Long Distance Ocean Swimming
This Summer, Go The Distance!
Treading in the open waters is no small feat. For first-timers, the task may seem daunting. That is why we have compiled some tried-and-tested methods for heading to the ocean for long-distance swimming.
Let’s discuss strokes first. The front crawl seems to be the default stroke that most open water swimmers go for, so ensure that you have mastered it. However, don’t depend on the front crawl alone and gain expertise in other strokes as well. The breaststroke is ideal in this regard as it allows you to recover in open water.
Now if you are training for a competition, you need to use your pool time effectively. Open water competitions are at least 500m. But train yourself to swim further than what you are competing for. You don’t need to double the distance, but just shoot for a little more.
Now as far as technique is concerned, there are no lane lines in the ocean to guide you, so train yourself to swim in a straight line. Maintain rhythm while training. Also try to swim with your eyes closed when you are trying and feel if your body is moving left or right. If you veer either way, align your strokes to move in a straight line.
Long distance ocean swimming also requires you to look up as you swim, so make this part of your practice as well. You also need to learn to tread water, because unlike a pool, an ocean has no wall which you rest against or kick-off to start your swim. So you need to utilize your pool time to learn to tread water.
Last but not the least, you need to master breathing both ways. Breathing on alternative sides is not something that comes naturally to all swimmers, but focusing on your technique during training will make you more comfortable.
Fatima M.
Freelance Blogger
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