them forward. To achieve the most efficient stroke you must maximise your pull and push through the water. Swim efficiencyForcing your arms/hands to cross the midline of your body, commonly known as crossover, simply wastes effort because your arms
coach at Swim Smooth (www.swimsmooth.com) says, "The longest possible freestyle stroke isn't necessarily the most efficient in all situations and for all swimmers."Jack Maitland of TheTriathlonCoach.com agrees the emphasis on increasing stroke length has
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
.activeplanet.co.uk) is useful for swimmers of any ability. This tiny watch fastens around your index finger so you can press its single button with your thumb as you swim. The one-button device counts your laps and records both lap times and overall session time. After your
-resistant), but swimming-specific devices are easier to use. The SportCount Chrono 100-lap counter and timer (£24.99, www.activeplanet.co.uk, right) is useful for swimmers of any ability. This tiny watch fastens around your index finger so you can press its single button
