The tools of the trade…
A busy triathlon season is almost coming to an end for me - although there are lots of events still planned to do and watch over the coming months. King of the Bays and the Rotorua Marathon are the two biggies that spring to mind!
But in training for these - and the ones that have been - there have been lots of things that have made life easier (or difficult!) for me this season. Here’s a snapshot of the gear I like and love:
1. My Reebok Running Shoes
Still the best running shoes I have ever had. The original pair is still going strong, and although my orthotic inserts squeak a bit until I get going, I know that’s just going to be a quick fix at the podiatrist. They are strong and supportive, but comfy and look groovy! I still love them and I still wear them wherever and whenever I can!
2. Bendon Sports Bra
A decent sports bra is an absolute priority for me and I’ve just invested in a new one. And I do mean invested, they don’t come cheap! But after I melted one of mine in the dryer I decided it was time to try a new one. I also decided to try a new brand this time, as I needed a high impact underwire, but one that had crossover straps to fit under my training and racing singlets. My new Bendon Max Out fits the bill perfectly - but can someone send me some instructions about how to get it on? I still get completely tied in knots everytime I wear it!
3. Compression Gear
After a year of training, I now wouldn’t be without my compression gear. I have Reebok branded compression gear and its fantastic. After a heavy training session I wear the leggings - sometimes even to sleep in - and by the next day I hardly know I’ve done any work. In winter I also run in them and they keep me warm and keep my legs moving! They are brilliant. I also have a shortsleeved and long sleeved top which are also great. Well worth the investment!
4. Dr Alice’s Bike
I am still borrowing my GP’s bike, which is a Specialised brand. Dr Alice was part of the inspiration for getting going on this challenge and I’ll always be grateful for that - and for continuing to loan me her bike! Its a great size for me and doesn’t swear back at me when I’m ranting and raving going up the hills!
5. Goggles
I’m onto my fourth type of Speedo goggles and I’ve settled on the Competition Racing Goggles for training and racing. I have a light purple pair which are great for swimming in the inside pool or in the wee hours of the morning when its still dark, but the best find has to be my black pair which completely blocks out the glare from the sun - both in the pool and in the open water. I love them and highly recommend the dark lenses for the summer season! My Speedo togs are also going the distance - despite the amount of chlorine I throw at them every week. I must admit I am being diligent about washing them out, but the colour hasn’t faded and the lycra hasn’t thinned so I’m happy about that!
And the gear I don’t like?
I’m not particularly fond of my very expensive cycle shoes unfortunately. Not very comfortable. But given I sacrificed a pair of knee high leather boots for them, I guess I’m stuck with them for a while yet!
And the second thing I don’t like, my cycle gloves. Every time I go out riding I remember that I was never going to ride with them again! But still haven’t got around to getting some new ones. The problem? A seam on the inside of my left thumb. It presses hard between the handlebars and my thumb and it gives me more grief on a ride than my legs and the hills combined! Must get around to getting some new ones!