Half Mile Swim Training Guide

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

What matters most

If you can swim 50m of front crawl in the pool, you can train for the Half mile if you give yourself a few weeks to prepare. The goal is to swim the distance smoothly, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

How to train for the Half mile

Be consistent - Aim for 2 swims per week. Short, regular sessions build fitness far better than one big effort every now and then.

Build your continuous swimming - Gradually work up to 15-20 minutes of steady swimming without stopping. Keep the effort comfortable. You should feel in control of your breathing throughout.

Focus on relaxed breathing - Breathe regularly rather than holding your breath. Exhale steadily under water so your inhale feels calm & unhurried.

Improve your body position - Keep your head low, eyes down, & allow your hips to stay high. A flatter position reduces drag & makes swimming feel noticeably easier.

Practise open water skills - Try to swim outdoors at least once or twice before race weekend. It helps you get used to cooler water, limited visibility & swimming without walls.

Practise:

●    Sighting: looking forwards briefly to check your direction

●    Settling your breathing if the water feels choppy

●    Swimming near others so race day feels less crowded

Even a couple of outdoor sessions can turn nerves into excitement.

Race week

Keep your swims light & steady. You will not gain extra fitness in the final week, but you can arrive feeling fresh & confident.

Race day tips

●    Start controlled rather than sprinting

●    Settle into a pace you could maintain beyond the race distance

●    Look forwards every few arm cycles to stay on course

●    If you feel flustered, slow down slightly & reset your breathing

The aim is to finish feeling proud, not exhausted.

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.

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