Getting Started

& Transition Checklist

Getting Started

There’s a lot to learn when training for your first triathlon, but we got your back! We’ve compiled some basic information for any of you ladies who are wondering if triathlon is for you!

Triathlon is one of the most fun sports and balanced workouts one can do, but then, we are pretty biased!  Triathlon consists of three sports–swim, bike, and run!  She Tris is a sprint distance event.  She Tris event distances range from 200-250 yard swim, 8-9 mile bike, and 2-3.1 mile run, depending on the event you pick. We chose this distances for the event because it’s a great trainable distance which doesn’t assume all of your free time!

​Have no fear if these distances seem impossible.  You are not doing these distances all on day one.  There is training to do before you participate in She Tris. The training segment of the She Tris website is here to help you get started and train in a way you can be injury free and enjoy the sport!

As you take your first steps into any triathlon training program, first make sure that you have a check up with your doctor, and tell her what you are going to be doing. Second, make sure you have all the necessary basic triathlete equipment.

Everything You Need to Get Started

  • Swim suit
  • ​Towel
  • Goggles
  • Swim cap
  •  Bike – New or used, but a bike is required! A road or hybrid bike is the best for cycling on the road. A mountain bike or beach cruiser will suffice, but you will work very hard to pedal.  If you don’t want to spend any money just use your old bike or your neighbors bike that is sitting in the garage (but get it checked out by a pro first), this will do to get you going. You do not need a brand new bike to get started.
  • ​Helmet – A helmet is required for participation. Never skimp on the helmet you buy, get the best one you can afford, and get help fitting it properly from a pro. Never cycle without one – EVER.
  • Women’s triathlon clothes – You will eventually want to invest in cycling shorts with padding as these can provide relief on hard saddles. A brightly colored shirt made of moisture wicking fabric is ideal for visibility. Stay away from cotton. For event day, triathlon shorts are recommended.  They have less padding than regular bike shorts.  Tri shorts are designed to dry quickly and be comfortable when you run and not feel like a diaper.
  • ​Padded gloves- for comfort and protection if any accidents happen.
  • Shoes- sneakers will do to start.
  • ​Water bottle- there are many of these that fit on your bike or even on a lightweight belt or pack.
  • Running/walking shoes- Visit a store that has a fitting process for running/walking shoes.
  • A well-fitting fitness bra that’s less than 1 year old!
  • Moisture wicking running shorts and top.
  • Road ID- order here.

Everything You Need On Event Day

  • Tri suit or swimsuit
  • Cap
  • Goggles
  • Anti-fog solution for goggles​
  • Bodyglide (skin lubricant)
  • Pre-race sandals or other footwear
  • Towel
  • Spare goggles
  • Ear plugs
  • ​​Bike
  • Water bottles (for frame cages) or hydration pack
  • Bag attached under seat or mounted on top tube
  • Spare tube or tubes (and/or patch kit)
  • Floor pump
  • Tire levers
  • Cyclist’s multi-tool (with Allen wrenches)
  • CO inflator (with cartridge) or minipump
  • Helmet
  • Sunglasses or clear eye protection
  • Mirror (for handlebar or helmet)
  • Jersey, T-shirt or tank top
  • Cycling Shorts
  • Cycling Gloves
  • Cycling Footwear
  • Cycling Socks
  • Running shoes
  • Speed (elastic) laces
  • Running socks
  • Cap or visor
  • Sunglasses (if different from cycling glasses)
  • Watch or heart rate monitor with chest strap
  • First-aid items (blister treatment, bandages)
  • Medical info/emergency contact card and/or Road ID bracelet
  • Prescriptions/Over-the-counter medications
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm
  • Chamois Cream
  • Baby wipes (for cleanups) or hand sanitizer
  • Race number and documents
  • Race belt (for bib)
  • Safety pins
  • Performance gels/chews/bars
  • Performance beverages or drink mixes
  • Recovery foods/drinks
  • Transition bag(s)
  • Bike tire pressure gauge
  • Handlebar end caps
  • Camera
  • Cash/credit card/photo ID
  • After-race clothing
  • Duffel (catch-all for loose gear)

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