Adaptability And Flexibility Are Key
Open water swimmers live by the mantra, “Expect the unexpected.” Logistical planning, physical training and mental preparation help athletes succeed in the open water, whether it is a short ocean swimming competition or a long channel swim, but more often than not, the unexpected occurs. When that happens, adaptability is key.
Jellyfish stings: grin and bear it.
Elbow to the ribs: unfair but unintentional.
Strong lateral currents: swim faster and at an angle.
Seasickness: don’t swallow.
In the same way, fast open water swimmers tend to be very flexible, especially in the ankles and shoulders.
We often see open water swimmers stretching before, during and after workouts. They use the pool deck, the pool walls, lifeguard stands, and their swim buddies to help them stretch, stay limber and become even more flexible.
Copyright © 2014 by World Open Water Swimming Association
Southern California native, born 1962, is the creator of the WOWSA Awards, Oceans Seven, Openwaterpedia, Citrus Corps, World Open Water Swimming Association, Daily News of Open Water Swimming, Global Open Water Swimming Conference. He is Chief Executive Officer of KAATSU Global and KAATSU Research Institute. Inductee in the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (Honor Swimmer, Class of 2001) and Ice Swimming Hall of Fame (Honor Contributor - Media, Class of 2019), recipient of the International Swimming Hall of Fame's Poseidon Award (2016), International Swimming Hall of Fame's Irving Davids-Captain Roger Wheeler Memorial Award (2010), USA Swimming's Glen S. Hummer Award (2007, 2010) and Harvard University's John B. Imrie Award (1984). Served on the FINA Technical Open Water Swimming Committee and as Technical Delegate with the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games, and 9-time USA Swimming coaching staff. Note: WOWSA only recommends products or services used or recommended by the community. WOWSA does not receive compensation for links or products mentioned on this site or in blog posts. If it does, it will be indicated clearly on that specific post. See WOWSA's privacy policy for more information.
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