Swim Help plan

irahelp

I  have just been able to swim 60 laps non stop for a 25 meter pool. HIM is Beach to Battle Ship, Oct 27. Im going to try to get laps up to 100 before race, im using a pool bouy, since Im trying to simulate wetsuite swim. There is suppose to be tide coming in. Just learn how to swim at the age of 45, 47 now: Any thoughts, suggestions on how to handle the swim part. Scared that I might be in the water too long and freeze my butt off. How would you tackle the swim part. It takes me about 1.55-2.00 per hundred and 30 min to do 55 laps of a 25meter pool. I have not been able to do the distance required in the swimming plan, as they are too long.

 

jburbatt

The best thing you can do from now until the race is get in some OWS in colder water with your wetsuit (and booties and neoprene cap if necessary) and get used to the cold temps. Then just prep yourself for the distance. You aren't going to add much speed, but your goal should be to maintain a steady pace over the whole swim. You want to be able to swim the distance. HIM and IM swims are boooring, just get used to going steady and staying focused on your form which will make you the fastest you are going to be on race day.

Tom Glynn

Keep working on the distance too. I'm no speedster in the pool either, but I can swim a long way at a slow pace. I too learned to swim more than dog paddle at the age of 43 or so. I took a Total Immersion weekend class and it took me three or four months before I could get over 20 lengths or so. Then it just sort of clicked and I was quickly able to add more distance. Haven't found the golden ticket for speed yet!

kurshing

Stephen - I agree with Jennifer that getting some open water swimming under your belt is probably one of the best things you could do. Oct 27 is a long way away still, so, you will be fine. The swimming continues to ramp up as you approach the race and as the running and bike work wanes. Keep with it, and any day where there is a swim workout, just build your day around that workout to make sure that workout gets done...it should be priority 1. Also, some people have a tendency to not push themselves in the water as they do on the bike and in the run...don't be afraid to push on just a little more (time permitting) when you think you can't swim any more. A few of these stretch workouts goes a long way in the water!

You have time...no worries, just stay focused and be sure you are incorporating some drills in your warm ups and cool downs (see the swim eBook!).

Ralph Butler

Stephen, When I did Beach to Battleship the current was strong enough that the swim was a non issue for the weaker swimmers. Continue to train and relax. You will do fine if you stick to the plan. Open water swimming to get used to your wet suit is always a good idea too.

Coach Patrick

You might want to consider finding a 1:1 swim coach in your area for some feedback on your stroke...sounds like technique is a pretty big limiter for you!