Ideal Weight for Triathletes

Triathlons are physically demanding events that require triathletes to be in extreme physical condition. Triathletes must perform three intense events during a triathlon: running, cycling and swimming. Consistently practicing these events and maintaining a healthy diet will allow you to achieve your optimal competitive body weight.

  1. Misconceptions

    • According to body composition expert Dr. Len Kravitz, some people overly concern themselves with their body weight as a number. BeginnerTriathlete.com regards body fat percentage as a better measure of health and fitness levels. The weights of two different people can be drastically different based on height and/or gender, but both people will perform better in a particular percentage range for body fat.

    Body Fat Range

    • According to BrianMac.co.uk, the ideal body fat percentage range is 5 percent to 12 percent for male triathletes and 10 percent to 15 percent for women. You should work to reach this body fat range rather than a particular body weight in pounds that may not suit your body type.

    Expert Insight

    • Every human body is different. There are three general body types: ectomorph, mesomorph and endomorph. Each body type has specific traits and specific activities it can do well. According to professional triathlete Cameron Widoff, you should determine your athletic strengths, weaknesses and body type so you can properly prepare and successfully perform in a triathlon.