Howie-
Tom one of the biggest fears I hear about all the time is about open water swimming. What are some basic things a first timer can do to prepare for their first race in open water?

Tom-
Here are basic things a newcomer to open water swimming needs to do:

  • If you become serious about this sport hire a coach.
  • Become efficient by swimming in a pool during the off season, primarily working on drills, and stroke form.
  • Practice breathing techniques, such as exhaling all air while head is in the water.
  • Find a group that does open water swimming in your area.
  • Attend open water swim clinics.
  • Once you start swimming regularly, with a group, practice sighting by counting strokes, don’t sight too often, 5 to 10 strokes per sight will work.
  • During the race season, swim at least two times a week in open water.
  • Purchase a triathlon wetsuit, one of the best investments you can make when getting into triathlons.

manzi_tomTom Manzi is a certified USA Triathlon, Level II Coach, and is presently the Director of Coaching for Joe Friel’s Ultrafit Associates. His coaching emphasis in the last ten years has focused on multisport endurance athletes ranging from novice triathletes and duathletes to elite amateur and professional athletes. Tom’s mission is to inspire and energize his athletes to meet their personal goals and have fun while doing it. Goals for his clients range from improving overall fitness to the attainment of the top five places in both professional and elite categories of national and world championships. Contact Tom via email at tmanzi@trainingbible.com or call 732-892-3501.