From Age Grouper to Pro Triathlete: The Truth About Going Pro

What does it actually take to become a professional triathlete? In this episode of the Tribe Triathlon Podcast, Coach John Mayfield sits down with professional triathlete Garrett to discuss his journey from a swimmer and runner in a small Texas town to earning his professional triathlon license and competing at the elite level of the sport. Garrett shares the full story of how he discovered triathlon, racing in college at Texas A&M, and what it took to transition from age-group athlete to professional triathlete. He also explains the reality of going pro in triathlon, including the challenges many athletes face when stepping into elite competition. The conversation dives deep into triathlon training, recovery, injury prevention, and performance optimization. With his background as a doctor of chiropractic, Garrett also breaks down some of the most common injuries endurance athletes face and how triathletes can stay healthy while training for Ironman and 70.3 races. If you're a triathlete balancing training with career, family, and life, this episode is packed with insights to help you train smarter and avoid common mistakes. In This Episode Garrett’s journey to becoming a professional triathlete Racing triathlon at Texas A&M The transition from short-course to long-course racing Why most athletes underestimate what it takes to go pro Triathlon injury prevention tips from a chiropractor Common injuries in endurance athletes (IT band, plantar fasciitis, Achilles) How to balance training load and recovery The mindset required to compete at the elite level Follow & Subscribe If you enjoy conversations about triathlon training, racing, and endurance performance, make sure to subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode. Connect With Tribe Triathlon Website: www.tribetriathlon.net Coaching: www.tribetriathlon.net/coaching Instagram: @johntribetribetriathlon Podcast: www.tribetriathlon.net/podcast Keywords triathlon training, professional triathlete, ironman training, triathlon injuries, endurance sports, triathlon coaching, 70.3 training, ironman racing, triathlon podcast, age group triathlon, endurance athlete training --- Welcome to TRIbe Triathlon. Where long course triathletes come to train smarter, race stronger, and live better. Hosted by John Mayfield, a passionate coach with more than a decade of experience racing and guiding athletes from first-timers to professionals and everyone in between, TRIbe Triathlon is your weekly resource for practical wisdom, grounded strategies, and honest conversations about the sport we love. We dive deep into the science and art of triathlon—from training and recovery to nutrition, mindset, and gear—while keeping sight of what matters most: staying physically and mentally healthy, balancing family and faith, and thriving beyond the finish line. Whether you're chasing a PR or your first IRONMAN finish, join the TRIbe and elevate your long course journey—one episode at a time.