DON'T KNOW WHERE TO START?
So, you have decided to swim the Robben Island Crossing. How exciting!
There are so many things to consider...
When is the best time to swim?
Do I need to eat or drink on the swim?
How do I go about booking a swim?
How do I train to swim the distance and in the cold water?
It can feel very overwhelming and intimidating. But, you are in the right place!
I'm here to assist you in every way.
Not only have I swum the crossing twice successfully and once unsuccessfully (lots of lessons learned from that experience), but I have coached numerous swimmers to completing a successful crossing.
I am here to answer all your questions, help you with a training program and guide you
every step of the way.
I'll check in on you weekly and help calm your anxiety.
TRAINING PROGRAM
Personally designed 3-month training programme includes:
-
Periodisation
-
Factors in other exercise
-
Includes strength training and stretching
-
Factors in endurance, speed and technique elements
-
Includes specific sets
-
Is cognoscente of life's pressures
-
Adaptation of the programme if and when required (injury/illness)
-
Programme continually assessed to ensure its working for you
STAYING ON
TRACK
-
Weekly check-ins on your training, mental state and an opportunity to ask questions
-
Weekly motivational quotes
-
Cold water acclimatisation tips and guidelines
-
Guidance on nutrition while training and on the swim itself
SWIM
SUPPORT
-
Information on what to expect on the day
-
Guidelines as to what to pack
-
Calming, reassuring voice of support as the anxiety and excitement build
-
I'm available for any questions throughout your 3 month preparation period
WHAT OTHERS HAVE TO SAY
When I decided to tackle the infamous Robben Island Channel swim I decided it deserved full respect and a proper training programme, it’s reputation as a tough physical and mental challenge loomed top of mind! Fortunately my stars aligned when I found Sue Ochse / Swimfast online, and I made contact.
Sue is a highly knowledgeable swimming trainer with a plethora of open water swimming accolades to her name, including Robben Island Channel and the Strait of Gibraltar, is a published author of an inspirational swimming book called “One stroke at a Time”, and is currently training to swim across the revered and legendary Everest of open water swimming, The English Channel – Sue’s the real deal (and a lovely person while achieving these amazing feats).
Sue assisted my successful Robben Island crossing on a number of fronts, apart from a bespoke training & nutrition programme, Sue proved to be a font of valuable knowledge on whom to partner with in Cape Town, my mental preparation (a big thing for a Joburg non sea swimmer!) and constant encouragement as I embarked on this new & intimidating quest.
Sue is a respected professional coach with a warm caring touch, and I can honestly say that partnering with her was a key element of my successful Robben Island Channel crossing – it’s not a swim for sissies, but with correct training and mental fortitude it is within everyone’s reach, thank you Sue, you remain a friend and inspiration.
Dom Smith
Robben Island Crossing May 2022