Got a question for us? Email it to me@acmemultisports.com
But maybe we can answer some of the most common questions we get asked:
Q: What is a triathlon?
A: A triathlon consists of three disciplines of swimming, biking and running. There are many different lengths to a triathlon from the sprint distance, then international, then half-Ironman, and then the Full Iron Distance. Most beginners would need to focus on the sprint or international distance for the first few years. Of course this is our opinion. There are a few exceptional people that may attempt a longer distance in their first year of racing, but we wouldn't recommend it.
Q: What kind of equipment will I need for my first triathlon?
A: If you email us, we will email you our checklist we pass out to folks. It just has all the stuff you might want to consider for your racing season. There are obvious things you will need for the race. Here are some things you have to have to race (the other items you can add as the budget allows): swimsuit or triathlon suit, goggles, bike, helmet, running shoes. Let me add a few other things I would consider "have-to-haves": Body Glide, Yankz, sunglasses, race belt, and sunscreen.
Q: I need help swimming, where can I go to gain some specific instruction about how to improve my swim?
A: It all depends on what part of the city you live. But wherever you are, find a swim school or club that can provide specific instruction on how to swim more effectively and efficiently. In the Sumner County area, the Sumner YMCA has adult swim classes Monday and Wednesday mornings and Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Call for specific times. Check with teh Centennial SportsPlex in Nashville or the Williamson County Rec Center for other offerings.
Q: What is the difference in a triathlon and a road bike?
A: Triathlon bikes are designed with a different geometry than road bikes. Tri bikes are more forward in the seat tube angles, usually in 76-78 degrees, and are usually lower in the front end for the time trial position. The steeper seat tube angle on a triathlon bike will provide you the chance to save your "run muscles" for the run. The road bike position is a little more upright and not aerodynamic like the triathlon bikes. A road bike position will use all your leg muscles for power. A road bike can be converted into a triathlon bike with the purchase of aero bars and a forward seat post.
Q: How do I find which bike is best for me? How do I determine what size bike I need?
A: At ACME we are FIST certified and have many years of fitting people on their bikes. We first will talk about what you will be using the bike for, it does make a difference. Once we determine that, we will take measurements and put those in the computer. The computer will assist us in finding the correct size bike for you. From there, we will look through our inventory to see what we have in your size and budget. We will adjust those bikes to your measurements and then let you test ride several bikes. Once you narrow down which bike you like, then we will spend time with you to be sure every facet of the bike meets your specifications and needs. We want you to be happy on your bike. If it is a perfect fit, you will ride your bike more. That's the whole purpose for buying the bike. Remember, the bike is the most expensive piece of your equipment. You need to take the time to be sure it is RIGHT!
Q: How often do I need to replace my running shoes?
A: Most shoe manufacturers recommend you replace your shoes about 350-400 miles. Since everyone is a little different, it is not an exact science. There are a couple of things to be looking for in your shoes: if your knees, shins, heels start to hurt or are sore, then a possible replacement of the shoes is necessary. Keep a log of when you purchase your shoes and keep up with how much you run in them. Once you get to the 300 range, you will be able to tell that you are close to replacing the shoes. Another recommendation would be to have two pair of running shoes you can alternate when running. Your running shoes will last a little longer if you don't run in them everyday.
Q: How much should I drink or eat when training?
A: Again, everyone is different and we have different needs. As a general rule, you should have a little something on the stomach before you start training or racing. Nothing too big, but something on the stomach will help. You will want to sip on water or some sport drink about 30 minutes into training and then every 15 minutes thereafter. If you wait until you are thirsty to drink, it is probably too late, you are already dehydrated. Don't wait too long! If you are exercise more than an hour, you may need to look at some form of gel, bar or something like that to put calories in your body. One serving of these usually have about 100-120 calories. This will allow your body to have more energy and to complete the training or race. You will want to practice this in training runs before you get to a race. You can certainly email us for more specific questions or advice.