WOMEN TRIATHLETE SURVEY ANSWERS
Women Triathletes, Opinions and Statistics
Triathlon is an attractive sport to many women, it offers variety and challenge. The majority of women juggle this sport with full time jobs and many also have children. They are keen to continue to learn and challenge themselves
Miss Triathlon conducted a survey of 100 females from around the world and found within the “women triathlete survey” that women are inspired by other women and are passionate about encouraging more women to participate in triathlon. For the raw numbers please CLICK HERE
Finding time to train was a key challenge to women but they also found the following challenges;
1. Gender specific information
2. Gender specific bike information
3. Training/ racing advice while menstruating
4. Triathlon clothing that fits a wide range of body shapes. Small to large sizes and support for larger breasted women.
5. Dealing with aggressive men during races and training
Women have a number of positive suggestions to encourage more women to participate and encourage further participation of women in the sport.
1. Women specific races
2. Beginner training groups are ideal.
3. Many women suggested female specific websites (www.misstriathlon.com)
4. Greater size variety of triathlon clothing
5. Basic bike information with good entry equipment for women (over 50% of respondants)
6. Triathlon plans that suit a busy female schedule
Many women suggested more female role models and mentors. Women who have risen to the top of the sport are in a great position to encourage more women to participate and give them the confidence to overcome many of their internal barriers.
“Women need for emotional, morale support while preparing for a race. Most women don’t realize how strong they are and what ability they do have. As much as physical coaching is needed to participate in triathlon, so is mental, more so than men.” (Female Triathlete)
Of the 100 respondents, 70% are within the age group of 30-49, removing the myth that triathlon is a gruelling, young persons sport. 61% of these women juggle full time jobs while 18.2% have children as well. Only 6% of women training for triathlon have a part time job and children while very few women have the luxury of part time work to allow them to train.
These statistics highlight that female triathletes are extremely busy and are well respected, professionals within the working environment who are driven to compete in triathlons in their spare time.
“Emphasise the fun and social part of triathlon, to make women see that it’s not all about winning, blood, sweat and tears…” (Female triathlete)
Women are energised by triathlon and there are some key aspects of triathlon that motivate them to continue training and racing;
1. Friends and making friends
2. Outdoor/active lifestyle
3. Health benefits
4. Buzz and confidence triathlon racing gives them
5. Positive role model to their children
For the female triathlete raw numbers please CLICK HERE
“I feel a great sense of accomplishment and knowing that I am doing everything possible to remain fit and healthy is a bonus. I’m setting a good example for my children that exercise is fun and important.
I may feel exhausted during a race, but once I cross that finish line there’s no better feeling.” Female triathlete
