While getting some shopping done at BJs today I noticed they had the latest issue of Triathlete. The how and why BJs is carrying this mag escapes me so I took a look. In the swimming section, they had some cool ideas for open water workouts you can do in a pool. I can't wait to try them.

1. No wall turns (The timing on this is uncanny) when you approach the wall don't use it, instead do a 180 at the T and head back. Helps to improve your stop and starting that occurs alot during the first part of the swim when everyone is still bunched up.

2. Place a buoy 3/4 of the way down the pool and use it to do turns like you would in a race.

3. Skip 50s as I like to call them. Every third of forth stroke, skip a breath. This will teach you not to panic if you get water splashed in your face and you can't take a breath. You'll get used to missing one every now and again thus helping to keep your HR down.

4. Swim three abreast to simulate the close quarters of the start.

Not from the mag but something I learned from a local pro.
5. Spotting drills. I personally like this one the best. Find something on each wall that you can easily pick out. Now close your eyes and swim 4strokes around race pace. Meaning L-R (1) L-R(2) etc etc. At the 5th open your eyes and spot your target as quickly as possible while trying not to mess up your stroke. Close your eyes again and keep doing it until you can spot the object quicker and quicker. Then try to see it while lifting your head less and less. This helps with spotting and swimming straight without using the line on the bottom of the pool.

On a personal note, I think it's pretty lame that at IronMans they have a big red line on the bottom of the pond/ocean to help the people navigate. But then again that's just me and I'm evil. ;-)