Wednesday, June 24, 2009

triathlon swimming 101

So, it’s your first time in a swimming pool working out with others OR it’s your first time to train for the swim portion of a triathlon with others in a pool.

What should you expect?

What gear do you absolutely have to bring to your first swim, what “gear” will I need for starters?

1.Swimming goggles that fit your face
2.Swimsuit – For starters, you should wear a tight-fitting, fitness swimsuit of quick-dry fabric rather than a baggy or cotton swimsuit. Ladies, save your bikinis for the beach, you will want a one piece swim suit and men should wear a tight-fitting swim suit, often called a jammer Both men and women will eventually want to buy tri-shorts to wear throughout the race — they have light padding in the crotch for the bike leg. All Tri will provide you with a tri-top for your race in Austin.
3.Towel- although for my group trainings at the JCC they are available there.
4.Swim cap - For women or men with long hair, a swim cap manages your hair but they also protect your hair from chemicals in the pool. For your triathlon in Austin, everyone will be given a swim cap to wear. They identify you as part of an age and gender group and help you be seen in the water.
Where do I get these things if I do not already have them?
Swim goggles can be purchased at many sporting goods stores and at fitness speciality stores like Kiefer Swim Shop, D&J Sports, Luke’s Locker or Richardson Bike Mart. For our first swim workout, you can swim with what you have … but you’ll definitely need goggles and a swim cap (particularly if you have long hair).

What will take place during my first swim workout?
You’ll change into your swim gear when you arrive and we’ll gather at pool side, we will do some dynamic stretching and plyometrics. I’ll talk to you about what to expect and then you will get in the water. From there I will put you in lanes with people who are of a similar pace and skill. Once you are grouped with like-ability swimmers, we will go over the basics of the swim stroke. I will teach you first how to float and move on from there. There will be times when you feel silly but everyone will be doing the same thing (and really I’m the only person who will be watching). All of the things we will do will help you become a more efficient swimmer! Once you are an expert floater we will do some drills and, depending on how everyone is doing, we will get to swim some laps. All of the things you learn can be practiced during your weekly on-your-own swims.

Will I share a lane with other swimmers? What will that be like?

I have 4 lanes pool. You will likely share a lane with a few others who swim at a similar pace as you. You will swim counter-clockwise in a lane, staying to the right side of the lane. The pool lane dividers help break up waves and splash from the swimmers in the next lane, but expect there to be an occasional moment where your arm or hand might accidentally catch the lane dividers or a swimmer over from you. It’s no big deal. If you are not used to sharing a lane, you will get used to it.

Will there be a place to change clothes?
Yes, there are locker rooms at the pool. There are changing rooms with showers.

Can I eat before the swim workout?

Yes, but allow about an hour for your food to digest … and don’t eat a heavy meal.

What time is our swim workout on Tuesday evenings?

Come to be ready to start swimming at 7:45p.m. We will complete our workout by 9:00 p.m. The facility closes at 10:00 p.m.

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