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The watermen crew takes on Chicama…

The watermen crew takes on Chicama…


SEPTEMBER 26,2018

WATERMEN CREW: CHICAMA PERU SURF TRIP

Let’s state the obvious here, this is one wave you’ll dream about forever and our crew is stoking to surf it. Chicama is best known for having the longest wave in the world, then you can mosey over to Pico Alto for one of the biggest waves in the world, not a bad place huh? Don’t even get us started on the food there, ceviche for days… Maybe not the “American Dream” but sure as heck the “Watermen Dream”.

We’ll land in Lima take a jumper flight to Trujillo, and by that time the froth sets in. Once we are in Trujillo we hitch a ride to Chicama, the trip usually takes around 45 minutes, give or take how hungry we are. Start the days off with some eggs and bacon, hop on the zodiac and surf until your thighs are too sore to move.

Why do we do this to our bodies? Why do we travel to the ends of the earth all for a wave? Honestly, I couldn’t tell you, but here at Watermen we are hooked on that feeling. That feeling of adventure and being in the ocean, and what better way to travel than with your favorite crew? Maybe we could do without Ryan, since he is notorious for snaking waves.

Next month’s newsletter will have some pictures from our trip. I imagine a few stories of mishap and casualties, more than anything tales of one of the best waves around the world. But for now, we will leave you at the edge of your seat wanting more…

– The Watermen Crew

Choose the Right Summer Surf Camp or Jr. Lifeguard Program?

Choose the Right Summer Surf Camp or Jr. Lifeguard Program?

lifeguard gear, jr lifeguard, jr lifeguard program, lifeguard suits, original watermen, stay salty, watermen gearNot many people realize the benefits of sending your children to surf camp, or a professional Jr. Lifeguard program. Not only do children get the chance to interact with other kids, they learn independence and social skills in many aspects. Here is all you the information you need to make an educated decision.

Junior lifeguard programs and surf camps are available along most coast lines around the world. Each organization has their own curriculum and can be physically demanding. The junior guard programs teach lifeguarding skills, first-aid, CPR, ocean safety, rescue techniques and other ocean related skills like surfing, snorkeling and kayaking. They also learn the importance of teamwork, and how to act responsibly in critical situations. They also will participate in water competitions. Participating in these programs can lead to potential jobs and help with college scholarships.

Surf Camps will help your children develop a love for nature, water, and the outdoors. They will learn to help others and develop attitudes that build character and leadership. The camps will teach them to be self-reliant, responsible and encourage new friendships.

Summer Surf Camps

Along with the YMCA there are several privately owned or owner managed surf camps. All campers will participate in a swim screen or swim test. Camp counselors need to see how comfortable each individual camper is in the water.

Surf camps are separated according to age levels. Make sure they also are separated by ability and skill levels. Camps start with campers as young as 6 – 7 & 8 year-olds.

 Jr. Lifeguard Programs

Most junior lifeguard programs are set up for kids 7 through 17 years of age. They are taught by professional lifeguards. The camp counselors working with the junior lifeguard program are chosen based on their work history, lifeguarding experience and desire to work with kids. Students are taught in depth oceanography and wave education, along with a wide variety of beach safety skills. They will be taught first aid, CPR water rescue techniques, become proficient in their swimming skills including body surfing, boogie boarding, surfing, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking. They will compete in events with other junior lifeguard programs.

Note: Sign up deadlines are approaching for Summer Jr. lifeguard programs.

What Should Your Child Wear?

 With Ocean temperatures ranging between 60 – 70 degrees in the summer, combined with windy mornings and afternoon fog, attention is needed when providing layers of protection for your camper. Protective layers start with sunscreen, we suggest Solrx, it stays on all day whether you are in or out of the water. As well, a Jr. lifeguard rashguard will keep your camper warm, even offering another level of sun protection.

Boardshort and Swim Suits

Don’t send your son in any type of swim wear other then boardshorts. Broadshorts are the official apparel for male lifeguards around the world. You can even add a pair of compressions shorts for protection against rashes from scratchy seams or sand deposits.

Jr. lifeguard Girls’ swim suits must be durable and tough enough to stay on through the waves. Straps on a girls’ swimsuit must be able stay on their shoulders. Different agencies have different rules on the choice between a one or two-piece rescue bikini.

Not all Surf Camps are Alike

When searching for a summer surf camp for your kids ask about their supervision ration and the training of each counselor. Camps should maintain no larger than a 2:10 ratio of staff to campers at all times however some camps supply a low of 3:1 surfer-to-instructor ratio ensuring more personalized service and a safer experience. Make sure campers are closely supervised in the water by both certified ocean lifeguards in towers and in the water. Ask about their policy on leaving children unsupervised, their bathroom policy and what happens when your child gets cold. Make sure weak swimmers will be kept in shallow water next to a surf instructor. Campers will be in the water every day for both surfing and body boarding. Body boards and surf boards should be supplied.

Summer Surf Camp Sessions

Each city, county or state will have various length sessions. Session can run for one week to five weeks. Some sessions run all day and some camp sessions run twice a day, either in the morning or in the afternoon.

