When preparing for an upcoming race, whether long or short, veteran or newbie, there are ten items that you will need in your tri/transition pack. These are all items that you will need your own of, in other words, you shouldn’t be borrowing them and/or you may not be able to find extra at the race sight.

Essential #10: Race belt- You don’t need anything fancy here, just a shoe string, or race belt from a running store that you can put around your waist for the run. Your race number goes on here and it must be displayed on the front of your body!

Essential #9: Body glide/petroleum jelly/baby powder-it’s up to you which one(s) you feel comfortable using during a race. Use the body glide to avoid any chaffing (a real problem when you’re wet from the swim). The Petroleum jelly will help on your feet to avoid blisters. Socks take too long to put on, so just put a few globs on the inside of your shoes where your feet rub and in combination with a few puffs of baby powder (to absorb moisture) your feel will be nice and comfy on the run and bike!

Essential #8: Quick laces – These are also a matter of preference, but they can save you pain free time in transition. Instead of wasting time playing the bunny ears game with your Pearl Izumi’s, just slip them on, give a little tug and off you go! We like the Yankz brand laces.

Essential #7: Sunglasses – Eye protection can truly make your race much more comfortable. Have your favorite pair of sports shades ready at T1 and enjoy. (But please steer clear of racing in fashion shades, there’s nothing funnier than watching someone cross the finish line in cop shades or their new Dior’s.)

Essential #6: Transition towel – Because your Sherpa pack will not carry a full shower and towel rack, simply place a small towel on the ground to ‘mark your territory’ at transition and wipe those feet off before sliding into your bike shoes. You can use the same one to wipe off that wonderful lake or ocean water before you head out, but you never know how rough the terrain might be from the swim exit to your transition area. Watch out for rocks!

Essential #5: Water bottles – If you’re racing in South Florida, you know how important water and electrolytes are for your performance. But even in colder climates, having liquids on hand at your transition area, on your bike, or fuel belt is essential to making it through the race sans cramps, stomach issues, and headaches.

Essential #4: Shoes – As ridiculous as it might sound, don’t forget your shoes! If you’re using different shoes for cycling and running put both pairs in your bag the night before to ensure you’ll be prepared. Just a tip here, never use new shoes for a race! No matter how short the race, you can get painful blisters and chaffing if your footwear is not properly worn in.

Essential #3: Helmet/Hat – Not only is your bike helmet required in order to complete the bike leg of your triathlon but along with a visor or ball cap can help shade you during a heated race. We lose most of our body heat from our head so a well ventilated, light colored hat is always best.

Essential#2: Swim cap/goggles/wet suit – Let’s face it, without your goggles you would not make it through the swim! A colored swim cap is required for most races and a wet suit or speed suit (we love the Blue Seventy brand) can decrease swim times by a considerable about if used in the right temperature. Just be sure you’ve practiced with all of the items you will use during your race prior to the start!

Essential #1: Timing chip – Even if you remember all of the essentials 2-10, if you forget your timing chip, it was like you never did the race at all! Be sure and put it on your left ankle right when you wake up the morning of your race.

You may be wondering, with these ten items, what am I leaving at home? Well, be sure to put a veto on large beach towels, lawn chairs, socks, water buckets. You may need a change of clothes after the race but leave those in your car. When getting ready for a race, you can keep all of these items in your transition bag. That way, everything is ready to go for a training session or race at any time.

With these ten essentials, you will be well prepared for any triathlon related situation. But remember: Never try anything new on race day! Good luck!

Jacque is an Associate Coach with BodyZen MultiSport Coaching. She can be reached at jacque@bodyzen.com or please visit www.bodyzen.com.