My First Triathlon—What I Wish I'd Known Beforehand
The triathlon season is in full swing. All over the world, thousands of people are lacing up their running shoes, hopping on their bikes, and jumping into the water for the first time. Excitement, anticipation—and plenty of unanswered questions. What do I really need to know? What sets a good start apart from one you’d rather forget?
We asked two experienced CURREX athletes: Alexander Siegmund and Frederic Funk.
1. Structure Trumps Distance
A common beginner's mistake: just jumping right into training. "The more, the better"—that's the logic. The result? Exhaustion, a plateau, and, in the worst case, injuries.
Alexander Siegmund knows this from personal experience:
"At first, I didn't give enough thought to a sensible training structure and ended up logging a lot of 'empty' kilometers. On top of that, I started training with a swim coach much too late and too infrequently to work on my technique."
Invest time in a solid plan. Alternate between intense and recovery sessions. And when it comes to swimming, this applies more than in any other discipline: technique comes before endurance. Poor swimming technique wastes energy that you’ll sorely miss on the bike and while running.
Tip: Get feedback from a swim coach early on—even if you think you're making progress on your own.
2. Your body carries you—if you know it
Equipment, nutrition plan, race strategy—they're all important. But the most underestimated variable is you.
Frederic Funk sums it up:
"Good preparation is, of course, everything. But never underestimate how much mental strength is involved in a long-distance race—even the best gear won’t help you if you don’t know yourself. Invest time in yourself, in your routines, and in your self-confidence—in the end, that will take you further than any piece of equipment. Long-distance racing is also a ‘mental game.’”
Train your routines just as you train your fitness. What nutrition strategy works for you on the bike? How do you mentally respond to difficult sections? If you know yourself, you can take the initiative during a race instead of just reacting.
3. Start off in a controlled manner; persevere wisely
The starting gun goes off, the atmosphere is electric—and somewhere around the 100-kilometer mark, your energy runs out. Experienced triathletes know this pattern all too well.
Frederic Funk recalls:
"I was surprised by how quickly euphoria can turn into feeling overwhelmed—especially when you let yourself get carried away by the moment. Today, I’d stay calmer, listen more closely to my body, and experience the race more mindfully—and ideally, with friends!"
Pacing isn't a natural talent—it's a skill you develop. If you learn to pace yourself based on how you feel, you'll be rewarded on race day. Learn what "too fast" feels like—before it's too late during the race.
4. The Right Gear—Right Down to Your Shoes
From a physiological standpoint, running after cycling is one of the biggest challenges in a triathlon. Your legs feel strange, your muscles are already fatigued, and every step takes more effort than usual. This is exactly where the little details matter.
The CURREX RUNPRO provides dynamic support for the foot, reduces strain on joints and muscles, and helps you run efficiently even after the cycling segment. On the bike, the BIKEPRO ensures optimal pressure distribution across the foot and improved power transfer, resulting in less fatigue over long distances.
In a triathlon, it’s precisely these details that determine whether you’ll run—or walk—the final kilometers.
Tip: Start using insoles at the beginning of the season and break them in—don't wait until right before the race.
5. The mind is the fourth discipline
Alexander Siegmund puts it plainly:
"The body can achieve much more when the mind is in a positive state. This positive balance requires just as much training as physical fitness."
Mental strength isn't a matter of character—it can be developed. Visualize the race, run through difficult moments in your head, and practice staying calm when things get tough. If you're mentally prepared, you'll know when you hit your first slump: It will pass.
The 5 Most Important Takeaways at a Glance
- Training Structure Over Training Volume – Train Smarter, Not Just More
- Master your swimming technique early on—get feedback; it pays off
- A controlled start, a strong finish—pacing is key
- Know Your Body – Learn About Nutrition, Your Routine, and How Your Body Responds During Training
- Mental preparation isn't just a nice-to-have—it's discipline number four
A triathlon is more than just an ordinary race. It’s an experience you’ll never forget. Start with the right foundation—and you’ll enjoy crossing the finish line to the fullest.
CURREX is here to support you every step of the way—with insoles tailored to your feet, your sport, and your goals.
