Is there any harm in using a nose clip while swimming freestyle laps? As a relatively new fitness swimmer, I had problems from the start with water entering up my nose--using a nose clip solved this problem. But now I am wondering if this practice may be limiting or harming my breathing cycle in some way. Any advice from more experienced swimmers would be most appreciated. Thanks.
Former Member
It doesn't really harm anything, however, it probably interferes with a controlled exhale as most swimmers exhale out of their mouth & nose. It's not uncommon for people not used to swimming laps to try the nose plug route. If I were you, I would try to wean myself from the clip. Alternate sets, or laps, etc. You will eventually figure out how to exhale through your nose to keep water from coming in. And if all else fails..so what...keep the nose clip..you still get all the benefits that lap swimming and the friendships you develop brings. Good luck.
As discussed in a thread somewhere else on this site, nose clips are an excellent way to prevent sinus irritation that some people get swimming in certain indoor pools. It is easy to adapt to exhaling through the mouth only, and it makes it much easier to do underwater swimming on your back. I see no reason to wean yourself from nose clips at all, except that it is sometimes a pain to keep track of them . . .
