Get Ready for an Off-Road Adventure: XTERRA Triathlons are Back in the UK and Spain!

XTERRA, the premier off-road triathlon series in the world, is returning to the United Kingdom and Spain this year with a series of exciting and challenging events. These races will test your endurance, strength, and determination as you swim, bike, and run through some of the most beautiful and rugged terrain in the Spain and UK.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time competitor, these races are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. So, mark your calendars, get your mountain bike serviced, and get ready for an off-road adventure of a lifetime!

XTERRA returns to the UK

Xterra finally returns to the UK in 2023, with Weston Park in Shropshire set to host Xterra UK’s sprint, full-distance, e-bike, and duathlon races on 13 May 2023 organised by of the excellent team at Always Aim High Events.

With the increasing popularity of off-road multisport, now is the perfect opportunity to give it a try. But if you're still on the fence, here’s a quote from Jon Heasman (XTERRA Pro), a seasoned veteran of UK off-road triathlons

“Xterra brings adventure and triathlon together in a chilled-out way. With Xterra, what you get is what you don’t normally see. It’s off the beaten track, it follows the path least travelled and takes you to incredible places, often mountainous regions, and areas where the wildlife outnumbers the humans.”

Doug Hall – XTERRA UK Technical Director said “We’re over the moon to have found an amazing venue and to be working with Always Aim High Events to bring an XTERRA Triathlon back to the UK. We’ve already enjoyed success partnering with Always Aim High Events for our XTERRA Trail Run series, so it was an easy decision to team up again. We’re looking forward to giving the UK XTERRA community a chance to race at home and an opportunity to qualify for the 2023 World Championships in Trentino.”

The Sprint Distance Triathlon is a 750m lake swim, 13.7km bike and 5.3km run. The Full Distance Triathlon is a 1500m lake swim, 27.5km bike and 10.6km.

There’s also a Full Distance Duathlon event which features a 5.3KM run, 27.5km bike and then a 5.3km run

XTERRA also returns to the Costa Brava in Spain

Spain makes an eagerly awaited return to the tour with XTERRA Costa Brava offering a signature XTERRA race experience that combines elements of culture, challenge, and adventure.

‍Taking place just north of Barcelona, near the city of Girona, the race begins with a swim in the Mediterranean and ends with a cliff-side run that offers up arguably some of the best views on the tour. The region is a well-known area for triathlons and the event is driven by an experienced and respected team that will undoubtedly make Spain a bucket-list stop on the tour for years to come. Registration is not open yet but will be announced soon.

Trail Running Race in Competa, Spain

Training for an XTERRA Event

I’ve always loved getting on my mountain bike on the winter months to work on my bike skills and gain some extra core and leg strength. I love to get out on the trails to run and cycle and even enjoy the mud! Fortunately, I have many natural trails around where I live in Southern Spain but when I was in the UK, I used to go to specialised off-road mountain biking facilities to get my off-road fix of adrenaline. Two of my favourites were Cannock Chase in Staffordshire and  Chicksands Bike Park close to where I used to live. There are many more areas and bike parks in the UK and all over the world so no excuses to get out there and train!

If you're planning to participate in an XTERRA event, the key to success is building up your endurance, strength, and technical skills in each of the three disciplines: swimming, mountain biking, and trail running.

For swimming, the best way to prepare is to get in the water as much as possible. This means swimming regularly, doing interval training, and even practicing open water swimming if you have the opportunity. You can hone your open water skills in the swimming pool as well as in open water if you can’t get to an open water venue. Here’s a free book on how to train for open water and it includes pool-based sessions.

For mountain biking, the key is to get out and ride on off-road trails as much as possible. This will help you build endurance and improve your technical skills, such as descending, ascending and cornering. Plus, it will help to build your leg and core strength which is highly transferable to your standard triathlon races.

For trail running, the key is to hit the trails as much as possible. Running on off-road trails will help you build endurance and strength. You can read more about the benefits here.

In addition to focusing on each discipline, it's also important to mix in some cross-training exercises such as strength training, Pilates, or core work, and stretching to help improve your overall fitness and prevent injury. And don't forget to practice the transition between each discipline and to get used to the equipment and the specific conditions of the race. A periodized training plan that increases the intensity and volume progressively would be a good idea too.

Remember, the key is to have fun and enjoy the process!

Getting ready for sea swim training at ChiliTri in Spain

Training Plans and Coaching

Getting an XTERRA training plan or coach can be a great idea if you're new to off-road triathlons or want to improve your performance. They can help you set specific goals, create a structured training schedule, and provide guidance on how to best prepare for the unique challenges of XTERRA events.

A coach can give you feedback on your technique, help you improve your performance, and give you guidance on how to recover from training and racing. They can also help with nutrition and race strategy and keep an eye on your progress.

A training plan can also be helpful, it can give you a detailed and structured approach to training, including progressive increase in volume and intensity, periodization, and recovery. It's also good for athletes who prefer to train independently.

It's important to note that a coach or a training plan alone can't guarantee success in an XTERRA event, but they can help keep you motivated, focused and on track throughout your training. And let's face it, having a coach or a plan makes the journey more fun and less stressful.

