Go all in for 2026. Purchase a training plan and get 25% off Premium at checkout for a limited time.

Browse More Plans

Swim-Ready: Introduction to Swimming

Browse More Plans

Swim-Ready: Introduction to Swimming

Includes Structured Workouts

Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.


Learn More about Structured Workouts.

Author

Robert Welsford

All plans by this Coach

Length

12 Weeks

Includes Structured Workouts

Structured Workouts automatically sync with compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time.


Learn More about Structured Workouts.

Plan Description

This 12-week introduction to swimming plan is designed for athletes who are looking to become more comfortable in the water, know at least the basics of how to swim freestyle, and can complete at least one length of the pool without stopping. The goal of this plan is to gradually build swim confidence, technique, and endurance so the athlete can complete an 800m continuous freestyle swim by the end of the program.

The plan includes 3 swims per week:

Technical Swim
Focused on body position, breathing control, balance, stroke timing, and freestyle efficiency.

Endurance Swim
Designed to gradually increase swim distance and help the athlete become more comfortable swimming longer sets.

Mixed Swim
A blend of technique and endurance work to reinforce good habits while continuing to build fitness.

The progression starts with manageable short repeats, such as 20 x 25m, and builds toward longer sets, eventually leading to 1 x 800m continuous freestyle. The focus is not on speed, but on swimming calmly, consistently, and with better control.

Recommended equipment for this plan includes:

- Kickboard
- Swim fins
- Pull buoy

This equipment will help support technique development, body position, kicking mechanics, and stroke control throughout the plan.

This plan is ideal for beginner swimmers, new triathletes, recreational athletes, or anyone looking to become more confident and capable in the pool.

______________________________________________________________________

Learn more: www.rapidsnailracing.com
Contact us: coaches@rapidsnailracing.com

How it Works

Load Your Plan

Quickly view upcoming workouts in the TrainingPeaks app.

Workout and Analyze

Upload completed workouts from your favorite tracking app or device.

Track Your Progress

Get feedback, stay on top of your training and perform at your best.

Learn More

Training Plan Sample Week

Stats

Average Weekly Breakdown

Workouts Weekly Average Longest Workout
Swim x3
01:17:00 00:54:00
Run x1
2mi 2mi
Bike x1
00:27:00 00:30:00
Day Off x1
—— ——
strength x1
01:00:00 01:00:00
Workouts Per Week Weekly Average Longest Workout
Swim
01:17:00 00:54:00
Run
2mi 2mi
Bike
00:27:00 00:30:00
Day Off
—— ——
strength
01:00:00 01:00:00

Training Load By Week


This plan works best with the following fitness devices:

Robert Welsford

Rapid Snail Racing

Our triathlon coaching is designed to take you from where you are now to where you want to be—fitter, faster, and ready for race day. You’ll get a fully customized training plan built around your goals, fitness level, and schedule, covering swim, bike, and run, plus strength, nutrition, and recovery guidance. We track your progress closely with regular check-ins, performance reviews, and plan adjustments so you’re always moving forward.


  • This plan includes a Free Basic TrainingPeaks Account.
  • Access your training plan anywhere on the TrainingPeaks mobile and desktop apps.
  • Track your performance with robust data tracking and detailed graphs.
  • Plan for your event in the TrainingPeaks calendar.
  • Track your weight, sleep, hours, fatigue and stress while you train.
  • Completed workouts sync with popular apps like Garmin and Wahoo. Learn More
  • If plan includes Structured Workouts, then planned workouts sync to compatible devices and guide you through workouts in real time. Learn More

Refund Policy

This plan is protected by our Refund Policy and may, with the author's approval, be exchanged for a plan of equal value from the same author.

Still have questions about this plan?

Bundle Premium—

Save 20%

Premium unlocks smarter training with advanced analytics, TrainingPeaks Virtual, and Structured Strength to give you deeper insights and data-backed results.

$107.99 USD for the first year, billed yearly.

Bundle Premium—

Save 25%

Premium unlocks smarter training with advanced analytics, TrainingPeaks Virtual, and Structured Strength to give you deeper insights and data-backed results.

$101.24 USD for the first year, billed yearly.

Bundle Premium—

Save 20%

Premium unlocks smarter training with advanced analytics, TrainingPeaks Virtual, and Structured Strength to give you deeper insights and data-backed results.

$107.99 USD for the first year, billed yearly.

$24.00 - Buy Now Buy with Premium Bundle