To optimize your swimming technique for triathlon and open water, focus on the coordinated rotation of the pelvis and shoulders (hip-shoulder alignment) around the axis of the spine, and practice targeted drills like single-arm swimming to perfect the push phase.

noli's read

The emphasis on body rotation (or roll) is well-validated by the science of aquatic movement. An observational and biomechanical study published in *Sports Biomechanics* (Vila Dieguez & Barden, 2020) demonstrates that insufficient hip rotation is directly correlated with tension and a lack of joint comfort in the shoulder. Furthermore, an experimental study published in *Apunts Educación Física y Deportes* (López-Contreras et al., 2022) confirms that specific drills, such as single-arm work, positively modify the amplitude and symmetry of this hip-shoulder rotation. This coordinated pivoting significantly reduces water resistance while optimizing the efficiency of the push phase. Finally, according to the consensus of biomechanics experts, this technique engages the large muscle groups of the torso, which preserves energy during prolonged efforts. This is therefore very solid advice for improving one's glide with ease.

the sources

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