The newbie runner:
-Race entries. Try to stick within their current fitness level, and make it something that they’ll be able to train for properly. Or, better yet, pick a race you can run together!
-Nice socks. When I started running, I thought spending more than about $3 on a pair of socks was silly. As the miles increased, I realized the importance of dry, comfortable, chafe-free feet. Worth every penny!
-Membership to a local running club
The newbie triathlete:
-Entry to a Rev3 Race – they made it super easy –just click here!
-Bike jersey featuring their favorite sports team / university / beer / state / anything they love.
-Yankz, Lock Laces, or other elastic shoelace
-Starter flat kit, multi-tool, spare tubes, or even a gift certificate to a basic bike maintenance clinic at a local bike shop
-Membership to a local triathlon club – I know that my yearly membership with Tucson Tri Girls has paid off big time in the form of events, clinics, raffles, training partners, and camaraderie.
The experienced triathlete:
-Entry to a Rev3 Race! Maybe for a tough course like Quassy, a new distance, or a fun long weekend trip!
-TriSwim products, including TriSlide! TriSlide is a great lube for those long workouts – and it’s more hygienic than rubbing the same stick of lube in your crotch, between your toes and under your arms. Really. TriSwim helps restore skin and hair after swimming.
-Sweatproof/Waterproof headphones, if they like to work out with music – or even a waterproof mp3 player! I use X-1’s Interval for swimming and running. It was nice to stop at showers along the beach and stick my head underneath to cool off without worrying about my iPod.
-Computer-based cycling programs for the bike trainer. I like TurboCrank – which is great for when I want to get engrossed in a movie – and Sufferfest or Spinervals – for when I want to feel more involved in the cycling workout.
-USAT, USAC or USMS Membership – depending on what they’re into this season.
The triathlete who’s going long next season:
-Nutrition! Find out their favorite by asking what they like to train with, or check out what will be offered on course at their next big event, and go with that.
-Sunscreen – the nice stuff – like Kinesys or Bullfrog
-Trial sized containers of Chamois Butt’r to stash in their saddle bag for those long rides.
The athlete who has everything:
-Sporthooks – especially if you’ve never seen their medals proudly on display
-Tri Bling – super awesome jewelry that’s subtle enough to not be ridiculous
-Gift cards for gear – TriSports, TheClymb and your local cycling or running stores are great places to start.
-Music or Audiobooks – Amazon, iTunes, Audible subscription, Pandora subscription…
-A weekend training session! It doesn’t have to be anything huge – maybe paid campground fees, mapped bike routes and trail runs, and a load of healthy food for the weekend. Or, plan something where they can ride the course for their big race this year!
…now, what did I miss? What would you add?
-From James: Race photos!
I would add race photos form the race website! You can get a nice photo in a cool frame for someone! I know I would never buy that for myself!