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Today we’ll look at the second of three-part series on triathlon tips for parents and youth from ITU Sport Development Manager Alan Ley. 

4. A good warm up prior to the swim start is a must. Be sure and put your face in the water and not just play. There are some great young pool swimmers but the cold open water with arms and legs thrashing is a new experience. Another little issue that occurs with kids is they go to a triathlon and it is the first time they have ever put on or swam with a swim cap on. Practice using a swim cap prior or the race.

5. As parents we have our young triathletes practice putting on there shoes and helmet with dry hands and feet. After exiting the swim they will be putting their shoes on with wet feet and buckling their helmet with cold wet fingers – so be sure and have them practice with wet feet and hands a few times.

6. The bike course can be scary with all the young triathletes on the course at the same time. Stay to the right side unless you are passing. If you stop, pull off on the right side of the road. Kids typically will go hard up the uphill but the slight downhill sections can cause speeds never before attempted. Stress control, caution and safety on the bike course. Better yet have them practice some controlled descents on easy grades.

Check back soon on triathlon.org for more Training Tips.

Click here for part 1 in the series on triathlon tips for parents & youth

Click here for videos and more training tips

Before coming to ITU as Sport Development Manager, Alan Ley was Coaching Education Manager for USA Triathlon. Alan was trained at the USOC Coaching College, certified by the American College of Sports Medicine and American Council of Exercise and is currently a Level 3 Elite Triathlon Coach.  He holds degrees in exercise science and hospital administration.