What if you looked at your Christmas wish list as a way to help you be a better triathlete? Today, we break down 7 essential and affordable items that might not be the flashiest things but will definitely help you feel and perform better next year. Be a better swimmer, cyclist, runner, and racer with the Crushing Iron Essentials. Thanks for listening! Topics:  Sound investments for Triathletes Set Yourself Up for Success The Seven 1. A Race Fueling Plan The most underrated item for racing Figure out your exact formula to fuel race day Don’t wing it Most of us under-fuel by massive amounts Fueling to lose weight vs. performance You’ll need time to train your gut 2. The biggest pull buoy you’ve ever seen The pull buoy is meant to assist you to swim more Especially for weak upper body athletes 3. A really good bike fit Find a reputable fitter Crank length and contact point Shims in shoes, right pedals Hip angle 4. Outdoor run gear Training inside wears at you Get used to being relaxed in cold 5. The 3 A’s - Accountability/Affirmation/Allies Someone, or something A positive supporter 6. Power Meter over Smart Trainer Buy function over entertainment Keep it simple, work hard 7. Bet on Yourself Buying things is an extension of not believing yourself Registration is NOW OPEN for 2020 C26 Camps. Find out more on our Camps Page.  If you'd like to support the Crushing Iron Podcast, hit up our Pledge Page and help us keep this podcast on the rails. Thanks in advance! You can also support us at our new store at CrushingIron.com. We have some NEW classic logo t-shirts and the Official Crushing Iron Spectator shirt for sale. Support the cast and get some new gear for it! Are you thinking about raising your game or getting started in triathlon with a coach? Check out our Crushing Iron Coaching Philosophy Video Please subscribe and rate Crushing Iron on YouTube and iTunes. Support our podcast with some New Gear at CrushingIron.com For information on the C26 Coach’s Eye custom swim analysis, coaching, or training camps email: C26Coach@gmail.com Facebook: CrushingIron YouTube: Crushing Iron Twitter: CrushingIron Instagram: C26_Triathlon www.crushingiron.com   Mike Tarrolly - crushingiron@gmail.com Robbie Bruce - c26coach@gmail.com