Tri-Facta: Unveiling the Fun Facts of Triathlon, Swimming, Cycling, and Running!
Karen Parnell
April 11, 2024
Tri-Facta: Unveiling the Fun Facts of Triathlon, Swimming, Cycling, and Running!
Welcome to a whirlwind tour of triathlon, swimming, cycling, and running like you've never seen before!
Get ready to dive deep into the fascinating world of triathlons, swim, bike and run where we uncover the coolest, quirkiest, and most mind-blowing facts about these endurance sports.
From surprising origins to record-breaking feats, join us as we explore the hidden gems that make triathlons so exhilarating. Let's dive in and discover the thrill together!
Photo by jose luis Umana
12 Fun Facts You Never Knew About the Sport of Triathlon!
Triathlon is a multifaceted sport encompassing swimming, biking, and running – a true test of endurance and skill. While delving into the technical aspects of triathlon is essential for mastering the sport, there's a plethora of fun and fascinating titbits waiting to be explored!
Let's kickstart this exhilarating journey with a splash of fun facts that are bound to surprise even the most seasoned triathletes. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to expand your horizons with these 12 captivating facts about triathlon that may just leave you awe-struck!
1. IT IS NOT UNCOMMON FOR TRIATHLETES TO BURN UP TO 10,000 CALORIES DURING A LONG-DISTANCE RACE.
During an IRONMAN, the average athlete burns between 8,000 and 10,000 calories. And that doesn't even consider the months of 2-, 3-, and 4-hour training sessions you do before ever stepping up to the start line.
2. IN TRIATHLON EVERY SECOND COUNTS, FOR THAT REASON, MANY ATHLETES PEE WHILE THEY ARE ON THE BIKE, OR EVEN ON THE RUN.
On race day the primary motivator for most to pee while riding is to save time. The process of stopping the bike, dismounting, waiting in line, undressing, redressing, re-mounting and getting back up to speed could cost precious minutes.
3. THE FIRST TRIATHLON EVENT WAS HELD ON SEPTEMBER 25, 1974.
Triathlon started in September 1974 in San Diego, Calif., when members of the San Diego Track Club organized an event that involved running, cycling, and swimming. The entry fee was $1 and 46 athletes competed. The first Ironman was on Oahu in February of 1978.
4. SIMON LESSINGS GB HOLDS THE OLYMPIC DISTANCE TRIATHLON WORLD RECORD WITH A TIME OF 1 HOUR, 39 MINUTES, 50 SECONDS. THAT’S FAST!
His times were: 1:39:50 Britain with a 18:24 swim, 49:40 bike, and 30:36 run.
5. TRIATHLON WAS DESIGNED TO BE AN ALTERNATIVE TO HARD TRACK TRAINING.
Triathlon was invented in the early 1970s by the San Diego Track Club, as an alternative workout to the rigours of track training. The club's first event consisted of a 10km run, an 8km cycle and a 500m swim. Over the next decade, triathlon’s popularity continued to build, and it soon gained worldwide recognition.
6. THE REASON WHY THE ORDER OF THE DISCIPLINES IS SWIM, BIKE, RUN IS FOR SAFETY CONCERNS.
The swim is first as it’s not a good idea to be swimming while very fatigued as you might be after cycling or running. This reduces the risk of drownings, panic attacks, or simply not finishing the swim.
The bike, in a way, is the second most dangerous. Falling from a bike would be more likely if it were done last.
The run is last and can be relatively safely done even if you are very fatigued or tired. You won’t drown or crash while running.
7. THE OLYMPIC DISTANCE TRI WAS ORIGINALLY CALLED THE INTERNATIONAL DISTANCE.
The 2000 Summer Olympics saw the first appearance of the triathlon. 48 women and 52 men competed in separate triathlons. The distances used were the "international" or "standard" ones, with a 1.5 km (0.93 mi) swim, 40 km (25 mi) cycle, and a 10 km (6.2 mi) run.
Find about all of the distances of triathlon.
8. THE OLDEST TRIATHLETE ON RECORD IS ARTHUR GILBERT, WHO WAS STILL COMPETING AT THE AGE OF 93.
Gilbert began running competitively in the 1970s and first competed in a triathlon when he was 64 years old. He subsequently competed in over 40 multi-event races. His training regime included 50 lengths of his local swimming pool every day, 3 visits to the gym each week and 25 km on a bicycle on Sundays.
9. TRIATHLON MADE ITS OLYMPIC DEBUT AT THE 2000 SYDNEY GAMES.
10. KONA'S NOT-SO-SECRET UNDERPANTS RUN
While many of us may never qualify to race on the big island, there's something almost as prestigious that takes place down ali'i drive—the "underpants run." it's a fun, 1.2-mile run on the ironman world championship course that occurs two days before the race. it's a sight to behold with people of all shapes, sizes and ages running in their underpants or bikinis for a good cause.
