Swimming can be a lot of fun. Just listen to what you can hear if you ever visit a pool where children are swimming. You’re sure to hear laughter and shrieks of glee, accompanied by vigorous splashing. Even adults get in on the fun. Still, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. It’s important to pay attention to indicators that suggest that it’s time to get out of the pool.
Body Temperature
The average body temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, though it can range between 97-99 degrees. It’s important for your internal body temperature to stay fairly consistent so internal processes can happen as they are supposed to. The tricky thing is that spending a lot of time in the pool can mask what’s happening with your body temperature. It can be dangerous to swim for very long in water that is too hot or too cold, as it can start to affect your internal body temperature. Pay attention to how you feel. If you feel like you’re overheating or getting too cold, get out of the water and take action to regulate your temperature.
Sunburn
Everyone who goes swimming outside should use sunscreen, no matter how tan you are or what the weather is like. If the sun’s up, you should wear sunscreen. Pay attention to the condition of your skin and reapply it regularly as needed. If you start to get sunburnt, it’s time to get out of the pool and move out of the sun.
Energy Levels
The energy you put out when you swim is a huge part of what makes it such a good form of exercise. It’s important to pay close attention to your energy levels though. When you get tired on land, you can just sit down and rest for a bit. If you get tired when you’re swimming, you start flirting with the risk of drowning. Keep yourself safe and get out of the water when you start to notice your energy levels dropping.
Making a day of it at the pool can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to pay attention to your body (and those with you) so you know when it’s time to call it quits. It’s one of the best things you can do to make sure that you are both able to have fun and stay safe.
Staying in the pool after you’ve gotten tired can be dangerous. Check out these 10 golden rules of water safety for some other tips that can help you stay safe.