10 awkward beginner’s questions about triathlon and their answers

Throughout the summer, triathlon competitions at various distances are held all over the world, in our country the races are organized by IRONSTAR. Especially before the start in Kazan, which will take place this coming weekend, we answer the most common questions of beginners about competitions, equipment, nutrition, etc.

Can I rent a bike at the start venue?

Yes, you can, but try to do it not two weeks before the event. If it is a big start in the summer, participants book bikes in decent, proven rentals in February-March. In addition, there is an option of bike delivery from Moscow, it costs about 5 thousand rubles + bike rental. You can find out more here. (In the same rental you can take a wetsuit, fitness bracelet and other elements of triathlon equipment).

Do I need to use sunscreen before the start?

Yes, otherwise your whole body and face will burn quickly, especially if you are running a long distance race (not a sprint or Olympic). In addition, applying sunscreen to your neck will help you avoid chafing from the collar of your starter suit.

What can I do in a track suit? Is it worn on the naked body?

The starter suit is designed to go the whole distance in it. You can swim, run and drive in it. Yeah, it’s a nude suit.

Not to be confused with a wetsuit – you should not wear it on your bare body, because then you will have to strip naked in the transit zone in front of other competitors. In most competition regulations, this will result in disqualification or a fine.

Do I need goggles for running and cycling during the course?

Definitely. Firstly, the sun can be blinding outside, and secondly, for cycling, it’s best to get special cycling glasses that don’t come off. Good goggles are your safety: a lot of dirt and dust can get into your eyes at high speed.

Can I swim in open water wearing the goggles I wear in the pool?

Theoretically yes, but it is advisable to choose special goggles for open water and before the start to wipe them with antifog – a liquid against “fogging” of glasses. A large selection of goggles for open water can be found in the TYR range , where you can also buy antifog.

Can I get sick from energy gel?

Yes, if you haven’t tried it beforehand, you may get sick right on the course. Keep in mind that the consistency of the gel is specific, so you should try all sports nutrition before you start training and listen to your body’s reaction.

Can I ride in non-specialized cycling shoes?

Yes, most regulations do not prohibit this, you can go out on the course in normal sneakers. To do this (if you have a road bike) you need to put on double-sided pedals, where one side is a normal pedal and the other side is a clip-on shoe.

Why do I need gloves for my wetsuit?

Gloves are needed to keep it from tearing. If the suit is rented, you will have to pay for it like a new one. Try to put on and take off the costume using the pads of your fingers without pressing on it with your fingernails.

Lifehack: if you don’t want to sit in the transit zone for 30 minutes trying to take off your wetsuit, rehearse this moment: put on and take off your dry suit at home several times.

What are the best shoes to wear at the start?

There’s one great lifehack for getting to the start – use disposable slippers from the hotel. You can then just walk to the start in them and leave them on the beach or pier. This is very handy if you are traveling alone to the race and there is no one to pick up your shoes once the race starts.

Do I have to consume sports nutrition?

Sprints and Super Sprints can be completed without additional loading, and snacks are available at the food stations located along the course. Lifehack: take a flask of water or isotonic water to the cycling stage and attach it to your bike. On the training ride, practice the moment you pull out the flask and drink.

Register for the start.