How to Build Confidence in Open Water Swimming

How to Build Confidence in Open Water Swimming

with One with the Ocean founder Bryan MineoThe Swim Mechanic x ZONE3

Open water may just be our world’s greatest playground and teacher; a wide-open space for fitness, for connection, for exploration, and a source of food and air. However, the ocean’s vastness and dynamic nature can be both welcoming and daunting. While we certainly are not fish, or even fish-like, the open water is here for us to enjoy. 

The know: Understanding the water  

Whether a freshwater lake, a river or rugged open ocean, each body of water demands an understanding of it before hopping in. Your confidence in open water will come from greater understanding of what the body of water is doing and how that affects you in the water as a swimmer.  

Creating a safe swim is where you should begin. Things to look for:  

-A designated swim zone  

-A lifeguard on duty 

-Area with minimal boats or other vessels nearby 

Take inventory of your surroundings. This awards you familiarity of your surroundings throughout your swim. Choose a few large, fixed landmarks to use as reference points, that way when in water you can more easily chart progress, maintain course and enter/exit in a safe spot that you choose. In short, identifying, and understanding your surroundings will provide peace of mind when out there trying to navigate.  

Lastly, take a minute to check the water’s conditions at hand. Notice if there is current pushing one direction, in which case you’ll want to compensate your swim course accordingly. On windier days, identify the direction of the wind and mentally prepare and expect for choppier water while swimming. If there is surf, take mental notes of where the waves are breaking, as well as how often. Each of these points allow you to paint the picture of what you can expect in the water before getting in, leaving less room for surprises out there.  

The how: Planning your pursuit  

Tapping into a calm, peaceful energy is imperative to building confidence and comfort. This begins with your breath. Tune in to the rise and fall of your breathing. As you inhale, say inhale in your head. As you exhale, say exhale in your head. In the most basic sense, this creates a singular focus on the one thing necessary for life. Your breathing mechanics will create efficiency and ideal body posturing in the water. Aim to maintain a relaxed, easy breathing cycle, akin to how you would breathe while on land -  a small sip of air in, followed by a relaxed sigh to exhale out. This will become your equilibrium in the water and the focus to go back to regain composure when need be. If you find your mind wandering, focus on your breath, saying inhale as you breathe in and saying exhale as you breathe out. 

Plan your next open water pursuit with the perfect range of wetsuits from ZONE3 to keep you both warm and buoyant. 

The why: One step at a time 

The singular goal should always be to create a positive experience, and it’s always better to share that with others. Find a partner or swim group to venture out with. Having partners with you provides a sense of security, camaraderie and structure for each swim. Never swim alone! 

Create a progression, beginning with time in the pool to build a base, followed by structured focuses for your upcoming open water sessions. Knowing each day can be so different - with the water, with your mental state - it’s important to have flexibility with your expectations for each swim. Your process and progress are completely subjective. Each time you suit up should be seen as a success. 

Step one is simply walking into the water slowly until waist deep after you’ve taken mental notes on your surroundings and the waters conditions. And now back to the breath. Stay in that spot until you find your equilibrium and feel confident to continue on. Deeper is not always better. If you are on the riper side, plan to stay in a shallow zone for your first swim or more, to give your brain the sense of control it may need to feel safe in the open water at first. If you feel uncomfortable or are short of breath, simply tune back in to the quality of your breathing. If you’re unable to find equilibrium still, shift back to standing in the shallows and reacquaint with your check sheet of your surroundings, the waters conditions and then again, your breath. This is progress and commonly happens to swimmers at some point in their open water journey.  

This may sound obvious, but, every day will provide a unique experience. The only way to get comfortable in variable conditions is to swim in variable conditions. It’s easy to shy away from the water on days when it may be colder than you’re used to or choppier, for instance. Utilize these days as opportunities to build skill and comfort in the open water. If you have an upcoming race and you’re presented with tough conditions, you’ll be better suited for the challenge because of your practicing through all sorts of conditions. Equally important is to swim in different bodies of water when able, broadening your depth of knowledge of the open water. It’s natural to want to stay in your comfort zone and swim in the same location each time, however it’s exceedingly unlikely that the location that you race will be/feel the same.  

A great way to do this, when you have limited access to open, water is to swim from different entry and exit points at the same body of water. 

Protect your extremities with our range of open water accessories to keep you both safe and warm. 

More time in the water, the better 

There is a distinct learning curve to open water swimming and you have the tools to get there. Plan open water swims as often as you can. After your first open water experiences, you can take those memories and feelings out of the water to mentally prepare for the next swims. Most importantly, try to enjoy every moment in the water. Open water swimming can be the perfect practice of being present.  

Long may you swim, 

The Swim Mechanic

 

