Transition

The transition is the switch between each of the disciplines, and getting this right, especially if you are racing a sprint or super sprint, can help with your final position in the finishers’ table.

T1

The shorthand for the transition from the swim to the bike is T1 – simply because it is the first transition.

You will get out of the swim, whether that is in a pool, a lake or the sea, and run as fast as you can to the T1 area, where you will have laid out your kit for the bike section before the race started. If both transitions are in the same place – which for most races they are – then you will also have your run kit in the area.

You need to get out of your wetsuit (if you are wearing one) and into your bike kit as quickly as you can, but you must not touch your bike until your helmet is on your head and is secured. Wearing a helmet is compulsory in triathlon, and you will be disqualified if you touch your bike before your helmet is in place and secured.

You will not be allowed to mount your bike in the T1 area. You should have walked through transition before the event, and know where your exits are, as well as the mount line, which you should pass before you get onto your bike.