3. Race one of everything
Marathons, 5Ks, duathlons, aquathlons, the 500-meter freestyle, 10K swims, criteriums, century rides, cyclocross—there's much more out there than just triathlons. People often get locked into the swim-bike-run mentality, and forget that there are races where you only do one or two of those things at a time.
There are all kinds of incentives to compete in these events. If nothing else, they present an opportunity to race in an event that doesn't take a ridiculous amount of time to prepare for. They also broaden your social circle and connect you with others who have valuable advice.
More: Why All Triathletes Need to Run the 5K
4. Don't approach training as preparation for the zombie apocalypse
Do you post your workouts on social media to show your progression? Do you call yourself a "warrior?" Do you use phrases like "tomorrow is D-Day" or "prepared for battle" to talk about your race?
If so, you may want to step back for a moment, as you may be taking things too seriously. It's just a race; it's supposed to be fun. Finishing a triathlon of any distance is an accomplishment that most people will admire. Don't ruin things by beating your chest and constantly boasting.
5. Be the best sport in your age group
The competition at the forefront of age groups has become increasingly intense. Some athletes are more worried about getting a perfect spot in the swim pack than avoiding collisions with fellow participants. The aquatic wrestling match has gotten so bad, race organizers had to establish rules that seem to be nothing more than common sense and manners.
Tougher rules are on the way for bike drafting, as well. But these are only the offenses that can be managed with officiating. Name-calling, intimidation on the bike, harassment, and social media bullying take place at races and within the community. Officials can stop some of the in-race crimes, but the underlying spirit can only be dealt with on an individual and community basis.
6. Rethink your motivation for competing
These days, people often race for charity. If you can raise a few dollars for a good cause while exercising and having fun, it's an overall win for all involved. But "racing for a cause" has taken a bizarre twist in the endurance world over the last decade, and it's sometimes unclear if athletes are doing things out of a genuine sense of altruism or for their own ego.
Many athletes appear to promote themselves on social media as much as their causes, with self-produced, over-the-top videos and personalized racing kits. Some even take money from charities in the form of sponsorships.
Raise what money you can. Take the cash you were going to spend on your race outfit and donate it. It's better to succeed in making a small difference than to fail at making a big one. Make this the year you find heroism in humility.
More: 11 Tips to Elevate Your Fundraising
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