10 Things To Know When Swimming Outside
Some schools in warm-weather regions still have the luxury of training outside at this time of the year. Others will yearn for the chance to again train outdoors. Whatever your situation, here’s a few things to keep in mind.
When it comes to swimming, most of us picture the calm ambiance of indoor pools with temperature-controlled water and clear, chlorine-scented air. However, some venture into the great outdoors to train and compete in a pool, introducing a new world of experiences that often go unspoken. From sun exposure to unexpected challenges, here are 10 things people don’t tell swimmers when they dive into an outdoor pool.
1. Sun Exposure
The sun can be both a friend and a foe when swimming outdoors. While the sun’s golden rays can enhance your swim practice or competition, they can also contribute to sunburns. Remember to apply sunscreen before swimming in the pool to protect your skin. Still, swimming in the sunlight can be a refreshing experience when you take the correct precautions.
2. Temperature of the Pool
Unlike indoor pools with controlled temperatures, the temperature of outdoor pools can fluctuate with the weather and time of day. The pool’s temperature during morning swims can be cold, while afternoon sessions can be much warmer. Be prepared for these temperature variations because they often happen when swimming outside.
3. Weather
When you swim outside, you are always subject to weather interruptions. Sudden thunderstorms, heavy rain, or strong winds may interfere with practice, meets, or safety reasons. It’s essential to watch the weather forecast and be ready to adapt accordingly.
4. Tan Lines
Funky tan lines are almost inevitable when swimming outside. Your swim cap, goggles, and swimsuit will create distinctive tan lines. Embracing this as a signature swimming look and wearing this as a badge of honor is essential to having fun swimming in the sun.
5. Chilly Morning Swims
There’s something irresistible about diving into a cold pool, especially on hot summer days. However, the same cannot be said for dark, sunless mornings. Just be prepared for that initial shock of the cold, and consider starting off your swimming with an easy warm-up to get your body used to the temperature of the water.
6. Unexpected Items in the Water
Sometimes, outdoor pools might surprise you with unexpected debris or critters. Leaves, insects, or even small animals can enter the pool during practice or competitions. While swimming, be cautious and try to avoid swimming into any of these objects.
7. The Sun is Always in Your Eyes
Swimming outdoors means getting used to swimming with the sun in your eyes. The sun can sometimes make it challenging to see lane lines, other swimmers, or where you are in the pool. However, mirrored goggles can help improve this issue, but they don’t completely block out the sun. Cloudy days are much appreciated by swimmers who constantly swim outdoors.
8. Swimming in a Straight-Line Challenge in Backstroke
If you’re a fan of backstroke, you’ll quickly learn that swimming in a straight line outdoors can be challenging. Without a ceiling to help guide you along the pool, you may veer from the middle and hit the lane lines. Lots of practice and focus are vital to mastering the skill of swimming backstroke outside.
9. Increased Sweating
Outdoor swimming, especially in warm weather and in warm water, can lead to increased sweating. Staying hydrated and taking breaks as needed to avoid overheating during your swim is essential.
10. Enjoying Sunrises and Sunsets
One of the most rewarding aspects of outdoor pool swimming is witnessing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. These beautiful spectacles can enhance your swimming experience and your appreciation for swimming outside. Not only do they make practice more enjoyable, but they also make for fantastic photo opportunities.
Swimming in an outdoor pool can offer a unique and exhilarating experience. While it comes with its set of challenges and surprises, the joy of swimming under the open sky and in the sun’s warmth is an experience that every swimmer should try at least once. So, don’t be deterred by the unknowns; dive right in and embrace the adventure of swimming outside.
Enjoying Sunrise is top of the list!