Frequently Asked Questions

• A triathlon is a multi-sport event in which the participant traditionally swims, bikes, then runs. There are many different types of triathlons that vary based upon the length of the disciplines. A sprint triathlon is typically made up of a 1/4-1/2 mile swim, a 10-15 mile bike, and 5k (3.1 mile) run. An olympic triathlon consists of a 0.9 mile swim, 25 mile bike, and 10k (6.2 mile) run. There is also a Half Ironman aka 70.3 which is a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and 13.1 mile run as well as an Ironman aka 140.6 which is made up of a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.2 mile run.

Our team only races Sprint and Olympic distances during our collegiate season. However, we have had team members race Half Ironmans and Ironmans for fun during the off-season!

The NU Triathlon Team (NUTT) is a part of the Northeast Collegiate Triathlon Conference (NECTC), and participates in races from the end of August through September, sometimes October, against other colleges in the northeast region. In order to race in the collegiate season, we prefer that you attend, on average, three practices a week and participate in team events, like Relay for Life, Trivia Night, etc.

The vast majority of our races are triathlons, but during the off-season, we also participate in local 5ks and 10ks as well as some duathlons.

The NUTTs practice six days a week, but you can attend as many as you like per week. A typical week is made up of a track practice on Monday in the Fens track, spin practice Tuesday at Squashbusters, swim practice on Wednesday in Cabot, spin or brick (bike then run) workout on Thursday in Squashbusters, off day on Friday, group run on Saturday, and a swim practice on Sunday in Cabot. 

No you do not! We practice inside on spin bicycles in Squashbusters.

Of course you can!  We have highly experienced members who can help you reach whatever goals you set for yourself. Even if you don’t know how to swim, we can teach you how to do that as well! We also hold occasional transition clinics during the fall and spring semesters, and open water swim practices during the summer.