Brenton Ford: Technique, Feel and Swimming Effortlessly in Open Water

What makes good swimming technique actually hold up in open water?

In this episode, Grant speaks with swim coach, entrepreneur and Effortless Swimming founder Brenton Ford about the gap between pool swimming and the realities of open water. From stroke mechanics and breathing patterns to racing strategy, mindset and lifelong improvement, Brenton shares insights drawn from nearly two decades of coaching swimmers of all levels — from beginners to professionals.

The conversation explores why “perfect” pool technique doesn’t always translate to rough conditions, how swimmers can adapt without overthinking, and what separates athletes who continue improving from those who stay stuck chasing endless fixes. Brenton also reflects on qualifying for Open Water Nationals later in life, the evolution of his own coaching philosophy, and what “effortless” swimming really means.

Topics include:

• Translating pool technique into open water
• Stroke rate, sighting and adapting to conditions
• Breathing patterns and the “galloping” stroke
• Why swimmers often overthink technique
• Coaching adult swimmers and long-term improvement
• VO₂ training sets and open water preparation
• Drafting, racing tactics and open water skills
• Strength, mobility and improving after 40
• The balance between the science and art of swimming

Whether you’re training for your first ocean swim, chasing performance gains, or simply trying to enjoy swimming more, this episode offers practical ideas and thoughtful perspectives for open water swimmers of all levels.

You can learn more about Brenton and Effortless Swimming at Effortless Swimming and find additional coaching content on the Effortless Swimming YouTube channel.

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This interview was recorded on Whadjuk Noongar Boodjar. I acknowledge the Noongar people as the Traditional Custodians of these lands and waters and pay my respects to Elders past and present.