Now you are really feeling antsy, and you're starting to fear that you will lose your fitness with such a light workout schedule. Don't worry about that. You don't lose fitness in one week. Stay with the program.

Now is a good time to concentrate on visualizing your race. If your triathlon is taking place in or very near your hometown, take the time to visit the venue. Ride the bicycle course if you can, but go slow — it's not a workout. If your race is too far away for a quick visit, go over the course details again, especially elevation charts to remind yourself about where you will encounter hills during the race.

Practice your transition moves in the extra time provided by the light training schedule. At this point, the transition from bike to run should be automatic, something you can do correctly without thinking. This is not just for the elite racers. The more things you do well, the more confidence you will feel going into your first triathlon.

Checkups

The final week before your race is a good time to take your bicycle to your local shop for servicing and adjustments. Also, if you don't already have them, consider purchasing an extra pair of swim goggles. You never know when you might need a pair with darker lenses.

With a week to go, you should be able to find a reasonably accurate race-day weather forecast on the Internet. What you find out might not be entirely to your liking, but forewarned is forearmed. Now is the time to make your checklist (see the next chapter for what should be included) for the race.

Mind Games

With a week to go, you should be feeling like a caged animal. It's okay. Just try to harness that nervous energy, and work at relaxing and staying calm. Keep your thoughts positive, even if some weather issues are looming. Remember, everyone in the race will face the same challenge.

If you have a triathlon magazine handy, check for articles about the people in the sport. Someone's story might inspire you. But be careful if you read about some new technique, training regimen, energy bar, or drink. You don't want to try anything new so close to the race.