How do you start?

[e.e.cummings]

I am 46, in good shape, and am attracted to training for triathalons. However, I have two considerations:

1.My age - and keep in mind I know nothing about how triathalons are structured. Are there age groups? If so how broad are the age groups (within 10 years, five years, etc.)

2. I don't know if this is going to be a deal breaker for me, but I have bunions on both feet. I am not in pain, but will the running just send my bunions around the bend? I cycle and I am a good swimmer. I used to be into running big time, but it dropped off after university. I am going to ask my doctor about this. Anyone have to deal with bunions and running?

3. Assuming that my bunions don't keep me from participating, what is a good way to break into triathalons? Where did you begin?

Any help is appreciated.

[roadie gal]

I did my first triathlon at 46. Here are some random thoughts for you...

First, start small. Find a local sprint, something where you know you can do the distances. That takes the stress of being worried about the distance out of the equation. Smaller races are less intimidating, too. Some women also prefer a women's only race. Look around your area to see what's available.

There are age groups. They generally run in 5 year groups (20-24, 25-29, etc). Prizes will be given for the first 3-5, depending on the race, in each age group.

Transitions seem intimidating. If you're methodical and practice, they're no big deal. (I can get into that more if you want.)

If you get to a race and are confused, the volunteers are very helpful. Don't be shy to ask questions.

As far as your running goes, start slowly and see how your feet feel. That's the only way to tell how you'll do.

Don't worry about a fancy, expensive tri bike. Lots of people do tris on mountain bikes, hybrids, etc. No one will give you any grief.

Triathlons are a fun challenge, and addictive. Mostly people are very supportive.

One other thought... check out www.beginnertriathlete.com. It's a great resource with lots of good articles on getting started and going on from there.

[HillSlugger]

I started into triathlon at 46!

Only you can know if running with bunions will be OK.

My first triathlon was a sprint distance race with a pool swim; I think a pool tri is less intimidating for a first tri than an open water swim (OWS).

As already stated, age groups are usually in 5 year groups but sometimes it will be 10.

The fact that you are already a god swimmer puts you way ahead of most beginners since swimming tends to be the hardest to pick up and the most intimidating.

Welcome to the fun but be warned: it's addictive!

[OakLeaf]

Knott just put up a wonderful multi-part post in the Barefoot Running thread, and she mentions bunions.

If you've had surgery, she suggests you might need very supportive shoes. Fit is everything, regardless. If you haven't had surgery, since you're just starting anyway, why not start running barefoot or, if they fit you, in Vibram Five Fingers? Nothing to un-learn and no having to do part of your run barefoot and part in shoes!

[Bike Chick]

I did my first triathlon at age 50 and it was a blast. I trained for 5 months and it was just a sprint with a pool swim. My only goals were to complete it and to not be the last one across the finish line. I accomplished both.

Everyone here has given you great advice. I would also suggest that you read and do research. Your First Triathlon by Joe Friel is a good resource and has a good training plan to follow. Another suggestion that helped me was to go to a triathlon and watch at some point during your training.

It sounds like the swimming and biking won't be a problem for you. If you are doing a sprint triathlon, the run is usually a 5k and you could run/walk or just walk it if you had to.

Of course, you have all the ladies here at TE for help and support!

[e.e.cummings]

I knew I came to the right place - thanks for the advice. I checked out the Five Fingers reference and the link for Beginner's Athlete web site - all great stuff. This looks lile something that really appeals to me. I have to start taking my feet out for some decent test runs!