We asked Michael Kim for some tips for swimmers participating in The Australian Unity Great Australia Day Swim

What tips do you have in training for the swim?

When it comes to swimming make sure you are comfortable swimming in the pool as well as ocean. Ocean swimming can be a lot harder than in the pool due the current. It is also important to practice wading out to sea – it looks simple but technique is important.
I would suggest when preparing for an event such as this make sure that you are comfortable in covering double the length of the nominated swim. When in training I would try to increase the intensity as you get closer to the event.

What do you normally do before a swim on event day?

Make sure you have a healthy breaky (cereal, fruit, yogurt toast etc.) but nothing heavy i.e bacon and eggs. Also try to eat some sort of carbs the night before – sounds basic but it really does help
It also helps to arrive early so as you are not rushed and make sure you have all equipment on hand i.e goggles

What do you do to warm up before an event?

Make sure you warm up properly. Do some stretching and maybe a jog or a quick bike ride to get the heart rate up a bit before the actual event. If you can swim before hand it’s always good to loosen up this way

What do you like to do after an event?

I find that its really important to replace the electrolytes that I’ve lost with a powerade or similar sports drink. I normally also eat bananas to replace the energy I’ve expelled. This way I don’t find myself feeling flat at the end of the day

Any other Tips?

Practise freestyle before the Great Australia Day Swim – it is the best stroke for open water swimming

Choose goggles and swimwear that are you are comfortable swimming in. Make sure your goggles fit your face well so they don’t leak

Make sure you stretch before your swim to warm up your arms and legs

Be sure to look after your swimming gear. Rinse everything with fresh water after use. This will make sure it lasts a long time

One the day its great to use a high quality block out so as not to get burnt – I myself love to use my own Milk by Michael Klim Dry Touch Sunscreen SPF 30+ (www.milkskincare.com).

Most importantly, remember to have FUN!