should you join the crowd?Many triathletes are runners looking for something new to do. Once they try triathlon or triathlon-style cross-training, they often have an unexpected result: they become better runners. Heidi Wilson, 30, from London believes

of triathlon with long distance races such as the Olympics or Ironman, it is fast becoming one of the most inclusive and family friendly sports around with many short distance races now to choose from.Tri Together, the award winning beginners’ triathlon series

matter of taste – these are some of the more popular options. (We also have a total beginners' guide to sports nutrition) RW's guinea pigs at the London Triathlon... here's what they foundIn 2005, three Runner’s World guinea pigs – Heidi (a runner), Dan

offers in relation to your ability.Some clubs are better than others at breaking down perceptions, particularly in the way they market and organise their sessions. Many triathlon clubs put on beginner-specific sessions, or split groups to maintain even

, irrespective of distance. A good way of doing all this is to contact your local triathlon club, Masters swim class,cycle club and athletics/running club, as many have taster sessions and qualified coaches to help you train throughout the winter. The group

the race. “Triathlon is an endurance event,” says Chris Chamberlain, an exercise physiologist at Royal Holloway, University of London. “Varying the types of ride you do helps your body to access all the different energy systems needed for this kind