We recently were informed Big Shoulder's 5K OW is likely to be cold this year. (60-63)
Due to a very warm summer in central Indiana most of my training was done in water 85-88 degrees warm. This week-end we got a break and out water has been 72 in the pool. (It feels so good!)
My question is how much lower to what I'm used to can I go and be safe?
I am 5'5" and weigh 117. I have done BS 5K in water as cold as 68 with no problem but I'm just not sure where to draw the line and bail into a wetsuit. I do not want to get hypothermia. I'm planning to be in the water somewhere between 1:20-1:30. :coffee:
Parents
Former Member
For the roughwater, I've had a thermometer out in the basin (La Jolla) for the week and have had temps from 54 to 65. I've had some very cold swimmers out with me (I'm used to cold temps). Body fat, previous acclimation, enough sleep, mental attitude, hydration all play major roles. I do find the older fatter folks like me do better than the younger slimmer ones. If I had a group of teens out I would get on a kayak or a board and observe/escort them. THe rough water is big with a lot of folks out there the guards do a great job in general but you could watch for your kids and be very observant. It should at least help them and you with the mental aspect. I'd bring spare life jackets so if one did start to experience issues you coudl get them in the jacket then get help. Just the confidence that they are bieng watched may be enough for them to feel warm "enough"
For the roughwater, I've had a thermometer out in the basin (La Jolla) for the week and have had temps from 54 to 65. I've had some very cold swimmers out with me (I'm used to cold temps). Body fat, previous acclimation, enough sleep, mental attitude, hydration all play major roles. I do find the older fatter folks like me do better than the younger slimmer ones. If I had a group of teens out I would get on a kayak or a board and observe/escort them. THe rough water is big with a lot of folks out there the guards do a great job in general but you could watch for your kids and be very observant. It should at least help them and you with the mental aspect. I'd bring spare life jackets so if one did start to experience issues you coudl get them in the jacket then get help. Just the confidence that they are bieng watched may be enough for them to feel warm "enough"
