I'm thinking of participating in an open water relay event simply for the fun of it.
Those of you that "do" open water in addition to pool swimming, can you predict in any meaningful way the difference in speed?
I realize the water conditions make a huge difference. I'm talking about a relatively calm freshwater lake.
If I can swim 1000 yds in 15 minutes in a pool, how fast might I swim that same distance in a lake?
Parents
Former Member
Are your times different in a 25m pool to a 50m pool?
If you are 'slower' in the longer pool then expect to be 'slower' again in the Open water. This is especially true if you are a very efficient strong turner.
In my case, my OW times are comparable to my pool times in a 50m pool. Some of the better turners are surprised that I keep up with them, they whip me in the pool.
Some swimmers feel the fatigue a bit sooner as there is no 'rest of the wall glide' in the OW. Technique, efficient stroke, adaptable strokes in rough water conditions and appropraite training have taken my rankings to new heights.
It depends on your training in OW. As has been mentioned, sighting, navigating, choice of positioning in the start, drafting and the unavoidable contact and how you work through this. Cooler water, chop (lakes can get choppy) wind. Also how you deal with weeds, seeing the bottom, fish, junk, can play a part as well.
Most important, keep an open and relaxed state of mind, your eyes open, pace yourself well, and swim the straightest line possible. The guy you are drafting may not be going straight, nor the main pack. The swimmer who stays on line, not necessarily the fastest swimmer places better.
Have Fun Outside the Lines.
Kiwi
Are your times different in a 25m pool to a 50m pool?
If you are 'slower' in the longer pool then expect to be 'slower' again in the Open water. This is especially true if you are a very efficient strong turner.
In my case, my OW times are comparable to my pool times in a 50m pool. Some of the better turners are surprised that I keep up with them, they whip me in the pool.
Some swimmers feel the fatigue a bit sooner as there is no 'rest of the wall glide' in the OW. Technique, efficient stroke, adaptable strokes in rough water conditions and appropraite training have taken my rankings to new heights.
It depends on your training in OW. As has been mentioned, sighting, navigating, choice of positioning in the start, drafting and the unavoidable contact and how you work through this. Cooler water, chop (lakes can get choppy) wind. Also how you deal with weeds, seeing the bottom, fish, junk, can play a part as well.
Most important, keep an open and relaxed state of mind, your eyes open, pace yourself well, and swim the straightest line possible. The guy you are drafting may not be going straight, nor the main pack. The swimmer who stays on line, not necessarily the fastest swimmer places better.
Have Fun Outside the Lines.
Kiwi
