Triathlon swimming training is quite different to running training or cycling training. When running or cycling, it's adequate to head out into the world and aim to continuously go further and faster.

Triathlon swim training is different as the majority of your speed in the water, your endurance in the water and the amount of energy you use in the water is all determined by your swimming technique.

Because of this, the best triathlon swimming training comprises more short distances, swimming drills and sprints which improve your technique faster than if you were to just...

Going to the pool and swimming 1km without stopping?

This is biggest mistake new triathletes make when they start training for their triathlon swim.

Swimming sessions are split into Speed, Distance and Technique sessions. If you're looking to hit your next PB, you do more speed sessions, if you need to increase your distance in the pool, do more distance sessions.

If you're a new triathlete and not confident in the water, you should be entirely focussing on technique! Even if you're an experienced athlete, around 25% of your swimming sessions should be focussing on technique.