Open water swimming is a unique experience that offers a combination of freedom, adventure and challenge. However, to take full advantage and enjoy this activity safely, it is essential to follow some practical tips. Here are some tips from Swimbox essential for those who want to train in open water and improve their performance.
01. Safety First
Safety is the top priority when swimming in open water. Never underestimate the importance of taking proper precautions. Be sure to:
- Always swim with a partner or in supervised areas: The presence of a swim buddy or lifeguard can make all the difference in emergency situations.
- Carry auxiliary flotation devices: A safety buoy or other flotation devices can provide support in case of fatigue or difficulty.

02. Adaptability and Preparedness
Being prepared for the variable conditions of open water is critical. Here are some key points:
- Intense pool workouts: Before tackling open water, it is helpful if not necessary to try particularly intense pool workouts to improve your technique and endurance.
- Observe water conditions: Before entering the water, carefully observe the wind, currents and waves. This will help you orient yourself quickly and swim safely.
- Ask for information: If you are in a new place, ask for information from local people, such as bathing assistants, who can provide valuable details about water and bottom conditions.

03. Technique and Efficiency
Improving your technique is essential to optimize your performance and effectiveness in open water. Here’s how:
- Constantly work on technique: Even small adjustments can have a big impact on your speed and endurance. Focus on swim trim, buoyancy and glide. These are the basic fundamental concepts that you need before each stroke and leg to maximize efficiency and consume less in such a unique environment as the sea.
- Feedback and corrections: Use tools such as video analysis to see and correct your movements with the help of experienced coaches.

04. Mental Endurance
Open water requires a strong ability to concentrate and mental resilience. Here are some tips for keeping calm and focused:
- Visualization techniques: Before a race or training session, visualize the course and try to imagine as in a game of chess all the individual moves you will have to make to swim and overcome any obstacles. This can help you prepare mentally and become more aware of your move.
- Controlled breathing: During the swim, keep a steady breathing rhythm to help you stay calm and focused. Breathe sideways every 2 strokes, changing sides periodically, and raise your head only for orientation.

Who is Swimbox?
Swimbox is not just a training program; it is a community of swimming enthusiasts who support each other. Every swimmer, from beginner to professional, finds in Swimbox a welcoming and nurturing environment where they can grow and improve. Their philosophy is based on empathy and attention to the individual athlete, ensuring that everyone can reach their full potential in a safe and nurturing environment.
How does Open Water training and coaching work with Swimbox?
Personalized Approach
- We offer customized coaching and training programs that take into account the specifics of open water and the athletes’ own abilities. We don’t provide random workouts, but a complete program custom-dressed on your goals, abilities, and what you like to do.
In-person workshops
- We hold regular in-water and dry practice sessions, offering direct training at our pool and gymnasium using real-time video feedback to improve swimming biomechanics clearly and instantly both underwater and out. Already after the first session you will notice the difference and in just one day you will be more effective and efficient without even realizing it.
Remote Smart Coach
- Online training and support where athletes can receive technical coaching regarding biomechanics, do remote video analysis, get immediate instruction and feedback by identifying their priority needs.
Thinking of doing open water training or coaching? We invite you to contact Swimbox. Join the community and discover all that open water has to offer. Adventure, continuous improvement, and mutual support await you!
This article is brought to you by Swimbox.
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