Online New to Tri Programme

Free access for Full Members

Everything you need to get started, stay on track, and feel ready for your first triathlon is right here.

How does it work?

This new online programme is available to Full Triathlon Ireland Members starting 8th June 2026 in the lead up to key beginner-friendly triathlons. (Find Beginner Friendly Triathlons here)

You’ll meet others on the programme through our Slack Channel, and have support from our Triathlon Ireland coaches throughout. Find out more below.

Of course, you can download the training plan yourself at any point and carry out the training unsupported.

Sign Up Here

Sign up to Triathlon Ireland’s Beginner Online New to Tri Programme by Completing this Registration Form. Alternatively email reception@triathlonireland.com for more details.

Please note this online programme is only available to individuals who have purchased 2026 Full Triathlon Ireland Membership before the 7th June 2026.

It all starts here!

New to triathlon? You’re in the right place.

This programme is designed to guide you step-by-step. From your very first swim session to crossing your first finish line. Whether your goal is to complete, compete, or simply try something new, we’ve got you covered.

First steps:

Activate your free training plan on Training Peaks
Join the community on Slack
Meet your coaches

and get your triathlon gear ready!

Access your training plan

Your personalised training plan is delivered via TrainingPeaks.

What to do:

Go to TrainingPeaks .com
Create/login to your account
Sync your device (Garmin, Apple Watch, etc.)
Review your weekly plan

Join the community

Connect with fellow participants, ask questions, and stay motivated on Slack.

Inside Triathlon Ireland Slack you’ll find:

Daily chat & support
Coach Q&A channels
Beginner tips & reminders
Motivation from others on the same journey

Join via your invite link in your welcome email

Meet the coaches

Jo Sweetman (left) and Ciaran Ryan (right)

You’re supported by experienced, friendly coaches who specialise in beginners.

We’re here to help you:

Build confidence across swim, bike, run
Answer your questions (no matter how small)
Keep you progressing safely
Prepare for race day

Plus New to Tri Programme Lead Anna Clarke and Sarah Bradley (Sports Intern) who are also undertaking their first triathlons!

Getting Started

Before your first session:

✔ Set your weekly routine

✔ Read your first week of training

✔ Prepare basic kit

✔ Join Triathlon Ireland ‘New to Tri’ Slack and introduce yourself!

Triathlon Equipment Essentials

You don’t need fancy gear to begin.

Start with:

Swim (Pool based): Swimsuit, goggles, swim hat
Bike: Any safe, roadworthy bike + helmet
Run: Comfortable running shoes

Optional kit: Tri suit, Clip-in pedals, Sports watch.

If open water swimming for first triathlon you will need a wetsuit.

Triathlon Beginner tips

Helpful resources to build your confidence:

Getting Started in Triathlon here
10 Tips to Help You Feel Race Ready here
Race day checklist here

and more! These short guides will help support you through the programme.

Rules of Triathlon

Understanding the basics keeps you safe and confident:

Always wear a helmet on the bike
No drafting (in most beginner races)
Follow mount/dismount lines
Respect other athletes and marshals

See Rules page here.

But don’t worry – you’ll learn these gradually during the programme!

In person new to Tri programmes

Want extra support? Join a local session with a local triathlon club or one of Triathlon Ireland’s New to Tri programmes. See details here.

Regional sessions can include:

Open water swim practice
Transition training
Group rides & runs
Race simulation sessions

Triathlon Clubs

Training with others can make a huge difference.

Benefits of joining a triathlon club:

Structured group sessions
Social support
Coaching access
Meet new friends
.. and epic race day Team photos!

Membership with triATHLON IRELAND

With options available from Full Membership to One Day Membership take a look at our Membership page to help make the best choice to start your triathlon adventure!

Full Membership

If you’re planning to do more than two triathlons this year, upgrading to full membership is usually the best option.

Benefits include:

No need to pay one-day membership fees for each race
Insurance cover while training (including when training alone)
Access to official events and race calendar
Discounts and partner offers
Support from the wider triathlon community

Tip: Sign up to Full Membership before 7th June and be part of Triathlon Ireland’s Online New to Tri Programme.

One-Day Membership

For people who are just getting started and unsure if they want to do more than one triathlon in a year.

Pay a fee when entering a race (can be built into race entry fee or separate transaction)
Cost (see here)
Covers you for that single event only
Ideal for trying your first triathlon
Does not cover you for training or for any other event.

Get Social with us!

Your triathlon goal!

Your first swim
Your first bike ride
Your first brick session
Your first race finish!

Get Social and Share your first moments with us by tagging @ triathlonireland on Instagram or TikTok #TINewToTri