Transitioning from pool to open water swimming

During times of isolation caused by Covid-19, we realize what a privilege it is to spend time in the water.

Michael van RensburgCoach

If there is one thing that this time has taught me is that our time is limited. Not knowing when we will have the full freedom of exercising or competing outside again. But like all things in life, this time too shall pass. When freedom arrives, I hope everyone is ready to get out and start moving.

Try something new.

The reason why I love swimming is because of its versatility. I was introduced to open water swimming a few years ago, and it changed my perspective of recreational and competitive swimming forever. I would be straying from the truth if I said I wasn’t nervous and uncertain the first time I entered the big blue. But in retrospect, I don’t regret this decision immersing for a second, and I am sure you will love it as well. Like all sports out there, there are a few rules to follow and a few tips to make it easier. Here are a few out of my personal chest.

Safety first.

In scuba diving, they use the term “buddy system” This term simply refers to diving with someone that is experienced and there to assist and instruct the novice diver. The same goes for open water swimming. Luckily a group of experts will always be around to assist. ‘I Love Super Sport’ has a whole team of experienced and qualified swimmers/coaches to put your mind at ease. Never enter the water alone.

Currents.

Currents in the ocean/gulf/sea/rivers will always be present. Most of the time, this factor is what is keeping swimmers in the pool and away from large bodies of water. The saying “go with the flow” might have been the biggest comforter to me. Except for a ‘rip’, most currents can actually be an aid rather than a hurdle when it comes to swimming. Talking to experienced swimmers and lifeguards that have knowledge of the water that you are about to enter cannot be emphasized enough.

Floating is easier.

This might be overstating the obvious, but we tend to forget sometimes how easy it is to stay afloat on the surface of the ocean. Seawater is denser than both freshwater and pure water because the dissolved salts increase the mass. This is the reason why buoyancy is so high in areas such as the Arabian Gulf.

Sighting.

When the line that you have been following at the bottom of the pool your whole life is taken away you need to find alternative ways to navigate in the water.
Sighting simply put is finding an object, landmark, structure, or building as a beacon to make sure you stay on course. There are various sighting techniques out there, find the one that works best for you. The key here is not to disrupt your swim stroke too much when lifting your head to see where you are going. Keep your hips high and keep your momentum.

Pool work.

Getting used to the conditions and long-distance swimming in the great outdoors is a fantastic experience.
However! Interval training, practicing sighting, speedwork, and technique correction cannot always be conducted outdoors.
Getting back to the pool will always stay a fundamental part of your swim training.
Never stop challenging yourself.

“The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.” - Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Stay fit Stay safe
COACH MIKE

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