Hello!
I've never swam in the open waters before, but I've had some folks in my masters program who have and love it. I'm thinking of doing a swim across america open water event. But have some questions:
Is this considered a race or more of a relaxed charity event where you can go as slow as you want? I tried doing a 2k non-stop in the pool, but my pace was really terrible.
I don't have any opportunities to swim in the open water as practice, how will I know whether a wet suit is required?
What should I bring for such an event?
I've heard that I need to learn how to do a "sighting", and since I breathe on my right, to stay on the left end so I can "look" at people and the direction they are going. Any other tips?
My 2 main fears of open water: taking in water while breathing and getting kicked in the face. :afraid:
Is this considered a race or more of a relaxed charity event where you can go as slow as you want? Like most open water events, it is whatever you want it to be. If you want to race, then line up in the front row at the start and race. If you want a relaxed swim, then take your time and relax.
, how will I know whether a wet suit is required? Most likely a wetsuit is NOT required. But check with the event director.
What should I bring for such an event? Suit , goggles, towel. If the swim is at some beach, then bring beach stuff; chair, sunscreen, beach blanket. If it’s cold bring warm clothes.
I've heard that I need to learn how to do a "sighting", and since I breathe on my right, to stay on the left end so I can "look" at people and the direction they are going. Any other tips?
Swim straight and if you are going for a relaxed swim, then sight for the buoys often. Read all the race materials and pay close attention to the pre-race briefing. If you have questions about the swim ask the event director in advance or an experienced swimmer at the event.
My 2 main fears of open water: taking in water while breathing and getting kicked in the face. practice your breathing in the pool, most times open water breathing is no different than pool breathing. And keep your face away from other people’s feet, it’s pretty easy to not follow others too closely.
Is this considered a race or more of a relaxed charity event where you can go as slow as you want? Like most open water events, it is whatever you want it to be. If you want to race, then line up in the front row at the start and race. If you want a relaxed swim, then take your time and relax.
, how will I know whether a wet suit is required? Most likely a wetsuit is NOT required. But check with the event director.
What should I bring for such an event? Suit , goggles, towel. If the swim is at some beach, then bring beach stuff; chair, sunscreen, beach blanket. If it’s cold bring warm clothes.
I've heard that I need to learn how to do a "sighting", and since I breathe on my right, to stay on the left end so I can "look" at people and the direction they are going. Any other tips?
Swim straight and if you are going for a relaxed swim, then sight for the buoys often. Read all the race materials and pay close attention to the pre-race briefing. If you have questions about the swim ask the event director in advance or an experienced swimmer at the event.
My 2 main fears of open water: taking in water while breathing and getting kicked in the face. practice your breathing in the pool, most times open water breathing is no different than pool breathing. And keep your face away from other people’s feet, it’s pretty easy to not follow others too closely.
