[sexylifter]

I'm new to this triathlon idea and I'm not sure where to start.

I'm female, age 23, and weigh about 190 lbs. I work out regularly, but I don't have much motivation. I feel like doing a triathlon would give me something to work towards, and allow me to cross-train. Also, I'm looking for something a little more intense than my usual "elliptical/stairstepper/liftweights" routine, so I could lose maybe 20 lbs.

I found three practice triathlons in my town that will take place next summer, with a real triathlon at the end of the summer.

I want to start training so that by next June or so, I'll be ready to do a triathlon. My goal is not to do well- it's more to do it, to finish. I think I'd be unbelievably proud of myself if I could just finish.

Where do I start? Should I pick a plan and start training?

[julian]

Why dont you try a sprint triathlon they are quite short and it will not take you too long to train for it.
I did my first one with just four weeks training with out a structured trianing schedule. I just made sure I did a little bit of each disipline twice a week and went from there.

Good luck with your training, keep logging on to tri-week and you will find loads of advise and help and let us all know how you get on.

Cheers
Julian.

[sfricks]

We host a Super Sprint here in St. Croix, USVI on the first Sunday of every March. This is 1/2 of a Sprint distance or .25 mile swim, 6 mile bike and 1.5 mile run and goes on in conjunction with longer races. I said that to say this. I'm sure this distance is not unique. Google your area for surrounding clubs and ask if they know of a shorter race. Barring that, I agree with Julian, start with a sprint. Be warned, though... Triathlon is addictive! Good luck.