Start Here: Your Guide to Triathlon After 50
Welcome!
Welcome to SeniorTriathletes.com, a website dedicated to beginner and experienced triathletes aged 50 and over that I started in 2016. If you’re over 50 and curious about doing a triathlon — or already racing and looking to improve — you’re in the right place.
My name is Terry VanderWert. I started triathlon at age 58, and together with my wife, Joy (who volunteered at many races), we completed triathlons in all 50 states. Along the way, we discovered new adventures, met inspiring people, and proved that triathlon isn’t just for the young — it’s for anyone willing to start.
If you’re wondering, “Can I really do this at my age?” — the answer is YES.
Our Story
When the nest became empty, Joy and I were looking for something new — something that would challenge us and bring us closer together. Triathlon became that adventure.
I’ve shared our journey in my book, Triathlon Adventures Across America, which tells the story of racing across the country, the people we met, and the lessons learned.
But this site goes further — it’s here to help YOU start and succeed in your own triathlon journey.
How to Get Started With Triathlon After 50
Here are the key areas to focus on when training as a senior triathlete, along with resources from this site to help you:
🎯Why Triathlon After 50?
Triathlon can help you:
- Improve your health and fitness.
- Meet new friends and become part of a supportive community.
- Discover new places and adventures.
👉 Read: 15 Reasons for Those 50 and Older to Do Triathlons
🏁First Steps
Start with realistic goals, choose a local race, and don’t worry about being “fast.” The biggest win is showing up at the start line.
👉 Read: “Training for My First Triathlon”- Liz Lawson’s Story
“There was nothing like coming to the finish line and seeing a big group of the mentors, now volunteering at the event. cheering us through and presenting our medal.”
Liz Lawson after completing her first triathlon
💪Training for Senior Triathletes
Training is different after 50 — but it’s absolutely doable. Focus on:
- Consistency over perfection.
- In addition to training for swimming, biking, and running, older triathletes, whether new to the sport or a life-long participant, must also include in their plan:
- Strength Training — as Mark Allen emphasized in Strength Training for Triathletes, strength work is essential for performance and injury prevention.
- Rest & Recovery — your body rebuilds during rest, not just training days.
- Nutrition & Hydration — fueling properly before, during, and after workouts is just as important as the training itself.
⏱ Training
Triathlon Training:
- Six Principles of Triathlon Training for Seniors
- How To Make Triathlon Training Senior-Specific
- Strength Training: My Experience with Mark Allen’s Strength Training for Triathletes
😴Rest & Recovery
🥗Nutrition & Hydration
- Nutrition: What Masters Athletes Need To Know About Nutrition
- Hydration: Electrolytes: Vital for Hydration of Senior Triathletes
- More on this topic: Nutrition for Senior Endurance Athletes
🚲Gear for Beginners
You don’t need the most expensive gear to get started. A safe bike, bike helmet, good running shoes, and basic swim gear are all you need. Through my triathlon journey, you will see the gear I used.
I have also included reviews of some of the training and recovery aids I have used or currently use.
Do I Need a Coach?
The Senior Triathletes website provides examples of many successful triathletes who have self-trained on their own or with a group and many who have trained with a coach. Some have used both.
Most stories of other senior triathletes in the Our Stories section describe their training schedule and how they chose the approach they did. Many are also more than happy to answer questions from others in our community.
Also, read the following articles and, if you are still not sure, talk with one or more coaches to find the right way for you.
- Self training: Read Book Review – Train to Tri: Your First Triathlon
- Coach training:
- Read How A Coach Can Help Throughout Your Triathlon Journey
- Read Why Should Seniors Use A Triathlon Coach?
- Become familiar with Our Coaches by reading about them and their answers to questions from other senior triathletes. You can also contact them by email.
Not everyone needs a coach but everyone can find a reason to hire a coach.
Dr. Jeff Sankoff, The Tri Doc in Why Should Seniors Use A Triathlon Coach?
The Language of Triathlon
To help jumpstart learning about triathlon, read the Glossary.
👥Inspiration From Other Senior Triathletes
You’re not alone — many in their 50s, 60s, 70s, and even 80s are racing and thriving. The following stories will inspire and remind you that age is no barrier to triathlon.
👉 Read:
- Joe Simonetta Brings Home Gold At 2025 National Senior Games
- Onwards & Upwards, Always! – Mike Battersby’s Comeback
Stories of Other Senior Triathletes
Ready to Begin?
📖 Read My Book: Triathlon Adventures Across America
📰 Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter for encouragement, tips, and new stories.
🎽 Find a training plan that works for you.
🏃♂️Register for your first, or next, triathlon.
Final Encouragement
Triathlon after 50 isn’t about being the fastest. It’s about health, adventure, and community. If I could start at 58, you can start at your age too.
Your first step? Pick a race, start training smart, and enjoy the journey. We’ll be with you every step of the way.
⚠️Disclaimer
Please consult your doctor before beginning any new training program. Your health and safety come first.
❓What Have Me Missed?
Is there some specific information you are looking for but not found here? Let us know in the Comments below. We’ll get right on it.
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