Open-water can seem daunting for even the most experienced swimmers. So an open-water masterclass with one of the best in the business, World Champion and Olympic silver medalist Keri-Anne Payne, was snapped up by a group of keen triathletes.Over the course of an hour we watched ...

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

your legs much fresher for the bike and run.Ralph HydesRalph Hydes  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

partner or coach. Dewi WinkleWith four Ironmen, three London-to-Paris cycle rides and a selection of marathons under his belt, Dewi Winkle is a top motivational trainer, a qualified triathlon coach, Watt Bike instructor and Run In England leader, and also

properly and prevent you developing incorrect technique.Dewi WinkleWith four Ironmen, three London-to-Paris cycle rides and a selection of marathons under his belt, Dewi Winkle is a top motivational trainer, a qualified triathlon coach, Watt Bike instructor

to improve your front crawl is to seek a second opinion. "It's always good to get some advice from a trained eye," says Williams. "Go along to your local triathlon club and ask the swimming coach to assess your technique." You may find it tough

by piranhas. Or if you see yourself as a seasoned veteran, they'll show you how it is possible to shave off the seconds without having to shave your legs.If you're training for your first triathlon, it's fine to opt for any stroke in the swim but the focus

Where: Little Marlow, BucksContact: openwaterswim.co.ukTaplow LakeWhere: Maidenhead, BucksContact: taplow-ows.co.ukTri20 Open-Water Swim CentreWhere: Reading, BerkshireContact: mysportingtimes.comParliament Hill LidoWhere: Hampstead, LondonContact: cityoflondon

It would never previously have occurred to me to seek out external help to improve my swimming or even to have a sense of introspection about it. But now, on the cusp of my first serious triathlon season, the obvious limitations of my swimming have become