Thanks for posting this. I'm not sure what influence we Masters swimmers can have on FINA, but we can have an influence and leadership on our own local USMS OW and National Championships events. I'm not sure if USMS has taken a stance on water temperatures or water + air temperatures, but I think we should be more in line with the 82 degree range the elite athletes were recommending (according to that article). I know every person is different and temperature sensitivity is a sensitive topic, but, as the "elder statespeople" of this sport, can we take a stand on this issue first for our own members' safety and possibly to influence safety across the broader OW racing scene?
I'm not sure if USMS has taken a stance on water temperatures or water + air temperatures, but I think we should be more in line with the 82 degree range the elite athletes were recommending (according to that article). I know every person is different and temperature sensitivity is a sensitive topic, but, as the "elder statespeople" of this sport, can we take a stand on this issue first for our own members' safety and possibly to influence safety across the broader OW racing scene?
For me, 82 or below is perfect.
Unfortunately, I think most Masters swimmers are used to swimming in 84-degree water. Most pool patrons whine if the water is below 84. At 84, the water feels lukewarm when you get in. 82 feels cool for a second. The only people who like it at 82 or below are serious swimmers who are used to getting an actual workout in the pool. (The worst complainers are parents of kids in swim lessons.)
84 is uncomfortably warm for swimming, but I can tolerate it. When it gets to 85, it feels unhealthy.
My odd little scientific mind is interested in this topic. I keep a pool thermometer in my swim bag, and I frequently take the temperature of pools where I'm swimming. I swim at 5 different pools in Scottsdale. Three of them are always 84+, one varies wildly (82-86) depending on who's complaining the loudest, and one stays at 82 (84 if the desert heat gets the best of the aeration system).
