You know, after having done it, I understand why the swim comes first.

When I do a swim workout, I get into my zen mode and my strokes beocme very automatic. My breathing relaxes and my heart rate is barely registering above normal. If I do anything less than a mile, I actually come out of the pool feeling warmed up, rather than worked out.

With the swim leg last, not only was I going on a serious calorie deficit, but my heart rate and adrenaline levels were way up. I think I panicked a bit because I was so surprised at my lack of strength, the non-responsiveness of my limbs, and that made the swim even worse.

Plus, I think I took that final leg for granted. Shame on me!