Open water swimming: the guide

Swimming in a pool and swimming in open water are two different worlds. For a triathlon or crossing, you need specific preparation — especially in summer, the best season to get started.

The big difference: no line or wall

In open water, there's no line on the bottom to guide you, no wall to rest against, and sometimes currents or waves. You need to learn to swim straight and manage continuous effort.

Sighting

To avoid zigzagging (and swimming extra meters), regularly lift your eyes toward a fixed landmark (buoy, building): a few quick glances every 5-8 strokes, while maintaining your rhythm. It takes practice.

Managing stress and breathing

Cold water, limited visibility and crowds at the start can be surprising. Enter gradually, breathe calmly, and if stress builds, slow down or roll onto your back for a few seconds. Bilateral breathing helps you see both sides and adapt to waves. Technical work in the pool remains fundamental — see improving your swimming.

The neoprene wetsuit

Often permitted (and mandatory below a certain temperature), it provides buoyancy and warmth. Try it during training before the race: the feel and breathing change.

Special for triathlon

Practice exiting the water and transitioning (swimming → cycling), and swimming in small groups. Don't start too fast: the classic mistake is getting carried away at the start and burning out. See our guide to starting triathlon.

Prepare your season with confidence

Sports Coach AI structures your swimming preparation and integrates it into your overall triathlon load, so you arrive comfortable on race day in open water.