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The Mass-Start in Triathlon

If you've never set foot in a triathlon, open water swimming might scare you: no lines to guide you, just you and the ocean (or the lake, or the river…) 🌊. Levels vary, no one is a champion everywhere. That's the fun of triathlon. We make up for our weaknesses! 😅

Starts always begin with swimming in a lake or the sea. Either you dive in en masse with everyone (mass start) 🫣, or you go one after the other (rolling start) ☝️. The pros, on the other hand, start together to keep the spectacle clear 🚀.

The types of starts: There are different types of starts in open water swimming!

🔹 The most famous: the mass start!

In short, everyone starts at the same time when the siren sounds 🚨. It is a dreaded moment for beginners: there are kicks, jostling, and even times when someone might grab your feet while swimming 🏊. The mass start can be frightening, with all the participants around you diving into the water 💦. In the midst of this melee, it's called the "washing machine". If you aren't comfortable with swimming, it is advised to stay on the sides and get back to your swimming line later. It is better to swim a bit farther than to have to stop due to contact with other competitors. Indeed, triathlons come with their share of surprises 🎁, and it starts right from the swim. But don't worry, it's just part of the fun.

🔹 The newcomer: the rolling start!

It's becoming more popular: it's a safer solution for everyone, both organizers and participants ✅. It might take away a bit of the challenge's charm... unless you start with others! Generally, you are allowed to start in groups of 5 to 9 athletes, at regular intervals 🔥. This type of start has the advantage of limiting the number of people starting simultaneously in XS triathlons to L, for example, significantly reducing the risks of jostling. So, stay calm: your stress will decrease, and everything will go well! 😌

Positioning at the start: Depending on your level, it is crucial to strategically position yourself 🤔.

🔹 If you are a beginner: Does swimming stress you? You can stay back. As the saying goes, "there's no point in running; you must start on time." It's better to start last to focus on your swimming 🎓.

🔹 If your level is intermediate: Yes, sorry to disappoint you, but it's often you who takes the most hits. But well, that's part of the game 😆. Stay calm, find openings and wider spaces.

🔹 If you are someone strategic and a good swimmer: Be smart: position yourself behind the excellent swimmers who will clear the path to the first buoy 🛟. The start is intense, many will go too fast... Knowing your abilities is crucial 🥵.

And you, do you lean more towards the mass start or the rolling start?