Why triathletes shouldn't want all the gear but no idea!!!

Triathletes love gadgets! I totally get that! We're all magpies, really. But you need to find a balance. Listen up and learn how to avoid being that triathlete with "all the gear but no idea"…

Without a doubt, technology can benefit us hugely in training and racing. But where do we draw the line between focusing on (and relying on) gadgets, and putting our energy into good old-fashioned hard work? What's more important: skill, will, technique, effort, genetics or technology? They're all important, but I often find myself wishing today's triathletes would focus less on tech and more on effort.

Preparation for any triathlon is tough. Whether you're doing a Sprint distance race or the hardest Ironman event in the world, you will work harder than you imagine. Sweat, tears, and possibly a little blood will be shed. Swim/bike/run will consume your waking hours, and quite possibly your slumbering ones, too. Your partner, kids, parents, friends and colleagues will need to put up with your absences, your tunnel-vision, your aches, pains and tiredness.

Triathlon training needs time and effort. Your focus needs to be on a well-executed, quality training plan. You need to demonstrate focus and consistency. Forget lusting over the latest gadget. How much time and energy have you devoted to getting to bed on time, to optimising quality sleep, to hydration, to maximum effort on your key training days?

Having said all of that (I love to play Devil's advocate!), there are some bits of triathlon kit which recommend. These are things which I actually think help triathletes perform better, plan more strategically, and be better athletes.

Compression kit: far from a fad, compression kit (including sleeves and socks) helps performance and gives recovery a massive boost. Great for training and racing.
Really high-quality bike shorts: an absolute must. I can't advise on brands as it's highly individual. Once you find a pair you love, buy several sets!
Good quality saddle: same goes for a saddle. It's unlikely that the saddle your tri bike comes with will be perfect for you. Upgrade and feel the sweet relief of a good saddle!
Decent wheels: if you're going to upgrade your bike, start with the wheels. Lighter wheels will accelerate your performance and move you up the pack.
Turbo trainer: unlikely to become your best friend, but a turbo trainer is a must-have for training in Winter, on dark days or in bad weather. Also a great tool for performing specific intervals and max-effort sessions.
Power meter: now this is a gadget! But it's a good one. Put a power meter on your bike and instantly learn just how important power is to triathlon performance. Your training will never be the same again!
Garmin: other watches are available, but the Garmin brand remains the sports watch of choice for most triathletes. They gather tons of data, can be worn whilst swimming, are large enough to use/see/read whilst running and biking, and deliver lots of useful feedback.

Are you a gadget-freak or a training Luddite? What are your must-have bits of triathlon technology?