CONQUER THE IRONMAN SWIM
Adrenalin-fuelled triathletes tread the open water, readying for the start of the 3.8km swim that begins their epic challenge. It’s the spectacle that draws so many of us to Ironman.
Whatever your standard, the aim is to get through the swim efficiently, but delivering your best performance takes the right mix of prep, attitude and kit. Whether it’s swimming alongside others or dealing with uncertain conditions, there’s a lot to think about (and that goes for Ironman 70.3 athletes as well).
Let’s find out how from some of the world’s best how you can conquer the first step of Ironman in 2021.
TRAINING
01 AIM FOR CONSISTENCY
Ingraining the habit of swimming regularly, either individually or as a squad, is better than doing mammoth occasional sessions. Work out where in your week you can fit in three or four swims slots, and rope others in too, making you all accountable. AB
02 HAVE A PROGRAMME TO FOLLOW
If I go to the pool without a programme, I won’t have a focused training session. If you don’t have a coach, make a plan yourself before you go to the pool, so you know what you’re doing. It doesn’t have to be complicated, but will give you much-needed structure. MV
03 TRAIN WHEN FRESH
Swimming, cycling and running can mix like oil and water. If you’ve punched
