I've been contemplating the cost of competing in triathlons. It’s not cheap and I’m not a rich man. To date, I’ve gotten by with just rented equipment and few strategic purchases like a pair of quality running shoes. I will admit the cost is becoming a little daunting.
Here is a quick breakdown of the cost by element:
Swim:
- Goggles - $20 x 2 = $40
- Training Suit - $35 - $65
- Wetsuit: $250- $500
- or wetsuit rental: $25 per race ($50 - $100 annually)
Total: $125 - $605
The swim is the cheapest of the three elements, but it is not without some cost. The swim suits wear out in the chlorinated pool and need to be replaced regularly. My suit is showing some wear after six months. I have one pair of goggles right now though I’ve read that it is good to have a backup pair in the event that they break on race day.
Bike:
- Race bike- $700 - $2,500+
- Pedals - $100 - $300
- Shoes -$100 - $150
- Bike maintenance/supplies: $250+ annually
Total: $1,150+
The bike element is the most expensive. Today's bikes are super high tech and range from low end road bikes to aerodynamic triathlon bikes that can cost as much as $7,500. Some wheels can cost upwards of $1,500 - $2,000.
I’ve gotten by so far by renting bikes from local bike shops but it impairs my training.
Run:
- Running shoes: $65 - $120
- Training gear, clothes: $100
Additional Expenses:
USAT membership $39 (required for participation)
Race registration - $65 per race - $260 annually (four races)
Based on my calculations, it costs about $2,000+ annually or so, on the low end to compete in triathlons.
I don't want this to be seen as discouraging people. Its easy to do a triathlon on the cheap, but if you are going to get serious, the costs go up.
