to become used to exhaling underwater.3.   Of course, we’re all different shapes and sizes so some may find floating easier than others. If you’re struggling, use a leg float; most swimming pools have them.4. Next, Williams suggests performing some push

, as a result, their legs drop. This has two effects; firstly, it will slow you down as your body position is akin to swimming along with an anchor drag effect. This makes it easier for other swimmers to swim over you.Secondly, because your balance isn

to become used to exhaling underwater.3. Of course, we're all different shapes and sizes so some may find floating easier than others. If you're struggling, use a leg float; most swimming pools have them.4. Next, Williams suggests performing some push

your swim.Ralph HydesRalph Hydes (www.ralph-hydes.com) is a running, duathlon and triathlon coach. He has helped many athletes reach international-level competition and has been the trainer to corporate teams for the London Triathlon since 2001. Ralph

There comes a time in a race when you know that if you grit your teeth, breathe hard and really go for it, there's a good chance you'll run and ride faster, though not for very long, perhaps. The same cannot be said of swimming: trying harder

, but you can make the swim easier on yourself, you will benefit during the bike and run legs," says Kelly.Energy efficiencyThe next step to swimming more efficiently is lowering the number of strokes you take per length. "Take as few strokes as you can

can make the swim easier on yourself, you will benefit during the bike and run legs," says Kelly.Energy efficiencyThe next step to swimming more efficiently is lowering the number of strokes you take per length. "Take as few strokes as you can and use

an issue.Like most aspiring triathletes, I'm coming to the sport largely from an endurance running and cycling background. As such I think my concern about the water element of the challenge is fairly typical. Triathlon swimming generally means open

will have built up your swimming fitness in the pool and you should now be working to overcome the technical and mental challenges of open-water swimming.Specialist swim skillsBill Black coached the GB men's triathlon team at the Sydney Olympics in 2000

wetsuit in open water. It's important not to get too attached to your pull buoy, though: it will make swimming feel a lot easier, but don't let it become a security blanket.Zoggs' pull buoy (£5.99, www.zoggs.com) is layered for maximum buoyancy, small