Most adult triathletes are non swimmers and did not grow up swimming… Even if they did, there is often a large gap (many years) between swimming as a child / adolescent and then swimming again as an adult triathlete.
In any case, don’t chase perfection in the water if you are a triathlete!
– it is not necessary
– there are no prizes for perfect form
– we swim in the open water
– efficiency and strength are key
Most age group triathletes are swimming 2-4 times a week.. With this level of frequency achieving the ‘perfect stroke’ is restricted and often a waste of your time and effort. Especially when learning, or, re-learning in the adult years.
Instead, maintain consistency and build a foundation of aerobic development and strength endurance in the pool. Work on efficiency, i.e. not wasting effort when swimming and identify a couple of cues that work for YOU.
Remember overall swim fitness will mean you don’t burn matches in the swim and have a positive affect on your overall outcome on race day.
A smooth, consistent stroke rating that you can maintain for the duration of the swim leg will yield greatest benefits to your triathlon performance.
Don’t forget to practice all of this in an open water environment as well!
Happy swimming…