Swimming across Lake Michigan is the stuff of dreams, the kind of challenge that causes swimmers to snap out of their comfort zones and completely re-invent themselves. But is it too much of a challenge?
As the largest of the five Great Lakes by surface area, stretching over 118 miles from one shore to the other, and a shoreline of 1,567 miles, Lake Michigan is imposing to say the least. Challenging current and a temperature that ranges from 32-73 degrees Fahrenheit make it an even more daunting proposition.
The most common route swimmers use is the Chicago to Manitowoc route, which is approximately 81 miles long. According to world record holder and professional open-water swimmer, Davina Elyce,—who in 2015 became the first woman to ever complete the swim—it typically takes around 28-30 hours of non-stop swimming with no fins, goggles, or anything else that might aid the swimmer.
However, it’s not just a matter of being able to swim for that long. Davina says that it requires intense mental preparation, physical conditioning, and strategic planning. A swimmer needs to consider the water temperature and how that will affect their body temperature over time. Layers of clothes can help regulate body temperature, however, in colder water this can be a detriment to the swimmer due to the extra drag.
Another aspect to consider is navigating the heavy boat traffic out on the lake. Swimmers may be forced to take a zig-zag route to avoid them. Picking the right day and time is important too—low traffic, wind and waves are all factors to consider, and swimmers should be aware of the danger of hypothermia or other health complications in colder waters.
Whilst Davina completed the swim in 28.5 hours, other athletes may take upwards of 40 hours to complete, so it’s important to go in with realistic expectations. She swam for two hours, then two hours off, with short breaks when necessary, which enabled her to break the record. She conquered the challenge with the help of a support team who were there for her every step of the way—and it’s essential to have a dedicated support team on the lake to ensure the swimmer’s safety.
Equipment
Safety is paramount and it’s important to make sure the swimmer is kitted out with the right equipment. A heat-resistant wetsuit and wetsuit hood, a tow float, GPS and a sea anchor are all considered essential items.
Food and drinks are important too—fluids are necessary during long stints while energy bars and gels can help replenish the swimmer’s energy reserves during the swim. The team should always be vigilant of the swimmer’s physical and mental well-being, so as to be able to respond quickly in the event of a medical emergency.
Goggles, ear plugs, and good quality swimming caps round out the essential list of items for Lake Michigan swimmers.
Training and Prep
Completing a swim across Lake Michigan is a serious undertaking and it’s not something that should be rushed into. Professional swimmer Mike Riskedal, who successfully completed the swim in 2012, suggests that athletes should begin rigorous training at least six to 12 months prior to the swim, with a focus on stroke technique, as well as endurance and resistance testing.
The team should have a realistic plan in place to get the right training and rest, and a plan of action should a situation arise. Swimmers should aim to cover at least 8-10 miles in a single outing in the months leading up to the swim, and plan accordingly by preparing the team’s supplies and making sure key personnel are available.
It’s also important to develop a plan of action in the event of an emergency. An emergency plan should include emergency contacts, local knowledge, and an evacuation plan.
Risks and Health Concerns
Fuelled by intense mental preparation and physical conditioning, athletes attempt open-water swims such as this one with the necessary preparation and risk assessments—however, accidents often arise, even with the most experienced swimmers.
Professional swimmers recommend that before attempting a swim like this, swimmers consult their primary care physicians because of the dangers of hypothermia, jellyfish, and other waterborne illnesses that may be encountered. Swimmers should always be accompanied by a team of experts and take the necessary precautions to remain safe.
Safety
Safety must be assured not only for the swimmer, but also for the team. Swimmers must always wear a floatation device of some sort, even if the water is calm, and in the event that a swimmer is struck by an unexpected wave, making it more difficult for them to keep up, the floatation device can be used by the team to tow the swimmer prone. The team should also implement a rotation system, with a few members at the front of the swimmer and a few members at the back, to minimize any potential wake from their boats.
In addition to the floatation device, the team should have a ‘swimmer’s eye’ – someone who is dedicated to keeping an eye on the swimmers’ progress, offering advice, support and guidance in the event that the swimmer needs a break or is in difficulty during the swim.
Rest and Recovery
To make sure a swimmer reaches the shore safely, rest and recovery is key. Swimmers should be aware that their bodies will need time to recover, so they should plan accordingly, allowing plenty of time for rest and recovery before and after the swim. Mike Riskedal suggests rest days to help prevent fatigue and stay in top condition, and recommends encouraging the swimmer to rest when necessary, as well as planning for a gradual return to physical activity.
In addition to rest and recovery, there are other physical and mental strategies that swimmers should consider. Breaking down the swim into smaller chunks, celebrating when milestones are achieved, and having an overall strategy for the swim to keep the swimmer on track, are all important elements for any successful attempt across Lake Michigan.
Conclusion
Lake Michigan is an intimidating body of water, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to cross. With the right mental and physical preparation, as well as a dedicated team, it’s possible to turn your swimming dreams into reality. Whether it’s a world record or a personal challenge that is motivating you, the key is to be aware of the risks, be mentally and physically prepared, and plan ahead to ensure a safe and successful achievement.
