Training For A Triathlon: Improving Your Swim Skills

Triathlons aren't just for the top athletes in the world. Thanks to many of today's top charities and foundations, a triathlon has turned into a fun way to show your support for a cause; and get into the best shape of your life.

Triathlons commonly include three events; swimming, cycling and running. While all three events challenge your stamina and endurance, it’s the swimming event that creates the greatest angst in the participants. Because all three events are completed back to back, the swimming event will set the tone for the rest of the race. Proper training will allow you to take control, and finish comfortably.

In a triathlon, the swimming portion usually takes place in open waters. Whether you start with the masses or with a single wave, you will begin with many other participants. Your goal is to swim around numerous marked buoys, and exit the water usually in the same place you entered.

Open water is much different than swimming laps in a pool. Pool water is controlled. When you are preparing for competition, begin by completing laps in a pool. Aim for long, easy strokes. Build up your endurance and your speed, concentrating on being able to complete the necessary distance in an acceptable amount of time.

While there are many ways to train, take a look at some of these tips for guidance.

1. Start your training early. As soon as you commit to a triathlon, begin training in all three events.

2. Concentrate on swimming as efficiently as possible. Concentrate on proper breathing, focus on correct swimming technique, and keep a positive attitude.

3. To increase the speed of your swimming, train in intervals. Vary timed laps with rests, and build up your strength and frequency of completions. Your goal is to complete the swimming distance quickly and easily.

4. Join an organized group associated with the triathlon to commit yourself to training, and to push you towards your goal. Everything is easier if you perform with a friend. Not only will you be held accountable, but you'll also receive an extra boost of confidence and encouragement.

5. Consider working with a coach or instructor to refine your skills. Nothing is more frustrating than to have difficulty accomplishing your goal. With just a little refinement, you may be able to turn your frustration into excitement.

6. Swim in open water at least once before the event. Partner up with a few friends, and plan an afternoon swim to get the feel of the colder, unsettled waters. Open water is distinctly different than a pool. Make sure you gain experience before the day of the event; you'll be glad you did.

Remember, completing a triathlon, especially on the amateur level, should always be about testing your own skill. Work to build up your own abilities, and concentrate on beating your own established times. As you improve, you will begin placing higher in the competition.

Michael Mann is co-founder of SwimLabs, a state of the art swim training facility, which provides swimmers with the most comprehensive swim instruction available today. For more information visit SwimLabs at www.swimlabs.com