I love to swim in places where I can see the bottom. So, I don't mind snorkeling in the Caribbean, but I can't seem to get excited about open swimming in other places.
I'm not trying to be controversial here, I was just wondering what is it about OW that you like, beyond the obvious reasons such as not confined to a pool/lane, it is outside, no flip turns, etc.
Parents
Former Member
I wanted to chime in here since I just swam OW for the first time since I was 14. I hyperventilate when I swim OW and have stayed out except when we were in Barbados and Hawai'i--that's too scenic to upset me. I also have my SCUBA certification, but again, I did that in the Carribbean. Anyway, I swam this morning and loved it--after I hyperventilated through the 1/4 mile. Went on to swim a mile and was very proud that I accomplished that, even though the distance is short. But it's a different type of distance. I hate the kelp and that I cannot see the bottom, but it's a very freeing experience. The entire world is around me, with nature and other fellow humans just paddling along. Seals barking to my right along the cliff line, with people above the cliffs strolling along watching.
It is also a much more social experience than pool swimming. Groups of buddies hanging out, slathering on vaseline together...we went out to coffee with fellow swimmers after. I don't get that at the Y.
The water here is 63*, and even though I wore a full wetsuit since it was my first time I think I'll wear my spring suit next week and eventually just my suit once I feel comfortable.
I now see what you all love about it. I won't be a full convert to OW, but I will join in the fun once a week.
I wanted to chime in here since I just swam OW for the first time since I was 14. I hyperventilate when I swim OW and have stayed out except when we were in Barbados and Hawai'i--that's too scenic to upset me. I also have my SCUBA certification, but again, I did that in the Carribbean. Anyway, I swam this morning and loved it--after I hyperventilated through the 1/4 mile. Went on to swim a mile and was very proud that I accomplished that, even though the distance is short. But it's a different type of distance. I hate the kelp and that I cannot see the bottom, but it's a very freeing experience. The entire world is around me, with nature and other fellow humans just paddling along. Seals barking to my right along the cliff line, with people above the cliffs strolling along watching.
It is also a much more social experience than pool swimming. Groups of buddies hanging out, slathering on vaseline together...we went out to coffee with fellow swimmers after. I don't get that at the Y.
The water here is 63*, and even though I wore a full wetsuit since it was my first time I think I'll wear my spring suit next week and eventually just my suit once I feel comfortable.
I now see what you all love about it. I won't be a full convert to OW, but I will join in the fun once a week.
