Frequently Asked Questions

We've attempted to answer any questions you might have about our race here. Think we missed one? Email us at triclub@msu.edu.

What is a triathlon?
Very simply, a triathlon is a swim, bike and run, usually in that order. In a typical outdoor triathlon, participants race over a set distance to complete the course as fast as they can. It's like a marathon or 5K road race, but with biking and swimming in addition to running.

How is an indoor triathlon different?
Rather than racing over a set distance, indoor triathlons typically have participants race for a set time. The goal is to cover as much distance as possible in the given time. Most indoor races also use a points system to help scale the results so that swimming a mile (which is fairly difficult) is worth more than biking a mile (which is pretty easy).

How does the IronMAC Indoor Triathlon work?
In the IronMAC, participants race a 20 minute swim, 20 minute bike and 20 minute run. The entire race is held inside out of Michigan's brutal weather. You'll swim in a six-lane pool (each racer gets their own lane), bike on a stationary bike and run around Michigan's largest indoor track (five laps to a mile). You can find the points system we use on the scoring page.

How do transitions work?
After each 20 minute portion, participants are given 5 minutes to move to the next area. Each station is less than 200 feet apart, so you'll have no trouble getting from one point to another. During this time you may use the restroom, change clothes, grab some nutrition or just relax. If a racer takes more than 5 minutes during their transition, they will lose time from the next 20-minute interval. This is a strict policy that we must follow to ensure our event stays on schedule. We'll have volunteers at each station to let you know when it's time to start racing again, so you don't have to keep track of the 5 minutes on your own.

Am I responsible for keeping track of my own distance?
No. We provide volunteers that count your swim laps, record your bike mileage and count your run laps. They complete a score card for you after each discipline that then follows you to the next area. We then collect the score cards at the end to calculate your score.

What kind of equipment do I need?
Unlike an outdoor triathlon, there is very little gear required for an indoor triathlon. You'll definitely need goggles, a swim suit and running shoes. That's it!

What do I wear?
Most people will wear a swim suit, triathlon shorts or full triathlon uniform on the swim. Women typically wear one-piece suits while guys will wear jammers (tight-fitting swim suits with legs that go down to mid-thigh) or Speedos. If you've only got a two-piece bathing suit or baggy swim suit for days at the beach, that's fine too. Triathlon shorts are very similar to cycling shorts, but include a thinner pad that dries quicker and is less restrictive on the run. Both triathlon shorts and tops are typically made from a Lycra or polyester material and is meant to be tight-fitting.

Most people who wear a swim suit on the swim will typically throw on a pair of shorts during the transition prior to the bike. Additionally, it is REQUIRED that all participants wear a shirt or top during the bike and run portions of the race. For the courtesy of other racers and MAC guests, please be prepared to follow this rule. We do not want to see any bare torsos.

Can I use a wetsuit/pull buoy/fins during the swim?
No. Devices that aid a swimmer are strictly prohibited. Race officials are the sole judges of what equipment can and can't be used, so ask if you're unsure. Besides, this is a heated pool and you might sponatneously combust if you swim hard while wearing a wetsuit.

Do I need my own bike?
No! All participants must ride on stationary bikes that are provided by the Michigan Athletic Club. These bikes have been calibrated to accurately record the distance each participant covers.

Can I use my iPod/MP3 player/CD player on the bike or run?
We strongly discourage the use of personal audio devices during the race. We want participants to be aware of fellow competitors and supportive of their races. Leave the headphones in the locker and be an active participant in the entire race experience. Additionally, your motivation should come from your training, confidence and focus — not a lame hip-hop beat.You should also know that nearly every outdoor triathlon strictly bans the use of audio devices at any time during the race.

Why are times slots limited to six people?
The swim portion of our race is held in a six-lane pool, allowing us to start only six people every 20 minutes.

I want to race with my friend in the same heat. Can I do that? We are happy to make accomodations for friends that wish to race together. To increase the likelihood that you are placed together, make sure that you select the same three preferred start times on your registration from. Also make a note on BOTH registration forms that includes the name of the person you would like to race with. It's extremely helpful if you drop off or mail in the two registration forms together. The early forms are submitted, the easier it is for us to place racers in the same heat.

I registered for the race, but now I can't make it. Can I get my money back?
We are unable to offer refunds for our race. Sorry.

Can I transfer my spot to someone else?
Yes. If you are unable to race, we can replace your spot with another person. Transfers that occur before March 1 are processed for free, but after that date there is a $5 fee. The initial registrant must contact us at triclub@msu.edu to initiate a transfer. Neither MSU Triathlon or the Michigan Athletic Club issue a refund to the original registrant for a transfer. The two parties are responsible for settling any money exchange.