Equipment
The best advice if you are beginning is not to worry about all the flash gear to start out with and use what you own already. Once you know that the sport of triathlon is for you, then you can look at upgrading your equipment.
The basic equipment that you require to train and compete in a triathlon is:
- Togs/ Swim Suit
- Goggles
- Bike (any preferably with gears)
- Cycle Helmet
- Running Shoes
Note: If you are competing in a Multisport event you may need to hire other items.
After you have completed a few events and know that you want to continue doing more events you my want to look at upgrading or getting some new equipment.
The below is a list of equipment that you may choose to have and its purpose:
- Race clothing Top brands such as 2XU garments are purpose built for Triathlon and other multi disciplined sports. They will provide additional comfort and will have specific benefits such as high UV protection and moisture management due to their fabric and construction.
- Road bike there are many key benefits of a road bike, but its main purpose is its built for the road and hence speed.
- Cycling shoes these enable you to maximise your cycling pedalling stroke because you are able to pull up as well as push down with each revolution of your pedals.
- Race wheels the type of wheels you ride makes a big difference to your overall bike time. On a flat course you may choose to ride an enclosed wheel or disk, on a hilly course having light wheels will help you maximise your power and speed getting up hills.
- Wetsuit Will help you swim faster because it has buoyancy. In cold water it will also enable you to stay warmer for longer.
- Running shoes Make sure you go to your nearest running store to get a gait analysis to ensure that you are well supported in a pair of good running shoes, Tri NZ recommends ASICS.
- A Kayak - for a multisport athlete.
- A high quality mountain bike for off road use.
