Q&A for How to Swim Underwater Without Goggles

You need to become comfortable with the water and swimming without goggles. If you ever fall into the water, you must be able to look around and be comfortable enough with the environment. And it's easier to first learn swimming without goggles, because if you already have reliance on goggles, learn swimming without them is a real challenge. If you're used to the environment being extremely clear, easy to see, and then all of a sudden it gets a little bit blurry, you're going to be pretty frustrated by that experience.

When I'm teaching a student to open their eyes underwater, first I'll ask them to quickly peek just to tell me how many fingers I'm holding up. If they can do that, we'll get really excited and celebrate it. Then, the next time, I'll challenge them to tell me how many fingers are on both hands, so they can gradually get used to holding their eyes open in the water.

It shouldn't if the water is clean. It might sting a little for a first-timer.

Yes, if you really do not want water in your nose, pinch your nose with your finger.

No, because the salt it the water can hurt your eyes.

You can get irritation of the cornea, and your eyes can dry out. If this happens to you, use some eye drops. Your best bet in the sea is using a pair of goggles.

When you first open your eyes, it may feel uncomfortable, but once you do it for a long time, you get used to it.

Chlorinated water can make your eyes sting and redden. Salt water will do this as well. Freshwater lakes may contain harmful bacteria or small particles that could get into your eyes. Your best bet is a pair of goggles.

Make sure to keep yourself in a streamlined position, and spring off the blocks when diving to gain a stronger start.

Salt water will sting your eyes. Use goggles!

Mainly they help to protect your eyes from stinging and help you to keep your eyes open. Good quality googles should be used, to avoid fogging and smearing that can prevent you from seeing. They do not enhance your view (no magnification or clarity) but if your eyes are open, then you can see.