Weekend Swim Workout: Pre-Race Tune-Up Swim
Coach Sara McLarty recommends trying this workout 2–3 days before an event as a pre-race tune-up.
Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! Download the app.
It’s September which can only mean one thing: It’s time for fall race season! Instead of panic training during your taper, choose smart and targeted sessions, like this pre-race swim workout – you want to arrive to your big day sharp, well-rested, and ready to go. Bookmark this race-week set from coach Sara McLarty and use it as a pre-race tune-up swim to shake out the nerves in the days leading up to your race. Pick the set below that matches your current fitness level and schedule, then dive in!
RELATED: Triathlete’s Expert Guide on How to Taper
A:
300 swim/200 pull/100 kick
6×50 on :50 (25 fast/25 easy)
4×200 on 2:50 (mid-race effort)
100 easy
5×100 on 1:40 (w/ paddles only, fast)
200 cool-down
*2,500 total*
RELATED: A 7-Day Race Week Meal Plan for Triathletes
B:
200 swim/200 pull/100 kick
6×50 on :60 (25 fast/25 easy)
3×200 on 4:00 (mid-race effort)
50 easy
4×100 on 2:00 (w/ paddles only, fast)
150 cool-down
*2,000 total*
RELATED: 5 Tips For Surviving Race Week
C:
200 swim/100 pull/100 kick
5×50 w/ :15 rest (25 fast/25 easy)
2×200 w/ :30 rest (mid-race effort)
50 easy
5×50 w/ :15 rest
(25 fast/25 easy)
150 cool-down
*1,500 total*
Looking for more swim-spiration? Check out our complete archive of Weekend Swim Workouts from Coach Sara McLarty.