Exiting the open water is an often ovelooked part of the transition from swim to bike. Many seconds can be gained and lost, so technique and planning are important.
Step 1: Swim toward the finish. Know the course and find tall buildings, trees or signs to sight that are in line with the swimexit.
Step 2: Activate your legs. Kick a little extra during the last 200 meters of the swim.
Step 3: Keep swimming! Don’t stop or standing up until you have run aground in the shallow water. When your fingers scrape the bottom, take a few more strokes by pulling right under your torso.
Step 4: Stand up and lift your goggles onto your forehead. This action clears your vision for any potential hazard underfoot as you start to run out of the water.
Step 5: Take off your cap and goggles when you see your bike. Abandonment of equipment can result in a penalty, so don’t risk dropping these small items.
Source: Triathlete Magazine