The following sequence includes the water walk, a confidence check, and the travel stroke itself. This prepares you for open water crossings. You should be fully clothed for this exercise.

Enter the water using the safe entry techniques for unknown conditions. "Chest-deep" water varies for each swimmer depending on individual height.

Travel Stroke

Wearing full gear except for the rucksack, enter the pool at the deep end using the stride entry, and swim using the travel stroke for several lengths of the pool.
1. Body position
   Keep the upper part of the body prone on the water with the legs dangling.

2. Arm Stroke
   Extend the hands out in front of the face. Sweep the arms slightly downward and back ninety degrees to propel the body through the water. Move the hands back to the front of the face. Repeat.

3. Leg kick
   Move the legs in a continuous breaststroke-like movement.

4. Breathing
   Inhale, put the face in the water, and begin the arm stroke. Exhale two-thirds while the face is in the water. Lift the head to finish exhaling during the downward press of the arms.

Pool Exit

Following the travel stroke sequence, exit the pool in the deep end unassisted and without using a ladder. Climb up onto the deck, and sit for a few seconds to let the water drain off.