How to Swim in Waves

One of the great things about swimming is the excitement and challenge of swimming in different conditions, especially with the weather always changing. It means every swim is unique. Here’s how to manage when it’s windy and choppy.

Chop vs Swell

In the English Channel, we mostly deal with chop. These are short, cresting waves caused by winds. When the wind picks up, the waves rise, and when the wind dies down, the waves drop. This is different to swell that you get in other locations, perfect for surfing.

Waves

Waves come in sets of 3 to 7. These are stronger and weaker sets that alternate. This number varies depending on the beach and the conditions, but usually, there’s a smaller, weaker set before a bigger one. Before you go in, watch the sea for a few minutes to count the sets. If it's safe, try to enter with the first wave of a smaller set and swim through the breaking waves. After your swim or dip, count the waves again and aim to get out on the first wave of the weaker set. Always keep an eye on the sea as you exit, aways checking behind you when getting out of choppy seas. The key is to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when it’s choppy.

Open Water Skills

If you're swimming front crawl in choppy conditions, it helps to learn to breathe on both sides (bilateral breathing). This way, you can switch to whichever side is more sheltered. Timing is also crucial so you can get on top of the wave rather than being in between them when you breathe. Also, try to lengthen your stroke if the current is helping you, or speed it up if you're swimming against it. Another key point is to place emphasis on your hip rotation so you come out of the water more. We go through these skills in front crawl lessons and there’s no better way to learn it than by practicing in choppy conditions.

If you're swimming a distance, aim to have the wind at your back. If that’s not possible and the wind is hitting your face, keep low in the water if you're swimming crawl. For breaststroke, try turning your head slightly to the left or right as you breathe.

“Always check behind you when getting out of choppy seas.”

Swimming in different weathers and learning to adapt to varying conditions will help you make the most of being in the water.

If you’re interested in booking a front crawl session then see more HERE.