January 01, 2026
Open Water Swimming Basics: Sighting, Drafting, and Safety
New to open water? Learn sighting technique, drafting strategy, pacing, and key safety practices for lakes and ocean swims.
Sighting without losing rhythm
Lift eyes just enough to see forward, then rotate to breathe. Keep hips high.
Practice: sight every 6–12 strokes in training so it’s automatic on race day.
Drafting: free speed
Drafting behind or slightly to the side of a swimmer reduces effort. Stay close—but avoid touching feet constantly.
In choppy water, side-drafting can be more stable than straight-behind.
Safety checklist
Swim with a buoy where appropriate, know the course, and acclimate to temperature. If you feel panic, roll to back and reset your breathing.