Swimming in open water, even for experienced swimmers, is a challenge. The aim of this study was to verify the actual distance swum, the kinematic, and the arm-stroke efficiency during a 2000-m front crawl test performed in open water. Eight male swimmers (38.8±7.8 years old) performed a 2000-m (GPS in a boat) front-crawl test in three laps in a lagoon. Each participant wore a GPS (XT; Garmin® Smartwatch). Performance and the distance swan were, respectively, 2617±355 s and 2197±80 m (p<0.001 to 2000-m). The speed and stroke rate have decreased (p<0.001), respectively from 1.12±0.13 to 0.93±0.16 m/s, and from 35.7±3.4 to 30.1±3.7 cycles/min. Stroke length (1.90±0.24 m) and arm-stroke efficiency (34.6±4.5%) remained constant. The distance swan was almost 20% higher than the measured circuit. However, we do not rule out possible measurement error of the individual GPS. The swimmers decreased V and SR, as expected; but surprisingly the SL and ? remained constant along the circuit.
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