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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
18/06/25
What a weekend up at Windermere 💦⛰️ The Great North Swim brought big energy, beautiful scenery, and plenty of Zone3 kit in the water. We had an awesome crew of ambassadors taking on the 5km swim, shoutout to @livs_is_livs who did it in skins 👏 and to @chloedooley who showed up and gave it everything. And a massive congrats to Zone3 Pro @j0m3sf1 for taking the win in the SwimRun - absolutely flying out there, despite the weather warnings! Open water season is officially on, and we’re buzzing to be part of it. @great_swim
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zone3official
15/06/25
What a weekend at the Great North Swim in Windermere! As proud swim sponsors, we loved being part of the action. Even with the odd downpour, spirits stayed high and the atmosphere was electric - a true celebration of community, determination, and open water adventure.
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zone3official
10/06/25
This weekend, the Zone3 team also volunteered at the incredible 24-Hour Swim Relay at Shepperton @levelwateruk 🏊‍♀️ We're proud to support Level Water, a charity that gives children with disabilities the opportunity to learn to swim, offering 1-to-1 lessons that empower kids with confidence, movement, and freedom in the water. The 24 hour event brought swimmers together for a non-stop relay challenge, raising vital funds to provide these lessons across the UK. To everyone swimming, supporting, and staying awake through the night: thank you for making a difference. This is what sport is all about.
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zone3official
10/06/25
This weekend, the Zone3 team also volunteered at the incredible 24-Hour Swim Relay at Shepperton @levelwateruk 🏊‍♀️ We're proud to support Level Water, a charity that gives children with disabilities the opportunity to learn to swim, offering 1-to-1 lessons that empower kids with confidence, movement, and freedom in the water. The 24 hour event brought swimmers together for a non-stop relay challenge, raising vital funds to provide these lessons across the UK. To everyone swimming, supporting, and staying awake through the night: thank you for making a difference. This is what sport is all about.
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zone3official
10/06/25
This weekend, the Zone3 team also volunteered at the incredible 24-Hour Swim Relay at Shepperton @levelwateruk 🏊‍♀️ We're proud to support Level Water, a charity that gives children with disabilities the opportunity to learn to swim, offering 1-to-1 lessons that empower kids with confidence, movement, and freedom in the water. The 24 hour event brought swimmers together for a non-stop relay challenge, raising vital funds to provide these lessons across the UK. To everyone swimming, supporting, and staying awake through the night: thank you for making a difference. This is what sport is all about.
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon delivered everything we love about race season - historic backdrops, electric energy, and a community of athletes pushing themselves to new limits 🏁 As Official Swim Sponsor, we were proud to support one of the UK’s most iconic triathlons. The Zone3 kit was out in force, powered by the passion of our ambassador team and the dedication of every single participant! 👉 Swipe to see our fave visitor of the weekend @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
09/06/25
Blenheim Palace Triathlon 2025 brought together athletes, ambition, and the unmistakable energy of race season. 💥 As the Official Swim Sponsor, Zone3 was proud to support the event which included the British and English Sprint Distance Championships and GB Age-Group Team Qualifier. With athletes of every level pushing their limits and our ambassadors leading from the front, it was a weekend to remember. The rain came down, but the spirit? Unshakeable. The determination? Unstoppable. The atmosphere? Electric ⚡ From first-time triathletes to GB hopefuls, every stroke, step, and smile was a reminder of why we do this. Thanks to everyone who stopped by to chat! And huge kudos to everyone who raced! @blenheimpalacetriathlon
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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Z
zone3official
23/05/25
Planning a staycation with open-water swims on the agenda? Don’t hit the road without these 5 holiday essentials that blend performance, comfort, and innovation, whether you're taking the plunge or soaking in the scenery. 🧭 1. Zone3 Waterproof Phone Pouch Stay safe + snap the moment. This buoyant, watertight pouch keeps your phone sealed from the elements while floating beside you for easy access:GPS, safety calls or that post-swim selfie, sorted. 🏖 2. Swim Safety Buoy Not just for visibility, our buoys offer a float to grab hold of when you need a breather in the water, plus are in-water storage for your dry kit and valuables. They're lightweight, eco-conscious, and swimmer-approved for peace of mind. 🕶 3. Waterhaul x Zone3 Sunglasses Sustainably made from ocean plastic and engineered for active wear, these polarised shades reduce glare off the water and keep you looking sharp on swim breaks. 🫖 4. Zone3 Ocean Bottle Hydration with a mission. This vacuum-insulated bottle keeps drinks cold (or hot) and supports ocean cleanup with every purchase. Perfect for post-dip teas or mid-hike refreshment. 🧥 5. Thermo-Tech Changing Robe From freezing lakes to rainy beaches, this super-insulated robe wraps you in warmth while you change. Windproof, water-resistant and cosy enough to live in between swims. 💬 Got a UK swim spot to recommend? Drop your favourite below and let the community know where you’re diving in next 👇
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zone3official
14/05/25
Are you ready for the Arla Great North Swim in June? @zone3official takes you through ‘sighting’ in open water, so you swim in the right direction and don’t zig zag your way around. Practicing sighting before the event will make sure you swim in a straight line and ensures you don’t swim further than you need to on the day. If you’re swimming in the pool, why not grab a bottle and use it as a marker at the end of your lane. Try to lift your eyes or head to look at it every few strokes. If you can practice in the open water, a landmark in the distance is a good marker to swim towards too! #openwaterswimming #zone3 #zone3official #greatnorthswim2025
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zone3official
01/05/25
Introducing the all-new Glide Wetsuit — engineered to help new triathletes and open-water swimmers feel fast, supported, and in control from their first swim to their final stroke. Whether you're stepping into open water for the first time or building confidence ahead of race day, Glide is your perfect entry point. Its performance-enhancing design combines flexibility where it counts, balanced buoyancy, and durable comfort, helping you conserve energy, swim naturally, and stay focused on your goals. Comment 'Glide' for more info sent straight to your DMs.
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zone3official
01/05/25
Introducing the all-new Glide Wetsuit — engineered to help new triathletes and open-water swimmers feel fast, supported, and in control from their first swim to their final stroke. Whether you're stepping into open water for the first time or building confidence ahead of race day, Glide is your perfect entry point. Its performance-enhancing design combines flexibility where it counts, balanced buoyancy, and durable comfort, helping you conserve energy, swim naturally, and stay focused on your goals. Comment 'Glide' for more info sent straight to your DMs.
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