As an RNLI Water Security Advisor, I’m typically chirping out recommendations about avoiding cold water shock and staying protected within the water, however, as we speak I’m writing about one thing a bit completely different… Right here’s some gear that I take swimming with me that improves my efficiency and makes my swims extra pleasant (in addition to retaining me protected!).

What’s the most effective health tracker for swimming?

I put on a Garmin Swim 2. It’s nice for monitoring open water swims and pool classes.

It additionally tracks operating, biking, and cardio. There are many health trackers on the market, however, for me, this can be a winner. When you’re in search of a look ahead to sea swimming, make certain it has GPS!

Dry Robes look comfortable however they’re costly, are they valued it?

Dryrobes are 100% valued at each penny (and this isn’t a sponsored put-up). My husband purchased one for me final 12 months and I haven’t seen it again. They’re so comfy and hot, and I can get modified on the seashore with out worrying about flashing my bum to everybody.

How do you hearken to music underwater?! Is it waterproof?

That is one thing I get requested A LOT! I hearken to music when swimming lengthy distances and I swear it helps me discover a rhythm and swim quicker. I used to have an inexpensive waterproof MP3 participant and swim buds however I lately upgraded to the Aftershokz bone conduction headphones and they’re so significantly better.

Do I want a particular wetsuit for sea swimming?

Nope! In a matter of truth, I swim in a bikini all put on spherical. I do, nevertheless, have a summer time and a winter wetsuit for after I’m on a board and a 2mm Orca wetsuit for swimming. 

The Orca wetsuit is designed particularly for swimming and is extra versatile (and a bit bit delicate!). I like it but it surely’s a bit expensive – so a traditional wetsuit will do till you resolve if it’s best for you. 

Carrying a wetsuit in the summertime and never the winter might sound backward, but it surely means I can keep within the water for longer and it’s required for SLSC classes.

Do you HAVE to put on a swim cap and goggles within the water?

Completely not. When you’re planning on swimming freestyle although then you definitely’re going to wish to put on goggles.

Individuals are normally a bit reluctant to put on a swim cap as a result of they’re not precisely the sexiest apparel, however they preserve you heat and a bit drier!

What do you do together with your stuff on the seashore?

For brief swims, I go away my stuff on the seashore and use a mix padlock if it’s busy.

If I’m swimming lengthy distance, I’ll take a tow float. I stay proper subsequent to the seashore, so I don’t normally take a lot with me, and I’m not too nervous if somebody decides to nick my previous towel.