To help you build your confidence, swim in safe and controlled environments that are supervised, maybe your local lake or swimming pond. Training with a friend can also help to keep you motivated through your swim sessions.
Using training aids is a great way to train, and target specific areas of your swim. If you need to work on your arm technique, try using a pull buoy to isolate your legs so you can really concentrate on getting your stroke right in open water.
Before you go swimming, do some deep breathing – especially if you’ve had a particularly stressful day. You work better in the water when you’re more relaxed.
Ensure you are prepared with the right kit for your race, practice with these items and ensure you are comfortable with everything. The guys at Tri Wetsuit Hire recommend at a minimum, you should make sure you have the following:
If you’re not a confident open water swimmer, or this is your first triathlon, it’s a good idea to start at the back of the pack for the swim start. This will allow you to ease into your rhythm and avoid the mayhem of the swim start.
You’ve done the training, you know you can swim the distance. If something unexpected goes wrong on the day, try swimming a bit of breaststroke to help you catch your breath. Swim three stokes then take a breath, swim one stroke, and take a breath.
Competing in an open water swimming event is a challenge that not many would take on! So well done for even signing up and taking part!
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