Don’t forget these necessities you need to have in your transition area
Photo by Ashley de Lotz/Unsplash
A race consisting of three sports is going to need a lot of stuff. If you’re new to triathlon, you want to be extra prepared for your race. Don’t go over the top with the stuff you bring though. They could just crowd your transition area and make it harder to shave off seconds. Take a look at these essential transition tools to know what you need.
1. Towel
When trying to set up your transition area, it’s best to take up as less space as possible. What some athletes do is lay out their towel to determine the space for their area. You can fold it in half and place it in the immediate space beside your bike where you can put all your stuff. It can also be for drying yourself if you have time for it.
2. Cycling shoes
Obviously one of the most important things is to not forget your shoes. If you’re planning to do triathlon seriously or at least long-term, invest in cycling shoes with cleats. It might take some time learning how to effectively clip in and out, but it can make your pedaling smoother when you master it. Consider shoes with speed laces, so you won’t spend time tying.
3. Helmet
Have your helmet on your bike or on the ground in the direction you’re going to wear them. Since it’s one of the most essential tools, it’s recommended that you wear it first because all your other accessories can easily be worn on the go. Make sure your helmet is adjusted properly beforehand to avoid wasting time fixing it.
The rule is to put the most important items in front first, so other items won’t get in the way when you wear your gear
4. Sunglasses
Sunglasses are not just for aesthetic purposes. They keep dirt and dust away as well as protect the eyes from UV rays. Not only is it distracting, but prolonged exposure to intense UV rays can cause keratitis and other eye ailments.
5. Water and nutrition
Attach everything you’re going to bring on your bike before you start your race. If you’re going to set up extras in your transition area, they should be placed in the back, away from your shoes. The rule is to put the most important items in front first, so other items won’t get in the way when you wear your gear.
6. Hat or visor
This is optional, but some people bring one anyway. If you can’t stand running under the heat, don’t forget to have a hat in T2. For headwear, always place them upside down on the ground so that you can wear them faster without excess movement.
7. Sunscreen
Since you’ll be under the sun for most of the time, sunscreen is something you should consider having in your transition area. Retouch your sunscreen before a ride or run, so you won’t be exposed to skin diseases. Look for spray sunscreens for quick application.