My XTERRA training plans are designed to help you achieve your best performance in an off-road triathlon. They include a detailed and structured approach to training, including progressive increase in volume and intensity, periodization, and recovery. The plans are tailored to help you build endurance, strength, and technical skills in each of the three disciplines: swimming, mountain biking, and trail running.

Not only will the plans help you physically prepare for the race, but it will also help you mentally prepare by providing a clear schedule, and specific goals.

Additionally, the plans include cross-training exercises such as strength training, plyometrics, and deep stretching to help improve overall fitness and prevent injury. The plans are also flexible and adaptable to your schedule and lifestyle.

With my XTERRA training plans, you will be able to train smarter and not harder, giving you the best chance to perform your best on race day!

XTERRA Training Plans on TrainingPeaks, FinalSurge and TrainingTilt

Here are my XTERRA and off-road training plans in various formats to help get your ready for an off-road triathlon. If you can’t see the right plan for your email me (karen.parnell@chilitri.com) and I will create it for you so you can experience the thrill of an XTERRA race this year.

TrainingPeaks

XTERRA Full Course Off-Road Triathlon Plan on TrainingPeaks

Hit the Trails Off-Season Training Plan on TrainingPeaks

XTERRA Long Course Off-Road Triathlon Plan (Heart Rate) on TrainingPeaks

XTERRA Long Course Off-Road Triathlon Plan (Power) on TrainingPeaks

FinalSurge

XTERRA Long Course, Full Course (Oly) and Short Course training plan on FinalSurge

Hitting the Trails plan on FinalSurge

TrainingTilt

XTERRA Full Course 8-week training plan on TrainingTilt

XTERRA Full Course 12-week training plan on TrainingTilt

XTERRA training plan from ChiliTri on the TrainingTilt platform

Conclusion

If you're considering taking the leap and participating in an XTERRA event, it's important to remember that training and preparation are key to success. Building endurance, strength, and technical skills in each of the three disciplines: swimming, mountain biking, and trail running is essential. And by incorporating cross-training exercises such as strength training, Pilates or core work, and stretching, you can improve overall fitness and prevent injury.

A training plan or coach can also be a great way to stay motivated, focused and on track throughout the training process. They can provide guidance on how to best prepare for the unique challenges of an XTERRA event, and help you set specific goals.

But it's important to note that a coach or a training plan alone cannot guarantee success in an XTERRA event, as much of it depends on the individual's own effort and dedication to training.

But most importantly, don't forget to have fun and enjoy the journey!

An XTERRA event is an opportunity to challenge yourself and push your limits, but it's also a chance to explore beautiful and rugged terrain, and to be part of an exciting and supportive community.

Karen Parnell is a Level 3 British Triathlon and IRONMAN Certified Coach, WOWSA Level 3 open water swimming coach and NASM Personal Trainer and Sports Technology Writer. 

Need a training plan? I have plans on TrainingPeaks, FinalSurge and FinalSurge IRONMAN marketplace:

TrainingPeaks

FinalSurge

I also coach a very small number of athletes one to one for all triathlon distances, open water swimming events and running races, email me for details and availability. Karen.parnell@chilitri.com

FAQ: XTERRA Off-Road Triathlon

What is an XTERRA triathlon?

An XTERRA triathlon is an off-road race that includes swimming, mountain biking, and trail running. The races typically take place in natural settings such as forests, mountains, and beaches, and feature challenging terrain and obstacles.

How long is an XTERRA triathlon?

The length of an XTERRA triathlon can vary depending on the specific event. However, most Full Distance races consist of a 1.5 km swim, a 27-40 km mountain bike ride, and a 10-15 km trail run. There are Sprint Distance XTERRA events which are 750 m open water swim, 12-16 km mountain bike ride and 4-5 km trail run.

What equipment do I need for an XTERRA triathlon?

You will need a mountain bike, a helmet, and appropriate clothing and footwear for the swim, bike, and run portions of the race. You may also want to consider using a hydration pack or carrying water bottles on the bike, as well as a set of trail running shoes.

What is the age requirement to participate in an XTERRA triathlon?

Age requirements can vary depending on the specific event, but most XTERRA triathlons have a minimum age of 18 years old. Some events may also have a maximum age limit, so be sure to check the race website for specific details.

Can I participate in an XTERRA triathlon as a relay team?

Yes, many XTERRA triathlons offer relay options for teams of two or three people, where each member completes one discipline. Be sure to check the event website for specific relay rules and registration

Are there any specific training requirements for an XTERRA triathlon?

As an off-road triathlon, XTERRA races are more challenging than traditional road triathlons. Training for these races will require a good level of endurance, strength, and technical skills. It is recommended to have experience in swimming, cycling and running, as well as some knowledge of off-road terrain.

How can I register for an XTERRA triathlon?

Registration for XTERRA triathlons is typically done through the event's website. You can find a list of upcoming events and registration links on the official XTERRA website.

References

The best off-road triathlons to do this year - 220 Triathlon

XTERRA is back in the UK after joining… | Always Aim High Events

Big Changes and Expectations for the 2023 EMEA Tour (xterraplanet.com)

Image from XTERRA

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