Triathlon types: Sprint, Olympic, Half, and Ironman – choose the best one for you

Not all triathlons are Ironmans. Not all bodies are ready for the same thing. And not all journeys begin with the same pace. If you've ever thought this sport isn't for you because you "don't have the time," "aren't an athlete," or "don't have the equipment," this article is for you. Today we'll tell you what each type of triathlon is like, what you need for each one, and what it's like from the inside.

SUPER SPRINT: The first jump

Distances: 400m swim | 10km bike ride | 2.5km run
Training hours/week: 3 to 5 hours
Who is it for?: For those who have the desire, but zero experience.

If triathlon were a language, the super sprint would be like saying "hello." It's the perfect gateway. You can train for it in just a few weeks with consistency, comfortable clothing, and a simple bike. You don't need special equipment or an astronaut's diet. Just the desire to try something new.

“My first triathlon was a super sprint. I cried with emotion when I finished. Not because of the distance, but because of what it meant to dare.”

SPRINT: Where motivation becomes habit

Distances: 750m swim | 20km bike ride | 5km run
Training hours/week: 5 to 7 hours
Who is it for?: For those who already train and want a challenge.

Here you start to feel like part of the tribe. The sprint is challenging but achievable. With two months of well-structured training, you can reach the finish line with a smile. Many choose this distance to make their serious debut and start investing in better clothing and a trisuit that will make a difference.

OLYMPIC: Turn up the volume, keep your heart pumping

Distances: 1.5 km swim | 40 km bike | 10 km run
Training hours/week: 8 to 12 hours
Who is it for?: For those who have already done a sprint and want more.

Olympic triathlon already requires strategy, a more careful diet, and a good understanding of your body. A comfortable, quick-drying trisuit is essential here. You'll also benefit from a sports watch, a light nutrition plan, and yes... maybe a little self-talk to keep you on track during long workouts.

HALF IRONMAN (70.3): Your body changes, so does your mind

Distances: 1.9 km swim | 90 km bike | 21 km run
Training hours/week: 12 to 15 h
Who is it for?: For those who have already traveled a good path.

The preparation here is serious. Not just physical, but also mental. Professional advice, medical checkups, and nutritional monitoring are recommended. You learn to eat while you train, to rest properly, and to live with the days when everything hurts. But the satisfaction of crossing the finish line is incomparable.

IRONMAN: The Complete Transformation

Distances: 3.8 km swim | 180 km bike | 42.2 km run
Training hours/week: 3 to 8 pm
Who is it for?: For those who have already found a way of life in triathlon.

It's not about ego, it's about purpose. Ironman is a lifelong pursuit. You train with coaches, nutritionists, physical therapists, and psychologists if necessary. But you also train with self-love, determination, and community. Because no one gets there alone. And when you get there, something inside you changes forever.

What's yours?

The best distance isn't the longest, but the one that fits you today. Triathlon has many entry points, and at KUMI we want to be with you from the first one. Our trisuits are designed to support you from training 3 hours a week to completing an Ironman.

Explore more
- How do you know if triathlon is for you (even if you've never done one)?
- Learn about the best apps for training on your own

FAQs about triathlon distances

What is the shortest triathlon?
The Super Sprint. Ideal for beginners.

How long does it take to prepare for a sprint triathlon?
With discipline, 6 to 10 weeks may be enough.

Do I need a different trisuit for each distance?
Not necessarily. At KUMI, we design versatile and comfortable trisuits that adapt to your level and goal.

Can you do an Ironman without previous experience?
Yes, but it requires time, guided training, and a long-term commitment.