What to Bring to Surf Camp or a Jr. Lifeguard Program?

Backpacks are great to store rashguards, surf hats, sweatshirts and swim fins. As well as towels, writing utensils, water bottles and snacks. Goggles are required for warm-ups and swim events throughout the day. Proper foot protection is suggested to protect your child from the hot sand. Always remember to label everything with your child’s name. Even when the lifeguards have a lost and found, kids don’t often thing to check for their stuff. That said, leave expensive items at home, the camp staff are watching your kids not their personal property. It is good to ask if wetsuits are required, as some programs necessitate them.

Note: Cell phones are not allowed during class time.

 Surf Camp and Jr. Lifeguard Program Pricing

Pricing varies between summer surf camps and Junior lifeguard programs. The YMCA price is based on the needs of your family. Other private camps have individual set prices. Jr. lifeguard programs whether put on by the state, county or city have different pricing and rules. Some may even offer scholarships.

 Surf Camp and Jr. Lifeguard Program Tryouts

Everyone must attend a tryout and pass the swimming requirements in order to be accepted into surf camp or a Jr. lifeguard program.  Candidates may attend as many tryouts as needed in order to pass the swim test. Training is recommended before attending a tryout. Tryout requirements are different for each age level. Some tryouts are given on a first-come, first-serve basis so arrive early on test day.

Once your kid finishes Summer surf camp or completes a Jr. lifeguard training program, they leave with a solid foundation of water safety for life!

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So, You Want to Be a Lifeguard? Certification and Testing

So, You Want to Be a Lifeguard? Certification and Testing

lifeguard equipment, watermen gear, original watermen,  lifeguard gear, lifeguard trainingCalifornia’s beautiful State Parks encompass over 900 miles of ocean coastlines plus thousands of miles of reservoir, lake and river shorelines. Thousands of lifeguards protect these water sources, to ensure the safety of the 50 million people, that travel to these parks each year. California’s State Parks employ around 600 seasonal lifeguards each summer. And each of these lifeguards have completed lifeguard training, certification and testing programs. Note: These programs are not swim classes, they can be seriously physically and mentally challenging.

 Understanding What Type of Lifeguard, You Want to Be

Lifeguard training is job specific, that said there are the following:

  • Pool Lifeguards – are responsible for public and private pools
  • Aquatic Attraction Lifeguards – watch over waterparks or pools that offer attractions, and a have a maximum water depth of 5 feet or less.
  • Waterfront Lifeguards – prevent and respond to emergencies in non-surf, open-water areas found at public parks, resorts, summer camps, campgrounds etc. life lakes, bays or rivers.
  • Beach Lifeguards – guard in all areas of open water with surf.

Qualifications

 Typically, agencies allow you to be 15 years of age, on or before the final day of the lifeguard training course, but most expect you to be 16. As well as possess a valid driver’s license, with a good driving record, at the time of appointment. Candidates must have the ability to read and write English and have no felony convictions.

The biggest and most important qualification is you must have the physical strength and endurance necessary to rescue a struggling victim in the water.

As well all candidates must be able to detect a struggling victim in the water by having 20/20 corrected vision, and 20/40 uncorrected vision, along with passing a hearing test.

Lifeguard Certification

Obtaining a lifeguard position is not an easy task. Everyone must attend lifeguard courses that teach you the skills needed to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies. Participants will be trained and certified in CPR for the Professional Rescuer (CPRO), and First Aid care for injuries and sudden illness until EMS (emergency services) take over.

You will also practice using life-saving flotation devices like rescue tubes to help struggling swimmers. You will be properly trained in using back boards to help move people who may have injured their spines, and CPR barrier devices called face shields. Face shields are placed over the victim’s mouth during CPR, to prevent the transmission of communicable diseases via bodily fluids. Pool guards will also be taught how to communicate with a whistle while on duty.

 Lifeguard Certification Cost

No matter the type of lifeguarding you choose, you must pass job specific certification classes. The American Red Cross, National Aquatic Safety, and the YMCA provide training courses for non-surf guards. Lifeguard training can cost anywhere from $125-$300 and can last from 21 hours-40 hours. Note: state, county and city lifeguard agencies provide their own training programs.

Lastly, everyone will be administered a qualification appraisal interview.

 Lifeguard Testing

You will need to pass a job specific written test, as well as a timed swim test. These tests and trainings are to ensure that you are able to provide beach and pool safety, enforce city ordinance laws, and learn how and when to prepare and file reports. Note: Lifeguard testing and tryouts differ between states and agencies, and some begin their testing as early as February, so they can spend their Spring Break doing more intense certification training.

 Lifeguard Recertification

 It is best not let your lifeguard certification expire, or you will have to repeat the entire process again. Lifeguard retesting is designed to inform you of the latest and most up to date lifeguarding techniques, to keep the people around you safe. Most lifeguard certifications only last one to five years.

If lifeguarding is still interesting to you, then start preparing now. Get in the water; work on your swim strokes and endurance.  Next up in this series, “what to expect at lifeguard tryouts”.

