Triathlon Lingo: A Beginner’s Guide to Speaking “Tri”

If you’re new to triathlons, you may feel like everyone around you is speaking in code—T1, brick, aero, bonk… what?

Don’t worry—this guide will help you crack the code and understand the most common triathlon terms so you can follow conversations, read training plans, and feel confident on race day.

Common Triathlon Terms You Should Know

1. T1

Transition 1 – The change from swimming to cycling. It’s where you ditch your wetsuit, grab your bike gear, and head out for the ride.

2. T2

Transition 2 – The change from cycling to running. You’ll rack your bike, swap shoes, and start your run.

3. Brick Workout

A training session that combines two disciplines back-to-back (usually bike → run) to prepare your body for the change in muscle use and pacing.

4. Aero Position

A streamlined riding position on the bike, often using aero bars, to reduce wind resistance and improve speed.

5. Bonk

That dreaded moment when your body runs out of energy mid-race—also known as “hitting the wall.” Usually caused by not fueling properly.

6. DNF

Did Not Finish – When a racer is unable to complete the race, whether due to injury, mechanical issues, or other circumstances.

7. Drafting

Riding close behind another cyclist to reduce wind resistance. In many triathlons (especially non-drafting races), it’s against the rules and can lead to penalties.

8. OWS

Open Water Swim – Swimming in lakes, oceans, or rivers, as opposed to a pool.

9. Negative Split

Running or cycling the second half of a race faster than the first half—a common pacing strategy.

10. Sighting

Lifting your head slightly during the swim to spot course buoys and make sure you’re swimming in the right direction.

11. Wetsuit Legal

A race where water temperature allows wetsuits according to governing body rules (often under 78°F / 25.5°C).

12. Brick Legs

That heavy, sluggish feeling in your legs after switching from cycling to running.

13. Aerobic Zone

A heart rate or effort level where your body uses primarily oxygen to produce energy—important for endurance building.

14. FOP / MOP / BOP

Front of Pack, Middle of Pack, Back of Pack—referring to where you typically finish in the race field.

15. PR / PB

Personal Record or Personal Best—your fastest time in a given race distance.