SWIM PSYC H T I P S
Your mind is an incredible tool, governing effort, speed and, ultimately, your result. But your entire triathlon focus centres on the physical side, so you’re completely thrown when an unplanned event or bad memory upsets your racing karma, leaving you an overstimulated, anxious mess. Here’s how to master the first discipline…
SCENARIO 1
The horn blows and you’re off. Sadly, your mind is too, searching out fear in this strange aquatic land of flailing arms. Then panic sets in…
Firstly, accept it. Everyone is being bashed around. It doesn’t last. The first 200m are the worst, so just keep your arms turning over and keep breathing as much as you can. If you start to really panic, stop and breaststroke or doggy paddle for a few strokes… then go again, knowing that it will improve. If you can, get onto feet and follow someone. Or, if you need a breather from the pack, you can always swim towards the right (if the buoys are on your right) and then come back into the buoy, otherwise you’ll be swimming a ton of extra distance. Picture yourself with a good arm turnover and strong tricep push at the back-end of your stroke, and imagine being out on the bike enjoying yourself. Let go of the negative thoughts… find a path and stick to your plan.
SCENARIO 2
One minute you’re focusing on a new PB, the next you can’t see a thing. Your goggles have been kicked off…
If your goggles are kicked off your head, try to retrieve them straightaway. If you can’t, don’t become overly stressed or angry about it. Keep focused on moving forward. Don’t start thinking that you’re going to drown or about seeking revenge, as that will panic you. Just accept the situation as it is, move out of the pack for some space, and live and learn. Maybe next time you’ll place the goggles beneath your cap to keep them secure.
SCENARIO 3
You exit the swim, but being horizontal for so long has disorientated you. Where is your bike?
As you’re approaching the end of the swim, start thinking about where you’ll head once on land. Clearly visualise your path, which you should have meticulously planned out before the swim. Where is your bike? Are there any markers/posts you can focus on so you don’t end up in the wrong rack? Remember: it’s not just what you see; it’s what you feel and hear.
Next month: What to do post-race?