One of the things he doesn't mention is that all of these improvements in technique can be learned more easily by simply swimming long distance in open water. W

One of the things he doesn't mention is that all of these improvements in technique can be learned more easily by simply swimming long distance in open water. When there is no turning point and no way to rest you are automatically forced into longer, more gliding strokes. Also, the colder water forces you to focus on efficiency. I've been a decent swimmer all my life but when I started swimming in open water last year I first was intimidated by how much more challenging it was & then by how quickly your body and technique are forced to adapt to the new environment.