With time to expand and more exposure at its back, the sport of triathlon continues to parallel and even surpass some well-recognized American pastimes. As it is, millions throughout the country run, bike and swim, so why choose only one?

Adding to the argument that triathlon is becoming a mainstay in American sport, a recent survey by The Active Network, Inc. revealed that over 90% of individuals who consider themselves to be triathletes plan to participate in a 2011 event. All the while, 32% of the 1,560 respondents plan to participate in more than five.

Deemed the Active Lifestyle Panel, the study found that the number one motivator for competing in a triathlon was to accomplish a personal challenge, followed by staying in shape and enjoying the training journey, regardless of the distance of the race.

The study, meant to showcase the growing sport, had three key findings:

First, regardless of income level, triathletes spent an average of $2,135 in 2010 on gear alone to support their event participation and training (excluding travel or event entry fees);

Second, the average age of triathletes surveyed was 40 years old, with close to half earning an annual income of over $100K. Education levels are high as well with 40% having a college degree and over 40% having a post graduate degree;

Third, triathletes make time for training: Despite professional demands, triathletes make time for training, as 50% of those surveyed train for 10-15 hours a week with 33% indicating they train for three to four months leading up to an event.

In addition to those results, the report noted that the number of Ironman events being offered around the world continues to rise.  In 2006, when Ironman 70.3 was launched, there were 17 events worldwide. Today that number has grown to 42 Ironman 70.3 events spanning 22 countries.