It is normal to have mixed feelings about the swim portion of a triathlon. Even experienced triathletes can feel nervous about the washing machine-experience that is the swim start. But with the right guidance you can make a first-class start
Q: How can I avoid getting kicked in the face during the swim start?A: The swim start in a triathlon is a nerve-racking time for most triathletes. It is a mesmerising moment for spectators, as it looks like a majestic monster thrashing away in a
is plenty. If you are training for a sprint- or standard-distance triathlon, building your long training sessions to twice the race distance is the best approach. If you are preparing for a half-Ironman distance race, aim towards 1.5 times the race distance
on the actual race day at the Ironman event.Swim-to-bike bricksDuring the swim phase of a triathlon you are in a horizontal position for the duration of the swim with the result that blood accumulates in your arms, shoulders and head. Stand to run out
Man Triathlon and her local Southwater Relay. "I ride the route beforehand if I can," she says. "I've driven courses before, just to get an idea of what I'm in for. It helps me to know what's around the next corner. I swim regularly in the lake I'll be racing
cycle followed by 7-minute runTuesday Swim session AWednesday Bike session CThursday Run session AFriday Run session: 10-minute recovery jog with D&S and long stretch; Swim session GSaturday Rest day and stretch; Visit the race course if possible
easyand RUN for 20 minutes easy SWIM for 10 minutes easy; CYCLE for 10 minutes easy Sun Strength train for 20 minutes Strength train for 20 minutes Strength train for 20 minutes Race Day KeyBilateral Breathing to both sides
- record times and compare) Afternoon: CYCLE 90 mins steady Morning: SWIM (in wetsuit and open water) 750m (up to 20 mins) race pace, then tread water for 2 mins, then SWIM back focusing on technique Afternoon: CYCLE 10 mins easy, then 4 x 6 mins
on flats, work hills up to 85 per cent effort and cruise the downhills. Cool-down: easy spin 5 minutes. *AT EXPECTED RACE START TIME: SWIM 750m. Change, then CYCLE 40 minutes steady, then RUN: 20 minutes. Practise breakfast timing, race nutrition
of 'me-time' to focus on the race ahead. I also warm up with a swim - it's important to be ready for the fast start."Hollie Avil, European and World Junior Triathlon Champion and Corus Elite Ambassador"I tackle the warm up in reverse order by going from
