Top 5 tips for taking on an ocean swim, by three-time Olympian Michael Klim

For many, Michael Klim would need no introduction – he’s one of Australia’s most successful swimmers of all time. He is a world champion, a world record holder and a three-time Olympian with medals from all three Olympic Games, including two gold medals.

In 2010, Michael Klim founded skincare company Milk & Co and since 2013 has partnered with World Series Swims, supporting events nationwide.

óìAt Milk & Co, we’re all about doing something today that your body will thank you for tomorrow, so we love being part of the ocean swims and seeing people challenging themselvesó

Klim is also the Event Ambassador for the Noosa Summer Swim and regularly takes part in the events himself. Having made the post-career transition from pool to surf himself, he has some great tips for newcomers to the open water.

“MK’ has kindly prepared his top five tips for tackling an ocean swim this summer for OceanFit.

Michael Klim’s top 5 tips

1. Start the way you mean to finish

Swimming is very much about mental preparation. When training for a distance, view it as a long term goal to be worked at in stages. Don’t feel that you need to be reaching your target from day one.

2. You’re not alone

Slow, fast, young, old; swimmers come in all shapes and sizes so always remember there are people out there just like you. Practising at a swimming club before a big race will allow you to measure your ability against other swimmers, and gain an idea of what level you are at.

3. Inspiration – the driving force behind it all

Swimming can be gruelling and you may reach the point where you’re struggling to carry on. When this happens, think of something which really motivates you. Whether it’s raising money for a cause or the sense of achievement you’ll get when crossing the finishing line, keep yourself inspired and be proud of yourself, as completing a race is an amazing feat!

4. Practice your breathing

Breathing is the key to a successful stroke. Poor breathing technique will significantly affect the efficiency of your stroke, so spend as much time as possible, perfecting your breathing technique.

5. Open water training

Swimming in open water provides more challenges than the swimming pool, where you may be used to training. Wind, ripples and currents can make your breathing and your usual pool-based stroke far trickier, so you need to get out and do the odd training session in open water before event day.

For more information on the Noosa region or to book accommodation visit www.visitnoosa.com.au

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