11 May 2020
Our Advice on Open Water Swimming
As of this week, the government’s advice has now changed regarding Covid-19. It is likely that many people will be heading back to work or going out to exercise more often, all within the updated government guidelines.
I have read and seen many articles and blogs over the past few days about people wanting to return to swimming as their ‘form of exercise’ during these times. The collective response from these articles are not something we recommend to anyone right now. Adding to this, the government has not categorically said open water swimming is a safe form of activity that can be taken, despite it being in an open space.
Open water swimming can be dangerous, even for strong swimmers. Usually sea swimmers go with a club or organisation that has individuals dedicated to keeping their athletes safe. If you do not swim in the sea regularly or have someone with you who knows the water, then you could be putting yourself at risk. You need to be sure of the depth of the water and any hazards in the area, such as currents or rocks.
This type of activity currently, has less protection than normal with the absence of beach lifeguards, club first aiders and approval to hold a gathering of people that is usually required for this activity. If you are a strong swimmer and do open water swimming regularly, please be aware your actions may cause less able and confident swimmers to feel it is appropriate to join you, which could put more people in danger.
We want to return to some normality in the near future, but right now the best thing to do is enjoy the time with your families and stay safe. Continue to keep fit by exercising on land. If your children want to practise their swimming then see what you can do at home, whether that is in your hot tub, private swimming pool or paddling pool, as long as there is adult supervision. If you want to return to your hobby of open water swimming, then please wait for the advice to be published by British Triathlon and RLSS UK.
If you want to find out more about the differences between open water swimming and pool swimming, check out India’s blog below.
