Triathlon is becoming an increasingly popular sport.
The number of triathletes participating in events has increased by 38% in the last year. For triathlete beginners, the complexity of combining swimming, cycling and running can be overwhelming.
The triathlon event series Go Tri has allowed tri-newbies to dip their toes in the sport with introductory sessions to increase confidence.
Even with support with training and racing, there is a surplus of advice for the best kit to buy. We’ve put together a small list of the essentials for triathlete beginners to help guide you on your journey in to a new sport.
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Running Trainers
This is simple but essential. Making sure you’re on an even platform when you’re clocking up the miles is important to avoid injury and ensure comfort.
To find your perfect fit, make sure you use the free Gait Analysis service that is available in many stores. It’s worth the time to ensure they suit you perfectly.
Adding lock laces are an easy add-on to your trainers. They will relieve the stress of your transition by allowing you to fasten your trainers quickly.
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Base Layer
Training doesn’t end when the temperatures drop. Improve your resilience to the cold by having a base layer that keeps you warm but wicks sweat away as the intensity increases.
Choose Scimitar for your custom base layers to support your training and racing needs.
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Running Jacket
Keep the elements at bay with a high quality running jacket that will support you through wind, rain, sleet and snow. Maintaining motivation when the weather turns sour can be difficult, but giving you bright kit to wear can give you that extra boost when you need it.
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Bike Fit
As important as getting the right fit for your trainers, making sure the geometry for your bike suits you is very important. Avoid injuries and make sure the 3rd climb in an 80km ride is more manageable by investing a small amount of time and money in your bike.
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Helmet
Safety comes first! When you’re out on the road training in a group or solo, having your helmet can literally be a lifesaver.
As a tri-newbie, you might not feel the need to invest in a pro aero helmet. Instead, check out the affordable range at Halfords available nationwide as a great starting point.
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Jersey
The cycling jerseys you use for training should have the same wicking quality and comfort as your base layers. Regulate your body temperature effectively with wicking materials, such as Quick-Dri™, a perk exclusive to Scimitar. Keeping yourself cool can help to maintain performance and comfort when the going gets tough.
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Bib shorts
Making sure you have the right materials for your cycling bib shorts to support you when your racking up the miles is essential to ensure comfort.
With high quality TMF 4g Italian chamois and high quality Spandex, the Scimitar range of bib shorts will support you mile on mile. Moisture wicking properties and compression support are important qualities in bib shorts to make sure triathlete beginners get the support required. Click here to find out a bit more.
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Tri-Suit
Tri suits are an essential part of your racing kit, supporting you through swimming, cycling and running to ensure your perform at your best.
Our elite tri suits are crafted from moisture wicking Spandex for a tight fit throughout your racing.
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Wetsuit
As beginner triathletes, you may be entering events with an open water swim where the water temperature is going to be low. You will therefore be required to have a wetsuit to take part.
This may seem like a large investment, however there are some great deals out there for those just starting out in triathlon.
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Tri-Belt
For races, tri belts are one of the cheapest investments you can make for your sports but cut down a lot of hassle. Starting from just £1, the tri-belt is a worthwhile investment to cut down race day stress and really important for displaying your race number at all times.
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Recovery
Make sure you’re making to most of your training by optimising your recovery as well. Plenty of sleep, staying hydrated and eating well are the main facets of this, however adding supplements to speed up recovery and promote increased muscle mass can be highly beneficial.
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