Re: [Paddlewise] Cold Water Gasp

> In those cases where people have gasped underwater and inhaled water, I 
> suggest that surprise may have been as big a factor as water temperature. In 
> situations where the person is mentally prepared, I suggest that an 
> underwater gasp is rare or nonexistent. By mental preparation, I mean that 
> the person has chosen to immerse himself or herself in cold water, or is 
> accustomed to it. Obviously, if mental preparation is an important factor, 
> then practice in cold water can be as important to cold water safety as 
> dressing appropriately, and should be a recommended part of it. 
> 
> Chuck Holst 

 I agree with the above- I have only been in water in the 50's in a swimming suit and 
my experience was with muscular contraction- sudden-  perhaps this might cause 
some people to exhale then panic and try to inhale??  I did not have the urge to inhale 
at all but dealing with muscle spasm could be a problem in really cold water.  Maybe 
the response to cold water has a lot to do with ones experience and confidence in the 
water.  Still and all for swimming and rolling etc. (both of which often occur at the 
same time for me) I would prefer 75 degrees.
> 
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