In today's video we'll share with you 4 top tips from 4 Hawaii Ironman World Champions - including Lucy Charles-Barclay the 2023 World Champion - have become better, more versatile swimmers in the open water with the actionable advice given to them when working directly with Swim Smooth Head Coach, Paul Newsome at various points in their careers.

Imagine finding a treasure chest brimming with secrets to refine your swimming technique and endurance. Well, we’ve got something better than that - a chat with the Technique Genius, Paul Newsome, the founder of Swim Smooth and the pioneer of that transformational swimming program. We journey from his successful English Channel swim to understanding the mantra that keeps swimmers focused in the water, "bubble, bubble breathe.

Sometimes in life things happen that are so utterly terrible that you never think you’ll make it through another day. But then you do. And then you do again. And slowly but surely you start to put the past behind you and focus on a much better future, one so much better than ever before for so many reasons, not least the belief that no matter how tough you find a particular race or event the reality is always choice: you choose to do this, no one is forcing a gun to your head. When you accept and embrace this in the deepest darks of mental and physical fatigue, you begin to realise that in fact all the bad stuff has prepared you above and beyond for all the good stuff that is coming your way.

John's story serves as an inspiration for all of us, regardless of our age. It reminds us that our passions are timeless and that with determination and dedication, we can continue to pursue them even in our golden years. So the next time you're tempted to let age define your capabilities, remember John Cocks and his smooth, serene strokes in the pool. After all, age is just a number, and your dreams and passions are forever.

Swim Smooth's Swim Types methodology represents a paradigm shift in swimming. It recognizes that there's no "right" way to swim but instead offers a better way for each individual. It encourages a shift away from comparing yourself to others and toward a journey of self-discovery, improvement, and personal success.

So, if you've ever felt like a fish out of water in the pool, it's time to embrace your Swim Type. Discover your unique strengths and weaknesses, and let Swim Smooth help you become the best swimmer you can be. With this individualized approach, you'll not only swim better but also find a new sense of joy and fulfillment in the water. After all, swimming should be an experience that celebrates your unique style, not one that makes you conform to someone else's. Embrace your inner swimmer with Swim Smooth and dive into a world of endless possibilities.

In the quest for swimming excellence, drills are the unsung heroes that benefit swimmers of all levels. They are more than just beginner tools; they're the key to refining technique and troubleshooting issues. Like an artist starting with basics, drills build the foundations of your stroke, enhancing form and efficiency. But they're also your secret weapon for fine-tuning specific problems, from catching errors to reducing drag. Think of drills as your personal coach, guiding you towards smoother, faster swimming. Whether you're a triathlete, fitness enthusiast, or competitive swimmer, embrace drills to unlock your aquatic potential and achieve your goals.

Inefficient pacing during swimming sessions can hinder your progress. While occasional fast starts and slow finishes may seem normal, they disrupt your training. Straying from your target pace, especially when training for CSS (Critical Swim Speed), can impede your improvement. To make the most of your limited time, it's crucial to train in the "sweet spot" for CSS pace. Short, fast Master's-style swim programs, popular among skilled swimmers, may not be suitable if your goal is better performance in longer distances like a 3.8km swim. Don't assume these programs are right for you; choose training that aligns with your goals and objectives.

We've all seen it. We've all done it. Sometimes we've been forced to do it. Other times we've snuck it in when no one is watching. The cheeky short-cut - turning short of the wall and chopping off a good 5-10 meters each turn.

In this blog post, we'll uncover the pitfalls of relying too heavily on the pull buoy and how it can inadvertently impact your technique, aerobic development, and swim performance. It's time to reevaluate your swim toolbox and strike the perfect balance for a more well-rounded, efficient swim journey. So, let's embark on this insightful exploration together and unveil the hidden truths about pull buoy dependency.

While the allure of drafting is undeniable, let's unlock the true potential of leading your lane for remarkable growth. In our 8-week Improvement Initiative, we invite you to step into the role of a leader, breaking away from the flock. Discover the swim revelations of Yolanda Carstens, as her metrics shine when leading a 500m swim compared to following in a 400m swim.