Getting into the sport of triathlon can be overwhelming! A google search can lead you to believe that you must take out a loan just to purchase the necessities. While it is true that triathlon might become a line item in your budget, if you fall in love with the lifestyle, it is possible to dip your toes into the open water without maxing out your visa or living on Ramen. Below is what you will need and a few tips on how to score those items on the cheap.

• Goggles
• Swimsuit
• Bike
• Bike Helmet
• Running Shoes
• Clothing (Shirt, shorts, sports bra, socks)

Goggles- The search for the perfect pair of goggles is never-ending. 14 years in and I’m still looking for the pair that doesn’t leave me looking like a drunk raccoon post-swim. The truth is you just need a pair that fits enough to not leak. My favorite brands are Tyr and Speedo. Tyr has “nano,” options for people with small faces, and Speedo Vanquisher is potentially the most popular goggle out there. Both are available on Amazon.

Swimsuit- Wear what you have been wearing while training. You have been training, right? If you want or need a new suit, I love the bright colors of Tres Pinas. Trespinas.com  You can also find great deals on brands like Tyr, Speedo, and Dolphin Uglies at swimoutlet.com

Bike- The best bike to use for your first race is the one you already have. A hybrid, mountain bike, road bike, or unicycle (send videos) are all acceptable.

Helmet- Hopefully you don’t have to dig too far into the garage to find it.

Running shoes- You can and should use your running shoes for the bike and run portion of your first triathlon. Don’t feel the pressure to get fancy and buy cycling shoes. You’ll fall over in front of strangers, blood will be running down your leg, and despite the huge smile on your face, your family will only remember the blood. They will also have photos. This is a fact.

Clothing- You need a shirt, shorts, a sports bra (for women) and socks. There are many ways you can go about this but I suggest going with simple and comfortable. For my first sprint distance triathlon, I pulled a sleeveless jersey and cycling shorts over my swimsuit in T1, and off I went. I intended to pull those cycling shorts off in T2 and throw on running shorts but forgot. Guess what, it was fine. It was actually more than fine. By the time I crossed the finish line, I was in love with myself and triathlon. We have been together since. 

Based on my quick math I believe you can get through your first triathlon on a budget of less than $250 if you own a bike. If you do need a bike, consider borrowing one or check out the Facebook group “online swap meet for cycling and triathlon.” People (addicts) like myself purchase new bikes and then sell the old ones to avoid divorce. That is an entirely different post but feel free to take advantage of it.

If you are training, or entertaining the idea of training, for your first triathlon drop me a line, I would love to hear about it! If you have found the elusive goggles that leave no marks please share. Contact