point in the stroke cycle; that breathing pattern is a skill you'll have to learn.Try this now: Once a week, swim harder than usual so you're forced to develop an efficient breathing pattern. Try swimming a hard 100m 10 times, with a short rest between

in the stroke cycle; that breathing pattern is a skill you'll have to learn.Try this now:Once a week, swim harder than usual so you're forced to develop an efficient breathing pattern. Try swimming a hard 100m 10 times, with a short rest between each 100m.  Sean

the lifeguards cause to fret. Speedo's soft Aquatic Mitts (£13.00, www.speedo.com) are one example. Made of neoprene, they are durable, hold their shape and dry quickly (although you shouldn't leave them languishing in the bottom of your bag). Choose the correct

great way of getting a resistance workout without giving the lifeguards cause to fret. Speedo's soft Aquatic Mitts (£13.00, www.speedo.com, above right) are one example. Made of neoprene, they are durable, hold their shape and dry quickly (although you

Q. I recently saw someone swimming with an elastic band around their ankles. What gives?A. Swimmers and triathletes are always looking for that extra edge to improve their performance and times. As the saying goes ‘every second counts

1. Maintain a streamlined position in the water, with high hips, minimal bending of the knees while kicking and no energy-wasting side to side movement.2. Ensure you have good stroke mechanics: arms should not cross the centre line, the elbows

such as 8 x 100m, with a short rest between each 100m, and build up to 10 x 100m. Also try four or five times 200m, two or three times 400m, and so on."Week twoNow is the time to build your stroke and improve your efficiency as you move through the water

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

or chafe anywhere when you move. Sagging points will allow water to gather as you swim, which will slow you down, and no one needs to be told how uncomfortable chafing can be. Be especially careful to ensure the neck area is free from anything

"Water is 1,000 times denser than air," says Laughlin. "So the single most important factor is to slip your body through the smallest hole in the water." Imagine a central axis extending from the top of your head to the opposite end of the pool. Rotate your