Red x Swimmr | Mastering Open Water Technique: Swim Smarter, Not Harder

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt from years of swimming in open water, it’s that technique matters just as much as fitness. You might have all the endurance in the world, but without an efficient stroke, every swim will feel harder than it should.

Here’s how to fine-tune your open water skills for a smoother, stronger swim.

Pool swimmers never have to think about navigation – but in open water, it’s a must. The trick is to lift your head just enough to spot your landmark without breaking your flow. Try this: sight every 3-6 strokes, lifting your eyes just above the water while keeping your stroke rhythm steady. All you need is a quick glimpse, not a 4K image. The faster and more efficient your sighting, the smoother your swim will feel. Practice in the pool before taking it to open water.

One of the biggest challenges in open water is managing your breath – especially in cold water. The sudden temperature change can trigger panic breathing, making it feel harder to get air. The key? Stay calm and breathe as normally as possible. Focus on fully exhaling underwater to avoid short, shallow gasps. Sticking to your regular breathing pattern (whether it’s every two, three or four strokes) will help you stay controlled and in rhythm. A great trick is to acclimatise by splashing your face and neck, then dunking your head before you start swimming. This helps your system adjust to the temperature.

One of the most common mistakes I see is swimmers with sinking legs, creating unnecessary drag. Head position is what causes this. In open water you tend to look forward more often to help with sighting and navigation, so it’s important to return your head and your eye-line into a relaxed, neutral position after every breath and each time you sight. That way your head stays down and your feet stay up!

Unlike the controlled environment of a pool, open water throws different challenges at you. If it’s choppy, a slightly higher stroke rate helps maintain momentum. If the water’s calm, focus on a longer, more efficient stroke. Learning to adjust will make you more adaptable and confident in all conditions.

The best open water swimmers aren’t just strong – they’re smart about their technique. Small improvements in sighting, breathing, and body position can make your swims feel easier, faster, and more enjoyable.

Which skill do you most want to improve?

Happy Swimming,
Dan Wallace
Swimmr Head Coach