Open Water Swim Tips

Swimming in the lake is different from the pool in that you cannot just turn your brain off and follow the line on the bottom. You have to constantly be thinking about sighting, breathing deeply, following or avoiding other swimmers, all while remembering to keep good form. It's a lot to think about!For inexperienced lake swimmers, I strongly recommend getting in for only 5 minutes then getting out, catching your breath, thinking about what you need to do again, then maybe getting back in for another 5 minutes. for first timers, DO NOT TRY TO SWIM A LONG WAY OR GET A WORKOUT IN! Your goal for your first open water swim is to take at least 10 breaths in a row without stopping, practice sighting on something (on the horizon) with several peeks forward, and getting
used to swimming with a wetsuit on. Do those things and call it a very successful workout.
Other tips;
1. Bring two swim caps, or wear a light knit running cap under your rubber swim cap. You must wear something on your head or you will freeze instantly.
2. Many people wear silicone ear plugs in the cold water. They say it
helps avoid the dizzyness that comes from cold water in your ears.
3. Do not put your wet suit on in a hurry or you will tear it.
4. Use Body Glide on your neck to avoid the dreaded "wetsuit hickey".
5. Do not use any cooking spray or body glide on other parts of your wetsuit to make it easier to get off; it doesn't work.

Panic is very common your first time in open water. Everyone gets through it though. After three or four swims you will be gliding along nicely through the waves.
have fun!