Triathlons are comprised of three consecutive events: running, cycling and swimming. The distances differ for all three events. Swimming is the shortest distance and cycling is the longest. Of all the sports activities that are performed in the modern era, triathlons are considered to be the most challenging. They require athletes to push their physical and mental endurance to the limit.

Triathletes need to mentally prepare themselves before a race, as having the right attitude is one of the secrets to triathlon success. A triathlon is a long race that requires a great deal of determination. Someone who is not mentally prepared may not be able to finish the race. Throughout the events, there will be times when participants feel like their bodies are too tired to finish the race. A strong mind is needed to overcome the fatigue and finish the race as quickly as possible. Endurance of the human body may be limited, but the mind can push the body beyond its limit.

Some of the major concerns that bother athletes during triathlon competitions include nervousness, lack of confidence, low self-esteem due to past experiences, lack of focus, anxiety and fear of failure. These factors can cause them to lose faith in their own abilities. That sometimes results in giving up half-way through the race. Therefore, triathletes have to learn how to control their minds and stay focused on the race. Sports psychologists can be used to help triathletes overcome the mental challenges that they may face during a triathlon.

The mind has vast potential, but the body may attempt to push it back. This can occur because of illnesses or emotional problems. The mind must be trained to refocus in the face of discouraging feelings. Triathletes need to be aware of their thoughts as they gear up for a race. Motivation can sometimes be found in positive affirmations that can make competitors feel more optimistic. The end result can be an enhanced performance because it enables the mind and body to be in sync with each other.

To achieve success in triathlons, participants have to set a goal based on something that motivates them. Different things motivate different people. For some people, it may be the sense of achievement that comes with finishing a race; for others, it can be a desire to beat their own personal records. Once a goal has been set, participants must be determined enough to make the necessary efforts to achieve the goal.

Many triathletes fail to do well in competitions because they do not believe that they will ever win a race. If participants are confidant that they can at least finish the race, they can be motivated to train hard and perform well in competitions.