“], “filter”: { “nextExceptions”: “img, blockquote, div”, “nextContainsExceptions”: “img, blockquote”} }”> For access to all of our training, gear, and race coverage, plus exclusive training plans, FinisherPix photos, event discounts, and GPS apps, >”,”name”:”in-content-cta”,”type”:”link “}}”>sign up for Outside+. We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again, “Open-water swimming is hands-down the best way to … Read more
Open-water swimming (often called wild swimming) has rocketed in popularity over the past couple of years, as we’ve had time to explore our own back yards more than ever. Though a great excuse to get your adventure thrills in, open water exploration comes with a caveat. If it’s not done properly it can be very … Read more
Swimming open water is a skill, pure and simple, and how do we improve our skills? By practice! We get swim-fit and stroke-strong in the pool, from V02 max sessions to aerobic and threshold sessions, from pace work to drills that work for us as individual swimmers (not just single-arm and catch-up because everyone’s doing … Read more
Snorkels are one of the best training aids/swim tools you can use to help improve your various swimming styles and keep your form consistent. From your front crawl balance, rotation, technique and overall efficiency, being able to adjust the focus from your breathing to purely your movement can boost your overall performance. If you struggle … Read more
If you’ve recently had the exciting news that you’re expecting a baby, you may be left wondering if you can still go swimming when pregnant. It’s a common question, particularly for those of you that have been swimming regularly as part of your triathlon training. So we’re going to answer it here with the help … Read more
If you’re planning to keep swimming throughout the winter months, you’ll probably want to invest in some cold water swimming socks. Here, we round up some of the options available to you. Should I get wetsuit swim socks or booties? First off, if you’re looking to actually swim then go for neoprene swim socks as … Read more
If you’re keen to keep swimming through winter but haven’t done so before, there are a few things you’ll need to get. Here, we’ve rounded up some of the best best cold water swimming gloves. Once you’re sorted with some gloves, you’ll also want to invest in some cold water swim hats, cold water swimming … Read more
A reliable pair of swimming ear plugs will not only help you focus during your training by blocking out any unwanted noise, but they will also help keep the water out of your ears. As well as making your swim more comfortable, this can help prevent long term problems like swimmer’s eara bacterial infection caused … Read more
If you’ve got children who adore spending time in the water, it’s important to invest in a solid pair of kids’ swimming goggles. Not only do goggles help prevent the irritation of chlorine, which can cause red, stingy eyes, but they’re an essential piece of racing kit for your young, budding triathletes. Goggles can also … Read more
As a triathlete, it’s fair to say you’ll be using a swimming towel more than most, whether that’s after a pool swim, in transition or during a sweaty turbo trainer session. The best swimming towels are highly absorbent, fast-drying and, crucially, lightweight enough that you’ll hardly notice it in your kit bag. Large towels that … Read more