I'm really excited to be working with the YMCA of the Pikes Peak Region to start a triathlon program. We're kicking it off at Garden Ranch location (2380 Montebello Drive West) and the April session begins on Monday, April 7th. To sign up, simply swing by the YMCA front desk or call them at 593-9622. There is more info here on the flyer: GardenRanchTriFlyer.pdf 

Swims are Mondays and Wednesdays at 7:15pm, Fridays at 5:45am

Dryland sessions are Tuesdays at 6:45pm

Here's why we decided to start this program and why you should join in on the fun!

1) Triathlon is growing sport and very popular in the state of Colorado. USA Triathlon has over 550,000 members!* There are many triathlons of all distances across the state, including the sprint triathlon in Colorado Springs at the Rocky Mountain State Games, which takes place in July.

2) Because triathlon consists of three sports put together to make one sport, there is always variety in training.

3) Swimming is the component of triathlon that most people have anxiety about. That's why we made swimming a primary component of the program. However, even if you don't plan on competing in a triathlon and just want to add swimming to your exercise routine, you can do that! (see #5).

4) We are offering a "dryland" sessions to work on strengthening key muscle groups (that will keep you healthy regardless of your choices of sport), as well as work on running form, recovery and injury prevention techniques.

5) You have the option of signing up for 2 sessions per week or 3 sessions per week, so you can choose the sessions you feel will benefit you the most.

6) The program goes monthly, so if you love it (and I hope you will!) and have a friend (or friends) who want to join, they can easily hop in the next month.

7) I will be there to give you tips and advice on race nutrition, equipment, transitions, and any other questions that come to mind while you prepare for your triathlon. My goal is to make sure you are confident come race day!

8) The program is geared for athletes of all levels. Those who want a swim workout with lots of yards will get that. Those who are newer and want to focus on learning efficient swim technique will get that, too. The dryland sessions will also challenge everyone!

Quick FAQs:

1) I am an experienced triathlete. Why should I sign up?

First you can train with others and meet other triathletes. You'll get fantastic workouts! You will also likely have the opportunity to share your experiences with new/newer triathletes. If you don't have a coach, now is your chance to get coached workouts! You can bounce your training thoughts off me so we can make sure your training is effective and efficient.

2) I've never done a triathlon. Why should I sign up?

This is the perfect way to get introduced to the sport. Even if you don't plan on entering a race this year, you'll get great knowledge and meet other triathletes so if (when) you decide to do one, you'll be confident and ready!

3) You don't mention cycling in the program?

They YMCA offers spin classes and there are many group rides around town, so we decided to start with the areas typically most in need - swimming and strength/running form work. As the program develops and we see the need, we can look to add in more triathlon specific cycling instruction. That said, I am available for you to ask cycling questions and I will make sure you have the information you need for effective transitions between the swim and bike and bike and run.

4) I am not a YMCA member? Can I sign up?

Absolutely! Non-members pay a slightly higher rate, but the program is still available to you.

If you have other questions about program specifics, send me a message at nicole (at) neoendurancesports.com! If you want to sign up, call the Garden Ranch YMCA at 593-9622 before April 7th!

*You can read a few more of the details on the USA Triathlon website on how rapidly the sport is growing.