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Common Terms Used in Triathlons

Posted by TRIMORE Fitness on April 14, 2008

RI - Rest Interval in minutes or seconds. This is the amount of time needed between each interval and set.
RPE – Rate of Perceived Exertion.
Interval – Describes a pre-set measure of time in which the athlete will elevate their heart rate. This will be shorter in duration and at a higher intensity than tempo.
Tempo – Describes a pre-set amount of time in which the athlete will elevate their heart rate. This will be longer in duration and at less intensity than intervals.
Bonk - Hit ‘the wall’, run out of energy due to inadequate fuel intake.
Brick - A two or more sport work out, one immediately following the other.
Carbo-load – Consuming carbohydrate rich foods in the day(s) prior to an event.
Clipless Pedal – Pedals that you clip into. Huh? That’s what they are called.
Full-suit – A full-body wetsuit with arms and legs designed specifically for swimming.
Negative split – Completing the second half faster than the first half. (swim, bike or run)
Olympic Distance – 1.5 swim, 40K bike, 10K run.
On your Left – What you should say as you pass another rider.
SLD – Single Leg Drill. Focus on 360 degrees of power, one leg at a time on a bike or in a spin class. Beginners stay clipped in, advanced athlete may unclip resting leg.
Farmer John – Sleeveless Wetsuit.
T1 - Swim-to-Bike Transition.
T2 – Bike-to-Run Transition.
Wave – Groups of athletes starting together at the swim portion of a triathlon.