Leidse
Wintertriatlon
Running, cycling and skating through wintry Leiden. Start cold, finish warm.
Three disciplines,
one challenge.
The Leidse Wintertriatlon combines running, cycling and skating into one wintry challenge. Organized by ZVL-1886 from the De Vliet ice rink. With CrossFit Leiden as a proud sponsor.
It's not about the time (well, a little). It's about being outside in March, cheering each other on and hot chocolate after the finish.
Registration via inschrijven.nl · different start times per category.
The disciplines
A unique event combining three winter disciplines. No swimming, but skating. The perfect adventure for crossfitters who want to push their limits outside the gym too.
24 or 48 km of cycling against the clock, pure endurance
10 or 20 km of skating, the ultimate winter test
Distances & categories
Middle distance (17+)
Perfect as your first winter triathlon, or if the long distance still feels like too much.
- 5 km running
- 24 km cycling
- 10 km skating
Long distance (19+)
The ultimate test. For anyone who really wants to know what they're capable of.
- 10 km running
- 48 km cycling
- 20 km skating
Youth duathlon (up to 16)
For the younger athletes. No cycling leg, but still a great challenge.
- 2 km running
- 3 km skating
How can you prepare?
At CrossFit Leiden you're already building the foundation: endurance, explosive strength, mental resilience. That helps enormously in the winter triathlon.
Which classes help?
- HYROX classes: running conditioning and mental toughness
- Group Classes: general fitness and endurance
- Running Classes: extra technique, running drills and endurance for the running leg
Extra tips from our coaches
- Also train outside the gym: go running and cycling for real
- Practice skating if you're not used to it
- Build up slowly, avoid overtraining
- Discuss your plan with your coach for personal advice
Want a personal training plan?
Discuss your goals with one of our coaches. We're happy to help with specific preparation.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to know how to skate?
You don't have to be an experienced skater to join, especially not on the shorter distances. But being able to skate a bit does help. The De Vliet ice rink is open to the public, so you can practice there in advance. They also offer skating lessons. CrossFit Leiden does not teach skating.
Do I need to be fit to participate?
If you train regularly at CrossFit Leiden, you already have a good base. The middle distance is very doable if you train 3-4 times a week. For the long distance, some extra preparation is recommended.
Do I need a special bike?
No, a regular road bike or hybrid bike is fine. You don't need a time trial or triathlon bike. Do make sure your bike is in good condition and your tires are properly inflated.
What should I bring?
Running shoes, bike, helmet, skates (can sometimes be rented), sportswear for all disciplines, warm clothing for in between, drinks and snacks. Check the ZVL-1886 website for the complete list.
Can I participate in teams?
Check the organizer's website for the current rules. Some years there are team categories, other years it's individual only. It can differ per edition.
How long does the event take?
That depends on your pace and chosen distance. The middle distance takes an average of 2-3 hours, the long distance 4-6 hours. Also allow time for transitions between disciplines and warming up.
Do CrossFit Leiden members participate?
Yes! Every year several members join. It's always fun to train together and cheer each other on during the day itself. Ask around in the gym who's participating and join in!
What if the weather is bad?
The skating takes place inside the ice rink, so that always goes ahead. Running and cycling are outside, but the event goes ahead in almost all weather conditions. Dress well!
CrossFit Leiden is a proud sponsor of the Leidse Wintertriatlon · Organized by ZVL-1886