Which three events are required to complete a triathlon?

A triathlon is a multi-sport race that is specifically characterized by its three distinct disciplines: swimming, biking (or cycling), and running. In a standard triathlon format, participants start with the swimming segment, transition to cycling, and finish with a running segment. This sequence tests the athletes’ endurance and versatility across different physical skills.

The swimming portion is typically held in open water, such as lakes or oceans, or in a pool, depending on the type of triathlon. Following the swim, athletes transition to their bicycles for the cycling leg, which varies in distance based on the triathlon's specific format (sprint, Olympic, half, or full Ironman). Finally, the triathletes complete the race with a running segment, which can also vary in distance according to the event's classification.

The other options include activities that do not align with the recognized structure of a triathlon. For instance, running and jumping are not typically combined in any standardized multi-sport event similar to a triathlon, and rowing does not substitute for biking nor is it featured in triathlons. The inclusion of hiking in the last option strays further from the core triathlon disciplines. Thus, swimming, biking, and running are indeed