Newbies

[crisballer]

I have seen a couple of posts from people new to the sport, which makes me feel a little better being a complete newb myself.  My question is, how does someone who doesnt know anyone in the sport, or where to begin...begin?  Possibly a very obvious new person question!  I have the bike and the running is something I have been doing.  Swim training is a question, and my level is nowhere near competitive.  I just want to stay in shape while challenging myself.  Are there others like that as well?  How are they/you training?

Thanks

[mroper]

I'm right there w/ ya! I'm a runner and I ride my mountain bike occasionally for fun. I've now bought a swim suit, but don't know where I'm going to swim yet.. thinking about joining Gold's. I fear that ORU is too crowded on Tues and Thurs for a new swimmer to jump in and get much out of it. I don't want to run out and buy a wet suit or a nice road bike. Since I've never done a tri, I want to make sure I enjoy it before I invest a lot of $. I've met a few multi sport athletes through my running group that have given me some tips, and I have also asked a few questions on the forum. Everyone has been very friendly and helpful!

[Lancy Pitts]

I still feel like a newbie with just one year into the sport.  I started out with the TAT Tri Camp last year and that helped me a lot and I highly recommend it.  I have been surprized at how few members take advantage of the Tuesday/Thursday swims at ORU but even if it gets a little crowded everyone is understanding and encouraging - just hang onto the side and let the faster people go ahead of you.  The track at TU is available on Tuesdays and you can find a group to run with there and of course bicycle season is here and several bike clubs have regularly scheduled rides you can take advantage of.

[crisballer]

Thanks, it really helps to hear that from you guys!  I didnt know about a tri camp so I will look into that!  I did get the bike and have been out a couple of times but not quite brave enough to try a wed night ride!  Running is definitely the easy part!  I Know what you mean mroper about spending the money...I went used on the bike so it was a pretty good deal, but I didnt even consider a wet suit until I started reading these forums, and I'm not sure I want to invest either until I have a couple under my belt!  Thanks again for the comments!  Its always hard for me to jump into something so foreign alone.  But I am excited and it helps to hear from others.