Triathlon-Specific Swim Stroke

Introduction

• Open water environment in triathlons is different from pool swimming.
• Need to adapt swim stroke for open water conditions.

Triathlon Swim Stroke Characteristics

• Appearance: May look awkward compared to traditional pool stroke.
  • Example: Mark's windmill arm stroke.
• Environment: Mass starts and close proximity to other swimmers.
  • Leads to clattering arms and need for straight arm recovery.

Arm Technique

• Arm Rate: High cadence is common among triathletes.
  • Different from long, relaxed strokes seen in pool swimming.
  • High turnover helps deal with turbulent water and close quarters.
• Adaptation: Adapt pool stroke fundamentals for higher turnover in open water.

Breathing Techniques

• Open Water Breathing: Breathing to one side, often not bilateral.
  • Reasons include proximity to other athletes, waves, chop, and sun glare.

Lower Body Technique

• Kick Rate: Low kick rate is observed.
  • Similar to long-distance swimmers with a two-beat flutter kick.
  • Focus on energy preservation for bike and run segments.
  • Use of wetsuits aids in leg buoyancy, reducing reliance on kicks.

Sighting

• Importance: Crucial in open water to navigate and avoid collisions.
  • Involves lifting head slightly to see targets (buoys) and other swimmers.

Drafting

• Concept: Swimming close to others can be beneficial.
  • Drafting Techniques:
    • Sit on swimmer’s hips or directly behind, tapping their feet.
    • Reduces effort needed to maintain speed.
    • Can keep up with faster swimmers.

Conclusion

• Significant differences in triathlon swim strokes are due to environmental factors.
• Master fundamentals of pool stroke first, then adapt for triathlon conditions.
• Additional resources available through related videos.