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Open Water

Open water swimming (OWS) is a fantastic discipline, that requires some essential equipment, some specific swimming technique and confidence.
The summer is on us and if you are new to OWS then now is a perfect time to take up this exciting swimming sport.

There are some fundamentals that every OWS should be aware, these include :-

• If you are starting for the first time, there are many OWS centres that offer introductory sessions. These will help with the fundamentals.
• NEVER swim alone, even the more advanced OWS swimmers can get into trouble, so always swim with a 'buddy'
• The warmer months are always a good time to start your OWS swimming sessions, the warmer water helps get you used to swimming in colder water.
• Many swimmers continue their OWS throughout the year, even in the colder temperatures. These swimmers have been doing it for a while so if you want to continue through the winter months, take small steps and gradually get used to the colder water.

Everyone can learn the differences from a pool swim

• OWS swimming means you are swimming in an environment that isn't as controlled as a pool. Being able to adjust your stroke technique to handle these changes is something that comes with practice.
• This includes swimming alongside other swimmers, handling choppy water and dealing with currents that might all of a sudden be on you.
• Remember there are no walls as in a pool, so taking that short rest each length isn't possible. Given these differences gradually build your strength in the water and don't expect to be able to swim for as long as you do in a pool for a while.

How should I swim

• Front crawl (FC) is the stroke most swimmers use in OWS, however you should use whatever stroke you are most comfortable with. Backstroke is often a signal to others that you are in distress and is difficult to navigate in  straight line.
• Try and use bilateral breathing as this will help you deal with changing conditions, that might make it difficult to breath on a particular side.
• Swimming in a straight line is often a challenge, we have a good article that will help with the fundamentals - this can be found - HERE.

Use you pool sessions to practice key OWS drills

Because the pool is a more controlled environment, it is useful to practice key drills that will improve your open water swimming technique, these might include :-

• Sighting 
• Endurance swimming
• Drafting
• Use of a wet suit
• If you have access to a beach entry pool - swim starts
• Swimming around Buoys

Felixstowe, Suffolk, UK

FELIXSTOWE WEATHER

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Webcam - Felixstowe

Campsea Ashe: Felixstowe

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Equipment

There are some key pieces of equipment we would recommend you consider, including :-

• Goggles - a couple of pairs for different light conditions - 1 x dark tinted pair, for use in bright light conditions. 1 x clear goggles for those duller and evening swims.
• A nose clip if you want to prevent any water entering your nose.
• If you rely on a nose clip and a lot of swimmers do. We would recommend a nose clip strap, this ensures you don't lose the nose clip at the most inconvenient time. You can source one of these from our web site HERE.
• A bright coloured swim hat, this helps others see you in the lake or sea. If the temperature is extra cold then wearing two hats helps.
• A tow float, ideal to keep your small possessions safe in the swim, but more importantly a safety device if you get into difficulty.
• Ear plugs if you are prone to ear infections.
• Warm clothing for after the swim, preferably a changing robe.
• A warm drink.