12. IRONMAN DISTANCE TRIATHLETES PARTICIPANTS LOSE APPROXIMATELY 4% OF THEIR BODY WEIGHT ON AVERAGE DURING THE IRONMAN WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS.
13. DO YOU REMEMBER WHEN JULIE MOSS FAMOUSLY CRAWLED ACROSS THE FINISH LINE IN 1982?
Her loss to Kathleen McCartney was the smallest margin of victory in Kona history. McCartney won by a mere 29 seconds.
The world of triathlon is certainly an interesting one and has evolved greatly overtime with new people joining the fun each year. If you’re new to the sport and thinking about doing a triathlon yourself, check out these essential race day tips to help as you train and prepare for your first triathlon. Now that you know some of the fun triathlon facts, be sure to share it with your fellow triathletes on Facebook or Instagram.
Do you need a triathlon training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and Final Surge.
12 Fun Facts About Swimming
Photo by mali maeder
1. OPEN WATER SWIMMING WAS THE FIRST AQUATIC OLYMPIC EVENT.
Open water was the natural form of swimming in the early days. The first aquatic event started out in natural lakes and oceans for the first three editions of the Olympic Games.
Mediterranean Sea – Athens 1896,
Seine River – Paris 1900,
and an artificial lake in St. Louis 1904
Although swimming has been in the Olympic catalogue since 1896, open water swimming was replaced with the creation of man-made pools. It was not until the 2008 Beijing Olympics that open water marathon swimming officially became a standalone Olympic event.
2. BUTTERFLY WAS BORN FROM THE BREASTSTROKE.
Breaststroke is known to be the first and slowest stroke. Breaststrokers in the 1940s noticed that recovering both arms forward above their heads would allow them to swim faster. Fast forward sixteen years later, butterfly gave its first Olympic appearance in the 1956 Games in Melbourne.
In 2011, a traveller in the south of France tried to go swimming at a public pool but was forced to change out of his long swim trunks. Turns out, there is a rule that un slip de bain, (AKA speedos) or un boxer (AKA short briefs) are the swimsuits of choice for the men in France.
While it may seem unconventional to those of us here, the logic behind it makes sense – they don’t want people to wear articles of clothing that could be worn throughout the day, bringing dirt and excess sweat into the pool.
4. JOHNNY WEISSMULLER WAS THE FIRST MAN TO BREAK 1-MINUTE BARRIER IN THE 100-METER FREESTYLE.
In 1912, Johnny Weissmuller became the first man to break the 1-minute barrier in the 100 freestyle, at the age of 18 in 1922. He went on to win five Olympic gold medals in swimming and one bronze medal for water polo. He also set more than 50 world records during his swimming career – this dude was incredible.
5. THE DEEPEST SWIMMING POOL IS 196 FEET DEEP.
The world's deepest swimming pool is Deep Dive Dubai, located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It has a maximum depth of around 60 meters (196 feet).
6. BENJAMIN FRANKLIN INVENTED SWIM FINS.
We all know Benjamin Franklin was an avid inventor, and you’re probably aware that he invented things like the lightening rod and bifocal lenses.
But did you also know he invented swim fins? That’s right, when he was just 11 years old, he came up with fins, which are more like many of us know today as swim paddles. They were worn on his hands to help catch more water and propel himself more with each stroke.
7. THERE’S A WORLD RECORD FOR THE HEAVIEST BOAT PULLED BY SWIMMERS.
In 2018, a group of swimmers in Dubai broke the Guinness World Record for pulling the heaviest boat. These swimmers towed a 782,795-pound boat for 200 meters!
8. IN JAPAN, SWIMMING WAS AN ESSENTIAL SKILL OF A SAMURAI.
Swimming was an essential survival skill because Japan is an island and surrounded by water. The ancient samurai were forced to develop swimming techniques to have an advantage against enemies.
The importance of swimming led to the development of suijutsu, the art of combative swimming. Warriors were trained to climb on board a boat, use weapons, grasp onto ropes, and swim against strong currents. The samurai would swim through the water with their armour, which could weigh up to 44 pounds!
9. A MAN SWAM 250 FEET ON ONE BREATH IN 1 DEGREE WATER.
Do you hate diving into a cold pool? Stig Seversin doesn’t! Seversin, a Danish free diver, set the record for the longest swim under ice. In the icy waters of Greenland, Severinsen swam 250 feet on one breath, and only wearing swimming trunks and goggles. He completed this feat swimming underneath a layer of 80-100cm of ice and welcoming water temperature of just 1 degree.
