8 Tips for Racing Your First Full Distance Triathlon

A full-distance triathlon is no small undertaking, it’s one of the most demanding challenges in endurance sports, requiring serious time, discipline, and mental grit. But for those willing to commit, the payoff is extraordinary. In this episode, legendary Coach Kurt Madden joins us to break down exactly what it takes to cross your first 140.6 finish line. From building your ideal support team (coaches, training partners, medics, and even bike mechanics) to choosing the right gear for both performance and comfort, Kurt shares practical, hard-earned advice every aspiring Ironman needs. We also dive into the power of smart planning: structuring your training calendar well in advance, understanding the value of professional coaching, and strengthening your mental game to stay focused (and adapt) when it matters most. With 53 full-distance finishes (and counting), Kurt brings unmatched experience and insight. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you train smarter, race stronger, and achieve your biggest endurance goals.