250M Swim Training Guide

Written by Rebecca Wetten, Co-Founder & Head Coach at Catch.

If you can swim 25m in a pool, you can train for 250m. Your goal is simple: feel calm, comfortable & in control.

How to train for 250m

Swim little & often: Two short swims per week is plenty. Even 15-20 minutes at a time will build confidence quickly.

Practise continuous swimming: Build up to swimming 10 minutes without stopping. Go at a pace where you could comfortably chat. This is not about pushing hard.

Make breathing feel easy: Breathe regularly, not only when you feel desperate. Exhale steadily under water so your inhale feels quick and relaxed.

Stay long in the water: Keep your head low, eyes down, & let your hips float up behind you. A flatter body position makes swimming feel noticeably easier.

Try open water before race day: Your first outdoor swim should not be on race morning. Even one short lake or sea swim beforehand will make a big difference.

Practice:

● Putting your face in & settling your breathing

● Floating or treading water calmly

● Looking forwards briefly to check where you’re going

You do not need to swim far. You just need to feel familiar.

Race week

Keep swims short & easy. Focus on feeling relaxed, not fitter. Arrive fresh.

Race day tips

● Start steady - the first 30-50m should feel controlled

● Look forwards occasionally to stay on course

● If you feel nervous, float for a few seconds, calm your breathing, then continue

Most of all, enjoy it. The 250m is about the atmosphere, the achievement & the big smile at the finish.

Want support with your swim training?

If you want structure, confidence & personalised coaching all the way to the Great North Swim, the Catch app can help.

With Catch Gold, you’ll get:

• A personalised training plan for your distance
• Weekly video lessons to improve your technique
• Unlimited coach support from me
• A friendly community to cheer you on

Use code GNS26 for:

• A 7-day free trial of Catch Gold
• £5 off your first 3 months

Catch Gold is the most effective & enjoyable way to feel ready for the Great North Swim.

Sign up below. See you at the start line.