Once you're in the water, remembera tri is three sports. Pace yourself - Too often, people feel like they need to win it in the swim. If you are a good swimmer, go for it but remember, the lion's share of the day will be spent on land. Set a good, aerobic pace, leaving something for the bike and run. If you are a novice or intermediate swimmer, use a conservative, relaxed stroke emphasizing distance per stroke rather than windmilling your arms and working like a demon to save just a few seconds. That energy is better spent on the run. Or a quick T1.
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