How to Prepare for a Lake Swim

You finally signed up for that lake swim nearby. You have been training hard in a pool and heard that lake swims are different. Here is what you really need to know to take your pool training and turn it into a great lake swim.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• goggles
• swim cap
• swim suit
• wetsuit (optional)
• body glide
• towel
• warm clothes
• sunscreen

1. First find out the temperature of the lake that the swim will be held in. That temperature will determine whether you need to wear a wetsuit or not. Most people do not need wetsuits for lakes that are 70 degrees or warmer. Temperatures below that are very individual to the person. If you do not have a lot of body fat, you may need a wetsuit when the swim will be over an hour and the water temperature under 70 degrees.

2. A lake swim course will typically be marked with large inflatable buoys. It is easy to see the course while on land, however, surprisingly hard to pick up the buoys while swimming. Pick out a landmark in line with each buoy to aim for before the race starts. A good landmark could be a distinctive bump in the hills.

3. Immediately prior to the race be sure to apply sunscreen. Also, especially important if you are wearing a wetsuit, apply body glide or something similar to decrease chaffing.

4. Lake swims generally have mass starts. That means a lot of flailing bodies and chances of being hit or kicked as everyone takes off at the same time. If that doesn’t bother you and you think you may be one of the faster swimmers there, than line up at the front. For a mellower start, head to the back or start off to the side.

5. In lake swims drafting is allowed and can greatly improve your time. Drafting also helps because you can watch the person’s feet in front of you instead of lifting your head to find the next buoy. Every once in awhile make sure that the person you are drafting off of is going in the right direction. If you are unable to draft or at the front of a pack, it might be necessary for you to lift your head and look forward every fifth stroke or so to remain on course. Lifting your head can slow you down, but not as much as heading off in the wrong direction.

6. Remember to finish strong. Many finishes are on land and require swimmers to run through the shallows and onto the beach. Swim as long as you can; it is faster than trying to run through knee deep water.

7. It can be exciting to stand around after the race and talk about it, but don’t forget to get dry and warm quickly.