Good morning to you all and I hope that you are all doing well, I'm thinking about taking up open water swimming to see if it will be of any advantage to me, i done it years ago including the river mersey boxing day event,
Any thoughts or comments please
I can't really advise you whether it's a good idea or not for you since I know nothing about your physical condition or where you intend to go and how much you intend to do when you get there. However if you have done it before you will already know what it's like, good and bad. So if you feel you are up to it have a go, if you don't you will always feel a bit frustrated at not having done so.
I've been trying to get fitter doing shadow boxing and stuff but I feel like a new approach is needed so I'm going to join a swimming group and try it out in morecambe bay
I never go swimming off the English coast at any time of the year in just ordinary swimmers, much too cold. The last time I was in the sea off the English coast was 40 years ago in summer when I had a dinghy and wore a wet suit. So since I would guess the sea temperature at this time of year is not much more than 6-7*C off the Lancashire coast, I would also be thinking wet suit required.
The sea temperature off the south coast is currently allegedly 11C. In peak summer it will be 18C or so. Getting out of the sea when its 18C and the air temperature 25C is one thing doing it when the sea temp is around 10C and the air temperature potentially lower, is another game completely.
I note you have AF. Have you run this past your GP? To me it verges towards the Daft end of the spectrum. I think there might be better forms of exercise whether that is brisk walking with hiking poles or cycling but cold water swimming is not something I would entertain and I see it every day, living next to allegedly the warmest part of the sea in the warmest (in winter) part of the country
I believe your comments are intended for SAMS007
Nonetheless the sea temperature off the Lancashire coast is currently reported to be 5.9*C although it might be slightly higher between high and low water marks, which further reinforces your point (and mine!)
seatemperature.org/europe/u...
Sorry, I intended to reinforce your point not assert that YOU were daft! Its far too cold for anyone, let alone with a heart copndition but Sam needs to run that past their GP. I think it is the camaraderie that looks to be the fun bit, not the swim itself but I can think of other ways to get exercise. I favour hiking poles as they make me move faster and incorporating some hills.
Go for it! You’re both brave and daft. I assume, from the Morecambe Bay reference you are in Lancashire. I believe there are several rivers where wild swimming is allowed which might be a gentler introduction. Crook ‘O Lune, the Hodder near Stoneyhurst and I’ve seen people in the Ribble, near Clitheroe.
I would go for a paddle in the Hyndburn first just to see what it's like lol
You do offer some great alternatives to Morecambe Bay it would take at least an hour to reach the sea !! a bit like Southport !!
Regards
Hello you
Just you thinking about doing it shows that you are willing to push yourself in the pursuit of your fitness, no one can take that from you, but as others have said just check with your medical professions before you leap in.
Depending on your condition the shock of the cold water{ with or without a dry/wet suit } could have a negative reaction.
You could never be classed as daft for wanting to try and regain some of your fitness, I wish you well
{ I will be the one in the boat handing out hot tea/coffee/soup }
Take care
I seen a woman in the lake's breaking the ice with an axe and she just got in for a swim and that's what has given me the idea but I'm determined to try it
Then without any doubt you fit in the brave part of your question !
Best wishes, SAMS007. The benefits and pleasure are well documented. But as you have AF it would be sensible to talk this over with a dr who knows you.
I live on the coast and spend much of my free time sailing, so I've looked closely into the risks and benefits of sea water immersion.
Opinions are divided. On the one hand swimming is excellent exercise, especially for anyone with joint or mobility problems. But there's no getting away from the fact that just being in water, especially cold water, has a number of physiological impacts that may be a problem for anyone with a heart condition.
Cold water causes blood to move from extremities to the body's core, that increases blood pressure. Holding your breath lowers your pulse but pushes up blood pressure. And the shock of cold water causes a sudden release of adreneline.
There are plenty of other exercise options open to you, but if you're determined to try open water swimming then there's a couple of things you can do to reduce the risk. Always swim in company, so if you get into trouble help is close by. And if the water is cold then don't dive in. splash the water on your face, neck and chest first to prepare your body for the shock.
Good luck!
Yes - You are VERY Brave in my opinion. Daft No! I'd love to be able to do something like that but am petrified of the Water. I nearly drown when I was little and left me with a Phobia so really I am envious!
An old friend of mine does cold water swimming (in the sea, all year round). I was enthralled that she had taken to doing it. I asked her if she liked it and her reply was, "No, not one bit I hate it". She explained that the ladies she does it with are such good fun and that's what she enjoys.
Surely a warm swimming pool would be better? 😱
I've got a couple of swimming buddies who swim open water all year round and love it, even the breaking ice and swimming "skins" bit. I joined one of them and her Blue Tit Chill Swimmer buddies a couple a years ago for a somewhat chilly August lake swim. Mad as a box of frogs the lot of them but a fantastic bunch of people. I've done other swims in sea pools and at lake 32 but only in the summer months. Was looking to do more this year but all swimming is out for me currently. If you do go ahead I'd wait for warmer months, perhaps check with GP first and always swim with someone experienced.
