Physiological Requirements of the Different Distances of Triathlon

Abstract

Triathlon is a sport consisting of swimming, cycling and running performed consecutively over different distances, with each discipline connected by a brief transition. The distances over which triathlon racing occurs range from mixed-team relays to sprint, Olympic, long distance, half-Ironman and Ironman events. Within these events the swim (300–4000 m), cycle (7–180 km) and run (1.6–42.2 km) segments differ considerably. As a result, specific physiological requirements dictate success in the various forms of triathlon. Moreover, certain rules and regulations, such as the ability to draft behind competitors, affect the style of racing and consequently the physiological demands. This chapter will address these physiological requirements and the responses associated with the different distances of triathlon, from sprint to Ironman.