Open Water Swimming: Tips, Tricks, and Safety Considerations

By Shawn P. Ford
4/28/2023

Open water swimming is a rapidly growing sport that allows swimmers to experience the joy and challenge of swimming in a natural environment. From lakes to oceans, open water swimming offers unique opportunities to explore the outdoors and test one's limits. However, it also comes with its own set of challenges and potential dangers. In this blog post, we will discuss some essential tips, tricks, and safety considerations for open water swimming, so you can enjoy this exhilarating activity with confidence and ease.

  1. Choose the Right Location

The first step to a successful open water swim is selecting the right location. While many bodies of water may seem suitable, it's essential to research and understand any potential hazards or restrictions. Some factors to consider when selecting a location include:

  • Water quality: Ensure the water is clean and safe for swimming. Check with local authorities or online resources for water quality reports and any potential health concerns.
  • Water temperature: While some swimmers thrive in colder water, most people will want to choose a location with water temperatures suitable for their skill and comfort levels.
  • Currents and tides: Understand the currents and tides in your chosen area. Areas with strong currents or rapidly changing tides can pose a significant risk to inexperienced swimmers.
  • Weather conditions: Be aware of the typical weather conditions in the area and check the forecast before heading out. Sudden changes in weather can create dangerous swimming conditions.
  • Accessibility: Choose a location that is easy to access and has nearby facilities, such as restrooms and changing areas.

  1. Prepare and Train

Training for open water swimming is crucial to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Open water swimming requires different skills and techniques than pool swimming, so it's essential to dedicate time to practicing these skills. Some tips for preparing and training include:

  • Start with pool training: If you're new to open water swimming, begin with pool training to build your endurance and strength. Practice techniques like sighting, drafting, and bilateral breathing in the controlled environment of a pool.
  • Gradually transition to open water: Once you're comfortable in the pool, start incorporating open water swims into your training routine. Begin with short swims in calm, controlled environments before progressing to more challenging conditions.
  • Swim with a buddy or group: Open water swimming can be more enjoyable and safer when done with others. Find a local open water swimming group or a buddy with similar skill levels to train with.
  • Acclimate to cold water: Cold water can be a shock to your system and impact your ability to swim efficiently. Gradually acclimate to colder water temperatures by starting with short swims and building up your tolerance over time.

  1. Gear Up

Having the right gear is essential for a safe and enjoyable open water swim. Here are some of the key items you'll need:

  • Swimsuit: Choose a comfortable, well-fitting swimsuit that provides the right balance of warmth and flexibility. Consider investing in a wetsuit for colder water temperatures.
  • Goggles: Open water goggles should provide clear vision and a comfortable fit. Look for models with polarized lenses to reduce glare and improve visibility in bright sunlight.
  • Swim cap: A brightly colored swim cap not only helps keep your hair out of your face but also increases your visibility to other swimmers and boaters.
  • Earplugs: Earplugs can help prevent water from entering your ears, reducing the risk of ear infections and swimmer's ear.
  • Safety buoy: A brightly colored inflatable buoy is essential for increasing your visibility in the water and providing a flotation device in case of an emergency.

  1. Master Open Water Techniques

There are several techniques unique to open water swimming that can help improve your efficiency and safety. Some of these techniques include:

  • Sighting: Sighting is the process of lifting your head slightly out of the water to identify landmarks and maintain a straight course. Practice sighting regularly during your swims to avoid veering off course and wasting energy.
  • Drafting: Drafting involves swimming closely behind another swimmer to take advantage of their slipstream, which reduces your resistance in the water. To draft effectively, swim at a comfortable distance behind the lead swimmer, ensuring you can still see their feet and any potential obstacles.
  • Bilateral breathing: Bilateral breathing means breathing to both sides during freestyle, typically every three strokes. This technique can help maintain a balanced stroke and improve your ability to sight and navigate in open water.
  • Stroke adaptation: In open water, you may need to adapt your stroke to account for waves, choppy water, or other swimmers. Practice adjusting your arm recovery and kick to maintain efficiency and stability in varying conditions.

  1. Safety First

Open water swimming poses unique risks and challenges. It's crucial to prioritize safety and be prepared for unexpected situations. Here are some key safety considerations:

  • Always swim with a buddy or group: Swimming with others not only makes the experience more enjoyable but also provides an extra layer of safety. In case of an emergency, having someone nearby can be lifesaving.
  • Be visible: Wear brightly colored swim caps and use a safety buoy to increase your visibility to other swimmers, boaters, and watercraft.
  • Know your limits: Be honest with yourself about your swimming abilities and comfort level in open water. Don't push yourself too far or attempt to swim in conditions that are beyond your skill level.
  • Have an emergency plan: Know what to do in case of an emergency, such as cramps, hypothermia, or encountering marine life. Familiarize yourself with the nearest exit points and always carry a whistle or other signaling device to attract attention if needed.
  • Obey local rules and regulations: Follow the rules and regulations set by local authorities, including designated swimming areas and any restrictions on wetsuits or other gear.

  1. Acclimatize and Warm-Up

Before entering the water, it's essential to acclimatize your body and warm up properly. This can help prevent cold water shock and improve your performance in the water.

  • Gradual entry: Instead of diving in headfirst, take a gradual approach to entering the water. Begin by wetting your face, neck, and chest before slowly immersing yourself. This helps your body adjust to the temperature and reduces the risk of cold water shock.
  • Warm-up exercises: Perform dynamic stretches and exercises on land to activate your muscles and increase your heart rate before entering the water. This can help improve your mobility and performance during your swim.
  • Practice deep breathing: Focusing on deep, controlled breaths can help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety before entering the water. This can be especially helpful for those new to open water swimming.

 

Open water swimming is an exciting and rewarding sport that offers unique challenges and opportunities for personal growth. By following these tips, tricks, and safety considerations, you can maximize your enjoyment and minimize the risks associated with this exhilarating activity. As with any sport, practice and dedication are key to success. So, gear up, train smart, and dive into the world of open water swimming with confidence!