I'm gearing up for competing in my first triathlon sprint in September. I have two goals: 1. Finish 2. Beat my brother
I'm in fairly decent shape but could definitely work on my cardio. I've been going to the gym 3-5 days a week since Jan and mainly focus on weights but try to get in some cardio on non-weight days. I plan to start biking a lot and running (I really don't like running!) to get trained for the event. This particular sprint is 600 yard swim (in a lake), 15 mile bike, and 5k run.
The part I'm struggling with is training for the swim. I've always been a good swimmer but I don't swim regularly and haven't since I was in high school (I'll be 31 this month). My current gym doesn't have a pool. My dilemma is: I can join another gym in the town that I work in for $49/month that does have an indoor Olympic pool. No contract, so I can cancel anytime. I don't like spending the money, but ultimately I have the money to spend.
Would I be an idiot to think I can go swim 600 yards without training at all? Do you guys that have experience with these races think it's a fools errand to only practice swimming a handful of times over the next couple months vs getting in a pool 2x per week?
Now on a general training regimen, what part do you guys see as the place that amateurs could improve the most to better their time? I don't really know what to expect with my first one, but looking forward to doing more.
@Yellowfin. Old Yellerfin is my brother (twin to be exact) and I'm sure he would like to hear your advice too. I'll allow him to make a who's the better twin post when he gets beat in September.