Training Gear 101 – Anything and Everything a Beginner Needs to Successfully Train for Your First
Triathlon
Many people mistakenly think that triathlon training is a costly endeavor because of all of the different
gear that the sport requires. However, it is possible to train for a triathlon without cleaning out your bank
account. You can stick to the basics, while ensuring your equipment is good quality and the right fit for
you.
Zeasorb®, the official anti-fungal partner of Ironman® brings you a list of the most important items and
gear you’ll need as you train for your first triathlon.
Swimsuit:
During training, you’ll want to train in swimsuits that are comfortable and made for lap swimming, not
leisure. It’s also a good idea to train in your race suit a few times before the race. Check the event
website for any swimsuit guidelines.
Tip: If you’re racing in chilly temperatures or looking to increase your speed, you may want to invest in a
triathlon-specific wetsuit. Again, if you choose to do this, you should swim in the wetsuit a few times
before the race. You’ll also want to practice the swim-to-bike transition in your wetsuit.
Goggles and Swim Cap:
This may sound surprising, but an item as simple as goggles can greatly affect the outcome of your race.
Look for a pair of goggles that fits your face just right and won’t fall off in a strong wave or from a flailing
arm during an open water race. If possible, test out the goggles in open water beforehand. While you’ll
likely be provided with a swim cap at your race, you should also purchase one for training purposes.
Tip: Consider purchasing two pairs of swim goggles—one clear or light tint (for swimming at indoor pools
and race day under cloudy conditions), and a smoke-tinted pair that act as sunglasses for sunny race
days.
Running Shoes:
If you weren’t a runner before deciding to compete in this triathlon, you definitely want to go to a running
store and let the experts help you find the pair that’s right for you. They will watch your gait, analyze your
arch and ask you specific questions to find the right level of support for your needs. Also, make sure you
tell them you’ll be using the shoes for a triathlon, because they may have some ideas about shoes that
are easy to get on quickly during your transition.
Tip: Practice transitions with your running shoes after a bike workout. Use clean socks and apply an
antifriction product or powder, like Zeasorb® Prevention Powder to sensitive places, including your feet.
“You should apply Zeasorb® Prevention Powder during training as a preventative measure,” says
triathlete and dermatologist Dr. Mark Herron, MD. “The powder becomes a barrier that prevents moisture
and fungus from irritating the fold of your skin.”
Cycling Shoes and Pedals: The pedals on your bike serve a major purpose – they’re a means to
transfer power from you to your bicycle. A good pedal and shoe system transfers all of the power from
your leg to the pedals without causing both fatigue and pain. Depending on your skill level and comfort on
the bike, you may have either toe clips and straps or clipless pedals. It is important to find cycling shoes
that fit very snugly, leaving just enough room for a pair of socks, and are easy to unclip or remove from
your pedals. The shoes should allow very little movement but not cut off your circulation, and the release
from your pedal should be seamless.
Tip: With a clipless pedal system, you wear special cycling shoes, allowing you to quickly connect your
shoes to the pedals and take off. Your pedal efficiency is greater using clipless pedals, as you can push
down and pull up on your pedal, increasing power and efficiency.
Helmet:
Helmets are required in all triathlon races. You must have the straps of your helmet fastened before you
exit the transition area, and you cannot remove your helmet until you’ve re-racked your bike in transition
before heading out on the run.
Bike Shorts:
Bike shorts contain special microfibers that move with and against the skin to prevent chafing.
Additionally, the bottom contains padding that you’ll be grateful for, especially after the race. Training with
a basic cycle short will make for a much more pleasant bike-riding experience.
Fuel:
Triathlons usually provide some sort of fuel throughout the race, but it’s always good to have your own
stash. Try out a few different options during training to see what works best for you. It may take a while to
find the perfect formula. A great option is energy gel or some sort of food that includes calories and easyto-digest carbohydrates, such as gummy bears or jelly beans. You will need about 300 calories for every
hour of race time, so incorporate this into your training.
Tip: Choose a long workout day during training and practice fueling your way through race day. Get up
early, eat your pre-race meal, and then start your workout around the same time that your race will start.
Fuel through your long workout as you plan to during the race, and don’t forget to replenish with
something nutritious after. This will give you a preview of how all of your fueling pieces fit together.
Resources:
If you’ve never done a triathlon before, you may have lots of questions. Take advantage of all of the great
online resources (such as ironman.com), magazines and books that are available.
Water Bottles:
It’s important to hydrate before, during and after your race. Keep your water bottles filled on your bike and
consider using a handheld bottle during the run. Try and get 20 oz of liquids (or an average size water
bottle) for each hour you compete. Depending upon the length of the race and personal preference, you
can also put your favorite energy drink into the water bottle for extra fuel.