Wetsuits for Iron Girl Atlanta

The lake for Iron Girl Atlanta should be plenty warm by mid-May. A wetsuit should not be needed. However, if you really, really think you want one, the least expensive one that I am aware of is made by Xterra. They make a $99 sleeveless model that will keep you plenty warm in water that's around 68 degrees and above. Many people like to use a sleeveless model even when the water is in the low to mid-60's. Here is the link: http://www.xterrawetsuits.com/catalog/categories/womens/wetsuits/. Zoot, Desoto, Orca, Aqua Sphere, Nineteen, and Neosport are also triathlon wetsuit makers.

Triathlon wetsuits are designed for warmth, flotation, and ease of movement when swimming freestyle. Unlike a surfing-type wetsuit, triathlon wetsuits have a slick outer surface and are made of neoprene that is extra flexible to allow for good arm movement. They also have the added advantage of being thicker in certain places that help you float more easily, making swimming easier.

Some of the disadvantages are that if the water is fairly warm, you may become overheated in them. The also take time to take off once you exit the water. Practice taking them off will mitigate the time factor.

One more note: according to race rules...
Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

Iron Girl Atlanta 2011

Registration for Iron Girl Atlanta opened on December 31. Seven family members and friends signed up to do a triathlon together and will be coached by me as I prepare them to be comfortable and ready come race day, 15 May 2011. They will be helping Linda celebrate the successful treatment of her breast cancer. Everyone will be taking on the challenge of completing their first triathlon while they get in shape, improve their health, and share the experience with each other.

Training plans will officially begin February 21 but if you have other New Year's Resolutions or are just anxious to get started, I can help you sooner. No pressure to do anything now but I will say that one person is ready to dive in!