Raceburoan independent magazine about endurance sport

An independent magazine about amateur endurance sport. We are not a race organiser and are not connected with the former website on this domain; we take no registrations and sell no race entries. This is not medical advice — talk to a doctor before you start training.

Gear

Gear

You don't need a wardrobe full of expensive kit to get started in endurance sport. Comfortable shoes, clothing for the weather and a few items that keep training safe are enough: a helmet on the bike, lights and reflective details after dark, a bright tow float in open water. Everything else can be added gradually, once it becomes clear what you really need.

The most important gear is whatever keeps you comfortable and safe. Expensive kit won't run the distance for you, and new shoes on race day can easily ruin it.

— Editor's note

How this section works: we describe what to look for when choosing gear and do not name brands, models, shops or prices. We do not publish product reviews or rankings. Choose kit based on how it feels and the conditions you train in.

The basic kit

Six things worth thinking about first.

Shoes

A runner's most important purchase. Shoes should feel comfortable from the first fitting, have a little room to spare and suit the surface — tarmac or trails.

Clothing for the weather

Light, moisture-wicking fabrics and several thin layers instead of one warm one. In the cold, a hat and gloves; in the heat, a cap and sun protection.

Watches and apps

They help you track time and distance but are not essential. You can start with the stopwatch on your phone; the key is not to chase numbers at the expense of how you feel.

Bike helmet and lights

Always wear a helmet on the bike, even for a short ride. At dusk and after dark, switch on front and rear lights and wear reflective details — this applies to runners too.

Wetsuit and tow float

For open water, a wetsuit suited to the water temperature and a bright swim cap are useful. A bright tow float makes you more visible and gives you something to hold if you need a rest.

Drinks

Take water on long sessions: in your hand, on a belt or in a bottle on the bike. Drink according to how you feel and take the weather into account.

How to choose running shoes

  • Try shoes on in the afternoon, when your feet are slightly larger, and wear the socks you will run in
  • Leave a little room in front of your big toe — over a long distance your foot slides forward
  • Choose by feel: shoes should not pinch, rub or need "breaking in"
  • Consider the surface: tarmac and forest trails call for different soles
  • Start running in a new pair gradually, with short sessions
  • If you feel pain in your feet or knees, discuss your choice of shoes with a doctor or specialist
  • Technique

    Running form, bike position, classic and skate skiing and breathing in the water — general principles and how to warm up.

  • Beginners

    How to get from zero to your first 5 km, which mistakes to avoid and what to bring to your first race.

  • Races

    How a mass-participation race works and how to check an event before you register. Plus the magazine's catalogue of articles.

Sources

  • World Athletics — rules and distances
  • World Triathlon — distances
  • World Health Organization — guidelines on physical activity (2020)

Information on distances and the history of each sport is based on public materials from World Athletics, World Triathlon, the World Health Organization and encyclopaedic sources. The rules of each specific race are set by its organiser — always check them on the organiser's official website.