Top 10 Triathlon Training Mistakes (and a Few That Aren’t)
🎧 Listen to the full episode: Top 10 Triathlon Mistakes – Multisport Mindset Podcast
In Episode 9 of the Multisport Mindset Podcast, coaches Aubrey Hayes and Joshua Gordon break down the most common mistakes triathletes make when moving up from sprint or Olympic distances to half and full Ironman events. From underestimating the distance to relying too much on indoor riding, the episode offers a brutally honest look at what separates finishers from peak performers—and what will derail your race day if you’re not careful.
This episode isn’t about perfection—it’s about awareness, consistency, and learning what truly matters when it comes to long-course triathlon.
1. Not Respecting the Distance
Whether it's 70.3 or 140.6, Ironman is not just a "long workout." It demands time, planning, and physical and mental resilience.
“You can finish without respecting the distance—but you won’t enjoy it.”
2. Training Without a Plan
Winging it might get you through a 5K. Not so much an Ironman. Having structure—even from a free online plan—sets the foundation for success.
3. Skipping Too Many Sessions
You can’t build consistency if you constantly start and stop.
“Consistently good beats occasionally great, every time.”
4. Failing to Practice Nutrition
Fueling is the “fourth discipline” of triathlon. If you wait until race day to test your gels, hydration, or carb strategy—you’re gambling.
5. Neglecting Strength and Mobility
When life gets busy, strength training is usually the first thing cut. But it's crucial for durability and injury prevention, especially in long-course racing.
6. Only Riding Indoors
Indoor trainers are great—but not enough. Wind, heat, flats, rough roads—none of that exists on Zwift. Ride your tri bike outside. Learn to handle your gear in the real world.
7. Overdoing the Taper
Race-week “hero workouts” don’t build fitness—they just make you tired. Proper tapering is about reducing volume while maintaining sharpness.
8. Obsessing Over Metrics
HRV, TSS, CTL—all useful, but not gospel.
“Your body knows better than your Garmin. Learn to listen to it.”
9. Believing Everything on Social Media
Don’t get misled by perfect-looking workouts and unrelatable numbers. Training isn’t always glamorous—and that’s okay.
10. Thinking Balance Means Always Saying Yes
Triathlon requires sacrifice. That means occasionally skipping social events for sleep or a key workout.
“If your friends don’t get it, they will when they see your finish line photo.”
Bonus: Not Actually Mistakes
Aubrey and Josh also debunk a few “mistakes” that aren’t really mistakes at all:
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Riding your bike too much? Not a thing.
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Racing often? It sharpens skill and mindset.
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Gaining a little weight in the big build? Probably a sign you’re fueling right.
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Skipping social outings during peak weeks? Sometimes necessary.
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Eating high-carb? Essential for endurance performance.
📩 Got questions or want coaching? Contact Precise Multisport