Running. Does it help your swimming or is it an interesting diversion? A lot of people here seem to cross train with running. (Some are obviously triathletes). USS teams now have their swimmers running. But does running really help swimming?
For me, I'm not so sure. I think it helps a bit on the cardio side and may build leg strength. I do it to tighten everything up, because I like being outside and it gives my shoulders a break. But I'm not sure I wouldn't be better off with more pool time if my body could take it.
Kevin in MD:
I'm sorry. I thought from your comments that you weren't a triathlete because you spoke so generically of triathletes in the third person.
Triathletes do get a bum rap here sometimes, to be sure. I think it's mostly because it can sometimes be difficult for swimmers to train with swimmer-triathletes and vice versa. Their focus is so different. For example, I'm a stroker. I don't even like freestyle that much. But hopefully a good masters coach would separate the lanes and practices to suit the individuals.
I myself don't do triathlons because I don't like bikes or having to worry about fixing/buying/maintaining fancy expensive bikes or getting hit while on said bike. Unfortunately, I'm stuck with a triathlon/runner son, so it's headed my way.
P.S. I will admit to being a total Tour de France junkie. It's on every night at my house.
Chlorini:
I agree with you completely. I felt like swimming helped my running because my lungs were in good shape. But the reverse doesn't seem to be true for me (except strong legs for starts).
Kevin in MD:
I'm sorry. I thought from your comments that you weren't a triathlete because you spoke so generically of triathletes in the third person.
Triathletes do get a bum rap here sometimes, to be sure. I think it's mostly because it can sometimes be difficult for swimmers to train with swimmer-triathletes and vice versa. Their focus is so different. For example, I'm a stroker. I don't even like freestyle that much. But hopefully a good masters coach would separate the lanes and practices to suit the individuals.
I myself don't do triathlons because I don't like bikes or having to worry about fixing/buying/maintaining fancy expensive bikes or getting hit while on said bike. Unfortunately, I'm stuck with a triathlon/runner son, so it's headed my way.
P.S. I will admit to being a total Tour de France junkie. It's on every night at my house.
Chlorini:
I agree with you completely. I felt like swimming helped my running because my lungs were in good shape. But the reverse doesn't seem to be true for me (except strong legs for starts).
