Open water swimming
Master sighting, drafting, and building open water confidence for race day.
By Lotte
Open water swimming is fundamentally different from pool swimming. Success requires practicing sighting, learning to draft, building comfort without lane lines, and managing race-start anxiety.
Key takeaways
- 1Practice in open water at least 4-6 times before your first race
- 2Sighting every 6-10 strokes prevents swimming off course
- 3Drafting behind another swimmer saves 15-25% energy
- 4Position yourself at the side or back of the start group to avoid contact
In this article
Pool vs. open water
Open water swimming is fundamentally different from pool swimming. There are no lane lines, no walls to push off, and no black line to follow. You'll deal with waves, currents, other swimmers, and limited visibility.
The key to open water confidence is practice and gradual exposure. Start in calm, shallow water and progressively move to more challenging conditions.
Sighting technique
Sighting means lifting your head to spot landmarks or buoys during the swim. The most efficient technique is the 'crocodile sight' — lift just your eyes above the waterline without fully raising your head.
Sight every 6-10 strokes in open water. Swimming straight saves more time than swimming fast in the wrong direction.
Practice sighting in the pool by removing the ability to see the bottom — close your eyes for a few strokes, then sight forward.
Drafting in the swim
Swimming behind or beside another swimmer can save 15-25% energy. Position yourself behind their feet (about an arm's length back) or beside their hip.
In a race, find someone swimming your pace and tuck in behind them. This is completely legal and a smart race strategy.
Dealing with race day nerves
Mass swim starts can be intimidating. Position yourself to the side or back of the group to avoid the washing machine effect. Start easy and find your rhythm before picking up the pace.
Practice in open water at least 4-6 times before your race to build comfort and confidence.
If anxiety strikes during the swim, roll onto your back, take 5 deep breaths, then resume. This resets your nervous system.
Wetsuit swimming
Wetsuits provide buoyancy and warmth but change your body position in the water. Practice swimming in your wetsuit before race day — it can feel restrictive at first.
Wetsuits are typically allowed when water temperature is below 24°C (76°F). Learn to remove your wetsuit quickly for a faster T1.
Recommended gear
Affiliate disclosure: Brick to Brick may earn a commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Unless a named method says otherwise, these are research-based recommendations rather than first-hand product tests.
Frequently asked questions
Is open water swimming dangerous?
When practiced safely, open water swimming is very safe. Always swim with a buddy or group, use a bright swim cap and safety buoy, know the conditions, and stay within your ability. Race events have extensive safety coverage with kayaks and boats.
Can I use breaststroke in open water?
Absolutely. Many triathletes use breaststroke for part or all of the swim. It's easier for sighting and can be more comfortable in choppy conditions. There's no requirement to use freestyle.
How cold is too cold for open water swimming?
Most people can swim comfortably in 16°C+ water with a wetsuit. Below 14°C, races typically require wetsuits and may be shortened. Below 11°C, most events are cancelled. Build cold tolerance gradually.