GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — The Grand Rapids Triathlon training hasn't officially started yet, but now is a great time to work on weaker areas - for Laura and Shanna, that means extra time in the pool.
Laura and Shanna got a lesson in swimming from Erin Kring at the Mary Free Bed YMCA. Check out that story here: Training for a Triathlon: Let's go for a swim.
Shanna and Laura are continuing to share insights on their triathlon training, including tips on transforming from a complete beginner to a seasoned swimmer in one 30 minute pool session.
Here's what Shanna had to say:
"Although daunting at first, something I have learned in life is to just say 'yes' to pretty much every opportunity. Does it sound cheesy? Sure. But, each time I bring myself outside my comfort zone, I'm all the better for it. Agreeing to do my first ever triathlon is a prime example, and the whole, you know, swimming part... scares me most.
"Beyond learning the basics of how to not drown as a kid, I've never been much of a swimmer. I tend to only frequent pools to dip my feet into, and sip a cool drink next to. That was until I signed up to swim a half-mile as part of the GR triathlon.
"Our swim lesson was a lot more difficult than I thought (and I didn't think it would be easy). Figuring out how tight to make my goggles seemed to be a struggle, let alone worrying about when to breathe while maintaining the correct form. I got tired quickly, but after a few laps I began feeling more like a fish out of in the water (Sorry, I had to.)
"With the first swim of many (many, many, many) under my belt, I fully realize this is going to take time, practice and perseverance. But it will be worth it. Just remember to celebrate the successes along the way, no matter how small (e.g. getting those goggles to fit just right)."
Laura also shared her journey in the pool:
"I'll be honest, I initially said "no" to competing in a triathlon because I'm not a strong swimmer - I'm actually not much of a swimmer at all (does the doggy paddle count??). I think the last time I had anything resembling a swimming lesson, I was in 3rd grade, learning more about survival skills in water than how to perfect a breast stroke.
"But trainer Kari Stuart told me she began her triathlon journey many years ago by starting as a complete beginner in the pool, so with her help and mentoring, I figured I'd give it a go.
"A lesson in swimming sounded perfect but the day came and I was terrified. Learning a new skill takes time (also, wearing a bathing suit on television is terrifying and in hindsight I should have skipped that burger the day before).
"Under the quick and effective lesson from swim coach Erin Kring, I went from windmilling my arms and struggling to breath to feeling comfortable and confident in the pool. This didn't all happen instantly, but I have been to lap swims three times since the lesson and have figured out a breathing rhythm, worked on longer strokes, and have triumphed over my swim cap each time.
"Going forward, I plan to focus on kicking more effectively and building stamina. I am also asking questions of everyone: other people in the pool, the lifeguards, coworkers and friends, etc. From what I've found, everyone is willing to help and trying different things will help you discover what works best. Happy swimming!"
Start from the beginning with Laura and Shanna: Training for a Triathlon: Laura and Shanna share their initial thoughts.
If you'd like to train for the GR Triathlon, follow along and check out training guides for beginners here: Training for the Grand Rapids Triathlon
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