The sport of triathlon, consisting of three separate legs of
swimming, biking, and running of various distances, has become more popular
lately. Many established runners have added the additional disciplines of
swimming and biking to their running efforts, either to compete in triathlon
events or to achieve a total cross-training fitness regime.
Most training occurs in a swimming pool, following the black
line at the bottom of the pool lap after lap, with no one else nearby, and a
chance to rest for a moment or two at the turn end. Sometimes the swim portion
of an event is in a pool but more often occurs in an open water setting, such
as a lake, river, or even the ocean.
One snag many athletes encounter is a sense of discomfort or
even panic during this part of the event. If an athlete is to encounter
difficulty during a triathlon, it is more likely to occur at this stage than
any other. The primary issue is a sense of being kicked, trampled, or pushed in
the water, especially at the beginning. Many participants never make it to the
bike and run for not being able to complete the swim.
Here are some strategies for the beginning or even
intermediate-level triathlete to help cope. First, practice some swimming prior
to the event in an open water venue; if this is not possible, try your pool
swims without touching the wall at turns, just to get the sense of swimming the
full distance without a stop. If wearing a wet suit for the event, make sure
you have had a chance to practice swimming in the suit before the actual event
(but not in a chlorinated swimming pool).
Same with goggles – make sure they fit comfortably. Don’t
try anything new the day of the event. Set your mental attitude as well; you
only need to finish the swim, not set any speed records. Keep in mind also that
the triathlon director’s goal is to keep everyone safe and to that end will
have safety officials placed in the water in boats or kayaks to follow swimmers
throughout the course.
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