I only competed once for strongman 3 years ago. i plan to make a full run of it this year. i am taking advice from others as well. i will be training the events every sat at a friends one month out. so, i would say get a hold of some of the event equipment if possible. i trained 2 days before my last contest. dont think im doing that again. other than that, bring your gym gear...belt, wraps, etc... and have fun. the guys there are ussally very friendly and helpful.