Triathlon on a Budget: How to Race for Under $500
by The Next Race
If you scroll through Instagram, you'd think the barrier to entry for a triathlon is a $10,000 carbon-fiber bike and a $600 aero-helmet.
It's not. The triathlon industry wants you to believe that speed is something you buy. But for your first race (and your second, and your fifth), the most expensive gear in the world won't do as much for you as a consistent training block and a bit of "budget-hacking."
Here is how to get to the finish line for under $500—without looking like a total amateur.
1. The Bike: Forget the "Tri-Bike" ($200 - $300)
The biggest expense is the bike. Here's the truth: You do not need a triathlon bike.
The Hack: Go to Facebook Marketplace or a local thrift shop. Find a used road bike or even a sturdy hybrid.
The Check: As long as it has two working brakes and the gears shift, it is race-legal.
The Pro Move: Spend $30 on a basic tune-up at a local shop instead of $1,000 on a new frame.
2. The Swim: Wetsuit or No Wetsuit? ($0 - $50)
New wetsuits cost $300+.
The Hack: Check the race temperature. If it's a summer "Sprint" distance, you likely don't need one. If you must have one, rent it. Most local tri-shops rent suits for $50 a weekend.
The Essentials: Spend $15 on a decent pair of goggles (check out Swedish-style goggles for the best value).
3. The Kit: What to Wear ($40 - $70)
You don't need a "Tri-Suit."
The Hack: A pair of tight-fitting cycling shorts (with a thin chamois) and a moisture-wicking tech tee you already own.
The Pro Move: Buy a Race Belt ($10). It lets you snap your number on in two seconds so you aren't fumbling with safety pins in Transition.
4. The "Brain": Your Training Plan ($0)
Traditional coaching costs $150/month.
The Hack: Use The Next Race.
The Strategy: Use our free drag-and-drop tools to map out your own progression. Sync your existing Strava data so you can see your fitness building without paying for a premium subscription. Use that saved money for your race entry fee.
Ready to start your triathlon journey without breaking the bank? Create your training plan with The Next Race and get to the finish line on a budget.