With a wetsuit and fins, he managed to swim 500 feet without breathing equipment under the ice.
10. YOU MAY NOT NOTICE, BUT YOU SWEAT WHILE SWIMMING.
According to a study, elite Australian swimmers lost an average of 138 ml/km for men and 107 ml/km for women. That means one of these male swimmers who completed a 3K (1.8 mile) swim was losing around 14 ounces of fluid from sweat.
Additionally, various environmental factors can contribute to the amount of fluids lost in sweat. For example, warm pool temperatures or warmer air temperature can increase sweating. Even though it may not seem like you’re sweating, you can be at risk for dehydration, so make sure your water bottle is nearby!
11. HAIR CREATES FRICTION IN WATER
That is why professional swimmers shave their hair or wear swim caps. It creates less friction, which allows them to move faster!
12. IN FRENCH, THE WORD FOR SWIMMING POOL HAS NO ASSOCIATION WITH SWIMMING
In French, ‘Piscine’ is the word for swimming pool, and it comes from the Latin word ‘Piscine’ which means fishpond.
Do you need a swimming training plan? I have plans in TrainingPeaks and Final Surge.
10 Fun Facts About Cycling
1. THE FIRST PEDAL-POWERED BICYCLE
The evolution of the bicycle is a testament to human ingenuity, and it all began with the creation of the first pedal-powered bicycle. In 1839, Kirkpatrick Macmillan, a Scottish blacksmith, attached pedals to a hobbyhorse, a precursor to the modern bicycle. This innovation marked a significant stride in the development of cycling, laying the foundation for the bikes we ride today.
2. THE FASTEST BICYCLE SPEED
If you think you're fast on your bike, consider the astonishing speed achieved by a cyclist in a slipstream. In 1995, Dutch cyclist Fred Rompelberg set the world record for the fastest speed on a bicycle, reaching a mind-boggling 167.044 miles per hour (268.831 km/h) in the slipstream of a specially designed dragster. This record still stands today and showcases the incredible potential for speed in the world of cycling.
3. THE BICYCLE'S ROLE IN WOMEN'S LIBERATION
The bicycle played a pivotal role in the late 19th-century women's liberation movement. Often referred to as the "bicycle craze," the late 1800s saw a surge in women taking up cycling. The bicycle provided women with newfound freedom, allowing them to travel independently and liberating them from the constraints of traditional Victorian attire. Susan B. Anthony, a prominent women's rights advocate, even declared the bicycle as a key tool in women's emancipation.
4. TOUR DE FRANCE'S UNIQUE JERSEYS
The Tour de France, one of the most prestigious cycling races globally, features distinctive jerseys worn by the leaders of various classifications. While the yellow jersey is synonymous with the overall race leader, the other jerseys hold unique significance.
The green jersey goes to the best sprinter, the polka dot jersey to the best climber, and the white jersey to the best young rider. These colourful jerseys not only add flair to the race but also tell a story of individual achievements within the larger competition.
5. BAMBOO BICYCLES
In the quest for sustainable and eco-friendly transportation, bamboo bicycles have emerged as a unique and environmentally conscious alternative. Bamboo, known for its strength and flexibility, makes for an ideal material in bicycle construction. These bikes offer a smooth ride while being lightweight and durable.
The use of bamboo not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing but also provides economic opportunities for communities that cultivate bamboo.
6. BICYCLES AND THE WRIGHT BROTHERS
Before achieving the first powered flight in 1903, the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, were avid cyclists. Cycling was not merely a hobby for them; it played a crucial role in shaping their understanding of control mechanisms, balance, and aerodynamics.
The skills they honed while cycling directly contributed to their innovative approach to developing the principles of flight. The Wright brothers' fascination with bicycles ultimately soared to new heights with the invention of the aeroplane.
7. THE MOST EXPENSIVE BICYCLE
While many bicycles are reasonably priced, there exists a world of luxury bikes that cater to the affluent enthusiast. The most expensive bicycle ever sold is the "Butterfly Trek Madone." Designed by British artist Damien Hirst in collaboration with Trek Bikes, this limited-edition bike was auctioned for a staggering $500,000.
Adorned with real butterfly wings, the bicycle is a true work of art. While this price tag may seem extravagant, it highlights the diverse range of bicycles, from everyday commuters to high-end, artistic masterpieces.
8. BIKES WERE ORIGINALLY CALLED 'VELOCIPEDES'
Before they were called bikes, they were originally called "velocipedes." Later, however, the term "bicycle" was derived from the French word "bicyclette." Since then, the term had stuck is now widely used to describe this device.
