I don't get in here often so maybe this has already been discussed, but what do you all think is an ideal water temperature for swimming? I've always liked 80 degrees. The place I swim at most often (Lifetime Fitness in New Hope, Minnesota) hovered there for most of the winter. Sometimes more, but it usually came back down. Due to a work schedule change I didn't go for a week. I got back in on Tuesday and the temp was 86. I actually cut my workout short and switched to mostly kicking. I asked them to lower the temp and later sent an email. I got back in on Friday and it was still 86. I talked to the front desk and explained. I realize, I'm only one person, but I can't imagine anybody else wanting to actually swim laps, wanting the water to be this warm. Not to mention it being cost effective for operations. The guy said it was up because people complained it was too cold. These are probably older people and/or the people doing those water aerobics. I tell them, man, just move around more and you'll warm up. Or sit in the jacuzzi.
More questions:
How do I tell if I'm getting overheated w/o actually passing out? Has this happened to anybody else? I recently started wearing a silicone cap, which adds to the problem of releasing heat. I did my intended workout, slower than usual and was pretty wiped out for the rest of the day.
Do swimmers sweat in the water? I always thought so (it certainly feels like I am, but hard to tell when you're already wet). But some people say no. Is comparing a runner running outside in 86 degree weather and not being able to sweat a reasonable comparison?
Former Member
I have read somewhere that 78 - 80 is the ideal range for competitive swimming and that most world class meets are required to have the water temp in this range. I wish I could find some official document that I could give to the aquatics director at the pool I use. It would help me make my case. Personally when the temp goes over 82 I really suffer.
Hi Kernow,
Thanks for the advice. I went back to my old outdoor pool yesterday and today. The water temp was warm (they keep it warm for the lessons), but the air temp was cooler and it's been really nice to swim outside. It closes mid August, though.
I know 5:30 a.m. probably isn't as bad as it sounds, but seriously, my schedule is whacked. I work four 10 hour days (yet it's my choice to work this way, as a single mom, it gives me the flexibility I need), a split shift on three of those days, and the first half of that split from home. Then I go into work for the rest of my shift getting off at 1 a.m. During the school year I have to get up at 7:30 a.m. So fitting in an hour of swimming gets to be a creative challenge.
i have been a master swimmer at least 20 years and have swam in various pools. first bring water with you when you swim, you are sweating in the water as you train. do wear a nylon cap if you need one, so you do not over heat. try to drink water in between sets or even a lite sports drink.in most cases the seniors will over ride your request for temp. so you will have to adjust, if the pool is shallow stand up in between sets or get out and sit on the end for alittle while, to cool your body temp down. it is much harder to train in hot water and your times will be slower, but when you race in cool water you will fly
Thanks, Debby. My silicone cap totally ripped today! My problem is I have a huge head. I don't know the circumference, but when I used to wear baseball caps, I only had three holes punched on the back. I have more hair now, too. Way back in college I wore a lycra cap to keep my hair out of my face. I was trying this silicone one to see if it would help chlorine damage to my already dry curly hair. I suppose I should do a search here for help with that, eh? I no longer shampoo my hair as shampoo dries out your scalp (following the "curly girl" method).
You all have been so kind and helpful! Thank you.
may look good on a guy, but I think Chris is a female as she mentioned being a mother.
Might look a little strange on a female OR could lead someone to think that you are undergoing treatment for something.
Originally posted by msgrupp
may look good on a guy, but I think Chris is a female as she mentioned being a mother.
Might look a little strange on a female OR could lead someone to think that you are undergoing treatment for something. I know that but GI Jane looked good that way.
Thank you msgrupp!
Sorry, Geochuck, I appreciate the suggestion, but cutting my hair is not an option. After having pixie short hair as a child I cherish my long hair and it's actually become a bit of a signature for me. Most people can recognize me from far away or driving behind me! And I don't have Demi Moore's looks or hollywood makeup artists.
of the dreaded "pixie" cut that was supposed to handle all kinds of hair (straight, curly). I had the pixie with the semi-curly hair.
I'm blind as a bat at the pool--I recognize people by their suit, their swim stroke and even their cap!!! If you have a different hair color (say red)--that's how I know it's you!
