Top Tips
Pick up knowledge to improve your outdoor swimming. Learn how to plan routes, train with others, complete events, and overcome obstacles like nerves or fitness level. Get guidance on skills like bodysurfing, underwater swimming, and adapting your stroke for rivers and seas. Experts and seasoned swimmers share their top tips so you can swim safer, stronger, and with more joy.
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Training for speed and shorter distances
How can we train effectively and what can we do to improve our speed without compromising our technique and overall…
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Don’t panic about panic
How to stay calm during an open water event
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Swim coach Paul Eaglestone’s winning formula
Coach Paul Eaglestone has put his winning formula into print. His new book Free Speed is out now – we…
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“How do I fit swim training around my busy work schedule?”
Swim coach Cassie Patten has great advice for a busy paramedic who has signed up for a 15km swim
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Three ways to improve rotator cuff mobility
Fitness coach Liz Lowe advises three exercises that can improve both shoulder mobility and posture
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Embrace positive psychology
Positive Psychology Practitioner Lexi Tinkler is your guide to how to transform your mindset for event day success
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Learn to sprint on an endurance swim
Simon Griffiths analyses the value of changing pace on long distance swims
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How to use the pool to taper before that big event
Swim coach Nicola Butler introduces the tapering phase, which gives your body time to fully recover, repair damaged tissues and…
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Remember to warm up, even when it’s not ‘cold’
There are benefits to warming up before any swim, even a wild or recreational swim, says Simon Griffiths.
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Live well, swim well – a holistic approach
Fuelling your workouts, balancing your hormones and getting good quality sleep with all improve your performance, says personal trainer Vivienne…
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Boost your speed and power in the water
Our new contributing coach Nicola Butler has passion for the pool and a lifetime of sporting prowess and experience. This…
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Get into the flow
Editor Ella Foote is also an open water swim coach, outdoor swim guide and teacher. This month she encourages us…
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Starting out – basic guide to swimming outdoors
Getting started with anything new is often the hardest part but with little kit and some basic knowledge you can…
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Kickstart your swim event fitness
Personal trainer Vivienne Rickman outlines how to dryland train for the upcoming season
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Challenge sessions for your swim training
A challenge session is one where you go above and beyond what you normally do in your regular training or…
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How to prepare for the transition to outdoor swimming
With the first open water events not long away, now is a good time to refresh your open water skills,…
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Don’t let someone else kill your vibe!
Do you find yourself reeling from unsolicited opinions about your training plan? Marathon swimmer Sarah Thomas shares her advice on…
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The importance of rest intervals
Jason Tait explores the importance of rest – an often neglected but vital part of a swim training session.
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How do I prepare myself mentally and physically for my first open water event?
Swimming coach Cassie Patten answers a frequently asked query about how to prepare for your first ever outdoor swimming event.
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Can you tame lane rage?
Simon Griffiths plunges into a controversial topic… can you tame lane rage?
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How to stay swim fit without an event
Swim Smooth coach Paul Newsome shares how to build a flexible training plan for when you don't have an event…
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Asking the right questions about your swimming
Wherever you’re at on your swimming journey, it’s always important to take a few moments to reflect on the swimming…
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How to tailor your own swim training plan
Why do swimmers train in different ways, and what’s the best way for you to train?
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Don’t underestimate the pace clock
Technology is fun, but sometimes it’s old-fashioned equipment that makes an impact, says marathon swimmer Sarah Thomas
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How to manage your swim training over Christmas
As December approaches, many swimmers start wondering how to juggle Christmas indulgences with training. Swim Smooth coach Paul Newsome shares…
