Running in the Tri World

If you have ever watched the Ironman World Championship on NBC, set in the beautiful state of Hawaii and said, "I could never do that," you are dead wrong.  If you have not worked out in a year of even 5 years, trust me, you can do this, and you will do this if you put your my mind to it.  That is the most beautiful thing about Triathlon.  Anyone can do it, and I do mean anyone.  I can't tell you how many tell me "I wish I could do that" and I respond with a simple question "Why not?" Most people don't have a good answer when the answer is so simple and right in front of them.  Just Do It.  Sorry Nike.  Just get started but before you do, you need the right gear.

Shoes

First thing is to start running, but if you are just getting off the couch, walking would be better.  Either way, you still need a good pair of running shoes. So, don't go to Foot Locker, Champs, or any corporate chain sneaker store, they are there to make a sale.  The employees get paid on commission and they do not care what your racing aspirations are.  They are there to sell you the most expensive shoe on the shelf. 

Instead, go to a local running shoe store and tell them your story.  Trust me when I say this, they want to listen.  All the workers at local running shoe stores run themselves and most are accomplished runners.  Needless to say, they know what they are talking about so listen to their expertise.  They will measure your feet, test your bio mechanics on a treadmill, and offer you the best selection of shoes.  Most of the time, they will give you 5-6 pair of sneakers, made by different companies, to try on.  Try them ALL on.  Take your time. Walk around the store. Run on the treadmill.  If you're feeling spicy, run around the block.  Get comfortable and make sure you pick the best shoe for your feet.  This is your health and picking the right shoe can prevent  you from injury and increase your speed and muscle development.

Now with years of research, it has been proven the more cushion a shoe has, the WORSE it is for your ankles, knees, hips, and back.  Nike founders Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman got it wrong.  A padded heel PROMOTES injuries and deterioration to your knees, ankles, hips, and back.  We are not supposed to have joint problems from running.  We were built to run for miles upon miles.  We are not supposed to break down. 

Therefore, go with a 4mm heel shoe (The height of 4mm is the difference between the balls of your feet and the heel)to start off.  This isn't a minimum shoe (0mm or flat shoes) because it's a drastic change for most.  Start with the 4mm and work your way to a minimal shoe.  Find your fit and start moving.

                                                                       Kinvara 2 (4mm)

                                                                        Minimus (0mm)
Socks

There are a lot of good running socks out there...here are my favorite:

Saucony
North Face
Thorlo (My favorite and my strongest recommendation)

Apparel

If you are running, any pair of running shorts or shorts in general will suffice.  No need to get picky.  Just get out and go.  No need to look good when you are out there.  You are going to be sweaty and smelly anyway.

If it is the winter time, purchase winter pants and long sleeve shirts.  Nike does a great job making these items comfortable and affordable.  I personally feel Under Armour is overpriced.  A good product, don't get me wrong, but triathlon is an expensive sport and you have to save somewhere. 

A Good Tip: Purchase winter gear in the spring and summer and buy spring and summer gear in the winter.  Items are usually on clearance or 50% off in the offseason. Try and save money where you can!

For triathletes, purchase Tri Shorts.  They can be expensive but it is worth every penny.  You use them during all three phases of training or races(hence the name Tri Shorts).  The technology is incredible.  The product is made to fit snugly around your physique yet give you the ability to breath.  They even have tri shorts lined with a magnetic alloy to trigger blood flow and increase your muscle output.  Just make sure you look at the tag because they do make different ones for male and females (I found this out the hard way).

Here are the brands I use and recommend:

TYR
2XU
Pearl Izumi (My favorite and most affordable)

For shirts and tops, sex matters; therefore, if you are a female, you know what sports bra works for you.  I can't help you with that. 

After that, it is fair game.

Most sporting companies make good running shirts and tops, so go with the best deal you can find (See previous Geniusly Good Tip).  I would strongly recommend purchasing a decent amount of running shirts if you are a male because regular shirts cause rashes underneath your armpits and give you nipple burn (Anything but that)!

Tri Suits and BIBs

Now, I do not use BIBs but I have heard from friends and read many testimonials that once you start wearing these, you do not want to train in anything else.  It is light, comfortable, and feels like you are wearing nothing at all.  This is for a serious triathletes so if you want to try it, you have been warned.

Tri Suits are very similar to BIBs.  They just have more surface area.  I wear these primarily for races but do train with them sometimes.  Again, this is for serious triathletes and you can get these tailor made for optimal comfort and support. 

Both are very expensive (From $90 to $400) but can help during race day.

Here is a personalized Tri Suit I wear during all of my triathlons (Cost: $200)

 

 

So if you see that Tri Suit on race day, cheer your ass off.................. or pass me, either way, it's fine. 

That's all for this post...the next one will be on bike gear.  But in the meantime, get out there and Don't Get Lazy #dgl