I signed up for a 10 K swim in Atlantic City this September and am wondering if any open water swimming veterans out there have any tips for preventing or at least moderating the lower back pain that seems to always be triggered in me by very long distance freestyle events like this. I did the Chesapeake Bay swim in the late 90s, and getting out of the water at the end of the race was like a parody of the Evolution of Man from a squid to Homo Erectus, only in my case, I didn't quite make it to the standing position before collapsing in a heap of lower back spasms.
In any event, I suspect I will just have to suffer through the discomfort and hope a week or two of convalescence afterwards will restore me to my self. But again, any advice short of oxycontin shots in the lumbar region will be truly appreciated.
Parents
Former Member
Jim, We were working out on the 10k course tonight and the race director of the 10k cruised by in a powerboat. He offered to answer any questions anyone has about the race. His e-mail is: sacassidy@comcast.net . He has some good maps of the course.
The water temp is usually in the 70's but you will be in the water for a long time, so hypothermia can occur. A thick latex cap, wax earplugs and an old, full length Fast Skin that is old enough to be comfortble for a long race will help.
The water will get warmer after the start, when you get to the inner channel. It will be cooler at the start because you're closer to the ocean.
The current will push you most of the way. The current is usully strongest in the middle of the channel so, if you stay in the middle and pick a good landmark to swm to, or, if you can use the course markers to swim a straight line, you'll be fine.
At the finish, either the middle or left bridge opening is good. Just remember that the finish is slightly before the Boat House so get to your right after the bridge and don't swim past the finish line. Have a good race! Jack
Jim, We were working out on the 10k course tonight and the race director of the 10k cruised by in a powerboat. He offered to answer any questions anyone has about the race. His e-mail is: sacassidy@comcast.net . He has some good maps of the course.
The water temp is usually in the 70's but you will be in the water for a long time, so hypothermia can occur. A thick latex cap, wax earplugs and an old, full length Fast Skin that is old enough to be comfortble for a long race will help.
The water will get warmer after the start, when you get to the inner channel. It will be cooler at the start because you're closer to the ocean.
The current will push you most of the way. The current is usully strongest in the middle of the channel so, if you stay in the middle and pick a good landmark to swm to, or, if you can use the course markers to swim a straight line, you'll be fine.
At the finish, either the middle or left bridge opening is good. Just remember that the finish is slightly before the Boat House so get to your right after the bridge and don't swim past the finish line. Have a good race! Jack
