Ready To Tri: Characteristics Of Recreational Triathletes

Abstract

PURPOSE: The sport of triathlon has been increasing in popularity, especially among recreational athletes. As triathletes compete in races ranging from around 16 miles to 140.6 miles or more and train in 3 disciplines simultaneously, it is difficult to identify consistent risk factors for injury among these athletes. The aim of this study was to evaluate characteristics of a group of recreational triathletes in regards to their medical history, training habits, and musculoskeletal injuries. METHODS: Endurance athletes were recruited for participation from local triathlon clubs and upon presentation to the University of Miami Sports Medicine clinic. Triathletes over the age of 18 years were considered for participation. After consenting, they were sent a link via e-mail to complete an online survey. RESULTS: Twenty-two triathletes completed the survey. The average age was 46.5 years old (range 24-60 years). Seventy-three percent reported an injury in the past year, and 32% reported multiple injuries. The lower extremity represented 66% of injuries. The knee accounted for 27%, followed closely by the hip at 23%. The back and shoulder accounted for 15% each. Other reported locations of injuries were the foot, ankle, leg, and neck. Athletes spent the most training time per week biking at 4.9 hours, followed by running at 3.9 hours, and then swimming at 2.3 hours. Almost 60% reported weight training for an average of 2 hours per week. Of these, 77% reported at least 1 injury, but only 23% had multiple injuries. Only 14% participated in some type of yoga or Pilates. The majority of athletes, 59%, trained with the help of a coach. Only 18% reported working with a nutritionist, and less than 5% reported working with a sports psychologist. Thirty-six percent reported having a current, chronic medical condition. The most common conditions were asthma and anxiety. Sixty-four percent used some type of vitamin or supplement, with multivitamins being the most common (35%). A gluten free diet was followed by 21%, and 16% reported following a vegetarian or vegan diet. CONCLUSION: Establishing a better understanding of the characteristics of recreational triathletes along with trends in their training habits can help guide further research on injury risks and lead to training recommendations for injury prevention.