Tri Training in NYC

Of the great advantages of living in a city such as NYC is the convience and energy such a place provides. I also think one of the potential dowsides is the massive amounts of people on every corner which be a deterrent for the hardcore trainer. As a runner, the places to get in a good run are limitless. One day I may hit up a 10k around Central Park or do a nice run downtown in the middle of NYC another day. I think when it comes to training for a triathlon the challenge may be in finding a good place to swim or bike. Since I am new to the triathlon world, I have been on the lookout for good areas to train. I will describe what has worked for me and I will continue to update this post as I come across new areas.

SWIM:

One of the more difficult areas to train in such a large city. Unfortunately getting in a good open swim may be difficult as this is a city and one may have to travel abit further such as Coney Island or to Long Island. One may argue the Hudson river is an option, but at least for this New Yorker...I think not :@) Although the Nautica Triathlon's swim portion takes place here. So for your average New Yorker, you'll do most of your training indoors. While there are many 25 meter pools, there are very few 50 meter pools (which most would perfer).

1. Lasker Pool

Lasker Pool Central Park

Location: Harlem area of Central Park

Hours: During the summer (it is an ice rink in the winter) is open to the general public and impossible to do laps, however from the hours of 7am-8am or 7pm to dusk it is available for lap swimming and for free!
*Note you need the green card (free to obtain and is your pass in).

Description: It is an outdoor 50-meter pool that is open to the public for free if you sign-up for the green card (also for free). While a regular pool, it is available for lap swims as mentioned above. Having swam here a number of time, I think you can't go wrong here:
1. 50-meters!
2. Not too crowded
3. Did I mention it is free!

The only downside is getting there, either by bus or train. I usually do a run (a small pack with swim gear) and have at it.

Note that you can also bike here and lock it up, but honestly it is in Harlem and while you may lock it outside on the fence, I probably wouldn't lock up a 4000 dollar Cervelo P3 here. You can also sort of do transitions here. Bike here...lock it up...swim and do your bike thing afterwards so this place is good for that.

Final Note: My place of choice to swim next to open-water, but hours are limited as well as only open during summer months of July/August so window is limited but a great option in the summer month. I believe you don't have to be a NYC resident to get the green card.

NEXT...

2. New York Sports Club