landmark near your area so that you can find it if your own marker gets moved.  5. Set everything out neatly. Remove whatever you don't need. 6. Try to keep your bike shoes out of the way of your bike, for ease of access. 7. Put your helmet on your handle

Winter brings icy roads and even icier open waters to the UK, which means triathlon is really only suited to our self-styled summer. But that doesn't mean your competitive juices have to dry up when the cold settles in - the UK hosts a growing

Getting through the second transition isn't just about changing your shoes. The bike ride often means a long time in an unnatural posture, putting you at risk of back pain as well as cramps in the shoulders, calves and thighs. Here's what you need

faster for no extra effort. And many small gains can be made from improving your technique and training."Triathlon kit has evolved, too; the hi-tech fabrics and materials in your trisuit, and on your bike and running shoes, have been developed to maximise

probably should because the unfortunate truth is that triathlon can have a negative impact on the environment. You probably love being outdoors and like to see nature at its best, if for no other reason than a healthy environment makes for an enjoyable race

3 triathlon coach (www.theendurancecoach.com). "But just a bit of playing around on a mountain bike can help you acquire the skills that will save five minutes in a race." It's not necessary to do a killer session every time you leave the house

1. Sleep well"In reality, trying to sleep well the night before a race never works," says triathlon coach Rick Kiddle (www.rickkiddle.com). "The best sleep will be the night before the night before. Many athletes can survive with little sleep

of 'me-time' to focus on the race ahead. I also warm up with a swim - it's important to be ready for the fast start."Hollie Avil, European and World Junior Triathlon Champion and Corus Elite Ambassador"I tackle the warm up in reverse order by going from

to wear the swim cap provided in your race packet for the swim leg of the event.CycleBicycleBike helmetBike shoesRace outfit (whatever you plan to wear for the swim, bike and run portions of the race): Some participants wear their swimsuits for the entire

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