Knowledge Base
Open Water
Article
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The British Swimming Officials Group has issued the following guidance relative to the suitability of Wetsuits in Open Water Competition:
“This rule change has been brought about to increase safety for competitors in water between 16˚- 18˚ (compulsory) and 18˚ - 20˚ (optional). In accordance with other swimsuit rules British Swimming will conform to the intention of the rule. We do not provide interpretation of FINA rules – only FINA as the governing body can interpret their own rules.
However, to provide guidance, the discussion to date has been around what would constitute coverage of the shoulder. An informed view is that to ensure complete coverage of the shoulder the wetsuit must include a sleeve, as a minimum polo or ‘T’ shirt length covering the full shoulder and upper arm in order to maintain shoulder cover during swimming, full arm to wrist has been suggested although elbows do not feature in the rule, whereas coverage of knees as a mid-limb joint in respect of leg length of a wetsuit is.
It is expected that officials will apply common sense when dealing with references to neck, wrists and ankles. As in all Open Water events held in the home counties of England Scotland and Wales the Chief Referee will have responsibility for the overall management of the rules.”
FAQ Information Views: 96 Keywords: Created: 02.02.2018 Updated: 02.02.2018 -
Swimming outdoors has its challenges but if it’s at an organised swimming venue with qualified coaches it can be great fun!
Taking your club swimmers into open water will give them the challenge of trying something new. It lets them overcome any fears they may have and be part of a team.
It also gives long distance swimmers the opportunity to experience a different aspect to racing, new techniques, and test their abilities.
Some swimmers who aren’t reaching their potential in a pool often find their feet and flourish in an outdoor environment. Providing new opportunities for your swimmers can help to retain interest and boost enjoyment.
FAQ Information Views: 93 Keywords: Created: 10.02.2018 Updated: 10.02.2018 -
Open water swimming could be a great new way to engage club swimmers. And swimming coaches can upskill in order to deliver it safely.
Your first step is to complete the Open Water Coaching Award through the Institute of Swimming. There are lots of venues and dates to choose from and tutors are experienced and knowledgeable.
The lakes used for courses are all wonderful places to have a classroom! Don’t be put off by the fact that it’s called Level 2 – this is just where it sits on the qualification framework. It’s for all Level 2 coaches and teachers, and above. They give you all the knowledge you need to assess the safety of and organise an open water session professionally.
Remember open water swimming is a discipline that challenges the body and the mind. For a coach it requires you to take your athletes beyond what they are capable of in the pool. The tactical side of the discipline is as important as the physical.
FAQ Information Views: 94 Keywords: Created: 10.02.2018 Updated: 10.02.2018 -
Completing an open water swim is a fantastic achievement. But before you dive in there are a few open water swimming questions you need to ask yourself.
It’s easy to forget something as you take the plunge for the first time. Think of these open water swimming questions as a preparation checklist.
If you can’t answer yes to all of them think twice about taking part. After all, it’s about having fun but keeping safe. So, here’ are the top nine questions- Do you know who you are swimming with? It can be dangerous to swim open water on your own. Always swim with someone and know who they are. It’s a good idea to get into open water with a friend.
- Do you know the weather conditions? Weather can play a huge part in the difficulty of open water swimming conditions. If you feel unsafe, don’t get in.
- Do you know the route you are taking? Seems like a fairly simple one but you MUST plan your route carefully and make sure someone else knows where you are going.
- Do you know where you will get in and out of the water? Again, this may not be your biggest worry but you should plan where you are entering and exiting the water.
- Have you practised swimming in your wetsuit? Wearing a wetsuit changes your swimming stroke slightly so it’s best to practice in a pool beforehand.
- Do you know the temperature of the water? Swimsuits keep you warm but the water will still be very cold. Get used to it slowly. If you feel your body getting too cold, get out.
- Do you know what you will eat before and after your swim? Exercise and cold water will sap your energy. Time your food for energy boosts.
- Do you have goggles and lubricant? Swimming in lakes, rivers and seas there is poor water visibility. Wear goggles. If you’re swimming in a group, tuck your goggle strap into your swim hat so they aren’t knocked out of position by accident. Lubricant isn’t essential but it’s a very useful for putting around the neck to avoid chaffing from your wetsuit.
- If you are swimming a loch, have you asked about weirs? Tide times are crucial to know when learning about the best times to swim in a loch. Be aware of rip currents and what to do if you become caught in one.
FAQ Information Views: 30 Keywords: Created: 07.04.2018 Updated: 07.04.2018
