TriLaVie Triathlon Programs - Swim, Bike, Run & Personal Coaching

What does it really take to enjoy the TriLaVie experience?

The desire to complete a triathlon, biking event or running race. The motivation and discipline to complete 2-4 trainings on your own or with team members each week in addition to the TriLaVie team sessions. You need an open mind to learn new skills and the willingness to move outside your comfort zone to reap the benefits. Most importantly, you want to enjoy the company of other women who have the same goals!
What equipment do I need?

As a beginner triathlete, you need a bike – not a fancy bike, not a triathlon bike – any bike in good working order with gears. And you can borrow or rent a wetsuit for open water swims. Equipment can be expensive and TriLaVie coaches can help guide you to the best choices so you don’t over buy! Ask around and borrow to start. You’d be surprised how many friends or neighbors have equipment to lend.
When you are ready to invest in your own equipment, we will recommend professionals and shops that can help you with the selection process. TriLaVie does NOT receive sponsorship or referral fees for any of our recommendations. We partner with professionals we believe have the highest integrity and are experts in their fields.
Do we train for races?

Yes! Many events or just one, it’s your choice. The team generally prepare for a few races each season, and you most team members choose which ones they’d like to join. Not up for racing? We believe that choosing a race goal is an important way to stay focused and motivated. There is NOTHING like the feeling of crossing a finish line! WOW! But, if you only want to train in the 3 sports for fitness, that is OK too!
How much time do I need to spend training each week?

Each race distance has its own timeline and training plan. Group trainings take place 1 or 2 times weekly from 1.5-4 hours each. Our triathlon team sessions are generally on Wednesday or Thursday evenings, and on Sunday mornings with some modifications for racing and special events. Additional sessions are added to your training plan during each training cycle to accommodate race preparation and individual athlete goals. You will get maximum value from the team participation if you prioritize Sundays for training.
Comprehensive training plans are provided weekly and customized to fit your race goals and athletic level. Each independent training session can last from 20 minutes to 3 hours depending upon goals and experience.
Where do we train?

We typically vary the team training location each week at facilities, pools and outdoor public locations that are safe, beautiful and appropriate for our goals around the South and Central Orange County area. The varied locations are the favorite part of the team. You’ll love expanding your horizons! The training schedule and locations are posted in the members-only access area of the calendar.
Training sessions may include indoor and outdoor cycling, tracks and trails, heated pools, lakes and ocean swims. New triathletes cycle on bike trails that are paved and safe. Advanced cyclists join open road rides around the county. The varied locations are the favorite part of the team. You’ll love expanding your horizons!
How can TriLaVie accommodate multi-levels of athletes?

TriLaVie members are all shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities. We honor this variety with different starting times or different training goals within the same training session. At each training, there are athletes who are new to endurance sport and those who are striving for podium finishes. You’d be surprised how much we all have in common. We are all working toward realizing our own potential.
I’d love to do a triathlon, but I’m not a swimmer. Is this program right for me?

Yes! Very few women who join TriLaVie Triathlon program have swim training. We begin in the pool with sessions that addresses form, technique, endurance and speed. You “graduate” to open-water swims in the lake and ocean.
Our triathlon team and co-ed swim sessions accommodate all levels with small-group coaching, supported open-water swims, and a strong buddy system for training. Each session is created with your safety and success in mind, supported by swim coaches and swim angels.
If you are a beginner swimmer unfamiliar with basic strokes or has a fear of the water, we recommend a personal coaching session or small group swim lessons to get you started. For information about our co-ed swim programs, see the Swim Programs for more information.
What do we do when we train?

TriLaVie is a goal-oriented program. Sessions are structured to build strong triathlon skills safely. Each training session is led by a professional coach and comprised of multiple components: triathlon training, stretching/strength and socializing (when the coach allows it!). We train by time or distance and each person challenges themselves within that parameter.
You’ll build skills in each sport, you’ll develop competency in the sport, and you’ll challenge yourself to improve your speed and distance. TriLaVie training programs include mock triathlons, transition training (the 4th discipline of triathlon) and open water training in the lake, bay, and ocean.
Guest speakers address issues such as nutrition, mental training, athlete self-care, equipment maintenance, and tire changing. Inspirational speakers and professional triathletes motivate us to bring energy and balance to the sport of triathlon and to life.
What if I am still not sure this is right for me?
How do I know if TriLaVie is right for me?

TriLaVie provides several ways for you to get to know us and the team. We have public events, orientation days, and information sessions. During the season, you are welcome to try a training session for free. Come experience the coaches and team in action before you decide (see our events page). If you are interested, please contact Lisa Nickell with any questions or for more information. We’d love to hear from you!

FAQs