The Essential Triathlete

I read this book before competing in my first triathlon and found it extremely helpful and supportive. I recommend it to anyone who is considering training for a triathlon. Jonas is great at making you feel like you can accomplish anything. His advice is simple and solid. My only criticism is that he focuses too little on female triathletes. Most of his clothing and equipment advice is male-oriented.

I would say that this book can truly motivate those to get started on their first Triatholon with realistic goals in mind. The author gives realistic goals for those who are about to embark on a unfamilur journey into Triatholoning! Everywhere from Training to Technique to stoping for a Hamburger in the middle of a Triatholon. The author is so easy to relate to, and very entertaining! Can't wait to start my first Triatholon!

A month ago I watched the cyclists competing in the biking segment of the Chicago Mrs. T's Triathlon zoom by a block away from my home. I found myself cheering enthusiastically --I knew it was time I thought about competing in the triathlon next year.Steve Jonas' book is a wonderful source for people who know little about the triathlon but are drawn to the possibility of ever competing in one. It is written in a witty and light way, constantly reinforcing the message that "yes you can" complete a triathlon -- and that it can even be FUN! Steve provides training schedules for all levels of athletes, from casual walkers to aerobically-fit exercisers. Most importanly, he provides answers to the questions most beginners would be embarassed to ask (can you do the "Coney Crawl" during the swimming segment?).On the other hand, "The Complete Triathlete" is short and sweet - and it leaves the reader curious to know more. When exactly do I bike? What about technique? How do I supplement my schedule with weight training? For these answers, you'll have to look elsewhere.All in all, though, I highly recommend this book if you're even dreaming about doing a triathlon one day. By the time you finish Steve's book, you'll be on your way to realistically making your dream come true.

I bought this book when I began training for my first triathlon. It gave me the mind set that I needed to get through my first competition.

This is not the book for you if you are trying to place in the Ironman. Instead, it is an excellent book for those thinking about doing a triathalon, or recreational triathlete whose joy is in finishing the race. Jonas continually makes the point that you can do it, and have fun, without completely changing your life.I did sprint and standard triathalons in the late 80's -- 10 years and about 40 pounds ago. I still have a shelf of triathlon books by Dave Scott, Mark Allen, and Scott Tinley. But I was really looking for something to get me motivated again, get me a realistic training program, and be realistic with what I want to do -- get in better shape and finish the races. This book is exactly what I was looking for.