OH-puhn WAW-tuhr SWIHM
noun, verb
Open Water Swim is a type of swimming done in a body of open water, usually a lake or ocean.
Example usage: 'I'm doing an open water swim tomorrow morning before work.'
Most used in: Triathlon events around the world.
Most used by: Triathletes and open water swimmers.
Popularity: 8/10
Comedy Value: 2/10
Also see: Time Trial, Individual Time Trial, Road Race, Criterium,
What is an Open Water Swim?
Open water swimming is an outdoor swimming activity that takes place in natural bodies of water such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. Unlike pool swimming, open water swimming requires swimmers to be more self-reliant and aware of their surroundings due to the changing environment. This type of swimming is usually done in a wetsuit and may include a variety of strokes, such as freestyle, breaststroke, and sidestroke.
Open water swimming is a popular activity among triathletes and open water swimmers, who use it as a way to stay in shape and gain endurance. According to USA Swimming, open water swimming has seen a 15% increase in participation since 2018. Additionally, the number of open water swim events has grown by an average of 10% each year since 2017.
Open water swimming can be a great way to challenge yourself, build endurance, and enjoy the outdoors. To get started, make sure to find a safe spot to swim and follow all safety precautions. You can also join a local open water swim group or club for more guidance and support.
.The Origin of the Cycling Term 'Open Water Swim'
The term 'Open Water Swim' dates back to the 19th century, when it was first used in the United Kingdom. In the early 1800s, Englishman William Henry Fox Talbot wrote of his experience swimming in the open water of the Thames. He described it as 'swimming in the open water of the Thames, with its dark and mysterious depths.'
The term was later adopted by the sport of competitive swimming in the late 1800s. It was used to describe swimming competitions held in open water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. This type of swimming was seen as a more challenging and exciting form of the sport, and soon the term 'Open Water Swim' began to be used to refer to such events.
Today, the term 'Open Water Swim' is widely used in the sport of competitive swimming, as well as in the cycling world. It is used to refer to races and events held in open water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans. It is also used in reference to training sessions and recreational swimming activities in open water.
