How to Swim in Choppy Conditions

One of the exciting aspects of swimming is the wonder and challenge it offers in various conditions, as the weather is constantly changing. This means that no swim is ever the same. Here's how to handle windy and choppy conditions.

CHOP

In the English Channel, we mostly get chop. This is the name given to the cresting waves created by local winds rather than by tides. When the wind builds the waves tend to rise up and when the wind reduces they drop again.

How do you deal with it?

If you’re swimming front crawl in choppy conditions i’d recommend learning how to breathe bilaterally, which means you’ll be able to swim on both sides. When you swim I’d always try to recognise what side is sheltered and favour to this side. Also, remember to lengthen your stroke if the currents are with you and speed up stroke rate if the tide is against you. I offer front crawl technique training in the sea! Learn more HERE

WIND

If you’re swimming distance then try to have the wind behind you. If you can’t and the wind is pushing water into your face then, if you’re swimming crawl, try to keep low in the water. If you’re swimming breaststroke then try to catch a breath by turning your head slightly to the left or right as you move forward in the water.

WAVES

Waves come in sets of anything from 2 to 7. It depends on what beach you’re on and conditions for what number they come, but there is usually a smaller, weaker set before a bigger, stronger set. Before you go in for your swim I’d watch the sea for a few minutes to count how many sets are coming in. If safe to go in, then try to get in with the first wave of the smaller set then swim through the break which is where the water crashes. Do your swim/ dip then count the waves again and try to get out on the first wave of the weaker set so you have at least a few before the bigger set comes again. As you get out never turn your back on rough seas and always be aware of your surroundings as you get out.

“Never turn your back on rough seas.”

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

Most of all have fun!

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