Sort the bike first First of all, you don't have to buy everything (and no, you don't have to steal it either). The biggest single purchase is likely to be the bike; this is an essential so borrow one. If you're committed and have decided that buying is for you, you don't have to go out and buy a new bike. Ask around your club (and joining a triathlon club may well be the best economy you can make) or look in one of the bike mags or 220, and remember – a £2,000 road machine isn't always a good idea for a novice.

The Wetsuit is the next expense. So borrow, hire or make your first event a pool swim. But let's look at the other essentials first. Buy trunks/costume and goggles. Make sure the costume is big enough – if it's too small it will ride up and be uncomfortable. Make sure that your goggles fit and don't let in oceans of water. Fit and comfort are the essentials.

Don't scrimp on a helmet... Buy one from new that fits you so that it is tight yet comfortable. Cycle shoes are going to cost you at least £40. And make sure that the shoes and pedals are compatible! A helmet is the single most important item you'll buy. Don't make false economies here – expect to pay £30 or more for a legal safe crash hat. Cycle shorts might seem to be one item that you'd prefer to buy. Make sure the chammy or similar insert is clean and has a lot of wear in it. You'll also need a puncture repair kit – you won't be able to borrow one of these because sensible bikers always carry theirs with them. £10 or less will buy you one that'll do the business. You'll need running shorts – get the correct size and make sure they don't have raised seams or edges that'll cut into your inside thighs and hurt.

Running shoes have to be bought because each individual's way of running (gait) is unique – you'll injure yourself if you borrow. Don't go for the lightest racing flats and don't – at least for the first time – buy mail order or from the internet. Go into a good running or triathlon shop (like Keep On Running, Sheffield) and be advised by good staff. Any comfortable race vest or polyester t-shirt is fine for training and also for racing in, for that first event. Don't forget a water bottle – you'll need it for the long rides and you'll need it for swim sessions.

And that's your lot... with a few extras
Cycle tops (pockets are great for food) socks, and extra inner tube to change punctured inners by the roadside and repair when you get home. Get yourself a turbo trainer. Some prices can be in the exotic range but a more than competent model can be bought for around £75. It makes sense to be able to do the quality cycle sessions without worrying about traffic conditions and to be able to avoid the worst of the British weather. Also consider Heart Rate Monitors as a good performance aid.



Valuable extras...
Things to consider when you're looking to invest a bit more
Heart Rate Monitor: £50-£120
Tri-Suit Race Clothing: £30-£100
Sunglasses: £30-£100
Track Pump: £30
Bike Tools: £30-£50

Sometimes money spent can actually save you time and money in the long run...
Turbo trainer: actually very time efficient, means less wear on your bike and is safe on dark nights. £70 to £100 well spent. Heart Rate Monitor: If you are going to be training, getting your level of effort right makes sense. A HRM is invaluable for instant feedback on your pace judgement. Sports Glasses: A pose for some people, but sport sunglasses can save your eyes from grit, the rain and greyness of winter. Persimmon (orange) in the winter and dark lenses in the summer mean better mood and less squinting.

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