Introduction
The best way to train for a triathlon is by the following plan – swim, bike, and run as much as possible. But what if you don’t own a pool or if a public pool is accessible in your area? Can you then train your triathlon swimming in an above ground pool?
In general, this is possible because the one thing all pools, regardless above ground or in-ground, have in common is water resistance. With water resistance, you can train movement and motion, including your swimming stroke. Add to this some creative accessories like swimming belts or tether’s and swimming paddles and it is possible to build enough swimming stamina for a triathlon.
Don’t worry, that is not a problem because;
An above-ground pool is a great substitute for outdoor training.
In this article we will try our best to answer the question How to train your triathlon swimming in an above ground pool by answering the benefits of swimming in one, how to train effectively and what equipment is required.
Hopefully, this information will allow you to train better than ever before and get faster results!
First off, let’s look at the benefits of training your triathlon (or any swimming for that matter) swimming in an above ground pool
What are the benefits of training your triathlon swimming in an above ground pool
There are many benefits to train your swimming in an above ground pool.
- You can train whenever you want, and it’s also more cost-effective since an above ground pool is not to expensive. Add to this basic equipment required( which we will discuss later in this article) and you would be hard pressed to find a cheaper alternative.
- You train in a controlled environment that doesn’t have the distractions of everyday life, so your focus is meant solely on your training.
- You can train as hard as you want without worrying about outside pressures or disturbances because you train in your own backyard.
- The water in the pool is always at the same level so there is never any difference between being deep or shallow like there would be with a public pool.
- Lastly but most importantly, the pools allow for all types of workouts and training. Whether you want to work on speed, endurance, or strength, these pools are a great solution!
How to train swimming effectively using an above-ground pool
It may seem difficult to train your swimming effectively in an above ground pool, but it’s actually easier than you think!
Here are some tips on how to train successfully in these pools:
1) Set up a schedule
Make sure you train your swimming at least two times a week, or even three if possible. Don’t train the same day of the week all the time, it’s good to train with some variety. In short, the training schedule should fit your normal triathlon schedule.
2) Get a swim belt or tether
- The best way is to use a swimbelt. It is a low cost investment and you can spend practicing endurance as well as your strokes. In fact, you can pretty much do all your training with it.
- When starting out place a paddle board or pool noodle underneath your belly for more support. To get these items from Amazon, simply click here
- Pro-tip, ensure the bungy cords are tied at the right height.
3) Paddle Boards
- Practice kicking by holding onto the farme or with paddle boards
- If the pool is shallow enough, stand on your knees and simply practice your strokes.
This is a good start, now you’re ready to train your swimming in an above ground pool like a pro! Now you’ll know how to train effectively in one of these pools, get faster results, and enjoy all the benefits that come with training at home.
Swimming can be very fun and rewarding if it’s done right!
How long should I train?
One good option is 3 times weekly swims of 30 minutes each time – ideally on separate days so the next day(s) are not spent recovering from the last session but are fresh training days.
Other trainees find it better to swim for an hour once a week, or even train twice weekly but with two shorter sessions which can be useful if you have limited time and want to train hard without spending too much time in the pool.
Keep in mind that there is no one perfect way – so experiment with various session lengths until you find what works best for you.
And of course if you are a seasoned pro you already have a training system in place so continue with that
Other Training equipment for above ground swimming Pools
Training in an above ground pool requires some special equipment. Here are the tips you need to train your swimming and train your fitness with less expense:
- Waterproof mp3 players can be used for training your swimming and train your fitness. They allow you to train without distraction, which can also train your focus as well!
- Waterproof cell phones are another way to train your swimming while still poolside. This allows you to train in conditions where it would not be safe to train with any other equipment (or train your swimming while still poolside).
- While not necessary for a great training program, kickboards and pull buoys can be used to train your swimming. These are especially helpful if there are children in the pool and you need extra buoyancy for safety reasons.
- Last but not least, wear a wet suit if you train in cold weather. This will help you train your swimming, train your endurance and train for any open water swims that might come up on race day! It is especially helpful for triathletes who train in all three sports in the same day (a triathlon trainee who trains swimming, cycling and running on the same day).
Conclusion
When training your swimming in an above ground pool, you can train whenever you want and it’s more cost effective.
Also, you will train in a controlled environment that doesn’t have the distractions of everyday life so your focus is meant solely on training.
The pools also allow for all types of workouts.
Train your swimming effectively using an above-ground pool by following these tips: set up a schedule, know what equipment you need, practice skills before using them and know what equipment is required.
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