"It's 99% mental. 1% physical. If they put in the time and effort and the dedication, you can do it!" says UWEC Triathlon Club President, Ryan Rypel.

The sport of triathlon has seen a drastic increase in participation since its introduction to the Olympics in 2000. Wisconsin's natural environment offers a perfect setting for the sport.

I've lived in Wisconsin my whole life and most of the people I meet love the outdoors, love being in a real lake instead of a pool and so it just makes it more fun," says Tim Deckers.

Just last year the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire started a triathlon club, to not only compete regionally and nationally, but to give students another option of exercise.

"We don't stress time, we don't stress trying to do as many workouts as you can," Deckers adds. "We stress having fun and being active."

"Signing up for the triathlon is just pretty much the biggest step because then you know you're in it and then you have to train for it," Jarred Weiser comments.

One of the biggest draws to the sport is the total body conditioning and low impact as one switches from swimming, biking, and running on a daily basis. Triathlon invites people of all ages to participate. According to USA Triathlon the age group of 30-49 year olds has seen the largest involvement.

"It doesn't matter your size, your capabilities, just the achievement of finishing," says Corey Finch. "Doesn't matter if you come in last or first, it's just the ability to finish."

"Everyone out there knows how strenuous of a sport it is and how difficult it is to do this," adds Rypel. "So whether your first or last, everyone will respect you and be like 'you did it, good job, now you can brag to your friends and you can eat a whole bunch of food'."