Why do triathletes hate swimming? "I love doing triathlons, but I hate the swimming part!", how many times have you heard this? Too many times I guess.So why do we hate swimming so much? Admittedly, swimming is the most difficult part of triathlon in terms of technique and learning curve, it takes a lot of practice and drill work to get from beginner to competent open water swimmer. Most triathletes just want to work out hard and see the results in their race. Swimming starts to be looked at as a thorn in their side because it is much more complicated than just putting out more effort or adding distance. In order to succeed in swimming, and to fully enjoy the sport of triathlon, you must let go of these negative thoughts, but it is sooooo difficult. There is no room for holding on to the beliefs that will hold you back.
If you continually say that you "hate" swimming, you will dread going to the pool, and you will show up to your race with all kinds of uncertainty - and your chances of success will be slim!On the other hand, if you can train yourself to actually enjoy the swim, success will be yours! The physical part of training is easy. This is why many triathletes get tripped up in the swim- it goes far beyond cranking out hard workouts to improve. Improve your mental outlook and the way you look at the swim and you will be amazed at the progress you make. Train smart bloggers!
3 comments:
Interesting thoughts Frank. A lack of love for swimming was one of my reasons for becoming a cyclist.
Right on Frank. I am loving the H2O lately. We fell out a while back but we have made up big time 8-)
I've never really enjoyed the swimming part, it was always a means to an end, but I guess as my IM training progressed I did enjoy it a little more - but not that much! ;-)
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