Hi--I am going to do the swim portion of an olympic distance triathalon on July 10. (1.5km) It is an open water swim in a lake known for pretty cold water. I was a solid distance swimmer (1500, 1650, 1000, 800 etc. . .) through college. I'm in shape I run bike and lift however I have not swum regularly in quite some time. Any suggestions on getting ready for the swim? :) I have pool access. Only 6 weeks to get ready. . . .
Frank is correct. Wetsuits will absolutely speed you up, provided they are well fitted to your body. Wetsuits that are too tight across the chest can restrict breathing (not a good thing) and those designed general ocean use (surfing, kayaking…and not triathletes) may not provide for full range of motion through the shoulders and some of these don’t seal well around the neck and arms (having you wetsuit balloon up with water is an interesting visual but not conducive to speed).
And as Frank stated remember the BodyGlide to lube up any hot spots. Also as Frank suggested get in the water and train, try out the wetsuit in some race pace swims. And if possible get in some open water training or at least get to the race site the day before and spend an hour or in the water getting acclimated to the conditions and swim the course to get used to the turns.
Frank is correct. Wetsuits will absolutely speed you up, provided they are well fitted to your body. Wetsuits that are too tight across the chest can restrict breathing (not a good thing) and those designed general ocean use (surfing, kayaking…and not triathletes) may not provide for full range of motion through the shoulders and some of these don’t seal well around the neck and arms (having you wetsuit balloon up with water is an interesting visual but not conducive to speed).
And as Frank stated remember the BodyGlide to lube up any hot spots. Also as Frank suggested get in the water and train, try out the wetsuit in some race pace swims. And if possible get in some open water training or at least get to the race site the day before and spend an hour or in the water getting acclimated to the conditions and swim the course to get used to the turns.
