Stewart Springer, an attorney with Springer Law Firm in Birmingham, Alabama, has experience in a variety of case types. In addition to personal injury and wrongful death matters, he also handles cases related to workers’ compensation, product liability, and divorce. Outside of work, attorney Stewart Springer has participated in a number of triathlons, marathons, and Ironman competitions.
An Ironman consists of three races: a 2.4-mile swim in open water, a 112-mile cycling leg, and a full marathon. For many athletes, the swim portion of the race is the most difficult. Experts have several tips that can help athletes improve their time during the swim.
First, it’s important to focus on technique. By improving the body’s balance and symmetry in the water, swimmers will be able to increase efficiency and speed, thereby conserving energy for later. Learning how to sight and draft properly can also help during the open-water swim. Swimming assessments are often available locally, to help athletes improve their mechanics and technique.
Experts also suggest that swimmers learn and master multiple strokes. Not only does the additional training strengthen the muscles used in swimming, but it also allows athletes to also easily flip into the backstroke during the race if they need to rest without adversely affecting their pace.
Even though athletes don’t noticeably sweat while swimming, it is essential for swimmers to hydrate during workouts. Not focusing on hydration will only slow a competitor own.
Finally, experts recommend practicing in open water whenever possible. The conditions in open water are dramatically different than those of a pool. In addition to the shock of cold water, the water depth, lack of visibility, and equipment issues could all affect the success an athlete experiences during the swim.
