How to Do Your First Ironman — Part One

I’ve completed ten Ironman distance races now (DNF’d at one, as well) and while I’m not a professional, I consider myself an experienced amateur and therefore perhaps even better situated to help talk through how to do your first Ironman than professionals who may be in better shape than most first-time amateurs. I’m going to speak to those who have completed 5–10 Olympic distance races and maybe even a half Ironman before setting their sights on a full Ironman and talk through some questions and concerns you may have. I hope this will be helpful.

You should already have most of the gear that you need for an Ironman: a good full-sleeved wetsuit (if water temperature permits), a good triathlon bike (with aerobars that are comfortable to use), good running shoes, a comfortable helmet and bike shoes. Gear you may not have considered before but definitely need for Ironman training and racing include:

1. Chafing prevention for application underarms and around nipples, among other spots.

2. Chamois cream for your butt (apply liberally) and sunscreen if you’re going to be training outdoors (I train indoors year round because I think it’s safer, but I’m kind of crazy that way).

3. A really comfortable split seat (you may be able to do an hour on the seat you already have, but may well not be able to do 5–8 hours on said seat without…