STAY SAFE

Skills Spend time in a pool before taking the plunge into the ocean. It is important to be confident. A confident swimmer is more at ease, making it easier to maintain a comfortable rhythm, which lessens anxiety. Technique Freestyle is the most efficient stroke in open water and it is beneficial to be competent in a second stroke, such as breaststroke, which requires less energy. Adult swimtechnique sessions, with an emphasis on ocean swimming, can build confidence. Environment Check tides and the weather forecast. Be aware Keep an eye out for boats, jet skis and kite surfers. Choose a bay or a shallow area where it is possible to see or touch the bottom.