9. CYCLISTS ARE COOL - FACT
A 2014 psychological study found that cyclists tend to demonstrate a unique blend of intelligence, generosity, and the "cool" factor. Now there's a reason to get on your bike!
10. CYCLING IS THREE TIMES FASTER THAN WALKING
On a bicycle, you can travel three times faster than you can walk, for the same amount of energy. What a way to travel!
Do you need a cycling training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and Final Surge.
12 Fun Facts About Running
Photo by RUN 4 FFWPU
Do you need a running training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and Final Surge.
1. RUNNING MAKES YOUR HEART MORE EFFICIENT.
Running conditions your heart to pump more strongly and efficiently, making better use of the oxygen in your blood with each heartbeat.
2, MARATHON RUNNING IS AT AN ALL-TIME HIGH.
Throughout the years, marathon racing has grown steadily. In 2022, race participation increased by 16% compared to 2021.
3. AIR RESISTANCE BURNS MORE ENERGY.
Running outdoors at the same pace as on the treadmill burns more energy, purely due to air resistance!
4. THE BIRTH OF THE OLYMPIC MARATHON CAME FROM A MYTH.
The modern Olympic marathon is inspired by the myth of the professional messenger Pheidippides, who ran from Marathon to Athens to deliver a message of victory: Greeks over Persians. Alas, on delivery, he dropped dead. Robert Browning retold this mythic tale in a poem inspiring today's competitive race.
5. TOP MARATHON WINNERS' ARE ETHIOPIAN.
According to Runner's World, nine of the top 20 of today's fastest marathon runners are Ethiopian. However, Kenya is not far behind, with eight of the top 20 men and women racers being Kenyan. The fastest performance to date happened in Chicago in 2023 by the late Kenyan Kelvin Kiptum.
6. THE RUNNER'S HIGH IS NOT A MYTH!
Runner's high describes the feeling of euphoria or release of anxiety you can experience while running.
7. THERE ARE SEVERAL COMMON RUNNING INJURIES.
The most common injuries that runners experience are runner's knee, stress fractures, shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, muscle pull, ankle sprains, and plantar fasciitis.
8. PRACTICE THESE THREE INJURY PREVENTION STRATEGIES.
The best prevention strategies for running injuries always include "a strong body, good form, and the right shoe."
9. YOUR FOOT ARCH AFFECTS YOUR RUNNING STRIDE.
High arches and flat arches can determine how your body absorbs the shock of impact from running. Consult with a shoe specialist or podiatrist to determine if you have the right shoes for your foot
arch.
10. RUNNERS USED TO DRINK CHAMPAGNE AS AN ENERGY DRINK
It may seem crazy and dangerous to runners today, but back in Victorian times it was thought that alcohol was a performance enhancer. It is thought that this tradition dates all the way back to
Ancient Greece and China. Incredibly, they would also take drugs such as heroin and cocaine to enhance their performance, something that is unthinkable today.
We now know that alcohol is a diuretic and can cause dehydration, meaning it is the complete opposite of what you'd want while running an endurance race, especially in hot weather.
11. BEER MILE
The Beer Mile is a unique running event where participants drink a beer (usually a 12-ounce can or bottle) before each of the four laps of a mile-long race. The current world record for the Beer Mile is 4 minutes and 33.6 seconds for men and 6 minutes and 8.4 seconds for women.
You can find out about alcohol free beer in my Blog.
12. HASH HOUSE HARRIERS
The Hash House Harriers is a worldwide group of non-competitive running social clubs. Founded in 1938 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, they organize runs that combine exercise, socializing, and often beer drinking. Members are known as "hashers" and follow a trail marked with flour or chalk.
It’s been fun compiling these fun facts and if you know more, please get in touch so I can add them to the list.
Karen Parnell is a Level 3 British Triathlon and IRONMAN U Certified Coach, WOWSA Level 3 open water swimming coach, 80/20 Endurance Certified Coach and NASM Personal Trainer and Sports Technology Writer.
Need a training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks and FinalSurge:
I also coach a very small number of athletes one to one for all triathlon distances, open water swimming events and running races, email me for details and availability. Karen.parnell@chilitri.com
References
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triathlon
Olympic Swimming | Paris 2024 Olympics
Camping in France | Canvas Holidays
When Tarzan struck gold at the Games: the legend of Johnny Weissmuller - Olympic News (olympics.com)
Benjamin Franklin’s Inventions | The Franklin Institute (fi.edu)
Heaviest boat pulled by a team of swimmers | Guinness World Records
Swimming, the Way of the Samurai | POP JAPAN (pop-japan.com)
Arthur Gilbert (triathlete) - Wikipedia
Triathlon Order Explained - What Order do People Complete a Triathlon? (smarttriathlete.com)