CHALLENGE AND ENDURANCE
Simon Griffiths looks at bringing challenges into your training
In May, inland water temperatures in the UK start reaching the point where longer open water swims are possible, if not yet comfortable. It’s a good time to take your training outside and start increasing your time in the water. Here are a couple of things you could try.
AN OUTDOOR TRAINING SESSION
When you swim outside, it’s tempting (and enjoyable) to settle into a steady speed. I often do. Your rhythm is no longer disrupted by frequent turns. There’s space. It’s a calming, zen-like experience. You swim peacefully and go home refreshed. I wouldn’t blame you if you chose to swim like this every time you swam.
But if you want your swims to provide more effective training, you would benefit from adding structure. If you do this well, you might find you enjoy your session as much (or perhaps more) than doing a steady swim.