Aquathlon Races

An aquathlon is a multisport race made up of a swim followed by a run, with no cycling leg in between. You’ll swim first, head into transition to change into your running kit, then complete the run to the finish. As with most endurance events, distances vary, and the location of the swim can vary too. It might take place in a pool, lake, or the sea. An aquathlon is a straightforward way to get into multisport racing for anyone who likes the idea of combining swimming and running without the addition of a bike.

An aquathlon is certainly the simpler event of the two because it only combines two sports rather than three. But that doesn’t necessarily make the race itself any easier. Removing the cycling leg means you don’t need a bike or cycling kit, and there’s less to think about in transition. However, you’ll still need to swim and then start running, which can initially feel quite strange. If you want to compare the two formats in more depth, take a look at our UK triathlon events calendar.

Aquathlons often take place during the warmer part of the year, especially when the swim is outdoors. The current calendar is busiest around late summer and early autumn, with fewer races taking place during the winter. You can sometimes find pool-based events in the cooler months; it’s worth checking the calendar throughout the year to see what’s available.

There isn’t a set entry fee for aquathlons; it depends on the event, the distance and the type of entry. Short standalone races are usually inexpensive, which makes them great for someone who’s just starting out. Multisport festivals and entries that cover multiple races can cost considerably more. Aside from the entry fee, aquathlons are often cheaper to take part in than triathlons because you don’t have to buy a bike or any of the kit associated with cycling.

It’s not always a requirement to be able to swim front crawl, but swimming rules can vary between different aquathlon events. If another stroke feels more comfortable, check the rules before you enter to make sure the event is right for you. What you definitely do need is the confidence and fitness to swim the distance safely, especially if it takes place in open water. Tackling a pool-based race first will help you build confidence.

You don’t always need a wetsuit - it depends on where you’re swimming and the event rules. A pool aquathlon, for example, won’t usually involve a wetsuit, whereas at open-water events one may be required. British Triathlon competition rules make wetsuit use dependent on factors including water temperature, so it’s not just about the event or the venue. Make sure you check the organiser’s race information before the event.

Aquathlon transition is relatively simple on the face of it because you’re only changing from swimming to running. You’ll usually want your running shoes ready to put on, along with anything else the organiser requires you to wear for the run, like your race number. At an open-water event, you’ll also be taking off your wetsuit, if you’ve worn one. It’s a good idea to set your things out so you can find them quickly when you get out of the water, and check the event instructions beforehand in case anything has to be left in a specific place.