This may sound kind of silly but I'm curious what others think is the best strategy for racing in waters warmer than your norm? Staying hydrated seems logical. Is there anything else you can do on race day to prepare especially for longer swims? Does drinking cold water really lead to cramping? Should I avoid drinking really cold water right before I race? I swam the 1000 in a meet today in warmer water than I'm use to. I believe I was well hydrated but I really struggled throughout the swim. Not long into the 1000 i could feel the heat overwhelm me. Fortunately, I finished but, man, it wasn't a good swim.
I expect the pool water in Mesa will be warm. I'd like to have a plan to best deal with this.
I'd appreciate any insight!
If you can find somewhere to practice in warm water to get you acclimatised, it may help. I raced in some very warm water last summer, only 100yds - there was no way I was putting myself through even a 200. But as I had been swimming in a warm pool all summer, I did beat the girl who practised in the indoor cool pool - she came in a good 2 or 3 secs slower than her cool-pool times.
Also stay in the heat when you're out of the water on race day - not in the blazing sun, but stay used to being warm. We had a girl collapse as she had sat in an air-conditioned car until about 15 mins before her race, then got out into the 100F heat.
Remember, its going to be the same for everyone though and good luck!
If you can find somewhere to practice in warm water to get you acclimatised, it may help. I raced in some very warm water last summer, only 100yds - there was no way I was putting myself through even a 200. But as I had been swimming in a warm pool all summer, I did beat the girl who practised in the indoor cool pool - she came in a good 2 or 3 secs slower than her cool-pool times.
Also stay in the heat when you're out of the water on race day - not in the blazing sun, but stay used to being warm. We had a girl collapse as she had sat in an air-conditioned car until about 15 mins before her race, then got out into the 100F heat.
Remember, its going to be the same for everyone though and good luck!