You need to speak to your cardio team or GP before taking up any water 'sport' I personally think open water swimming for those of us with a heart condition quite risky.
i agree
I admire your bravery but I was told by doctors to be careful about getting into cold water; that's my excuse to ensure I only swim in the warm indian ocean, caribbean and andaman seas on a regular basis 😁
lucky you. I used to love snorkelling in warm water. Seems to me that the shock of the cold might be difficult for a dicky heart.
Yes, definitely.
Find a club. There are plenty of them. Then go with them and then you have safety cover and experienced people with you. This time of year almost all of us use wetsuits.
I open water swim. I belong to local groups who swim in different places according to the tides.I never swim alone, know how to regulate my breathing and I swim in a shortie wetsuit at this time of year. It makes me feel so good.
I don't know tour medical situation, did you speak to your cardiac team of GP before doing this.
Yes I spoke to my GP and Ccardiologist Know your limits. I get in VERY slowly and do not get in fully until my breathing is totally under control.I also get our before I feel cold.
Take me with you. Its on my bucket list. Its why I moved North. So to cut it short. Brave yes coz it's hard getting back into something . Daft you'd be daft not to in my book.
I wouldn’t risk swimming in the sea around the uk sam. You’ll probably end up catching something you can’t get rid of with all the sewage in it.??😢
probably ask your cardiologist
you’d best check with your dr first.
Good morning. I would never do open water swimming - unless I fall out of my canoe! But, as I have no idea of your physical condition, meds etc I can't comment. There are some posts on the AF page on here healthunlocked.com/afassoci...
Hhhm- why now in the coldest months?
So, as you posted asking, here’s my non expert opinion(and I haven’t read your bio so forgive me if you are already do all this) :-
Would it be wise to wait for the warmer months to acclimatise your body and plan, if it all goes well, to continue next winter?
Do get a medical nod to doing something like this.
Are you physically very fit? Do you swim in a swimming pool regularly? If not, start that now to be ready for summer sea swimming. Maybe start, if don’t already, more physical activity eg walking/couch to 5k /gym too, for your general fitness in preparation .
Don’t be impetuous or rash, build up to it and definitely ask someone who knows your medical condition and can give relevant, sensible advice.
Take care.
I have always wanted to do open water swimming but its nolonger something I can consider. The shock of the water temp would send my heart rate far too high.
Do check with your GP or cardiac nurses to see what is advised for your condition. Its a wonderful sport if you can do it but if not Im sure you will find something else as you are onviously very motivated 👍🏽 Well done & good luck.
I’m on this part of the forum for a family member, but I’ll try to reply on this topic.
I do open water swimming (with a wet suit) in the summer. It’s great, but it’s still a bit cold. A couple of months ago, I attended a cold water induction event. The idea was you had to do this to be allowed to swim in this particular lake during the cold months.
It was way too cold. The induction warmed of dangers of cold water swimming, and there are many. You can only swim for maybe 20 minutes and after that you need to call it a day. I know a lot of people meet up for a cold swim, and that’s great, but I’d be wary especially if there are any health issues.
Maybe give it a go in spring or summer?
I suppose you have to way up how you are recovering and how long since your procedure. There is a leaflet aimed at returning to swimming. That and advice I have had, point to exercising horizontally being a particular strain and low temperature not being recommended !
I started sessions at the local baths at 12 weeks after observed cardio rehab exercise were pulse etc measured pre, during and after exercise..
I was very tired to begin with but now notice a regular increase in fitness with some plateau’s and some days when mentality felt discouraged.
In the early sessions the young life guards presence very reasuring and as they knew I was post op also very encouraging !
Hasten Slowly ! - no need to rush - there seem to be few shortcuts
Good Luck !
PH - ( 77 yrs)
I used to swim in the sea in Kent at all times of the year - then I moved house , had ohs and AFib . Once loads better I asked my cardiac nurse her thoughts on it I planned to swim in a lake nearby - she advised not to in the extreme cold there are easier ways to stay fit ! I do still swim in the sea from may through to September at Southend and it’s glorious most days !
It certainly makes me feel alive and it’s great with the grandchildren !! In the cold months I go for a walk !!
Ch ❤️
Not so much daft as actively dangerous - the body's reaction to cold water could give you a heart attack .
I can pass on the advice that my stepdaughter was given, she has MS not a Hart condition but it seems fairly sensible.First ask the doctor/health care professional if it is a good idea.
Then start in the pool until the end of may, this means that you have built up your stamina and start in the open water when it's only "bloody cold" as opposed to hypothermic, get a tow float and start slow. She also took cold showers to get ready for the first immersion.
That was two years ago, during the nastness we must not name. She is now going out every day in rhos on sea, I think she is nuts but it's definitely doing her mental health and personal outlook good. And if she misses a day she gets rather ratty.
Give it a go but clear it with your doctor first.
Good luck.