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Want to Be a Lifeguard? What it Takes to Get Through Lifeguard Training

Want to Be a Lifeguard? What it Takes to Get Through Lifeguard Training

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Lifeguard Training

Lifeguard jobs require you to be strong, fit and able to swim. No matter what kind of lifeguard you decide to be (beach or pool), you need to start a training program.  You have to be able to swim and swim well. Not only is your life at risk but also the victims you are privileged to save.

Lifeguard Apparel

Training programs start with the right clothing. Choosing the right lifeguard apparel can increase or decrease your speed. Both Men’s lifeguard boardshorts, or women’s lifeguard swimsuits can fall off in the waves, restrict arm movement, cause rashes, and become transparent over time. Baggy lifeguard apparel without draining pockets create drag and slow you down. That is why proper lifeguard apparel is dire.

Women’s Lifeguard Swimsuits

Our lifeguard store carries a variety of one piece and two-piece lifeguard swimsuits made for competitive women. They are made from top quality materials; and they fit right and stay on through the roughest conditions. The X-Back Elite a one-piece lifeguard swimsuit and the Surf Bikini a two-piece lifeguard swimsuit are both durable, outrageously comfortable, and are double lined with cute thin straps.

Men’s Lifeguard Boardshorts and Trunks

For those men who prefer board shorts our lifeguard boardshorts come with a rash free guarantee, have self-draining pockets and are made with ultra-soft nonabrasive material. The hottest trend for male lifeguards this year is the more efficient Watermen Short or boardshort liner worn under their lifeguard boardshorts. These boardshort liners, also known as compression shorts are made for the water, workouts and competitions. Watermen compression shorts help stabilize the joints and keep muscles warm, preventing muscle strain. Research shows that the compression shorts help decrease the heart rate and the lactic build up in athletes, therefore reducing the time it takes for muscles to repair themselves.

Note: Keeping your muscles warm before and after workouts or competitions is very important. Jumping in water with cold muscles can create all kinds of muscular problems. Remember cold muscles equal slower swim times and cramped muscles.

Male lifeguards, especially in winter often wear rashguards to help keep the upper body warm.

Physical Lifeguard Training

Swim Strokes

The two most commonly used strokes in competitions are the freestyle and breast stroke. You may choose any style stoke you feel most comfortable with, but the freestyle stroke known as the front crawl is the most common and is the fastest. Beginners who are uncomfortable in the water need to practice this stroke. The freestyle stroke burns around 500-700 calories an hour with moderate to high intensity.

Using the breaststroke in practice will build strength in your shoulders, legs, hamstrings, triceps, inner thighs, and builds strong chest muscles. This breaststroke is performed while you are on your chest, and you swim without moving your trunk. This breaststroke burns approximately 720 calories in an hour.

 Developing Your Own Technique

Your personal technique can improve your time, and increases your endurance.  Simple improvements can be made just by changing the position of your hands and feet. Your swim stroke should be pulled straight back as you roll on your side, and take a breath, and your elbow should come straight up by your ear as it reenters the water. You want to extend and glide as much as you can with each stroke. Make sure you stretch your body out and roll slightly as you reach forward. Using a pair of lifeguard fins will teach you to use your upper leg and glut muscles, creating a more powerful kick rather than using just your knee and foot. Swim fins also help by increasing the flexibility of your ankles.  You should also use swimmer’s snorkel, so that you can focus on body rotation and arm strokes with ease.

Do not hold your breath under water while swimming. Instead practice bilateral breathing. You can do this by exhaling when your face enters the water, and blowing out through your mouth.

Note: It is important that the air is blown out slowly, exhaling too fast might obstruct the next inhalation, causing hyperventilation.

Warm-ups

Always remember to do warm up exercises and stretch your joints, and muscles before you enter the water. Three sets of 8 full body squats will warm up hips, legs and back. Rotating the arms forward and backwards in both small and large circles will loosen up the shoulders and bring blood to the arms. Even doing a light jog will help increase oxygen to your muscles. And as always have plenty of fluids handy to keep your body well hydrated.

Weights

The use of weights will help make you stronger. Swimmers improve their performance and endurance by building muscle in their upper body. Remember powerful shoulders and arms propel you through the water. You do not need to use weights daily; remember your body requires rest days to allow the muscles to recover. It is important to develop your own weight strength program and aim to increase repetitions. At home or at the gym you can use standing dumbbells, resistance machines or exercise bands to build muscular strength and endurance.

Diet

A swimmer’s diet needs to combine protein and carbohydrates to ensure there is good muscular growth and endurance.

Pre-workout Meal

A great pre-workout meal is wheat toast with fruit, banana with a little cinnamon has been linked to stabilizing blood sugar, and improving brain function. If bananas aren’t your thing, try yogurt with a ½ a cup of trail mix, or even a yogurt and fruit smoothie

After Workout – Recovery Meal

When you are in recovery mode try grilled chicken with steamed veggies. If you must pan cook the veggies opt for olive oil instead of butter. Another option for those seafood lovers is salmon with sweet potato.

Whatever you choose to eat, just remember this is what will fuel you through to your optimal condition for what comes next, lifeguard certification and testing, which we will discuss in detail, in the next post.

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