The High Cost of Losing Weight

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.

Slimming and Trimming - The Off Season Plan

The good news is that my right foot feels better. I'm hoping to get back to doing some running, but I may hold off for another week, I don't want to risk a relapse.

My goal for the winter is to lose another 15-20 pounds which would take me to about 200 pounds. I started at a hefty 241 pounds and have gotten as low as 213 pounds. I suspect my weight has ticked up a bit since I've taken a couple of weeks off from working out.

Here is my planned winter schedule:

• Monday - rest day
• Tuesday - 1,800 yard interval swim 2 x 400 yards, 2 x 300 yards & 2 x 200 yards
• Wednesday - Team workout varies
• Thursday - Spin/Run
• Friday - Swim 800 yards
• Saturday - 2 - 4 mile run
• Sunday - Stretching/Hockey

I want to maintain my swim fitness over the winter. I also find getting in the pool a nice respite from the balmy fall weather.

I have a 5k planned for Thanksgiving, so I may work in some additional running depending on how my foot feels.

At some point, I'm going to have to address my diet. I've decided to get back to keeping a food journal. I feel its the only way to keep my honest.