8 Tips to Open Water Swimming
So you're ready to get out there and do some
open water swimming to prepare for your next triathlon? Before
you go dipping into your local body of water, keep these tips
in mind:
1. Never swim alone. For safety purposes, always swim with a
group or bring along a friend. Given the unknown elements, a
dangerous situation may arise such as fog, currents, boats,
etc. where you will be in much better shape with others
around.
2. Adjust to cold water. If the water you are training in is
cold, below 66 degrees fahrenheit, be prepared. Wetsuits are
necessary. Wearing a swim cap and earplugs can help keep your
head warm. Get in the water slowly and only get in for 5-20
minutes the first time out, gradually increasing your time in
the water with each swim.
 4. Upon exit of your cold water swim, drink
warm fluids, take off your wetsuit, and dress warmly.
3. On sunny days, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before getting
in (especially for those with light skin!).
4. Be careful of the fog. It is easy to get lost in foggy
weather and lose sight of the shore.
5. Watch the seaweed. If you are ocean swimming and come
across seaweed, stay high in the water and do not kick. The
seaweed can wrap around you if your legs are kicking.
6. Never swim in a lightning storm.
7. Open water swimming can cause chaffing. Use petroleum
jelly if this is a problem.
8. Goggle color. Use dark lenses on sunny days, blue lenses
on cloudy days.
Open water swimming can be challenging, but for many it is
FUN and a nice change from "following the black line" at the
bottom of the pool. Enjoy, and remember, "when in doubt, get
out."
Kevin coaches masters and triathlete swimmers in San Diego,
CA. He operates the website http://www.TriSwimCoach.com, a resource
for future or current triathletes needing help with the
swim. The site features a free email newsletter offering
tips and articles on triathlon swimming. Kevin has also
written an electronic book titled “The Complete Guide to
Triathlon Swimming” which is sold on his website http://www.triswimcoach.com in
downloadable form.
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