Democratising Triathlon: How the supertri-MyWhoosh Partnership is Revolutionising Access and Engagement
By Chris Williams
I often say to people, if you don’t love triathlon, you probably know somebody who does.
And that somebody you know doesn’t just love it - they really love it This sort of remarkable dedication within the triathlon community has perpetuated its growth, but the sport now finds itself at a crossroads.
On the one hand, there’s a growing appetite for endurance sports, fuelled by platforms such as Strava. On the other hand, we face shocking statistics around declining activity levels in young people. With childhood obesity emerging as one of the most serious public health challenges of our time, it seems fair to say that getting more young people swimming, biking, and running can only help.
But let’s address the reality - the barriers to entry for triathlon have always been high. The training and participation present a unique set of challenges. From logistical complexities of coordinating swim, bike, and run sessions to the significant time commitment required, the sport can often feel inaccessible to many. At supertri, we recognise these barriers and see an opportunity to revolutionise the way people engage with triathlons. Our ethos is underpinned by a willingness to break boundaries and to inspire the competitor in everyone. This was the driving force behind the launch of supertri E (formerly the Arena Games) in partnership with World Triathlon.
We are committed to making the sport more approachable. By leveraging technology, we’ve developed an event format that has added a new dimension to the sport. Our vision is for supertri E to become a gateway for the sport; allowing more people to experience the thrill of triathlon, and fostering a community where everyone, regardless of their experience level, can participate and feel a sense of achievement.
This is where we found ourselves truly aligned with MyWhoosh.
Reducing Barriers to Entry
The landscape of triathlon training and competition is often marred by high costs and accessibility issues. Other platforms, while popular, come with subscription fees that can be prohibitive for many aspiring triathletes. MyWhoosh, however, offers a zero cost alternative, opening doors to a broader audience.
This accessibility is crucial in fostering a more inclusive sporting community. MyWhoosh's user-friendly interface and comprehensive training programs cater to both beginners and seasoned athletes, providing a playing field for all participants. This democratisation of access is a game-changer, enabling more people to experience the benefits and joys of running and cycling.
Community Engagement Through Virtual Competitions
One of the most exciting aspects of the supertri-MyWhoosh partnership is how we can engage the community differently. Virtual competitions and events, utilising technology to bring people together. These events are not just about competing; they are about creating rewarding experiences which meet multiple different needs.
Our ambition, in partnership with MyWhoosh, is to extend the opportunities to participate in the likes of supertri E. We aim to allow participants to train and compete from anywhere in the world, breaking down geographical barriers and creating a truly global community. These events encourage regular participation, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging among participants at all levels. The interactive nature of the platform, coupled with social features and community challenges, ensures that engagement remains high and participants stay motivated.
The Transformative Impact of Technology
Technology is at the heart of our approach. It enables us to standardise and simplify triathlon participation, making it less daunting and more appealing. Digital platforms bridge the gap between training and competition, providing participants with a meaningful and engaging experience. With real-time feedback, virtual training environments, and community support, technology allows us to create a more inclusive and supportive culture.
This technological innovation is particularly relevant in the Middle East, where environmental and infrastructural factors often limit outdoor exercise opportunities. However, state-of-the-art gyms equipped with treadmills and stationary bikes offer a viable alternative. By leveraging these facilities, supertri-E and MyWhoosh can provide a safe and effective way for people to engage in triathlon training, overcoming the unique barriers faced in this region to increase participation.
Future Vision
Looking ahead, our vision is to one day integrate supertri-E into fitness centres worldwide, much like established brands such as Les Mills or CrossFit. We aim to make triathlon training a familiar and accessible activity for everyone. By developing formats like duathlons and functional fitness events, we’re lowering participation barriers even further.
Imagine a world where local fitness centres host supertri-E events regularly, where participants of all ages and abilities can train and compete in a supportive environment. This isn’t just about sports; it’s about building communities, fostering connections, and inspiring a healthier, more active society. Our journey is just beginning, and we’re excited to see where it takes us.
By acknowledging the challenges and seizing the opportunities, leveraging the power of technology, and fostering strategic partnerships, we’re making the sport more inclusive and accessible.
Together with MyWhoosh, we’re not just changing the way people view triathlons; we’re transforming lives through sport.
