I completed my first triathlon yesterday which started with a simple 400m swim or so I thought. Halfway through the swim I found it really difficult to control my breathing, having to breath on every stroke and was generally struggling.
I have been swimming a mile 3 times a week (25 metre pool - I dont do flip turns) to build up stamina, but I'm now not sure if it is the best way to prepare. Can anyone suggest a good work out that will help me prepare properly for my next triathlon. Unfortunately I dont get the opportunity to swim in open water often enough to make it part of a regular routine.
I have found that many new triathletes are not familiar with lifting the head to "sight" and this can become very tiring during a race (the hips drop, water splashes into the mouth, etc...)
You may want to practice "sighting" (lifting your head forward to sight and also to take a breath) while you swim in the pool. Start with lifting your head every eight or nine arm strokes and then adjust to whatever is comfortable for you and keeps you swimming in a straight line when in open water. Try to keep your body level when you lift your head and keep the stroke smooth and consistent. It takes practice. Good luck!
I have found that many new triathletes are not familiar with lifting the head to "sight" and this can become very tiring during a race (the hips drop, water splashes into the mouth, etc...)
You may want to practice "sighting" (lifting your head forward to sight and also to take a breath) while you swim in the pool. Start with lifting your head every eight or nine arm strokes and then adjust to whatever is comfortable for you and keeps you swimming in a straight line when in open water. Try to keep your body level when you lift your head and keep the stroke smooth and consistent. It takes practice. Good luck!
