Swimmer Out of Water - My First Triathlon Experience

Swimmers hate running... This is a well known fact, established by almost every swimmer ever.

Why? Not used to the impact? Flexibility and mobility can be too much for running? Not used to the heat and sweat without the water to wash it away? Frustration at not being as good as you think you should be? It just hurts?

Or any combination of the above?! Cycling, on the other hand, doesn't have the same reputation as running but still represents an unnatural habitat for a swimmer.

When my running friend floated the idea of doing an Olympic distance triathlon (1.5km swim + 40km bike + 10km run) back in December I told him he was crazy! After a couple of months of wearing me down I finally gave in and signed up to the event. What followed was a baptism into cycling and running.

Cycling was something I enjoyed from the beginning as I have been a commuter cyclist for many years (Could probably do a whole other post about the difference between these worlds). Exploring new places on your own legs is super satisfying and something I will continue to do from now on! Getting to the top of a climb after a hard grind is super satisfying. Then flying down the other side is the best part.

Running I have given a go a few times, namely in COVID. I never really enjoyed it, or felt any progression. With a bit of coaching - focusing on breathing and cadence things started to become slightly less terrible. Running is such a convenient workout and stresses the cardiovascular system like nothing else. However the ankle and knees stress is real and I had to slowly build up to volume. 

Putting it all together is a tough day. Testing technique, endurance and mental strength like nothing I have done before. Seeing thousands of people around all pushing themselves makes it a great motivator. I needed everything to push through the second half of the run in the summer sun.

Something that is often not talked about is the expense of starting out . A bike, wetsuit and the rest of the gear can get pricey if you are doing a one off event. Buying smart things such as a versatile road bike can offset the cost by giving you multiple uses for example.

Would I recommend a triathlon to a swimmer? Although the time required to train 3 disciplines simultaneously is significant. The fitness base is a fantastic foundation and the inherent advantage in the swim is a great first leg. Cycling and running are great sports in their own right and something I will continue to train in the future.

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