Why "Couch to Half Distance" Isn't as Extreme as It Sounds Say a hypothetical athlete hasn't swum laps since a summer job as a lifeguard, rides a bike occasionally on weekends, and runs a few miles here and there without much structure.

From your first sprint to your first IRONMAN — 100 questions answered, no jargon required. Whether you just signed up for your first sprint triathlon on a dare, you're a seasoned age-grouper chasing a Kona slot, or you're somewhere in between wondering why you own three bikes — this is the triathlon FAQ you've been looking for.