If you want to try a sprint triathlon, what equipment do you need?
Here’s a checklist:
Run:
- hydration belt or insulated water bottle
- cap or visor (keep the sun out of your eyes)
- sunglasses (optional) – TYR has a great pair of lightweight sunglasses. I also like the ROKA sunglasses because they can put your prescription in them.
- good pair of running sneakers – there are so many good brands on the market
- good pair of anti-friction socks (I prefer Balega.)
Bike:
- helmet – a good helmet is imperative. You may consider a MIPS helmet to protect your head.
- road bike or tri bike (If you have a hybrid bike or a mountain bike, you can use it for your first event, but you may want to get a road bike. You will be much faster.)
- pedals and clipped shoes (optional for the first one but you may want to purchase this down the road)
- good, comfortable seat
- cadence sensor (if you are going to continue with triathlons, you may want to invest in a cadence sensor and a power meter)
- bike computer (you don’t need it for your first one but you may enjoy seeing your stats)
- flat repair kit
Swim:
- goggles – get a pair that won’t leak and will fit your face right!
- bathing cap – keeps your hair in place and helps create less drag in the water.
- bathing suit – get yourself a technical suit. You can buy one cheap on swimoutlet.com or you can go to the TYR website. They have awesome suits!
- kickboard – not the most fun swim toy but necessary to make sure that your legs are straight out and that you kick from the hips.
- pull buoy – this will help you keep a straight line in the water and will prepare you for open water swimming.
- fins – these are great for various drills. They are not cheating! They make swimming more fun because if you’re kicking right, you will fly through the water.
- paddles – there are many different ones to choose from. I like the Sumarpo ones but the Finis paddles are good as well. Paddles will help you learn to pull the right way.
- wetsuit – if you’re event is in the water, you will need a wetsuit. I like Sumarpo and have a discount code!
Miscellaneous:
- tri kit — you will need a one-piece or two-piece kit that you can use for all three disciplines.
- nutrition and hydration – make sure that you get it right. This will help you get through any event. (Ask me for recommendations!)
- transition mat or towel
You can use what you have when you start, but as you enjoy the sport, this is a checklist to help.