Spring is officially here which means one thing – the ocean swimming season is just around the corner.

With the change of season, many start swapping the pool for the ocean with the warmer weather creeping in as we look towards summer.

Beaches across the country become filled with early morning swimmers watching the sunset come up as they get their km’s in lapping up the salty goodness of the ocean.

Many just do it for the social and fitness aspects, while others are preparing for ocean swim events.

Following on from pretty average conditions last year, including the cancellation of dozens of ocean swim events across the east coast of Australia, there will be much anticipation and eagerness for a stunner of a season this year.

Here are our five top tips on getting ready for the ocean swimming season ahead.

1. Build your swim fitness

Now, no one really likes pool swimming (do they?), but it is a necessary evil to be fit and strong for ocean swims.

You can join a swim squad with a coach to get technical help and be given a gentle push to hold you to account, or grab a group of friends and follow a self-guided training program, either way getting in the pool will help build your swim fitness.

2. Gain confidence in the ocean

The ocean is an unpredictable beast and the best way to feel in control in the ocean is to be as comfortable as you can possibly be with your ability within that environment.

You might have had the winter off because of the chilly weather (we don’t blame you), or your skills could be a bit rusty. If this is the case, it’s important to get back into the ocean again by starting slowly with friends alongside to support and easing into tougher conditions as your confidence grows.

If you feel like you need a refresher on your ocean swimming skills, take a look at OceanFit’s Learn To Ocean Swim clinics.

3. Join an ocean swimming group

Ocean swimming groups are a great place to swim with like-minded people, make new friends and get used to swimming in the ocean while helping gain swim fitness.

Most ocean swimming groups meet a few mornings a week for an ocean swim followed by a cup of coffee and chat. It’s a great way to get your swims in if you aren’t keen on swimming in the pool, or by yourself.

To find an ocean swimming group near you check out our ocean swimming group directory.

4. Get a new kit

New ocean swimming season means new gear, right? Well, we at least think so.

The start of the season is a great time to treat yourself to some new gear to get you through till the end of summer. You’ll feel incredible swimming in your new fogless goggles, and a new swimsuit in the new season’s designs will have you looking fab!

Aside from that, new gear is also the perfect motivator to get to in those swim sessions because you’ll want to show it off while feeling good about yourself.

Shop accessories on the oceanswims.com Shop.

5. Register for your first swim

You can’t prepare for the upcoming ocean swim season without having your first ocean swim event locked in the calendar.

Locking in your first ocean swim is the best motivation to get you to those early morning swim sessions and keep your training schedule on track.

Start counting down the days and the excitement will build as the big day gets closer.