.

So before you shop for your gear in a triathlon store, make sure you follow these tips first:

Like any exercise program, before you start preparing for one, get a clearance from your doctor. Because beginner triathlon training requires a full body of motion, you will be using a variety of exercises in order to accomplish your goals. Of course, implementing the trio of biking, running and swimming is a good idea before your event. However, you don’t have to do it all at once. Start slow and focus on general exercise and fitness first.

1. Most athletes begin with strength building along with biking. Strength building exercises often start with some simple weight lifting. Free weights are inexpensive and very versatile. Work areas such as your arms, legs and core by doing moves such as squats and curls while holding the weights

2. Make sure you follow a healthy diet and ensure you get adequate nutrition.

3. Do not take for granted or neglect the importance of proper stretching. Stretching is important after you are through with your last exercise for that particular session, but it is most effective to stretch even before and also after the session. Stretching can help ease yourself from stress from your muscles, ligaments, joints and tendons. Not doing any stretching will make you more prone to injury and you may]could suffer from pains in your body that can very much hinder your performance.