Unlocking Triathlon

Alison Freeman is a triathlete, writer, and USA Triathlon Level III Coach who specializes in guiding beginner and intermediate athletes through their first triathlon experiences. She has completed nearly 40 triathlons, including six Ironman events and 15 half-distance events, and has qualified for USA Triathlon Nationals five times. In 2021, she finished fourth in her age group at Ironman Texas. As cofounder and principal coach at NYX Endurance, Freeman coaches athletes to their first finish lines at sprint-, Olympic-, half-, and full-distance races. She also leads beginner triathlon clinics in Boulder, Colorado, and developed an online course, The Ultimate Guide to Your First Triathlon, through NYX Endurance. Outside of coaching, Freeman is a frequent contributor to Triathlete.com, where she has written over 50 articles on training, skill development, and the athlete mindset. Her articles emphasize clear and practical instruction, and her writing uses a supportive and accessible tone. Freeman holds a BSE degree from Princeton University and an MBA degree from the University of California, Berkeley.

Part I. Getting Started Chapter 1. Demystifying Triathlon Chapter 2. Choosing Your Race Chapter 3. Selecting Essential Gear Part II. Developing Triathlon Skills Chapter 4. Swimming Chapter 5. Biking Chapter 6. Running Chapter 7. Triathlon Skills Part III. Training for Triathlon Chapter 8. Developing Your Triathlon Fitness Chapter 9. Structuring Your Triathlon Training Chapter 10. Building Your Training Season Chapter 11. Executing Your Training Plan Chapter 12. Adapting Your Training Plan Part IV. Preparing, Competing, and Completing Chapter 13. Pre-Race: Planning and Preparation Chapter 14. Race Day: Strategy and Execution Chapter 15. Post-Race: What to Expect and What Comes Next Part V. Planning and Programming Chapter 16. Pre-Season Training Plan Chapter 17. Sprint-Distance Training Plan Chapter 18. Olympic-Distance Training Plan Chapter 19. Olympic- to Half-Distance Training Plan Appendix A. Workout Reference Guide Appendix B. Strength and Mobility Exercise Reference Guide