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Caught a glimpse of some multisport action taking place in rugged landscapes and want to find out more? No bother. Here\u2019s 220\u2019s Kate Milsom to tell you all about off-road triathlon and how you can get involved.<\/strong><\/p>\n Off-road triathlon, also called cross triathlon or x-tri, is a triathlon done entirely off-road. The discipline is said to have made its debut in 1996 during a race in Maui, Hawaii. Since then, its gained in popularity with races taking place across the world, including championship series from Xterra and World Triathlon.<\/p>\n Distances for cross triathlon races can vary, but typically events consist of a one-kilometre swim, 20-30km mountain bike (MTB) and a 6-10km trail run. Swims are open water, while mountain bike legs can vary in difficulty and technicality, and runs are often hilly and challenging.<\/p>\n Cross triathlon requires significantly different training to your normal on-road triathlon. Racers must be prepared for all eventualities and unknown terrain. To train for this, we\u2019d recommend run sessions on trails and mud, with plenty of hills to boot.<\/p>\n It might seem short, but the MTB section of a cross triathlon requires a huge amount of skill and fitness, so be sure to practise your technical MTB skills over challenging paths and obstacles. If you\u2019re not confident off-roading, then joining a local trail running or MTB club can be a great way start building your skills.<\/p>\n <\/p><\/div> <\/section> If you\u2019re planning to take on an off-road triathlon, you\u2019ll need to invest in specific kit. The big one, as you might expect, is a mountain bike. The route and terrain your race covers will determine what type of mountain bike you\u2019ll need, whether that be a hardtail mountain bike or one with full suspension.<\/p>\nWhat is off-road triathlon?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
How long are off-road triathlons?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
How fit do I have to be to do an off-road triathlon?<\/strong><\/h2>\n
What kit will I need for an off-road triathlon?<\/strong><\/h2>\n