coaching career (physfarm.com) while engaged in postgraduate research in biomechanics at Loughborough University. David has coached squads and athletes ranging from beginner to elite and juniors to competitors aged 65. He has competed in various triathlons

, 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

Craig Alexander is a triathlon legend. In November 2011, the five-time World Champion became the oldest ever winner of the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii, setting a new course record of 8:03:56 at the same time. He achieved another first

're hopping on your bike to prepare for a triathlon or just to diversify your training, you can expect to become a better runner as a result.To reap all the benefits of cycling, however, you first need a bike. Will that old clunky machine in the back

, narrower bars, short-reach brake levers and wider-set, female-friendly saddles.The ContendersThe TW test team took some entry-level bikes for a serious spin in the woods above Oxford.We tested five beginner-friendly bikes in the £450-800 price bracket

, with easy-to-read menu options in each corner which correlate to each of the four buttons on the watch.From the beginner who wants to remain a little more focused on their stroke and avoid fretting over what lap they’re on to the more experienced swimmer

.What this also means is that where many beginner triathletes can make huge strides by finessing their technique, I have to face facts: if I want more speed, I'll have to work for it.Not only that, I've got work to do on my fitness in general. After running

triathletes, but before you join the bunch, here are a few skills to master. Pedal smoothlyFirst things first: you need to learn to ride steady on your own. Many beginners use too low a cadence, so the bike surges forward with every pedal stroke - this can

gears work, what to wear on the bike, how to take a corner with confidence and what a derailleur is. And does. And how to spell it.1. Bikes for beginnersBecoming involved in triathlon doesn't mean you have to spend thousands of pounds on a top

as minimising your risk of injury.Fell RunningA neat guide to the exhilarating experience of fell running.TriathlonSwimming, cycling and running - here's what you can expect from your first multi-sport experience.Cross-TrainingSpice up your weekly regime