go all out or land lover?

You say nothing aboput your swimming background and ability, how are we to know? Can you possibly swim 400 meters without standing or holding on to something? Any stroke will do...

If you can't now, a week won't help you.

Since you specifically say you just want to have fun, I would say, "Yes, you can do it.*"

* Note - Expect to be really really slow on the swim!

Tips for the uber- beginner/first time swimmer:
* Go slow at the beginning. Really slow. Don't even try to keep up with anyone else.
* Relax, relax, relax. Don't try to go as fast as you can, and try not to panic.
* If you go too fast, and begin to panic, roll over onto your back and catch your breath.
* Use any stroke you need to. You can breast stroke, backstroke, or even dog paddle.
* Don't forget to breath.
* Don't worry about your speed/time in the water. Just enjoy the swim, then hit the ground running.

400m will look really long in the open water if you've never done it before. Don't freak out when you see the distance. If you are an average swimmer, it will probably take you 8-10 minutes to swim the 400m on a good day. If it takes you 12-14 mins, so what? You'll make up for it on the bike and run.

Don't worry about embarrassing yourself. You won't be the slowest swimmer, and there will be lifeguards. But you do need to keep in mind that if you are uncertain about being able to stay afloat in the water, and you think you are going to need help after 2 minutes, then consider skipping the race. It would be foolish to get in the water without being able to swim, because you put not only yourself at risk, but you put others at risk when the lifeguard has to come rescue you.

Just my opinion. If you decide to do the race, Be Safe and Good Luck!

If the tri is close to you, I'd try to swim there a couple of days before the race. Bring a friend who is a good swimmer and stay close to shore. It would give you a good idea if it is reasonable for you to attempt.

Sorry forgot to include my swim experience....this summer I swam once or twice a week as part of my cardio when training for figure contests.  I would swim for about 20-2 min but I would take short breaks.  I've just never paid much attention to technique

Hello and welcome to BT.

Is this a pool swim tri? Or an open water swim?

open water

If you know that you can swim 400m without stopping, then yes, you can do the race. If you're not sure, then skip it. We don't want to read about a near drowning accident in a couple of weeks. Kind of like me in the bathtub... near drowning... that's why I stick to duathlons... which may be a good option for you as well to start out with. It will give you the experience of multi-sport racing, without having to worry about the water (except for the water you drink)

Edited by audiojan 2009-09-01 11:10 AM