Through this article, from the USA water team we give you the basic tools so that you know how to swim in the sea or open water and you can achieve a complete physical development.
Tips for swimming in the sea
To prepare for a rewarding experience at sea it is important to prepare for this moment. That is why we recommend you follow these tips:
Use neoprene
It is not the same to swimming with lifeguard recertification in summer or in winter due to the thermal contrast of the water on the temperature of our body. In order to reduce the temperature difference, there are full bathing suits called neoprene’s to mitigate the temperature difference of the sea.
For reference, the human body goes into hypothermia with temperatures below 14 degrees. The use of neoprene is mandatory with water below 15.9 degrees. It should be noted that in triathlon competitions the use of neoprene is mandatory when the water temperature is below 24 degrees, swimming time is even limited in temperatures close to 14 degrees.
See the state of the sea in advance
To mitigate climate uncertainty, we have at our disposal mobile applications where we detail:
- sea state
- The direction and strength of the wind and sea currents.
- UV intensity
- Ambient and water temperature.
- We recommend consulting it before recertification.
Heat dry
Once we have checked the state of the sea and we are at the lifeguard recertification site, we will do a dry warm-up on the same beach and we will focus mainly on the shoulder joints. Later we will gradually enter the water so that the body assimilates the temperature.
Locate buoys
Another important aspect is to have the buoys located in the sea. These delimit the bathing area with the recreational motor boat area. Thanks to these elements we can orient ourselves during the course of our lifeguard recertification and know the distance elapsed so far.
Breathe on both sides
Open water swimming is slightly different from swimming in a pool, mainly due to the fact that in the sea our environment is changing and we need to constantly orient ourselves.
In addition to visualizing the buoys, to achieve optimal orientation it is advisable to know how to breathe on both sides. This will help us to have a second option if the waves splash in our faces and we cannot breathe efficiently through one of the two sides.
Carry a whistle
It is advisable to carry a whistle in case we need to warn the lifeguard recertification or any boat that we need help.
Swim perpendicular
It should be remembered that the recertification of the journey runs mostly parallel to the coast, in no case perpendicular due to the risk that this entails if we have any difficulty during our recertification.
A piece of advice to get out victorious against the ocean currents is to never confront them, because the currents are infinitely stronger than us and do not wear out over time.
“If we swim against the current, we have everything to lose”
To overcome an adverse current, we must swim perpendicularly and once out swim towards the coast.
Use beacon
We have to be aware that when we swim in the open sea, we are obliged to signal ourselves with a buoy-shaped beacon throughout our journey so that other sailors and bathers can see us.
In addition, it can serve as a float in case of emergency, or if you are accompanied, to be able to tow a partner to a safe place.
Benefits of swimming in the sea
Water sports are known for their benefits in working on the joints and also in maintaining physical condition.
The differences between swimming in the sea and swimming. In the pool is the great variety of external stimuli that affect us during the journey. These external stimuli force the body to adapt the senses and make them more efficient in the event of swimming unforeseen events.
- The composition of the sea water helps to mitigate the irritations of the respiratory system.
- Due to the fluctuations of our body with the surface of the sea and the waves. It is a good way to develop a sense of balance. To previously prepare our sense of balance. It is advisable to carry out swimming sessions of shorter to longer duration where the waves are minimal in order to train our sense of balance. In our USA center’s we have swimming courses and classes, sign up!
At USA we have all the tools to be able to face the experience. Of swimming in the open sea with complete safety and fun.
There are many USAS who are beginners in swimming in the sea and at USA. We suggest starting out in the pool with activities such as USA swimmers or through our lifeguard recertification. Where we will learn to train with waves and also to overcome our fears. Sign up at the reception from your Centre USA!
It is very important to control the elements that surround us. As well as the needs of our body in the form of proper hydration. Also warn a family member / friend informed of the route and its duration.
In short, swimming in the sea is a unique experience suitable for all audiences. But always with good advice from our USA professionals.
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