Gave a lot to triathlon but didn’t get much in return. Bikes/equipment is expensive, gym membership for swimming is expensive, very difficult to find others in my area who I can train with, long way to travel for events (with sometimes heavy additional expenses), events are expensive and often dangerous, grocery bill was high, got tired of eating so much just to maintain weight.
Much more approachable for me to continue running at a light level and ride with the local cycling team. Drop the gym membership + no more race entry fees + lower grocery bill will provide some economic relief during the current squeeze.
The additional flexibility will also let me participate in some of the many other hobbies I’d like to pursue, but never had time to with my previous training focus. So I’m happy to take a break and can always come back to triathlon later if circumstances are different (and if the cost of participating corrects to more accurately reflect every day person incomes).