Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Preventing motion sickness during a marathon swim
Several years ago when I started training for a marathon swim in the ocean, I experienced motion sickness (dizziness, nausea) from the swells.   I was surprised because I thought that would happen to the boat crew not a swimmer.  I was ill-prepared so I stopped my swim.  Determined, I returned the following day with some over-the-counter medication (Dramamine).  And I was stunned to experience the same ill effect after swimming in swells for a couple of hours.  But I soon discovered some helpful remedies from other marathon swimmers.   While swimming,  look at land.  If land is not visible, look at a cloud.  Try to avoid looking at a rocking boat.  If your boat is guiding you,  than briefly glance at it every 15 to 20 strokes.   Wear ear plugs--- this prevent water from moving back and forth on your eardrum (it works).   Practice dry land exercises for balance--- close your eyes during these drills.   Also,  train in rough water conditions --you will become acclimated to swells.    Just like your body becomes acclimated to cold water temperatures, it will acclimate to swells.
Thanks, I'm going to do a 5km open swim, last time i was only able to do half of it due to sea sickness. Your tips are much appreciated.
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