Transition Times (1)

Triathlon Forum
1

Coming up this September, I’ll be doing my first 1/2 and so lately I’ve been trying to train with hydration and race nutrition in mind, and it got me thinking. When it comes to transition, whether it be T1 or T2, what is a normal time for someone to take. Up until today, I’ve done only sprints, but I’m doing an Olympic in August, and my training distances are aimed at the HIM. In sprint races I usually just go go go, with no time in transition because I don’t really see a need to stop and rest on such a short course. However, with this race being such a step up from the Olympic distance what should I be doing during transition? And what are normal times.

Some info that might help: I’m not wearing a wetsuit (at least I dont plan to right now), Bike shoes are on the bike before I am, and stay on when I get off to run

So what are your strategies, and your thoughts. Thanks a lot. Oh, and the 1/2 I’m doing in September is the Patriot Half in Williamsburg VA. If you’re gonna be there feel free to say so.

-Chris

2

It really depends how big the transition is, and how long it is, and how far it is from the swim/run/bike sections.

In a small local race with a fast transition, you could aim for under a minute for T1 and under 30’ for T2, if you’re quick.

For a HIM, it would be less important, and again it will depend on your aims (winning vs finishing).

In my 1st oly race I spent about 5 mins in total in T1/2 - now I spend about 1.5 mins!