Instead of seeing just one or two ocean swims each weekend over summer, we are now seeing multiple events spread out all over the country from November to April.
With traditional ocean swims doing well, another related type of event – the run/swim – is also starting to show signs of growth.
If you’re wondering what a run/swim event is, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn what these events are and who they are suited to.
What is a run/swim event?
A traditional run-swim-run event is exactly what it sounds like, a run followed by a swim followed by a run. These events can also be referred to as aquathlons or biathlons and were likely born from the growth in triathlon and the tradition of surf lifesaving, where this format is a competitive event at surf carnivals.
There are more variants out there now that add multiple swim and run legs, like North Curl Curl’s 3 Points Challenge, Swimrun Australia’s swimrun events along with the RunSwim Coogee Aquathlon.
One of the bonuses of a run/swim event is that you get to enjoy the local environment and sights both above and below the water.
Who are run/swim events for?
Are you a swimmer who loves running or a runner who loves swimming? Maybe you just enjoy an adventure? If you are any of these, then a run/swim event is for you.
Participants who take part in these events love the variety and like to push their fitness and combine their land and water abilities.
Ultimately, a run/swim event is for everyone.
Training for a run-swim-run event
With two disciplines in a run/swim-style event, you’ll need to train for both.
A good place to start is with your weakest leg; if you’re more of a swimmer, start to build your running fitness. There are some great programs and apps out there such as Couch to 5km.
Couch to 5km does exactly what it says; it helps you go from the couch to running 5km, which will put you in great stead for a run-swim-run event. Plus, did you know that running is a great way to get fit and improve your ocean swimming?
If you’re more of a runner, then start to increase those km in the pool and open water.
A great way to combine training in both disciplines is to incorporate ‘ins and outs’ into your training, one of our favourite training methods here at oceanswims.com.
In’s and out’s is essentially what it’s called. You run into the surf (or open water), swim through the wave zone and out the back into the open water before swimming back through the wave zone, running up the beach before heading back out and repeating it all again.
Not only will ‘ins and outs’ help to get you run/swim race ready but they will also drastically improve your fitness and your ocean swimming ability in the wave zone.
By Andre Slade, owner – Oceanswims.com & OceanFit
