1. What is the Triathlon Time Predictor?

The Triathlon Time Predictor estimates your finish time for a new distance based on your performance at a reference distance. It uses a power-law relationship between distance and time that accounts for the non-linear increase in effort with distance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( T_{new} \) — Predicted time for new distance (minutes)
• \( T_{ref} \) — Your known time for reference distance (minutes)
• \( D_{new} \) — New race distance (miles or km)
• \( D_{ref} \) — Reference race distance (miles or km)
• \( k \) — Exponent (typically ≈1.06 for triathlons)

Explanation: The exponent k accounts for the fact that speed decreases slightly as distance increases due to fatigue and pacing requirements.

3. Importance of Time Prediction

Details: Accurate time prediction helps athletes set realistic goals, plan pacing strategies, and estimate nutrition/hydration needs for races of different distances.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Use recent race times for best accuracy. The exponent k can be adjusted based on your personal fatigue curve (1.06 is a good starting point for most triathletes).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use 1.06 as the exponent?
A: Research shows this value works well for most triathletes, accounting for the non-linear increase in effort with distance.

Q2: How accurate are these predictions?
A: They provide reasonable estimates but individual factors like course difficulty, conditions, and fitness changes affect actual performance.

Q3: Can I use this for individual disciplines?
A: Yes, but exponents may vary (swim ≈1.02, bike ≈1.05, run ≈1.07-1.10).

Q4: Does this work for ultra-distance triathlons?
A: The relationship may break down for very long distances where other factors dominate.

Q5: How should I adjust for different course types?
A: For hilly courses, add 5-10% to predicted time. For very flat courses, subtract 2-5%.