A Berlin-based swimming instructor, Saar, has begun working with a national-level triathlete to improve their swimming performance, a development reflecting a growing trend of specialized coaching within the multisport discipline.
Saar, who offers swimming lessons at a rate of 55 euros per hour, typically coaches students of all levels, with a particular focus on triathlon swimming and running techniques. Their background includes competitive participation in triathlon since the age of 10 and competition at the national level, according to information available online.
The demand for specialized swim coaching within triathlon is increasing, as athletes recognize the importance of a strong swimming leg in overall race performance. While triathlon demands proficiency in three distinct sports, a weakness in any one area can significantly impact an athlete’s potential. Julie Dibens currently serves as the swim coach to Taylor Knibb, a prominent triathlete, demonstrating the value placed on dedicated swim expertise at the elite level.
Several coaches have emerged as key figures in the triathlon world, offering tailored training programs to athletes aiming for peak performance. Kathryn Berry, a coach based in Hertfordshire, United Kingdom, exemplifies this trend, transitioning from a competitive swimming background to coaching triathletes ranging from beginners to those qualifying for Ironman and Age Group World Championships. Berry emphasizes individualized training plans, adapting sessions based on athlete feedback and utilizing data from wearable technology like Garmin and Polar watches.
The role of a triathlon coach extends beyond technical skill development, encompassing endurance training, mental resilience, and logistical organization. Coaches like Travis Mundell, who updated a list of top triathlon coaches in July 2025, highlight the importance of moral character and a unique impact on the sport’s science and art. Berry, certified at BTF Level 2 and with TrainingPeaks Level 1 certification, has been coaching for six years as of 2019, and has achieved podium finishes in half distance events like the Challenge Samorin Championships and Challenge Sardinia, with a full distance personal best of 10 hours and 15 minutes at Challenge Roth in 2018.
The growing emphasis on specialized coaching within triathlon suggests a continued focus on marginal gains and a commitment to optimizing performance across all three disciplines. The availability of coaches with diverse backgrounds and expertise, like Saar and Kathryn Berry, provides athletes with a wider range of options to tailor their training to specific needs and goals.
