Demystifying the Swim Leg

The swim leg has been described as “scary”, “daunting” and “difficult” - among other words – by triathletes. It is often the leg of the race that prevents runners and cyclists from even attempting a triathlon. Many of those that do try a triathlon will under-train in swimming because they do not have access to a pool or because they underestimate how taxing a long swim can be. If you are swimmers by nature, then you likely relish the chance to show off your skills in the water. But the swim leg can be just as strenuous for swimmers as it is for newer swimmers.

I don't look scared, do I?

Because of this, I would like to demystify the swim leg. The two most significant issues to note are that there are two different types of swims – pool and open water – and that the swim leg is varying distances depending on the venue or the race length.

Distances

For those not familiar with typical triathlon distances, I urge you to check out the USAT race distances page and this article in Men’s Health. But there are lots of different races with varying distances. For swimmers, I recommend trying out a non-traditional distance race that highlights the swim portion. This could give you an advantage against other less skilled swimmers. For cyclists/runners, I recommend the opposite. Find a race with a shorter swim and longer distance in your sport. For those lucky triathletes who excel in all three, then just find a race!

Pool Swims vs. Open Water Swims

I have done about an even number of indoor and outdoor races though I still have not decided which style race I like more. Pool swims are ideal for novice swimmers. They can be outdoor or indoor. Short distance – typically 300 yards/meters depending on the pool size. Shallow water. Clean water. Seasoned swimmers get the added benefit of being adept at flip-turns already. And my favorite benefit is that they are single-start races, e.g. one person starts at a time. This is far less hectic than a group start and the races will often use seed times so the stronger swimmers can lead.

Open water swims require a little more training than pool swims. Open water swims can be in a lake, pond, stream, or the ocean, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Lakes/ponds often have waist deep water, but they can be filled with more plant life and debris, which can be distracting or even dangerous. In streams you have to face strong currents going one direction – though you get the added benefit of swimming with the current the other way. The ocean is this swimmer-pretending-to-be-a-triathlete's least favorite option because you have to deal with sea creatures and saltwater. In general, all open water swims pose a danger if you have open wounds, new piercings, or swallow water frequently.

Warming up at the Boilerman Tri (2011)

The bottom line when choosing a race based on the swim leg is you need to know your strengths and limitations. How far can you safely swim? Under what conditions? Are there other options for races that suit your swimming style? 

So what is your preference as a triathlete?