These are from various sources - but they contain examples of great swimming technique. See the notes for a description of what I especially like about each clip.

What to you do with your hands and arms.

Learning backstroke will make you a better freestyler.

A critical skill for those lacking gills.

If you are a triathlete, eventually you have to get out of the water and do this, so you might as well do it right...

You only need to do these if you will be racing in a pool (or if you want to look like you are). And then you need to do them right. There is no point in doing sloppy, slow flip turns. Triathletes and open water swimmers are generally better off using Open Turns (see below).

Body rotation and hip-driven freestyle.

A common misconception is that triathletes don't need to kick. They do.

Regarding freestyle technique, I think she is the best swimmer I have seen on video. And she always has good advice.

This is the preferred turning technique for pool practice, unless you are also racing in the pool, in which case, see Flip Turns, above.

Some general tips for open water - there is some overlap with the Sighting and Triathlon Tips pages.

NOT water running. The other kind that triathletes are forced to do after the bike leg.

Practicing sculling on a regular basis can build awareness in your hands, teaching them how to find the best way to hold water.

For open water, this is the most important skill to master.

Always keep smiling - it relaxes you and keeps you loose!

Assorted triathlon tips from Dave Scott and others.