You are “boxed in” when other swimmers are all around you, and it’s difficult to move. This usually comes at the beginning of an open water swim. It is difficult to go your own pace or alter your course.
In mass or triathlon starts, being overly aggressive leads to crowding. When the athletes are boxed in, they must slow down, swim off course, or even stop to get some space. This makes them nervous and expend more energy, particularly for inexperienced swimmers. Getting a good position at the start and practicing sight and draft can alleviate this issue. Seasoned triathletes understand how to anticipate the crowd and swim smart to maintain their rhythm and conserve energy for the race.
