Swimrun – the ultimate endurance sport

What is swimrun?

Swimrun is a sport that combines open water swimming and trail running. Participants race through a course that includes swimming sections in lakes, rivers, and the ocean and running sections on trails and roads. The goal is to complete the course as quickly as possible.

It is typically a team event, with participants completing the course in pairs. But you can find events where you race individually. Participants wear wetsuits and shoes and carry all necessary equipment throughout the race, including a towline connecting team members.

A sport for everybody

The sport originated in Sweden with ÖTILLÖ and has recently grown in popularity. It’s considered a challenging and demanding sport that requires a high level of fitness, endurance, and a good level of skill in both swimming and running.

However, if you are a beginner, do not get scared off. There is no need to be a former combat diver to become a swimrunner. On the contrary, if you prepare yourself both physically and mentally, it is a sport for you as well.

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Swimrun knowledge

The ultimate guide: Everything you need to know about swimrun training

2023-01-25

Common questions

How do I get started with swimrun?

If you are new to the sport of swimrun, the best way to get started is to find a local event and sign up for it. This will allow you to experience the sport firsthand and see if it is something you enjoy. Here are some steps to get started:
Find someone to train and compete with, as swimrun is usually done in pairs or teams. This could be a friend or family member, or you could connect with a local endurance sports community to find a partner.
The sport requires both endurance and strength, so train regularly to build up your fitness and develop the necessary skills. It includes both swimming and running training, as well as practicing transitions between the two disciplines.
Read our ultimate guide to get all you need to know.

What equipment do I need for a swimrun?

For swimrun, the gear you will need is a wetsuit, goggles, and a swim cap. You will also need a pair of running shoes that can handle wet and muddy conditions and a pull-buoy.

How do I train for swimrun?

Start by building up your endurance in swimming and running, and then work on incorporating both into your training routine. Swimrun training should include a mix of open water swimming, pool swimming, and running on trails and roads.

What are some common mistakes beginners make in swimrun?

Endurance training is the key to unlocking your true potential. The grit and determination it takes to push through the pain and keep going sets the strong apart from the weak. It's not just about physical strength but mental toughness as well. Embrace the burn and push through. The rewards are worth it.

One common mistake beginners make is not properly pacing themselves. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the race and push too hard at the start, only to burn out later. Another mistake is not appropriately fueling during the race. So, plan what to eat and drink before, during, and after the race.

What are some of the benefits of swimrun?

Transition your trail running to any surface

Swimrun is a great way to challenge yourself physically and mentally. It requires a unique combination of strength, endurance, and technique and pushes you to your limits. It is also a great way to explore new places and enjoy the outdoors.