STARTING OUT IN OPEN WATER SWIMMING

 Be a confident and competent swimmer: Start your journey to open water swimming by being confident and competent in the pool. They say a person confident in swimming for 30 minutes nonstop in a pool will manage 15 minutes in open-water conditions before fatigue sets in. Many open water techniques can be practiced in the pool before heading outdoors. Consistency is key when training, and a workout 3-4 times a week will help build up your endurance. 

Learn Open Water Skills: As a total beginner to open water swimming, it's advisable to find an organization that offers a course where you can learn open water skills like sighting. Sighting is a technique used to navigate and stay on course, which involves lifting your head out of the water to locate a landmark. Mastering bilateral breathing becomes crucial when you may have to alternate sides due to factors like wind, waves, or other environmental elements. You will also learn buoy turns, treading water, pack swimming, and many other important skills and techniques. 

Find a Swim Buddy: It's always sensible to have someone swim with you, especially when you are starting out—whether it's a swim buddy or a friend with a kayak who is willing to paddle alongside you. Better still, join an open water swimming club or group that will provide a supportive environment for you and offer valuable advice and guidance. 

Staying Safe:  Research open water sites, check local guidelines and regulations. Begin slowly with short, casual swims close to the shore. Find popular spots where there are lifeguards and safety buoys. Before entering the water, always plan your swim. Know your entry and exit points. Consider currents, tidal flow, and wind direction. Take note of wave and swell height, tide timings, and whether it is a neap or spring tide. Listen to your body and never panic. If you do feel panicky, remember to concentrate on your breathing or focus on your stroke. As you become more experienced, it's a good idea to swim in different places and under different scenarios, as this will help you overcome panic and teach your body how to adapt. Getting used to cold water can take time, and having limited vision in murky waters can be a challenge. 

Vary your stroke to outdoor conditions:  Swimmers need to vary their stroke and be able to adapt to swimming conditions. In choppy water, aim for a higher stroke rate with short and shallow strokes. When the water is calm, you can lengthen your stroke and take deeper pulls. 

Learn how to swim in a pack:  Always be aware of your surroundings and be assertive when navigating around others. Respect fellow swimmers and their personal space, avoiding aggressive movements that could disrupt the flow of the group. In competitive swimming, swimming directly behind or level with their hip, commonly called drafting, can enhance your performance. 

Have the correct kit: Invest in a good-quality wetsuit designed for open water swimming, as waters in the UK can be extremely cold. Bring two pairs of goggles—one with a clear lens and another with a mirror reflective lens that can block out the sun. In cold weather, keeping your head warm with a brightly colored cap can be helpful—some swimmers even wear two caps. Water shoes may also prove beneficial. A tow float or buoy will enhance your visibility to other watercraft and is particularly important in areas where there might be boats, jet skis, or other water activities. It can also serve as a secure storage place for snacks and car keys. Some buoys come equipped with features such as built-in GPS or tracking devices, allowing you to monitor your performance and enabling others to track your location in case of an emergency. Always ensure you have warm clothing with you for when you exit the water, even in the summer. 

Respect the Environment:  Practice environmental consciousness and refrain from disturbing wildlife