Here are nine unforgivable triathlon no-no's (don't say we didn't warn you).
Aero helmets on training rides.
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Unless you're testing your helmet for comfort before you commit to wearing it on the IRONMAN bike leg, leave your aero helmet at home when training. You don't need to worry about aero advantages when putting in hours in the saddle, promise. Plus, your pointy aero helmet looks like something out of the movie Alien.
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Your Next TriathlonCompression socks in public.
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We know, inflammation and recovery go hand in hand, but wearing knee-high compression socks with shorts in public is about as bad as it gets. If you go this route, at least wear converse shoes and a Gold's Gym cutoff tank, too.
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Your Next TriathlonSpeedos in public.
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This one should be common sense. Nobody wants to see that.
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Your Next TriathlonLeaving your IRONMAN wristband on.
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You should definitely be proud of your accomplishment—finishing an IRONMAN is a serious feat. But don't leave your wristband on for more than a week after the race. Cut it off and frame it with your medal and bib.
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Your Next TriathlonNot showering after a workout.
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Have a 30-minute gap between work and drinks with your friends, and want to squeeze in a run? It may not seem like a big deal to you, but showing up at the restaurant in your sweaty workout clothes isn't okay. Not in the slightest.
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Your Next TriathlonTriathlon bikes on group rides.
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Unless you're riding with a tri-specific group, don't show up to your local shop ride with your tri bike. The lack of brakes on the extensions and the aggressive body position makes riding in a group dangerous for everyone, not just yourself.
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Your Next TriathlonBringing your own food to a restaurant.
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Did your friend group pick a hot wing place for the weekly meet-up? Of course it's not in your training diet, but that doesn't mean you can sneak in a Tupperware bowl with brown rice, chicken and broccoli. Find the least unhealthy item on the menu, suck it up and be social.
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Your Next TriathlonForgetting sunscreen.
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Have you ever seen one of the IRONMAN vets at the pool, and their skin is leathery brown and aged beyond their years? Sunscreen may be oily and gross to apply, but you'll be thankful 10 years from now.
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Your Next TriathlonTalking about IRONMAN.
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No matter how many times you've explained it, your family will always call an IRONMAN a marathon. It's best not to correct them; just nod and say it's going well. They don't need to know about your last trainer session or how many calories you burned on your run, just tell them the race date and they'll scream their face off when you cross the finish line.
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