Pool Prep
Pool Prep
Many swimming pools use chlorine to maintain water hygiene, which can potentially lead to chlorine exposure and its associated side effects. Let’s explore effective ways to prepare your body and minimize chlorine intake when swimming in chlorinated pools.
Understanding Chlorine and its Effects:
Chlorine in Pools: Chlorine is commonly used in pools as a disinfectant to eliminate harmful bacteria and maintain water quality.
Potential Health Effects: Exposure to chlorine can cause skin and eye irritation, respiratory issues, and allergic reactions in some individuals.
Pre-Swim Preparations:
Shower Before Swimming: Rinse your body with fresh water before entering the pool. This helps remove impurities, such as sweat and oils, which can react with chlorine.
Apply Barrier Cream: Use a natural barrier cream or lotion on your skin to create a protective layer that can reduce chlorine absorption. Coconut oil works great fort this.
Choosing the Right Swimwear:
Swim Caps: Wear a swim cap to protect your hair from direct contact with chlorinated water. Over exposure to chlorine can turn you hair green. If your hair turns green, you can mix apple cider vinegar and bentonite clay together and apply to hair.
Goggles: Use high-quality goggles to shield your eyes from chlorine, reducing the risk of eye irritation.
Swimwear Material: Choose swimwear made from materials that provide better chlorine resistance, such as polyester or PBT fabric, compared to traditional nylon or lycra.
Proper Swimming Techniques:
Breathing Techniques: Practice proper breathing techniques to minimize inhalation of chlorinated water vapor. Breathe deeply and exhale through your nose while swimming.
Bilateral Breathing: Learn bilateral breathing (breathing on both sides) to reduce prolonged exposure of one side of your face to chlorinated water.
Swim Strokes: Certain swim strokes, such as freestyle or backstroke, may help minimize the amount of water entering your mouth and nose.
Post-Swim Practices:
Shower Immediately: Rinse your body thoroughly with fresh water immediately after swimming to remove residual chlorine from your skin.
Use a Chlorine-Neutralizing Shampoo: Wash your hair with a chlorine-neutralizing shampoo to remove chlorine residues and prevent damage (if you use shampoo) otherwise do a solid rinse.
Moisturize Again: Apply a moisturizer after showering to replenish lost moisture and keep your skin hydrated. Conditioner or conditioning spray works well for this.
6. Considerations for Non-Chlorinated Pools:
Saltwater Pools: Saltwater pools use a salt-chlorine generator, which produces chlorine naturally. While chlorine is still present, it may be in lower concentrations compared to traditional pools.
Natural Pools: Natural or chemical-free pools use alternative water treatment methods, such as plants or mineral systems, to maintain water quality. These pools offer a chlorine-free swimming experience.
7. Exploring Alternatives:
Seek Out Chlorine-Free Pools: Research and visit local pools that are chlorine-free, such as those using ozone or UV-based water treatment systems.
Open Water Swimming: Consider swimming in natural bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, or oceans, which generally do not have chlorinated water.
Swimming is a fantastic activity that provides both enjoyment and health benefits. By implementing the strategies outlined in this blog, you can minimize your exposure to chlorine while swimming in chlorinated pools. From pre-swim preparations to post-swim practices, each step plays a vital role in reducing chlorine intake and its potential side