BEGINNER TRIATHLETE: GEAR CHECK

When you decide to take up something new and exciting, it is always tempting to go all out and "fully prepare" by getting the most expensive gear that is not always needed at first and is not necessarily better than other less expensive products. Today's article is written for newbies in attempt to help sort through the clutter of information on gear and focus on what really matters when you're just starting.

Swimming
Not much is needed for swimming. Get the gear listed below and find a suitable local pool.

• Heart Monitor
  It is always a good idea to have a heart monitor for all your training. It could be the simplest and the cheapest, as long as you get your heart's data. It is very important when creating/adjusting training plans.
• Stretch Cords
  The same cords you use for running, can be used for swimming drills. Drills in swimming are just as important as drills in running, so get used to your new training companion - stretch cords.
• Goggles
  This is an obvious one but we thought we'd list it anyway. Get yourself a pair that is comfortable for you, good quality and durable.

Cycling
This part of Triathlon requires the most preparation in the gear department. But luckily it is not as bad as it might seem at first.

• Heart Monitor
  Again, for cycling as for swimming and running, have a heart monitor.
• Stretch Cords
  Yes, drills again. Less then in running and swimming but still got to do drills.
• Tri or RoadRacing Bike
  Get yourself a good Triathlon or RoadRacing bike appropriate for your size. Don't spend your entire savings on an "ferrari", get the one that will work for you now while you get your skills polished and work on your technique.
• Front Wheel Support
  Part of the stationary set up for your bike, front wheel support allows to drill at home. The best and cheapest we found is a star-shaped one that could be found at any bike store.
• Stationary Trainer
  Get the simplest one but with the equipment to measure your cadence, milage, speed and time.
• Helmet
  As long as it fits and as long as it protects your head, get whatever helmet makes you happy.
• Shoes
  Getting a good pair of cycling shoes is very important. Because of how the shoes are made and set up and how they work, it's wise to invest in this piece of gear. These shoes must fit well, not loose so they don't interfere and not tight because it could damage your foot so pay attention.

Running
Well, it used to be just the shoes, now that everyone knows better, other gear is required to learn how to run.

• Heart Monitor
  Have the heart monitor for the running part of your training also.
• Stretch Cords
  Drills. Drills. Drills.
• Running Shoes
  Plenty has been written on our website about the best running shoes and how to choose them. Follow this link to read more.

Basically have a heart monitor and stretch cords with you at all times, get your bike, get a stationary set up for it, helmet is a must, goggles, racing flats and off you go drilling and working on your triathlon techniques! Once you zoom at higher speeds on a different level - feel free to "up" the gear "level", but until then spending more won't make a difference. Technique, technique, technique.

Article by Dr. Nicholas Romanov
Composed by L. Romanov