by M. Velasco

Created on: October 09, 2009   Last Updated: October 10, 2009

Do you think good ol' St. Nick might need your help finding gifts for the good Triathlete in your life? Before he begins making that list and checking it twice, here's a list of gift ideas to help put the swimmer-cyclist-runner on the nice (or naughty) list.

1. Set a theme to your gift. Perhaps there is a specific brand or color that favors the Triathlete in your life. Purchase a collection under this theme or a gift card from a favorite brand store. Triathletes compete through all sorts of weather and they deserve, and need, the best in quality.

2. Start the New Year right with goodies! Triathletes rely on the nutrition and energy factor that gets them through the day. Not only do many have to lug their equipment in cars and planes to travel throughout the country, the more serious Triathlete maintains and workout regime like no other. Treat them well by providing bulks of nutrition bars and energy bars. Variety is fun, but consider the nutrition factor. If you are willing to purchase the bars individually even better! Travel bags of trail mix and bottled water are essential also.

3. Get geared up! Find a cool triathlon bag you can stuff with specialized items made for Triatheletes. Runners need comfortable socks, Bikers need safety gear, and Swimmers need swimsuits and caps. Purchase a few of each, roll them up, and compact them into a bag. Maybe throw in a pair of swimming goggles for a nice touch.

4. How about a gift for the bike? Like a car driver, a bike rider needs to tune-up his or her bicycle. Consider taking your Triathlete to a bike shop to get extra parts or get a professional to take a look at the bike. Some shops may even want to consider being your Triathlete's sponsor and offer a service all year round! Also consider new water bottles for the bicycle.

5. Keep your swimmer safe. There are all sorts of up-to-date swimming gear for swimmers who breaststroke in the open waters. Find a quality wetsuit for your Triathlete. Some Triathletes like to stick to the same wetsuit, so consider purchasing one that is of the same brand and quality as the one your Triathlete currently wears.

6. Run, Triathlete, run! Making that transition for one area to the next is a tough one, and triathletes can always add a pair of running shoes to their collection. Consider purchasing an actual new pair of running shoes or provide a gift certificate to a store specialized in running. There you will find a variety of items that will help the Triathlete's sole.

7. Would you like to give a gift a little more sentimental? If you have been keeping track of your Triathlete's run, swim, and bicycling efforts, provide memorabilia of each event, including pictures and display badges they have to wear in each competition. Your Triathlete will appreciate the thought and see the accomplishments he or she has made within a year.

St. Nick may not be able to put all these items in a sleigh, but I'm sure you will have room in your vehicle to help him out.

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