1. Super sprintThe shortest triathlon distance is all about speed, and brick sessions are important for building pace. "Recreate race conditions," says coach Simon Ward. "If you're doing the race in a pool you won't need a wetsuit, and you should

and enjoy a positive race experience.Whether you're tackling your first triathlon or you fifteenth, there's always something to learn, so read on and take the next step to triathlon success.In AdvancePreparation for a perfect race begins well in advance

-up: 15 minutes steady. Main: 45 minutes, aim to use bigger gears up several inclines so your legs feel tired by the end. Cool-down: easy spin 5 minutes. Lunch RUN: 30 minutes steady. Evening CYCLE: Warm-up 15 minutes steady. Main: 45 minutes

against your skin on race day - and it should not be a new sensation."You wouldn't use a mountain bike to train for a road race and the same rule applies to your triathlon preparations," says Dan Halksworth, a former Commonwealth Games swimmer who is now a

- record times and compare) Afternoon: CYCLE 90 mins steady Morning: SWIM (in wetsuit and open water) 750m (up to 20 mins) race pace, then tread water for 2 mins, then SWIM back focusing on technique Afternoon: CYCLE 10 mins easy, then 4 x 6 mins

into the world of triathlon. Both the bike and run legs of the race are multiple laps, so they'll have plenty of chances to give you a huge cheer every time you pass by. FROM THE TOP "There's a great sense of camaraderie at this race and the slick organisation