So you've posted PBs in 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and smashed the 3 hour barrier at Marathon (well one day maybe), what's your next challenge: the Saharan Marathon des Sables or maybe South Africa's Comrades? Well if you want to do something different but closer to home why not try a Tri?

According to the Times Newspaper Triathlon is the fasting growing participation sport in the UK. Lets face it you've got great cardio-vascular fitness, a pair of trainers and a Claude Butler bike at the back of the garden shed (2 out of 3 ain't bad).

And I'll wager if you look within your inner dark place (or the back of the chest of drawers) you'll find that dodgy pair of speedos. Okay so now you're kitted out for the Swim, Bike, Run that is Triathlon.

What sort of races are there?

Well you can start with a sprint distance such as the excellent Burnham on Sea Tri (500m pool swim, 20K cycle and 5K beach run), work your way up to Olympic distance (1500m swim, 40K cycle, 10K run) such as the Bath Amphibians Tri at the University or the massive London Triathlon in Albert Dock, and then on to a Half Ironman race (1900m swim, 85K bike and 21K run) such as the Vitruvian Triathlon National Championship race in Leicester.

When you feel ready to get stuck into 10 hours or more of athletic endurance you're ready for Ironman (3.9K open water swim, 180K bike and 42.2K run), in the UK formerly in Dorset but moving to Lancashire for 2009. Its not as gruelling as it sounds and for a light hearted take on the journey to 'M Dot' status read "Not Normal Behaviour - from Novice to Ultra-Distance Triathlete" by Stuart Staples (Big Baz has a copy).

Why do it?

Well I've always maintained that the cross training that triathlon offers, much of it none weight bearing, gives all round fitness and can reduce the risk of injury from over (run) training.

Since Beijing cycling has become just about the coolest pastime on the planet and that frustrating vehicular commute to work can be transformed into a stress busting training session. Cycling England has estimated that every new cyclist saves the nation £382 a year in costs related to health, pollution and congestion.

So 'On yer bike my Son', come on admit how proud you were when our boys and girls brought home 14 medals from the velodrome, including 8 golds, which is more than the total won by the entire French Olympic Team (and they invented cycling).

Why do I like triathlon?

I enjoy the camaraderie because starting in waves means you're never quite sure where you are in a race (in a sense it's a race against the clock) and you're often jockeying for position according to your own and fellow competitors strengths and weaknesses, which makes it more sociable than a running race.

Unlike running, where ability and training are key, when you want to improve your times in Triathlon you can chuck more money at it. Time to upgrade that Claude Butler - if you are starting out in cycling/triathlon take advice from a (local) cycle shop, ask to ride their bikes and get the staff to help set the bike up for your physique.

Just over £500 will buy an excellent so called entry level road bike, such as a Giant (Avon Valley Cyclery in Bath), Orbea (Webbs of Warmley), Trek (Mud Dock) or Specialized (Total Fitness Bath). This will buy you a lightweight aluminium frame with some carbon forks, Shimano gear shifters and derailers, with a decent set of wheels.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Obviously this helps, but there are novice races where breaststroke will be acceptable (including Burnham where they set a lane aside for slower swimmers). You might think this rules you out of gold medal position, but you'd be surprised how many swimmers or bikers can't run.

In fact my own cutting edge is being decidedly mediocre at all three events, which regularly get me in to the top ten (of a dozen) in my age group, because people often have a weak event. Most municipal pools can arrange swim coaching (e.g. Longwell Green) and you will find there are times for dedicated lane swimming.

For open water events, which require some practice at navigation, a wet suit is mandatory. I still seem to be the only one wearing those dodgy speedos because now there is some great Tri clothing.

Where can I find out more?

We are amongst you - there is a growing band of Triathlon enthusiasts (aka Tri-Bores) at Bitton, who will happily regale you with tales of road rash and chamois gussets. The very friendly Kingswood International Triathlon Club is nearby (www.kingswoodtri.co.uk).

That very nice man Ira Rainey has put some Links on this website which can take you to sites that list National and International events, or you could pick up a copy of "220" the UK's biggest Triathlon Magazine for lots of lycra clad lovelies, Tri talk, performance tips and the bit I like 'Test Centre' for all those gadgets and gismos. Just go for it and enjoy.

Nick Kane