An Olympic triathlon is a great "next step" up from a Sprint distance race, and even a good beginner race if you've got the fitness to swim 1.5K, bike 40K and run 10K. But before you jump into your training, you should take into consideration a few of these Olympic triathlon training myths. (Click HERE for Part 1)

Olympic Triathlon Training Myth #4: You Have To Shave Your Body To Do A Triathlon.

Whole body shaving can reduce turbulent flow of the water against the skin, and assist with a quick wetsuit exit both of which can shave a few seconds from your time thus making whole body shaving a good choice for an elite athlete or individual who wishes to gain as many advantages as possible. But it might be a waste of time and razors if you're just getting into triathlon.

However, shaved arms and legs can assist with ease of cleaning wounds from bicycle crashes. Waxing can be expensive, and razor can be be time-consuming, so both have their disadvantages! So if you do decide to keep yourself trimmed (especially you guys), we advise an electric razor for the initial shave, followed by a three or four blade hand held razor, used along with a good shaving cream.

Olympic Triathlon Training Myth #5: There Isn't A Big Difference Between A Road Bike With Aerobars and a Tri Bike With Aerobars.

A short summary of the difference between a road bike and tri bike is as follows: The road bike geometry is designed for an upright riding position and greater utilization of the gluteus and hamstring muscles, which is not ideal for aerodynamics or running off the bike. The steeper aero bike geometry results in greater aerodynamic advantages and quadriceps utilization, both of which are crucial for time trialing and running off the bike.

Olympic Triathlon Training Myth #6: Fancy Bike Shoes Are Only For the Pros.

The "fancy bike shoes" have cleats on the bottom, and these cleats allow you to clip your feet into your bike pedals. When your feet are "clipped in", you can generate more power and speed, because you are pulling up on the pedals with each stroke. In addition, bike shoes have a more firm sole, resulting in greater foot comfort and distribution of forces across the entire foot, especially when compared to cycling in relatively softer soled running shoes. So if you begin early by learning how to use the bike shoes, you give yourself an enormous advantage.

Olympic Triathlon Training Myth #7: Any Wetsuit Will Do.

Because of the thicker rubber and fewer areas of thin or flexible paneling, a surfing wetsuit can severely affect your ability to rotate your shoulders properly and to swim with an efficient freestyle stroke. Triathlon wetsuits were designed with an enormous focus on allowing a triathlete to swim efficiently and comfortably. So while a surfing wetsuit will offer the same degree of warmth as a triathlon wetsuit, it could actually slow you down more than simply not wearing a wetsuit at all!

I hope myths help you out in your Olympic triathlon training! For more tips just like this, and to really feel fantastic in your next race, visit the Rock Star Triathlete Academy, at http://www.rockstartriathleteacademy.com/freevideogift .

Ben Greenfield is the Renaissance man of the sport of triathlon.

He's a fast triathlete, a coach, a personal trainer, and much more more.

We recommend that you surf on over to
www.bengreenfieldfitness.com , for more great training advice.

Follow on twitter @ everymantri or view latest videos on YouTube .