Triathlon Preparation & Equipment

Triathlon athletes know that their discipline is unique in the world of endurance sports. Not only are these individuals fit enough to exert themselves for hours without rest, they are also trained in three different arenas. Swimming, cycling, and running are arguably the sports requiring the most perseverance and dedication to master and tri-athletes strive to do just that.

The sport also requires special equipment. For those serious about their performance here is a list of things you might want to consider.

Swimming:
Wetsuit. Preferably one made for triathlons. They are more suited for the movements of swimming than traditional suits.
Body glide or gel. This is helpful when applied before the wetsuit. It aids in quick wetsuit removal and then also reduced friction during the cycling and running legs of the race.
Goggles and Anti-fog. Good goggles are a must. Make sure they fit well and you have tested them in training before the race. Cold water swims will result in fogging which can make a difficult swim harder. Apply anti-fog before the race starts.
Swim Cap. These are generally provided for you in a specific color to denote your start wave. However, if the water is cold (say around 60-68 degrees) then you might want a thicker cap to double up with.

Cycling:
A good triathlon bike. These are different from a traditional road bike. There is no drafting allowed during triathlon races and so aerodynamics is critical. Triathlon bikes are built with different geometry to help with this. The more ‘forward’ position and ‘lower’ upper body profile reduces drag and increases efficiency. These bikes come with ‘aero’ bars that allow you to support your body in a narrower position. Traditional road bikes can be modified to work similar to triathlon bikes by adding aero bars to them.
Cycle shorts and Top. These should be slim and fit snug. This will decrease wind resistance while riding and allow you to wear them under the wetsuit. This makes for a quicker swim to cycle transition.
Aerodynamic Helmet. Again efficiency is everything on this leg of the race and every little bit helps.
Cycling gloves. A must in my mind. Crashes happen, and if you are protected it can make the unlucky setback far more bearable.
Bike mounted hydration system. You will need to drink much of your fluids and electrolytes during this leg. It is impossible while swimming and difficult while running. So, find a hydration system that mounts on your aero bars or frame with a straw-like device that makes it possible to drink while peddling.
Bike repair kit. There is no aid allowed on a race course and so if you run into bike issues it can end your race unless you are prepared to fix it. This also brings the need for a slim tool bag.

Running:
Shoes. This is the single most important piece of equipment for this leg of the race. They must be comfortable and already have gone through the ‘break in’ period. Tie them securely before starting out. Get a pair that you have used before, so that you trust them.
Sunglasses. Likely you will have used these during your ride as well. They should be light-weight and comfortable. UV protection is a must.
Running visor. While this is not a must it is nice on sunny days to have a little shade on your face and eyes.
Body mounted hydration. A great idea since it can seem like an eternity between aid stations. A soft belt or “waist-pack” like holder with a 1/2 liter water bottle will usually do it.
Clothing. Most people will run in the same clothes that they cycled in for shorter triathlons. Half-iron man and Iron man Triathlons require that a pair of comfortable shorts be changed into. Be sure to wear running socks with little or no seam. Other types of socks can result in blisters.

Being well prepared for the physical challenges of a triathlon starts with training, but on race day, equipment can play an equally critical role. I hope you found this helpful and informative. Visit our sponsor below to locate any missing pieces in your triathlon arsenal.  Or visit our Bike Store.