Hello "Future Triathlete"!
Are you ready to try your first triathlon?
We’re so excited that you’re ready to take the plunge into the world of triathlon — and we’re here to make sure your experience is smooth, fun, and full of new friends and teammates. Our Try-a-Tri program is designed for complete beginners and offered at an ultra-affordable price to help more people discover this amazing sport!
A Sprint Triathlon is the perfect place to start:
🏊♀️ 400–750 meters of open-water swimming
🚴♀️ 8–12 miles of cycling on paved roads
🏃♀️ 3.1 miles (5K) of running — walking is totally allowed!
The SLAP Tri Team is a welcoming, diverse, and supportive community — and every one of us once stood right where you are now: nervous, curious, and excited for our first race. Let our professional coaching staff guide you from day one to finish line, so you cross that line feeling confident, prepared, and smiling from ear to ear.
WHO is this program for?
The SLAP Try-a-Tri Program is perfect for beginners with little to no triathlon experience. It’s open to adults of all ages and fitness levels who want a fun, supportive way to train for a local sprint triathlon in Central Florida. Whether you’re brand new or returning for another race, you’ll gain the knowledge, structure, and confidence to reach the finish line — surrounded by teammates, coaches, and a welcoming triathlon community.
WHAT is included?
Each Try-a-Tri session includes six weeks of structured training led by Coach Beth. Participants receive a personalized TrainingPeaks plan, two weekly in-person workouts, and access to group training with the #SLAPPERS. You’ll also benefit from mentorship by past Try-a-Tri athletes, visits from other SLAP coaches, and full team support on race weekend. Plus, every participant gets a bundle of SLAP Tri Team gear to help you look and feel like a pro!
WHEN are the programs?
In 2026, we’ll host four Try-a-Tri sessions, each lasting six weeks and wrapping up with a local sprint triathlon.
- March 16 – April 26 (St. Anthony’s Sprint)
- May 4 – June 14 (Clermont Sprint)
- June 29 – August 9 (Clermont Sprint)
- September 7 – October 18 (Great Floridian)
WHERE do we train?
Training sessions take place at triathlon-friendly locations around Clermont and West Orange County, including local pools, parks, and safe cycling routes. Most workouts are scheduled at the National Training Center (NTC), Lake Louisa State Park (LLSP), and nearby roads and trails — the same venues used by many Central Florida triathletes. You’ll get comfortable swimming, biking, & running in race-like environments alongside supportive teammates and coaches.
WHY should you join?
Don't take our word for it...listen to what our past athletes are saying:
“No matter what level athlete you are (and maybe you don’t consider yourself an athlete yet)…you CAN complete a triathlon with the coaching, encouragement, and guidance offered by the SLAP Coaches!”
“Coach Beth was absolutely amazing! She encouraged me to challenge myself and pushed me in subtle ways at every practice.”
“The SLAP team and coaches are amazing and encouraging. The team workouts are always fun.”
HOW MUCH does it cost?
Starting in 2026, the SLAP Try-a-Tri training and coaching program will be completely FREE to all participants! A one-time $85 registration fee covers your SLAP Tri Team hat or visor, team shirt, swag, and bonus triathlon gear to get you started. Each session will be held with a minimum of four registered participants — so grab a friend or family-member and join the fun!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Basic swimming skills are required before starting the Try-a-Tri program. If you can float and tread water, you’re ready to build confidence in the pool and open water. You don’t need to be an expert swimmer — we’ll teach you freestyle fundamentals and give you plenty of guided practice along the way. If you’re not yet comfortable swimming to safety in deep water, please reach out — we’ll help you get started with our Learn to Swim lessons.
Any safe, road-ready bike will work — road, hybrid, or even a mountain bike. Before starting the program, make sure it’s in good working condition by taking it to a local bike shop for a quick safety tune-up. Per USA Triathlon rules, a helmet must be properly buckled anytime you’re on your bike. Throughout the program, we’ll help you learn basic bike handling, road safety, and the confidence to ride comfortably in group and race settings.
Not at all! You’ll only need a swimsuit, goggles, a bike, helmet, and running shoes. We’ll guide you through optional tri gear as the program goes on.
If you can comfortably walk, jog, or ride a bike for 20–30 minutes, you’re ready for the program! The training is designed for beginners and gradually builds endurance, confidence, and technique each week. Basic swimming skills — such as being able to float, tread water, and swim to safety in deep water — are also required before starting. If you’re not quite there yet, we can help you get started with our Learn to Swim lessons before the next session begins.
You’re still welcome! Many returning triathletes join the Try-a-Tri program to improve their confidence, speed, and overall race-day experience. You’ll learn new skills and techniques from a professional triathlon coach, gain a better understanding of training and race prep, and likely enjoy the sport even more by feeling stronger, smoother, and better prepared for your next event.
Each week includes a TrainingPeaks workout plan to complete on your own, two in-person workouts, and optional swim practices with the SLAP Tri Team. We’ll mix swimming, biking, running, and skill clinics in a supportive, team environment.
Most sessions take place around Clermont and West Orange County, including the National Training Center (NTC), Lake Louisa State Park, and local roads and trails.
You’ll never be alone! Coaches and teammates will be cheering from start to finish — and Coach Beth will be on-site before sunrise to help you feel smooth, calm, and confident through your pre-race prep. You’ll see other #SLAPPERS out on the course racing alongside you, and you’ll share the joy of crossing the finish line with new friends who trained beside you throughout the program. Afterward, everyone gathers at the SLAP Tri Team tent to celebrate your big accomplishment together!
No problem — your TrainingPeaks plan lets you follow along from home. You’ll stay connected with the group through messages, updates, and encouragement between workouts.
Registration is open and is as easy as clicking the “Buy Now” button above! If you have questions or hesitations, just fill out our “Contact SLAP” form at the bottom of this page. Coach Beth and our Team Manager, Amanda, will reach out to schedule a chat, answer all your questions, and help you gather the confidence to TRY A TRI!