The United States Navy Sea, Air and Land Forces, commonly known as the Navy SEALs, do special reconnaissance operations, unconventional warfare, hostage rescue, counter-terrorism – and are incredibly fit people who can withstand very cold water like the best of open water swimmers.

While their experience and relationship in the water is different than competitive open water or marathon swimmers, many of their philosophies and methodologies for optimal movement in the water are appropriate for open water swimmers:

1. Focus on balance, length and rotation
2. Feel like you are swimming downhill
3. Be streamlined – swim parallel to the water line
2. Face and eyes facing down while swimming
3. Align your head and body position

For more information on how they teach the Navy SEALs, check here.

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