There are intrinsic rewards to risk-taking – but are they worth it?

Image: The calm before the storm

On a recent swimming trip, we did an out-and-back swim around a headland. On the way out, the sea was perfectly calm. We paused at the turnaround point for a picnic before reversing our route.

But then the weather turned. A sudden storm rolled in from the Mediterranean, bringing strong gusty winds and huge waves. The guide sent the other swimmers back to shore with the safety boats – it was only a short and safe walk from there back to our start point. Then he asked me if I wanted to continue swimming. And I said yes.

Decision time

It’s rare to get an opportunity to swim in rough conditions. Event organisers and safety teams need to think about the most vulnerable swimmers. I’ve several times been frustrated at event cancellations in conditions that I’d be confident to swim in but I recognise the need for blanket safety rules to protect swimmers with less experience. Here was a chance to keep swimming and challenge myself against tough conditions.

But I didn’t recklessly set off.

Our guide was a strong and experienced local swimmer who knew the area, which was already reassuring. The total distance was only about 1500m. The water temperature was comfortable, and I knew that I could swim for at least an hour without getting cold – and I expected the swim to take much less than that. The final section was in a sheltered bay, so there wouldn’t be any problem with landing. I had already done the swim in the opposite direction and was familiar with the landmarks and the location of the shallow reefs we needed to avoid. I didn’t want to be smashed against the rocks.

Last chance to turn back

There was also a bailout option. If we couldn’t get past the first rocky point, swimming directly into the incoming waves, it would be easy enough to turn around and swim back to calmer water. But if we could get past it, then we knew we would be able to cope with the conditions.

The middle section was the most risky, swimming parallel to the cliff and the incoming waves. There would be no safe exit here. We swam out to sea to stay in deep water, where we were tossed around and battered by the waves. I focused on swimming, staying relaxed and moving forward, despite my arms being knocked about and sometimes flailing uselessly in the air. It was exhilarating. And while I knew we were taking a risk, I felt no fear. Instead, I felt calm and content.

After 15 or 20 minutes, we rounded the second point and could now head back to shore with the wind and waves pushing us forward. Swimming was easier now, but I was still careful to stay in deep water. As we entered the bay, the sea calmed and we completed the swim without incident. I felt we’d achieved something special.

Reflections on risk

I share this story with some trepidation. I know some people will think it’s idiotic to deliberately swim into stormy waters.

But then, every time we swim outdoors, we take risks. There is no truly objective way to quantify those risks. We have to use our subjective judgement, based on our experience and swimming skills. Pushing the boundaries increases the danger for no obvious extrinsic reward. But there is an intrinsic reward, a deep satisfaction of testing your skills and strength against nature, and that shouldn’t be underestimated.

We see this in other sports – think about skiers or downhill mountain bikers tackling slopes where there is a high chance of physical injury if things go wrong – so why not, occasionally, in swimming too?

A note on safety

Please note, nothing in this article should be construed as criticism of the essential health and safety measures put in place for organised swims. Nor is it an invitation to abandon your own risk assessments when swimming.  You should assess every swim against your fitness, skills and experience, and the potential for changes in conditions. Consider not just your own safety but of those swimming with you, and of anyone who might enter the water should you need assistance.