Back in the Open Water: Why I Love Coaching 1-1s

I recently kicked off the open water coaching season with my first few 1-1 sessions. Each swimmer brought something different: a story, a goal, maybe a little nervousness. And in just an hour, I watched as calm and confidence started to replace fear and hesitation.

That moment, when someone’s breath deepens and their shoulders relax, when they realise “I can do this,” is why I love this work so much.

But what exactly is it about open water swim coaching that feels so special? It’s hard to pin down – there are so many layers – but here are a few I keep coming back to.

Trust and Vulnerability

Open water swimming can be intimidating. There are no lane ropes or walls – just vast, unpredictable water. When swimmers place their trust in me during those first nervous strokes, it feels powerful. That trust, especially when someone is vulnerable, is an incredible responsibility and a gift.

Nature As A Co-Coach

Out here, nature is part of the lesson. The water’s calm, then suddenly it’s not. The elements (and the occasional jelly-fish) keep us honest, present, and flexible. There are no distractions like lane ropes or crowds – just the water, the sky, and us. It’s grounding in a way that a pool never quite is.

Small Tweaks, Big Shifts

One thing I love is that many swimmers I meet have never had personalised coaching before. Often, just a few simple tips or adjustments – how to create more rhythm, how to breathe more efficiently, a small mindset shift – can transform not only their technique but how they feel about swimming.

It’s amazing to watch someone realize that swimming doesn’t have to be a struggle, and that they’re capable of so much more than they thought.

Coaching The Whole Person

It’s rarely just about the stroke. Coaching in open water often means supporting the swimmer’s mindset, breath, and body awareness. Sometimes it feels like coaching nervous systems as much as swimming muscles. That holistic approach is deeply rewarding.

The Feeling of Flow and Freedom

When everything clicks—the swimmer feels the water, the rhythm, the breath—it’s pure freedom. There’s a joy and flow that’s hard to find anywhere else. And it’s not coach versus swimmer; we’re side by side, moving together through the water.

Why I Keep Coming Back

These are just a few reasons why I keep returning to open water coaching. It’s about so much more than laps or technique; it’s about connection, trust, presence, and transformation.

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Ready To Swim?

If this resonates with you – if you’re curious about what open water swimming might unlock – consider booking a 1-1 session. Whether you want to build confidence, improve technique, or just experience the water in a new way, I’d love to help you find your rhythm.

Get in touch to book your session, or just reply if you have questions.

Thanks for reading.

I’d love to hear your thoughts – what draws you to open water swimming or coaching?

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