Drafting (Swimming)

Swimming directly behind or beside another swimmer to reduce drag and conserve energy.

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Understanding Drafting (Swimming)

Drafting in swimming means positioning yourself directly behind or beside another swimmer to reduce the hydrodynamic drag on your body. Just as a cyclist saves energy behind another rider, a swimmer in the draft zone uses 18–25% less energy at the same speed.

The most effective drafting position is directly behind (within 0–50 cm of their feet), followed by hip-to-hip beside them. In triathlons, swim drafting is completely legal and is a major tactical element. Finding a slightly faster swimmer and sitting on their feet can save you minutes over a long swim.

The skill is finding the right person to draft: someone swimming at your pace or slightly faster, with a consistent stroke. If they're too fast, you'll lose them. If they veer off course, you will too. Check periodically that your "rabbit" is actually navigating well.

Key Facts: Drafting (Swimming)

Key facts and insights about drafting (swimming) that every endurance athlete should know.

Drafting reduces energy cost by 18–25% a

Drafting reduces energy cost by 18–25% at the same swimming speed

Best position

Best position: directly behind, within 50 cm of the lead swimmer's feet

Swim drafting is legal in triathlons

Swim drafting is legal in triathlons (unlike bike drafting in most races)

Feet-drafting is more effective than hip

Feet-drafting is more effective than hip-drafting

Pro Tips: Drafting (Swimming)

In the swim start, find a swimmer going slightly faster than you and settle onto their feet

If you keep touching their feet, you're too close — drop back 6 inches

Sight occasionally even when drafting — your draft partner might be off course

Practice drafting in pool sessions with a training partner to get comfortable with close proximity

Frequently Asked Questions About Drafting (Swimming)

No — it's legal in every triathlon. Bike drafting is banned in most age-group triathlons, but swim drafting is fair game and an important racing skill. Every elite triathlete uses it.

Start near swimmers of similar ability (seed yourself honestly in your corral). In the first 200–400 meters, the pack sorts itself by speed. Find someone swimming steadily at your pace or slightly faster, settle onto their feet, and match their rhythm. If you're consistently faster, move on to another drafter.