5 Triathlon Swimming Tips

Knowing these 5 triathlon swimming tips can help you in your next competition. Triathlons are difficult, to say the least. Taking in these tips is crucial in having a successful race.

1. Swim the race without thinking. So many lead swimmers turn their brains into an "auto-pilot" type of mode. Because of this technique, so many swimmers go to the lead of the pack. If you begin to over think your breathing patterns and body movements, it becomes overwhelming and ultimately will damage the process.
2. Only build lean muscle mass. Muscle mass is crucial in regards to having the strength and endurance that is needed during a triathlon. However, heavy muscle mass will weigh you down when you need to be light and on quick on your feet. Building a muscle mass that is lean and mean, will help with a successful swim.
3. Hold the water. As you pull the water back, its important not to let it slip between your fingers. Keeping your hands held in a proper position, will help pull the water past you. Pulling the water will absolutely increase your speed and fluidity.
4. Increase cardio. Swimming can take a toll on the body, particularly on the heart. Holding your breath decreases oxygen to the heart, so it's important to keep up with heart strengthening exercises. Because swimming during a triathlon is so exhausting, it makes the rest of the race a bit more difficult. This is another reason to keep up cardio exercises, for the remainder of the triathlon.
5. Remain "free". Freestyle swimming during a triathlon is about being loose and free, stating the obvious. However, with so many training techniques being offered, it can get overwhelming. The most important thing to remember is letting the water, your body, and the level of the race be the dictators in the way you swim.