Plan Ahead for Ocean Swimming

Swimming in the ocean is a thrilling experience, but it requires more preparation than swimming in a pool or a lake. The ocean presents unique challenges, such as riptides, boats, reefs, sharks, jellyfish, stingrays, and sea urchins. To enjoy a safe and enjoyable time at the shore, planning and being aware of these potential hazards is essential.

Before diving into deep ocean waters, it’s a good idea to build your swimming strength and lung power in a pool. Swimming lengths underwater can help improve your lung capacity. This is important because your breathing in the ocean will vary with the size and direction of the waves. Additionally, saltwater buoyancy allows you to kick slower, but you’ll need good control over your breathing to handle the waves effectively.

Ocean Swimming Tips

When you’re ready to swim in the ocean, start with several five-minute swims to get used to the conditions. Plot a straight line to a buoy to practice swimming in a specific direction. According to experts quoted in Men’s Fitness, here are some tips for handling ocean swimming:

• Riptides: Riptides are a common danger, accounting for 80% of beach lifeguard rescues. If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the shore to escape it.
• Don’t Overestimate Your Ability: It’s easy to overestimate your swimming ability. Avoid swimming out too far.
• Watch Your Path: Check your swimming path for holes, rocks, coral, and debris. Never dive headfirst water; lead with your hands to protect your head.
• Dealing with Marine Life: Scrape off jellyfish barbs with a credit card, soak stingray stings in hot water, and use tweezers to remove sea urchin spines.
• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol impairs judgment and leads to risky behaviors. Many drownings are linked to alcohol consumption.
• Check Surf Conditions: Visit shoreline video feeds at surfline.com for the latest surf conditions.
• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and look for reef-friendly labeling. Avoid long sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and wear sunglasses with 99 or 100 percent UV protection.