Open water swimming

High school (ages 12+)
Sports & Games

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/open-water-swimming

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the governing body?World Aquatics (formerly FINA) for standalone events; World Triathlon for multi-sport events
2. What is the olympic marathon swim distance?10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
3. Why did open water swimming become an Olympic event?It was added to the Olympics in 2008 with a 10‑kilometer marathon swim, showing that athletes can race long distances in real water and giving the sport worldwide recognition.
4. How do swimmers keep warm in cold water?Swimmers acclimate to the water temperature and pace themselves carefully to avoid getting too cold or too hot. They also use techniques like drafting behind other swimmers to save energy.

Hypothermia: A dangerous drop in body temperature, a risk in cold open water.
Hyperthermia: A dangerous rise in body temperature, a risk in very warm open water.
Ultra-marathon Swimming: Extremely long-distance swimming events, often exceeding 10 kilometers.