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Step 1
Chip Peterson and John Kenny at the 2005 World Championships with gel packsCompetitive open water swimmers place gel packs inside their swimming suits before the race.
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Step 2
World Championship feeding stationFeeding stations are available at different points along the race course. Coaches use feeding sticks of various types and lengths. You should learn to grab your cup or bottle from the feeding stick, swallow quickly and continue on swimming - all within 2-3 strokes in less than 3 seconds.
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Step 3
Kalyn Keller and author at the 2007 World Championships1st Rule: Spot and Seek. As you approach the feeding station, you should look forward and spot the specific location of your coach. It is best if your feeding stick has your country's flag on it and your coach is wearing bright or distinctive attire.
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Step 4
Kalyn Keller and author at the 2007 World Championships2nd Rule: Reach and Roll. As you approach the feeding stick, reach up as you roll over on your back. Grab the cup with an open palm so your palm covers the top. This will prevent the contents from spilling out.
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Step 5
Kalyn Keller at the 2007 World Championships3rd Step: Gulp and Go. Place the mouth of the cup or bottle or gel pack in your mouth and down as much of the contents as possible.
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Step 6
Kalyn Keller at the 2007 World Championships4th Rule: Toss and Turn. Discard the cup or bottle immediately as you turn over on your stomach to start swimming again. Your kick should never stop as you are drinking.
