The Ultimate Glossary of Triathlon Terms: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Glossary of Triathlon Terms

I apologize for the misunderstanding. I can certainly help you with that. Here’s a full article about the glossary of triathlon terms:

Glossary of Triathlon Terms

Triathlon is a multi-disciplinary sport that combines swimming, cycling, and running. It has its own unique set of terms and jargon that can be overwhelming for beginners. This glossary aims to provide you with a comprehensive list of triathlon terms to help you navigate the sport more effectively.

Aero bars

Padded elbow rests and extensions allowing a rider to lie flatter, reducing arm strain and wind resistance and increasing speed. Also known as tri bars.

Borg scale

A method of measuring physical activity on a scale of perceived exertion or how hard you feel your body is working.

Bottom Bracket

The central axis on which the bicycle cranks rotate.

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BPM (beats per minute)

A measure of heart rate.

Brick

Training session combining two disciplines (e.g. cycling and running) used to simulate race experience and help your body adapt to switching sports quickly.

BTF (British Triathlon Federation)

The national governing body for triathlon in Great Britain.

Burnout

Condition similar to overtraining, caused by doing too much and/or too soon and/or with too little rest.

Cadence

Pedalling speed, measured in RPM (revolutions per minute).

Carbon fibre

Strong but light material, from which many (top-end) bikes are now made.

Century

A 100-mile bike ride.

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Circuit resistance training

A circuit of various weights to be completed one or more times with minimal rest between exercises. The emphasis is on endurance rather than power or strength.

Clip-in pedals

Designed to securely accommodate special cycling shoes, meaning your feet sit in the most efficient position to transmit power through the pedals.

Criterium

Short-course road races with multiple corners taken at high speeds in a pack riding situation.

Derailleur

A system of variable-ratio gears allowing you to adjust a bike’s gearing and thus your cadence.

Dolphin Dive

A technique used to get through shallow water involving doing short, shallow dives until you are deep enough to swim.

Drafting

The practice of tucking in behind someone else so they take the brunt of the resistance and you get an easier run/swim/bike, sometimes explicitly prohibited in races. Also known as slipstreaming.

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Drills

Repetitive exercises focusing on technique to promote efficiency. (See also, fingertip drag).

Duathlon

A run-bike-run race (no swim section as in a triathlon).

Triathlon is a challenging and rewarding sport that tests an athlete’s endurance, strength, and mental fortitude. By familiarizing yourself with the glossary of triathlon terms, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the world of triathlons and communicate effectively with fellow athletes and coaches.

Remember, triathlon is not just a race; it’s a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just starting out, the sport offers something for everyone. So dive in, push your limits, and embrace the triathlon lifestyle!

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