A triathlon consists of three sports: swimming, cycling and walking. This also means that if a triathlon is participated, materials and clothing must be included for three parts. Forgetting something happened quickly. That is why it is listed here for a moment what you have to take with you if you participate in a triathlon. Because of course it is a shame to be canceled out the hours of preparation for the competition, because you have forgotten something essential and therefore have to end your triathlon prematurely.
It may sound strange, but generally experienced triathletes take Less clothing To a competition then the recreational triathlete. Yet that is not so strange, since the experienced athlete has already invested in triathlon-specific clothing such as a wetsuit, swimsuit with a tri-top or a triathlon suit (trisuit) in which the entire game is finished. Changing clothes is therefore no longer necessary. The starting or recreational triathlete usually does not have this clothing. That is not necessary either, because with a swimsuit or bathing suit, a sports shorts and a T-shirt you can also go a long way.
Also don't forget: NTB license if you are a member, or proof of identity !!
Swimming
For swimming you really only need a swimsuit or bathing suit and you are recommended. A bathing cap is not always necessary - usually you get one awarded by the organization -, but if the water is very cold, an extra bathing cap can be very pleasant. You lose most of the heat through the head. For those who are more often planning to do a triathlon, the purchase of a triathlon wetsuit can be considered. This not only provides the necessary buoyancy, so you go swimming faster (!), But also protects you against the often cold Dutch swimming water.
Note the water temperature of the water (is communicated by the organization). If the temperature is too low (often around 12 degrees), then a wetsuit is mandatory. If the temperature comes too high again (22-24 degrees, depending on the organization) then a wetsuit is prohibited again (and then also the use of compression tubes) when swimming.
Finally, it is advisable to lay a towel with your bike in the exchange zone. With that you can quickly dry yourself a little or wipe your feet before you step into your (cycling) shoes.
Bicycles
You should of course not forget your bike for cycling. But also think of the items that you have to take on your bike such as a bottle with a drink, a bicycle pump, spare bands, tire lighters and adhesive items. The latter four items are not unimportant, because you are not allowed to accept outside help during a triathlon. So if you get a flat tire, then you have to change or paste it yourself.
What you should definitely not forget is a helmet. Wearing an approved helmet is mandatory during triathlons. In some cases, triathlon organizations have a number of helmets that can be borrowed before the competition, but always ask the organization in advance whether this is indeed the case to prevent disappointments. Wearing sunglasses or sports glasses is also wise. This not only protects the eyes against bright sun, but also against dirt and flies.
With the first switch (called T1) you are obliged to set out your wetsuit immediately after you have set up the helmet.
With regard to the choice of clothing, everyone is free to wear what he or she wants. A T-shirt, shirt, cycling shirt, cycling pants or sports pants† Everything is possible. The choice is determined by things like the weather, wearing comfort or a fast change. In colder weather it can be wise to prepare a cycling shirt or a sports jacket, long pants are never really necessary.
If you like that, you can also put on socks or cycling gloves, but you realize that it is at the expense of your end time, but if finishing is your main goal, I would certainly not leave it. This also applies to the shoe choice. Running shoes may be a bit more uncomfortable than cycling shoes, but also save you time again in the switch from cycling to walking. After all, you don't have to change shoes after cycling.
Some triathletes have a time trial bike for the cycling area. This is certainly not a must .. a racing bike is fine. Optionally, you can 'boost' by means of a set -up steering wheel so that you can sit in a 'time trial posture'.
To run
For the walking part it can sometimes be wise a few sock ready to prevent blistering on your feet while walking, especially if you are not used to walking in your running shoes without socks. If you have already put on socks before cycling, this is of course no longer necessary. A shoehelpel can help you get your running shoes quickly. Use triathletes too elastic laces In their shoes so that no laces have to be tied anymore.
If you need it you can put on dry clothes after cycling. However, that is usually not necessary. Only when you have cycled on with cycling pants, is it nice to put on a sports shorts. With a thick hint between your legs, it is not really comfortable. A cap or sweat tire absorbs the sweat from your face. A cap also protects against the sun.
As said .. To be able to change faster you can of course change your normal laces for elastic laces. These ensure that you can get in your shoes quickly and for an even pressure on the foot.
And the rest?
Are you a member of the Dutch Triathlon Bond: license do not forget. Have you already registered in advance: take a program book or registration certificate with you.
Always handy during a triathlon is one starting number, to which you can confirm your starting number. You often only get one starting number that you have to wear on your back and while walking on the chest. With a number band you can do that in no time. To be sure, take your own safety pins to confirm the starting number. Not all organizations provide these. They can also come in handy if something is broken about your clothes.
To keep an eye on your own times or heart rate, you can (sports) watch or heart rate monitor put on during the triathlon. However, make sure that it is waterproof.
Furthermore, one Bodyglide The regular companion of every triathlete. By lubricating this in places where there is a lot of friction (for example, in the neck when wearing a wetsuit, on the thighs when cycling in swimsuit or bathing suit or under the armpits) irritation can be prevented. A little Vaseline above the eyes also ensures that there is no sweat in your eyes.
For people with sensitive skin it may be wise to rub in with sunburn† During a sun -drenched triathlon and with little clothing you burn quickly.
Finally, of course, you should not forget the clothes that you want to put on before or after the triathlon, such as a training suit, a dry t-shirt a sweater or bath slippers† Other useful things are one pair of bath towels, toiletriesand toilet paper (at major international competitions). You will be surprised at how scarce that last item becomes as the starting shot approaches.
Source: www.triathlonbond.nl
