Cross Your First Finish Line Program
Your first triathlon finish line is closer than you think and you won’t cross it alone.
Maryland’s only first-time triathlon program led by both a Performance Dietitian and a certified Triathlon & Running Coach so your training and nutrition are built together from day one.
You’ve been thinking about doing a triathlon. Maybe for months. Maybe for years. But something’s holding you back.
- The swim terrifies you. You’re not sure you can make it across open water without panic setting in.
- The nutrition confusion overwhelms you. What do you eat before? During? After? How do you fuel three sports without bonking or getting sick?
- The intimidation factor stops you. Triathlon feels like it’s for “real athletes” not regular people who just want to challenge themselves.
- You don’t know where to start. The gear, the training, the logistics, the race day unknowns all feel like too much.
The Cross Your First Finish Line Triathlon Program is built specifically around those fears. The swim anxiety, the nutrition confusion, the gear overwhelm, the “am I even an athlete?” voice in your head. In 16 weeks, we quiet all of it.
In 16 weeks, you’ll go from wherever you are now (even if you’ve never swum a lap or don’t own a bike) to crossing your first triathlon finish line with confidence, proper fueling, and a complete understanding of what it takes to race smart.
What Makes CROSS YOUR FIRST FINISH LINE Different
Most beginner triathlon programs hand you a training plan and wish you luck. Some add a nutrition clinic as an afterthought. Cross Your First Finish Line is different because nutrition isn’t an add-on. It’s built into every single week of your training, by the same coach writing your workouts.
Coach Cassandra is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian specializing in endurance sports nutrition AND a USA Triathlon Coach, RRCA Running Coach, and NASM Certified Personal Trainer. You don’t get a training plan from one person and nutrition advice from another. You get one integrated strategy from someone who holds both sides of the equation.
Everything You Need to Cross That Finish Line
Access to the Team Catalyst Training Hub
Every participant receives access to the Hub, a comprehensive education platform covering training education, race nutrition, hydration science, supplement strategies, and fueling protocols to meet daily and training nutrition needs.
Small Group, Big Support
Capped at 15 athletes not 150. You get individualized attention, a personalized nutrition plan, and direct access to an RD and coach that would typically run $300+/month in private coaching. Here it’s all included.
Program Benefits
- 16 Week Periodized Training Plan designed for Sprint or Olympic distance
- Weekly Training Adjustments based on your progress and recovery
- Full Access to Team Catalyst Training Hub
- Personalized Race Day Fueling Plan customized to your race distance, intensity, and GI tolerance
- Monthly Team Call
- Clinics & Workshops (In Person & Remote opportunities)
- Race Day Support (Goal Race Selection Assistance, Pre-Race Strategy Call, Race Morning Timeline, Post-Race Debrief, On Course Support for Team Catalyst Races)
Who This Program Is For
You’re ready if you:
- Can swim at least 25 yards freestyle
- Have access to a road bike and helmet
- Can currently walk and/or run for 20+ minutes continuously
This program is NOT for you if: You’re looking for a fully self-guided plan with no accountability You’ve already completed a triathlon and want advanced performance gains You’re not ready to commit to 16 weeks of consistent training
Ready to CROSS YOUR FIRST FINISH LINE?
Limited to 15 Athletes Per Cohort
Pay in Full
(SAVE $161)
MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN
4 Installments
Training Group Options
March Training Group
Start Date:
March 2, 2026
Race Weekend Options:
June 19-June 28, 2026
Registration Deadline:
February 25, 2026
April Training Group
Start Date:
April 13, 2026
Race Weekend Options:
August 1-15, 2026
Registration Deadline:
April 8, 2026
June Training Group
Start Date:
June 15, 2026
Race Weekend Options:
October 3-17, 2026
Registration Deadline:
June 10, 2026
Once accepted, complete registration and payment to reserve your place in the training group.
Questions? Email cassandra@fueling4performance.com
FAQs
You should be comfortable in water and able to swim at least one pool length. If you’re a true beginner swimmer, we recommend at least 4 basic swim lessons at your local pool before joining the program.
We’ll provide guidance on bike selection and purchasing during Week 1. You can also rent or borrow a bike for the first few weeks while you make your decision. Most local bike shops rent bikes.
Training is individualized to YOUR pace and abilities. Group sessions are supportive, not competitive. This program supports athletes of all abilities and sizes. Team Catalyst is a community and we support each other whether we finish 1st or last. Having the police car follow you in is as much a badge of honor as having it lead you to the tape!
YES! The training plans are delivered via the Training Peaks app, the training and nutrition hub and coaching communications are delivered via online platforms While some clinics and workshops are remote, there will also be in person options for local (Maryland area) skill clinics.
We’ll help you select from beginner friendly races where ever you are located. Team Catalyst races for this program are typically in Maryland, Virginia, or Pennsylvania. Race selection happens in Week 2-3 based on your schedule and goals.
Still on the fence? That’s okay — most athletes are before their first triathlon too. Book a free No Sweat Chat and let’s talk through whether this program is the right fit for where you are right now.