I have just come back from sea swimming this morning. South Devon sea temp was 9 degrees, swam with costume, rash vest and booties. Some of my group wear gloves too but not wetsuits. Only stay in one minute per degree no longer always go with someone else. River water tends to be colder than the sea. If you start to get in and it doesn’t feel right it’s no issue to just come out again and try another day. Make sure you have plenty of layers to warm up with and a hot drink for afterwards.
So my NSTEMI was 18 months ago, I spent a year pool swimming and now a few months sea swimming too.
Get advise on your condition with GP, talk to local swimmers, take your time be prepared and keep safe.
When we were walking along Torquay Prom this morning there were about 10 swimmers. Were you one of them? Looked nice and sunny and mild against the wall but very chilly in the water
I was further round the coast at Blackpool sands. It was lovely and sunny.
Hello
Before you take the plunge I would recommend you locate the nearest Defibrillator.
You say " if it will be of any advantage to me " could you clarify what advantage you are looking for? If it is just to get fit there are many safer ways to achieve that. I live on the South Coast and my Grandaughter does open water swimming that's Sea , but at 17 and a very very fit Triathlete she always wears a wet suit and would not consider swimming without one until at least July.
Unless you have to Take a Risk don't Risk it.
Regards
Hi, My sister is a cold water swimmer. She loves it but she has no heart or other health issues. She also belongs to an association for open water swimmers Nalco. They swim in a group and would advise you on suitability (after you have had a discussion with your medical professional as so many people have posted). This time of year you would not get that super fit as you could only stay in the water for a few minutes.
As an ex pool swimmer myself I would say see how you can build your stamina first in a pool, go slow and build up the lengths. Once you hit a decent number and increased your lung capacity consider starting in open water when it's warmer and always get medical advice first. Good luck,!
I do it every other week. I love it. Go in gently and come out before you are too cold. 1 minute for every degree C of the water temp. So if the water is 7C dont stay in longer than 7 minutes. Swim parallel to the shore fo that you can get out quickly! Each to his/her own I guess!
I would be inclined to stick to swimming in an indoor pool in the first instance. You'll be able stay in longer than you would in cold water too and build up your stamina. Only then think about open water and do please consult your doctor before attempting and make sure you have the proper equipment.
Hi SSMS007, I've been fascinated by cold water and physiology, there is a lot written about it.A simple way to start is just taking a cold shower at home and seeing how you cope and control your initial reaction. It's not quite a total Immersion but gives the gasp effect. You should be able to control the level of cold too down to current cold tap water levels which are quite cold.
I'm not experienced with fresh cold water swimming and I might be just a tad uncertain about UK standards of water purity unlike France where freshwater swimming is often regularly quality tested in even small communes.
But I do go cold water dipping in the Isle of Wight with a target to go at least once in every month. I was on course to achieve this before I had stroke last March (not in any way related!) But soon got back to it including January 1 st this year. I'm not up to swimming or prolonged dips, at this time of year it's an immersion experience and then out.
Note, don't go alone is the byword. Make it a sociable experience. There are open water swimmers all over and our local way, several groups, mainly women(!) swim most days unless it's stormy.
Some of the serious distance swimmers may wear lightweight wetsuits and always tow a surface float. But others, myself included who short dip go in normal cossies.
Now I have been dipping for a year I have bought a big oversized robe (Dryrobe is a common brand but there are many others now) and a fleece changing robe too. I live a 10 minute walk from the beach and walk to and from in my 'gear'.
It's exhilarating and I'm sure it's good in the ways suggested by the physiology studies. All things in moderation especially at the outset and do check there isn't a medical reason to not participate. Otherwise go for it but never alone in winter.
Hello
Great you are looking for a new activity to improve your fitness however as you are on this site you possibly have a heart condition. The danger I would caution against is Cold Water Shock which can be fatal very quickly. There several good videos on youtube prepared by the RNLI showing the effect on the body. As a leisure sailor falling into the water is my main concern as I know the water will be very cold.
I would suggest speaking with you doctor before embarking on sea swimming and if you do decide to start join a club and build up to full imersion!
The effect on the body of entering water 15°C and below is often underestimated. This shock can be the precursor to drowning. - quote from RNLI
Stay safe.
Run it by your doctor! I know people who plunge into icy waters all winter long. Most of them are Finnish though and they are crazy about icy water. I think I’d start in the summer and transition to the cold as the autumn comes on. Having spent summers swimming off the coast of Maine, I don’t mind cold water, but I’m not sure how my heart would react to it these days. Much prefer a warm swimming pool.
Your GP would be a good start, unless something else has been said at the hospital. Depends on your condition. After my arrest we (the group) were told to have Lifeguards watching our every move, and, 10 years on I`m still having a blast; no wild swimming though.
Ta-ra chuck,
Frank.
A good friend of mine explains his theory on YouTube on open water swimming benefits. Thought it might be of interest- he is a respiratory specialist not heart. Search for Rachel and Prof Gary Connett.
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