Get Geared Up!

TRI STEPS: LIZ ELLIOTT 

Spring is almost here, and it’s time to make sure you have all the gear needed for training and your upcoming races. While there are always more and better items you can buy, many items are “nice to haves.” Here is a short list of “must haves.”

Ҽ Working bike, with at least 2 water bottle cages. Get fit. Get it tuned.

“º Working, newer helmet. 

“º Run shoes right for your feet and gait. Go get fit. 

Ҽ Non-cotton, wicking sport clothes.

“º At least one pair of bike shorts 

Ҽ At least one pair of tri shorts.

“º Wetsuit if doing open water swimming. 

“º Swim gear – swim suit, goggles right for your face, swim cap. 

“º Sun glasses. 

“º Sun block. 

“º Water bottles. Again, this is by no means everything you will want, or need, but this will get you started. 

Gear also includes nutritional items for before, during and after work-

outs. You need gels, bars and electrolytes for during your workouts, and re- covery for after your workout. While I always recommend real, unprocessed food as your regular diet, packaged “sport” foods specifically designed for optimal nutrition absorption and time-released, (not the granola or other types of bars) are not only designed for your body while working out, but also packaged perfectly for use during a run or ride. Since last season your tastes may have changed. Go to a sports store, and pick up an array of products to sample and begin to try in your early season workouts. 

Liz Elliott was an All-American collegiate swimmer and is the head coach at Tri-Valley Triathlon Club.