I've been swimming in open water for two years now, but this will be my first winter swimming without a wetsuit. I plan to make it through the winter, although right now I can only go about 1/2 a mile. I really want to work up to at least 1 mile at the current temperature (60 degrees). So I have many questions on my mind, but here are a couple to start off with:
1) In the last month, my caloric intake per day has nearly doubled!!! I know part of it must be from swimming in cold water--I think my body is trying to develop an extra layer of fat to protect itself--but there might be other factors (I've also started lifting weights etc.). So I wonder if anyone else has experienced the same thing.
2) I swim at La Jolla Cove at night--is there anyone here who is interested in joining me? Otherwise it's just me and the sharks!
I have a lot of other questions burning on my mind...I am so glad I found this forum!
Parents
Former Member
Experience is the answer. You are on the right track with your swimming, to be swimming at night is bold, as Gary said he gained more confidence swimming at night by swimming. Thats the only way to keep it all going forward.. by doing it. Gaining experience and confidence with it.. Its the same in many other things if you think about it.. All things we do get better as we keep on trying and learning. Sounds like you are enjoying your swims and are on your way, Keep it up!
I will say one more thing I preach "drownproofing" for open water swimmers, I don't know if you have heard of this . Its super easy to do and yes it works. the US military teaches it, It can save your life as you can stay afloat a long time if you know how to do it and can keep your head and do it. If ever you get in a jam, rip tides ect , If you know this and can relax and do it you will be ok. Basicly you relax (easier said then done I know I know) then bob up and down in the sea breathing out under water and bobbing up to bring your head above water and taking a breath . Up and down you go stright up and down. it takes very little energy to do this and you can survive . Its so easy to do , really try this see what you think see this page for details:
http://www.drownproofing.com
Experience is the answer. You are on the right track with your swimming, to be swimming at night is bold, as Gary said he gained more confidence swimming at night by swimming. Thats the only way to keep it all going forward.. by doing it. Gaining experience and confidence with it.. Its the same in many other things if you think about it.. All things we do get better as we keep on trying and learning. Sounds like you are enjoying your swims and are on your way, Keep it up!
I will say one more thing I preach "drownproofing" for open water swimmers, I don't know if you have heard of this . Its super easy to do and yes it works. the US military teaches it, It can save your life as you can stay afloat a long time if you know how to do it and can keep your head and do it. If ever you get in a jam, rip tides ect , If you know this and can relax and do it you will be ok. Basicly you relax (easier said then done I know I know) then bob up and down in the sea breathing out under water and bobbing up to bring your head above water and taking a breath . Up and down you go stright up and down. it takes very little energy to do this and you can survive . Its so easy to do , really try this see what you think see this page for details:
http://www.drownproofing.com
