#5 The Adult Onset Swimmer

In this episode, Cal, Emma, and Tim delve into the nuances of transitioning into triathlon as an adult, focusing heavily on the challenges and solutions of adult-onset swimming and open water skills. Whether you're new to swimming or trying to improve in open water, you'll find actionable tips and motivation.

Key topics covered:

• Transitioning from elite to age-group triathlon and managing expectations
• How to approach swimming when starting later in life, including mental barriers and physical adaptations
• Essential equipment for adult swimmers and open water athletes—what’s useful and what’s a crutch
• Technique fundamentals: body balance, arm recovery, body relaxation, and efficiency
• Structuring swim sessions: short frequent workouts versus long continuous swim practices
• Overcoming open water fears: sighting, cold water, waves, and crowd navigation
• Benefits of swimming with a squad and using video feedback for improvement
• Wetsuit strategies: fit, impact on stroke, and managing new sensations
• Building confidence through consistent exposure and gradual skill development

Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: transitioning from elite triathlete to age grouper

00:44 - Common challenges faced by adult swimmers stepping into open water

02:10 - Techniques for improving water feel and efficient stroke mechanics

03:38 - The importance of body balance and relaxation in swimming

04:54 - Equipment myths and essentials: fins, paddles, snorkels, and wetsuits

06:48 - Structuring swim sessions: frequency, drills, and technique focus

08:52 - Developing speed reserve and intensity in training

09:25 - Common obstacles: cold water, fear, bulkiness of wetsuits, and sighting issues

11:16 - How to adapt training for open water conditions and environment

13:27 - Using video feedback and squad consistency to accelerate improvement

15:18 - The importance of patience in stroke correction and incremental progress

16:31 - The impact of regular exposure, especially during injury or setbacks

18:48 - Tips for fitting and choosing wetsuits for different body types

21:38 - Strategies for open water practice: sighting, waves, and navigating crowds

24:19 - The mental aspect: staying relaxed and managing panic triggers

27:00 - Final tips: sensory awareness, body tension, and embracing imperfection

29:30 - Connecting pool and open water swimming: how to transfer skills effectively

34:37 - Wrap-up: continuous learning and encouraging a relaxed, consistent approach

Come find us Cartel Coaching — Swim. Bike. Run. Together.