Mike Finch, author of Triathlon: An Expert Guide To Triathlon Training and editor of Runner's World and Bicycling, suggests five beginner triathlons you could try...

For our triathlon training guide and all the tips you'll need to start your first triathlon get the November issue of WH now on sale.

BSG Energade Triathlon, Vanderbijlpark
4 December
600m swim, 20km bike, 5km run
This series is ideal for the beginner and is designed to be achievable. But learning how to swim in a big field is vital, so don't take the swim for granted. www.bsgmultisport.co.za

Suncoast Multisport Series, Suncoast Casino Durban
8 January
200m swim, 5km bike, 1.25km run
600m swim, 20km bike, 5km run
With two beginner friendly events, this series is ideal for the novice just wanting to get an idea of a multi-sport event. Great venue to boot. www.bactive.biz

Eleven Cape Town, Big Bay Blouberg Cape Town
19 February
750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run
Once you survive the chilly sea swim, you can enjoy a relatively flat course on the bike and run legs. Ideal for the first timer. www.11global.com

Totalsports Xterra Lite, Grabouw
29 February
400m swim, 12km mountain bike, 5km run
Get a little dirty with an off-road sprint distance triathlon at one of the most beautiful triathlon venues in the country. www.stillwatersports.co.za

Vodacom Corporate Triathlon Challenge, Port Elizabeth
21 April 2012
380m swim, 18km bike, 4.2km run
The race is held on the Saturday before the full SpecSavers Ironman triathlon and is 10% of the total distance of the full Ironman. www.corporatechallenge.co.za