Finally...I now understand this whole transitioning this! Everyone talks about how transitioning among the different disciplines is a sport unto itself...and they are right!
They broke everything down into segments --- first nutrition, then "what's in your bag on race day", then the swim, the bike and the run.
The Swim
Sounds like this is the area that scares folks the most. I'm hoping my prior abilities will give me some confidence, though there won't be a trusty black line to follow or a handy lane line on race day.
It was helpful to learn where to line up for the swim so that you aren't crushed --- go wide people!
It also was extremely helpful to understand how to get the heck out of your wet suit without stumbling around and following over.
Bonus Swim Info
If ya gotta pee once you have the suit on...just let it flow. Don't even try and get outta the thing before the swim.
There was a guy who took the "bring everything" notice seriously. He was wearing a wet suit, cap and goggles in the middle of the park. Needless to say, the old folks walking their dogs couldn't figure out what was going on.
The Bike/The Run
This segment was really helpful. We moved the discussion over to the park across the street and learned how to rack our bikes and set up our transition area. This seriously was critical for me. The pix above is of our initial set up.
We also learned how to get on/off the bike. I can guarantee that I'll be taking the more conservative approach on race day vs the folks who will have their shoes rubber banded to their pedals and will somehow put their feet in their shoes once they get going. I barely can walk and talk at the same time...so I'm gonna avoid the more aggressive "time-saving" approach.
Just as we were on the cusp of incorporating all that we had learned...a cop showed up and kicked us out of the park for not having a permit. Dammit! Talk about a let down. He seriously couldn't have showed up 15 minutes later so we could have practiced at least once?! Such a bummer.
Transition Plan B
We moved over to the area outside of the store and sort of set up little transition areas. In waves we did each of the segments. Happy to have gone through the movements, but bummered that it wasn't in the park.
Bonus Bike
At the end we learned how to change a tire. I pray that someone who has a clue is around when I blow a tire or if one blows --- it's the front vs the back. I did finally pick up the relevant tools and put them in my bike pouch so at least I'm ready.
Lessons Learned
Getting in/out of these cycling shoes is gonna be a bitch. All those buckles and clips are annoying vs one/two big velcro flaps. I should get tri-shoes.
Tying your shoe laces is over-rated. I need to get those speed laces.
Three deep cleansing breaths at the first sign of panic will solve all your problems.
Who knew you needed to take a class to learn how to put on your clothes?
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