FAQ
I've never done a triathlon, but think they sound cool. Where do I start?
Just show up to a meeting, workout, or email one of the officers and introduce yourself. We'll help you get started.
I don't think I'm very fast. Can I still join?
Definitely. There is a range of ability on our team and there's no minimum ability to join.
Can I try it out before joining?
Yes of course. Drop by a workout or join a ride to meet some of the active members and get an idea of how we operate. Once you start racing, if you want to represent the Virginia Triathlon Club Team, travel with us, receive race fee reimbursement, etc., you'll need to join.
Do you workout as a team or individually?
The workouts are supplemental for many club members, meaning they work out on their own as well. We try to have a workout schedule with options to train at different times so that most members can hopefully practice at least once with the club during the week. The practices are by no means mandatory, but area good way to keep yourself on track and to keep in touch with your teammates. Team members also use the GroupMe and listserv to email each other about workouts, sometimes days before, or maybe just hours before. This is a great way to get someone to train with you if there's a certain workout you want to do, or to just meet fellow club members.
How can I join?
See Join!
What does it cost to join?
Dues are $50/ year and are completely worth it. Dues go to travel costs (gas, etc.), and racing fees. Unfortunately triathlon and endurance races can have high registration fees. However, UVA Triathlon Club receives funding from the Alumni Association and Parents Fund, in addition to other sources, which help subsidize race and travel costs. Therefore, if you race one or two team races, you'll likely get more than the original dues you paid back in race reimbursements.
Do I have to race?
Racing is not a qualification to be on the team, but is highly suggested. Races are extremely fun, especially when you're traveling with the team. Our team has races in the fall and late spring, which are listed on the team schedule. Our big race of the year is USAT Collegiate Nationals in April. Members usually participate in other races not listed on our team schedule, and we share results with the club to keep up with our members' success. Experience is not necessary to race and you shouldn't be intimidated; you'll probably become hooked after your first one!
What clothing do I need for triathlon?
Generally speaking, you can use much of the same apparel that you use for other athletic activities such as running and cycling. You may want to invest in some specialized apparel. Here is some more information on what you might want to consider.
Do I need to invest in a bunch of gear to participate?
The great thing about triathlon is that can invest as little or as much as you want in gear. Some people compete with the gear they already own, while others decide to invest in some upgrade, tri-specific equipment. This checklist will give you an idea of the things that you will want to have for your race day and your training.
Just show up to a meeting, workout, or email one of the officers and introduce yourself. We'll help you get started.
I don't think I'm very fast. Can I still join?
Definitely. There is a range of ability on our team and there's no minimum ability to join.
Can I try it out before joining?
Yes of course. Drop by a workout or join a ride to meet some of the active members and get an idea of how we operate. Once you start racing, if you want to represent the Virginia Triathlon Club Team, travel with us, receive race fee reimbursement, etc., you'll need to join.
Do you workout as a team or individually?
The workouts are supplemental for many club members, meaning they work out on their own as well. We try to have a workout schedule with options to train at different times so that most members can hopefully practice at least once with the club during the week. The practices are by no means mandatory, but area good way to keep yourself on track and to keep in touch with your teammates. Team members also use the GroupMe and listserv to email each other about workouts, sometimes days before, or maybe just hours before. This is a great way to get someone to train with you if there's a certain workout you want to do, or to just meet fellow club members.
How can I join?
See Join!
What does it cost to join?
Dues are $50/ year and are completely worth it. Dues go to travel costs (gas, etc.), and racing fees. Unfortunately triathlon and endurance races can have high registration fees. However, UVA Triathlon Club receives funding from the Alumni Association and Parents Fund, in addition to other sources, which help subsidize race and travel costs. Therefore, if you race one or two team races, you'll likely get more than the original dues you paid back in race reimbursements.
Do I have to race?
Racing is not a qualification to be on the team, but is highly suggested. Races are extremely fun, especially when you're traveling with the team. Our team has races in the fall and late spring, which are listed on the team schedule. Our big race of the year is USAT Collegiate Nationals in April. Members usually participate in other races not listed on our team schedule, and we share results with the club to keep up with our members' success. Experience is not necessary to race and you shouldn't be intimidated; you'll probably become hooked after your first one!
What clothing do I need for triathlon?
Generally speaking, you can use much of the same apparel that you use for other athletic activities such as running and cycling. You may want to invest in some specialized apparel. Here is some more information on what you might want to consider.
Do I need to invest in a bunch of gear to participate?
The great thing about triathlon is that can invest as little or as much as you want in gear. Some people compete with the gear they already own, while others decide to invest in some upgrade, tri-specific equipment. This checklist will give you an idea of the things that you will want to have for your race day and your training.