Ocean swimming can be one of the most wonderful experiences, or it can be terrifying. Always remember that the ocean is the boss, but with preparation and experience, you can swim in the sea. The main factors to consider are your condition, water temperature, weather and method of entry into the sea. With all these factors in your favor, you can have a safe and fun ocean workout.
Be A Good Swimmer First
You need to be comfortable swimming to begin with. If you have doubts about your swimming proficiency, take lessons and get comfortable in the pool or lake before swimming in open water. Open-water swimming means dealing with waves and currents, which are much stronger than the strongest human. Learning to go with the motion of the water and not fight against it is key to conserving your energy.
Water Temperature
Sea temperatures change with depth and the season. Close to shore in shallow waters, the sunlight will warm the water, but farther out, the water is cooler. Tropical waters above 78 degrees Fahrenheit mean a bathing suit is fine, but temperate waters from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit mean you may need a wetsuit. Water colder than 65 degrees Fahrenheit means a wetsuit is recommended, because the water leeches heat from your body and hypothermia can set in. The weather makes a big difference in temperature, because surface wind will act as a cooling system.
Weather Conditions
The sea may be calm one day and raging the next. Always check conditions before swimming. Lifeguards are a valuable source of information, because they have a raised view and computer reports of ocean conditions from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, or NOAA. Even with a calm sea, there may be rip currents, which form according to patterns on the sea floor. Learn how to swim parallel to shore and do not fight the current if you get caught in a rip. Los Angeles County Lifeguards offer a free series on "rocks, reefs, and rips" every summer; check with your local organization and take one of these classes.
Waves Come In Sets
If you will be entering the sea from the beach, stand up on a higher point and watch the waves. Most wave sets are three or four waves, followed by a period of anywhere from six to 15 seconds of retreat before the next wave set. Enter the water during the period between sets. Shuffle your feet in the sand to avoid stepping on a stingray or a sharp rock. Swim with a friend. If alone, enter the water right in front of a lifeguard tower and don't venture too far from shore.
Safety Tips
Wear swim goggles and waterproof sunscreen. Learn CPR and first-aid basics, because you may need to come to the aid of others at the beach. Bring along water to drink before and after swimming, because swimming in salt water will dehydrate you.
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