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How To Cold Water Swim With Paralympian David Hill
So, you’re into water sports like Paralympian David Hill? Did you know that at 15 years old, David’s international swimming career began and consisted of 12 years of achieving medals at World and European championships. Following his retirement from the pool, it wasn’t long until David took on his next challenge, the triathlon! David reached the peak of his second sport through finishing 10th in the para-triathlon at the Rio Paralympics – impressive right?!
Coupled with these incredible achievements, David is devoted to The Ability People as well as athlete mentoring, charity work and supporting young people who are no longer in education, employment or training. So, who better to provide cold water swimming guidance and recommend must-have Zone3 product than David himself!
Here Are David’s Top Tips For Cold Water Swimming
As picturesque as it may sound, you should also be braced and prepared for some shocking water temperatures. Two-time Paralympic swimmer and triathlete, David Hill, leads guided sessions about cold water safety, before swimmers brave the cold waters.
1. Entering The Water
Once you’re in your open water swim gear, it is good to prepare mentally! Have a clear reason why you want to get in the water. It can help to repeat a mantra to yourself and enter the water with a positive affirmation. For example, “If I can cope with the stress of the cold, I can teach my mind resilience to be able to cope with other stressors in life.”
Be clear on your entry and exit points. Take into account any currents and tides and have a clear entry point into the water and, most importantly, exits.
Don’t dive or jump in! Enter the water slowly to prevent ‘cold water shock’ and let your body acclimatise. You can splash your face and the back of your neck to help.
2. During Your Swim
Always go with a buddy, and ideally with someone that knows the area and has swum in open water before. Swimmers are a lovely bunch and you can build a great community.
Don’t forget to breathe! Try not to hold your breath and make sure you get your breathing under control when you get into the water.
Ensure you’re visible in the water! Wear a brightly coloured cap such as the Zone3 Orange Silicone Swim Cap and consider using a Zone3 Swim Safety Buoy / Tow Float in orange or pink for added visibility – the tow-float can also double up as a helpful float if needed.
Consider a Zone3 wetsuit! A wetsuit will not prevent cold water shock nor stop you from suffering hypothermia. However, it will help you to stay warmer for much longer, keep you more buoyant and, in most cases, allow you to swim faster.
3. Leaving The Water
It is important to know when to get out! If your stroke rate slows down or you start to really shiver, get out and warm up. You only need to be in the water for 90 seconds to boost your dopamine levels anyway!
Warm up as quickly as you can after your swim. To minimise the risk, dress immediately, starting with the top half of your body. Check out the Zone3 Oversized Heat-Tech Polar Fleece Parka Robe Jacket to help you stay warm and protected.
Finally, make a flask of your favourite hot drink to sip after your swim and bask in your success!
Open Water Swimming With Zone3
There is a special kind of thrill that comes with open water swimming, not only does it provide health benefits such as improving circulation, it delivers a real sense of adventure and freedom! Immerse yourself in the thrills of open water swimming with exceptional products by Zone3 that will inspire and enable you to achieve your best and maximise your performance!
