What is the order of a Triathlon?

What is the order of a Triathlon?

If you’re reading this, you’ll probably want to know what the different components are in a Triathlon, in total there are three different sections, swim, bike, run. But first let’s catch up on what a triathlon really is. 

A triathlon is a multi-sport event that consists of three different disciplines - as mentioned, they are swimming, cycling, and running. The order in which these three activities are completed is an important factor in determining the overall success of the race. 

The order of a triathlon starts with swimming, followed by cycling and finally running. This order is designed to give athletes an opportunity to build up their energy levels before starting each activity and ensure that they have enough energy to finish the race. Additionally, this order helps athletes focus on one activity at a time so that they can maximise their performance for each leg of the race. Some events (such as the super league) are mixing things up and putting on Triathlons in reverse, which would be run, bike swim, but this is very uncommon. 

Swimming: Swim for a Triathlon

Swimming is an important part of any triathlon and can be a daunting task for those who are new to the sport. It takes high amounts of training and dedication to become a successful swimmer in a triathlon, as with most things though, the more experience you gain the better you become. It is important to note that if your swim is weak and you spend alot of energy on the first section you will suffer in the rest of the race, even though the swim is the shortest distance, the energy you will use if you have a weak swim will tire you out massively.

For different events, the length of the swim differs, as with the bike and run.

Triathlon Swimming Distances

  • Ironman: 2.4 miles or 3.8 km
  • Half Ironman:  1.2 miles or 1.9 km
  • World Triathlon: 1.25 miles or 2km
  • Olympic: 0.9 miles or 1.5km
  • Sprint: 750 metres 
  • Super Sprint: 400 metres 


Training for the swim of a triathlon can be a problem for people who are working full time and have families or other responsibilities. But at ZEN8 we’ve come up with the perfect solution, if you don't have the time to train in a pool 4 x per week, then our Swim Trainer is the perfect solution, allowing you to train for the swim at home! The swim paddles allow you to perfect your catch and stroke, and our unique swim bench allows you to train your core and stability, getting you ready for the swim. Check out our bundles where you can get training programs from our head coach and pro triathlete, Kieran!

swim for a triathlon with zen8

Credit James Mitchell

Bike: Cycling in a Triathlon

Cycling is an important part of a triathlon, and it requires skill and preparation to ensure success. Your goal is to (of course) complete the course as quickly as possible with minimal energy expenditure, ready for the run. To do this, you must be aware of their body position on the bike, the cadence and gear selection, and the pacing strategy. Additionally, you must be prepared for any terrain or weather conditions they may encounter during the event. With proper training and preparation, you’ll successfully navigate any cycling section of a triathlon.

Triathlon Cycling Distances

  • Ironman: 112 miles or 180km
  • Half Ironman: 56 miles or 90km
  • World Triathlon:  50 miles or 80km
  • Olympic: 25 miles or 40km
  • Sprint: 12.5 miles or 20km
  • Super Sprint: 6 miles or 10km

bike in a triathlon

Credit James Mitchell

Run: Running a Triathlon

Running in a triathlon is an incredible challenge that requires both physical and mental endurance. It’s an incredibly rewarding experience that can push you to your limits and help you reach new heights of achievement. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned athlete, running in a triathlon is an amazing experience that will test your strength and determination.

You NEED to ensure your training is up to scratch for running in a triathlon, as it’s no easy feat. You must prepare both mentally and physically for the long distances and challenging terrain that come with running in a triathlon. With the right preparation, however, you can make sure that you are ready to tackle any obstacle along the way. Ensure you have the correct footwear for training and the race, this could be the deciding factor of your time. Hydration is another key factor, and you can read in more detail about hydrating for a triathlon here

Triathlon Running Distances

  • Ironman: 26.2 miles or 42.2km
  • Half Ironman: 13.1 miles or 21.1km
  • World Triathlon: 12.5 miles or 20km
  • Olympic: 6.2 miles or 10km
  • Sprint: 3.1 miles or 5km
  • Super Sprint: 1.5 miles or 2.5km

running a triathlon

Credit James Mitchell


So, we’ve got the swim, bike and run, ready to take on a triathlon? If you are, then we can help you, especially with your swim, as our ZEN8 Swim Trainer allows you to train technique, core muscles and balance . You can get the most out of the swim trainer by grabbing one of our bundles, which offers programs from our head coach, Kieran!

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