Managing Shoulder Pain from Swimming

Swimming is a core component of triathlon training, but many athletes struggle with shoulder pain due to overuse, improper technique, or muscular imbalances.

Common causes include rotator cuff inflammation and errors like crossing your hand over the midline or entering the water thumb-first. To prevent shoulder pain, focus on proper technique—such as a flat or pinky-first hand entry, avoiding overreaching, and rolling your body as you breathe. Strengthening supportive muscles, particularly the rotator cuff, shoulder blades, and core, is also important.