Here is a drill to begin practicing (you may use Zoomers or fins if you have them): Kick on your side with your left hand extended out and your right hand by your side. Keep your head down and locked to your shoulder. On second length, switch sides and extend your right hand, with your left hand by your side. When looking down, you should be at about a 90-degree angle in water. When you need air, roll all way up into more of a 45-degree angle, take a few breaths, and repeat. Continue to practice this kicking drill and add in arm strokes as your side balance improves.

Swimming freestyle on your side may seem like a foreign concept at first. But with consistent practice, you will be able to swim more efficiently, resulting in faster swim times and greater energy conservation.

3. Sit on your feet. For more severe cases of Runner's Kick, sitting on your feet can greatly improve your ankle flexibility. In Yoga, just stay in "Child's Pose" a little longer and gain this extra benefit.

4. Just stretch. In a seated position, take one leg and bring it out in front of you. Extend your feet and push your toes toward ground. Hold for about 15-20 seconds, repeat with other foot. You can do this several times a day.

Whatever you do, don't be tempted to use a kick board to improve your kick. For distance swimming and triathlons, you are wasting your time with floatation devices!

Remember: You don't need a super kick to have a great race in a triathlon. Your kick is mainly for stability and body rotation.

Have patience, stick with these drills, and you will lose your Runners' Kick before you know it!