Ocean versus swimming pool

As a blind swimmer, much of the sighted world may think that my preference would be for a swimming pool. Right? Wrong! My preference is for the ocean. True it is that a swimming pool has walls and I'd be much better at finding my way around. Probably so but the ocean is still my preference.

Oceans have currents and swimming pools do not but my preference is still for the ocean. Oceans have sand that many people do not like the feel of on their skin and swimming pools do not. But my preference is still for the ocean, and why? In an ocean I can swim freely without having to be concerned about bumping into walls. I feel less inhibited in the ocean and I believe that swimming in the ocean is healthier for you.

I love the feel of the rise and fall of the water in the ocean as opposed to the water in a swimming pool. I love to feel the gentle movement of the current as it nudges me along. I don't this in a swimming pool and I can ride the waves in the ocean. Not possible in a swimming pool. Some may argue that a swimming pool may be safer for a blind person to swim in, but I may disagree.

I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly accessibility advocate, wishing you a terrific day and urging you to go out there and share my blogs with others. Visit www.nfb.org to learn more.