Coach Recommended Gifts — What I really want my athletes to have now
2020 certainly has been like none other! With so many races cancelled or changed to a virtual format this year, we know that triathlete are chomping at the bit for races to return in 2021. With the wild changes of 2020, the triathlete in your life would certainly enjoy one of these coach recommended gifts.
Stocking Stuffers
Body Glide and Chamois Creme— No athlete likes chafing. Help them have a smoother 2021.
Playtri Buff Face Cover — A must have during the pandemic, but an excellent multi-tool garment for training and racing in colder weather.
Swiftwick Socks — The gentle compression is a nice touch on long runs. Personally, I’m a fan of the Aspire line.
Swim
Snorkel — a must have for triathletes/swimmers of all ages! Playtri coached athletes use this every time they swim.
Goggles — whether your triathlete has been swimming all year or is just getting back into it off a long break, a fresh set of goggles is a great way to start the new year.
Finis Slide Dryland Trainer — my favorite for Dryland swim training this year when the pools were closed. Unlike regular swim cords, the Slide Dryland Trainer provides constant resistance throughout.
Bike
Garmin Varia Rear Taillight — the best rear light for cycling in low-light situations and knowing when a car is approaching behind you.
Bike Fit — a new year, a new you! As we age our body changes and that means we need to change how we sit on the bike. An annual bike fit is a great place to start.
Power Meter — Outside of a heart rate monitor, this is the best tool for learning how to properly train in specific zones and pace a race.
Run
Playtri Trucker Hat — not just to keep the sun off your face. It also works well as a place to store ice during hot races.
RunLab Gait Analysis — the running equivalent to a good bike fit. Learn how your body moves when you run and ways you can improve to avoid injury.
Garmin Forerunner 945 — the best watch for for triathlon if you are looking to simplify the number of devices you use during training and racing. This watch does it all: HR, Spotify, Power Meter connection, Garmin Pay, and the mapping capability is a nice touch.
Treat Yo’ Self!
Deboer Performance Wetsuit — some of the best wetsuits out there.
Gravel Bike — If you are looking for a do-it-all training bike, this is it. Take it out on gravel, chip-sealed roads, and even try out Cyclocross with this bike.
And, of course:
Coaching — if you truly want to make 2021 your best season ever, then a coach is the best triathlon related expense you can make. With over 20 years of coaching, Playtri Coaching works for new triathletes and those looking to qualify for National and World Championships.
Coach Jim Rowe
Playtri Level 3 Coach UESCA Certified Triathlon CoachTRX Certified Coach