The label 'regular' swimruns doesn't really convey the dynamic nature of these events, with competitors diving into open water and striding off down trails for a total distance of between 20-40K. This sport is anything but regular!
Swimrunning is a unique endurance sport where competitors move between swimming and running with no kit transitions, remaining in their wetsuit and trainers throughout the whole thing. There will be multiple sections of both disciplines, so getting used to running while wet and swimming in shoes is essential!
Most events require competitors to enter in teams of two, often physically linked by a long cord. The majority of running will be off-road and the swimming will simply depend on location, from rivers to the open sea.
Your kit list should include:
- A wetsuit, which can often be specific swimrunning, i.e. with shorter arms and legs.
- Goggles and a swim cap (many organisers will provide the latter).
- Running shoes (make sure they drain well!)
- A tow float (many organisers will require this for safety).
- Hand paddles, which increase the surface area of your hand to help rest your legs for running (optional).
- A pull buoy, for the same purpose as the hand paddles (optional).
- A tow line, to connect partners together (optional).
Despite needing some specialist equipment, all you really need to get into swimrunning is enthusiasm for exploring the great outdoors and good levels of endurance, particularly for the regular distance events. From Highland lochs to the Isles of Scilly, swimrunning events are a fantastic opportunity to explore breathtaking locations.
