317 Miles: Breaking The Longest Non-Stop Swim Record - Ross Edgley

Added: Aug 13, 2024

The Journey to the Yukon

Edgley begins by recounting his previous swimming endeavors, including his ambitious attempt to swim around Great Britain, which took him 157 days and covered 1,780 miles. This monumental feat was recognized as the world's longest stage sea swim, where he swam to specific waypoints and then resumed from those points. However, his fascination with the idea of a non-stop swim—where one cannot touch land or sleep—ignited a deeper curiosity within him.

His first attempt at a non-stop swim was in Loch Ness in 2022, aimed at raising awareness for ocean conservation. Unfortunately, this attempt ended prematurely due to cellulitis, a bacterial infection that arose from his wetsuit. Despite the setback, Edgley remained undeterred and sought a warmer location for his next attempt, which led him to Lake Tresino in Italy. However, this swim was also fraught with challenges, including extreme heat and dangerous conditions, ultimately resulting in another unsuccessful attempt.

Fast forward to this year, Edgley decided to tackle the Yukon River, inspired by the annual Yukon River Quest, a kayaking event. He reached out to the event organizers, who confirmed that swimming the river was theoretically possible, albeit with significant risks, including white-water rapids and wildlife encounters. With a dedicated team, Edgley embarked on this new adventure, swimming 510 kilometers over approximately 60 hours.

The Physical and Mental Challenges

Throughout the podcast, Edgley emphasizes the unique challenges of swimming in a river compared to a lake or ocean. The current and tides play a significant role, requiring constant navigation and adaptation. He describes the experience as akin to interval sprinting, where he had to exert maximum effort to steer clear of obstacles while being pushed downstream.

Edgley also shares his preparation for the swim, highlighting the importance of building a robust body rather than just a fast one. He focused on strength training to support his ligaments and tendons, understanding that endurance swimming demands a different kind of physical resilience. Additionally, he trained his digestive system to handle high caloric intake during the swim, experimenting with various foods and supplements to optimize his performance.

The conversation shifts to the mental aspect of endurance swimming. Edgley discusses the phenomenon of perceptual distortions and hallucinations that occur during prolonged physical exertion. He recalls moments during his swims when he experienced vivid hallucinations, such as seeing dogs swimming alongside him or conversing with trees. He explains how he learned to manage these experiences by observing his thoughts without reacting to them, a technique he likens to mindfulness.

Resilience and the Human Spirit

A significant theme throughout the episode is resilience. Edgley articulates his belief that resilience is about "suffering strategically managed." He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the process rather than the outcome, a mindset that allows him to push through physical and mental barriers. He draws parallels between his experiences and the stories of historical figures, such as Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton, who faced immense challenges during their explorations.

Edgley reflects on the lessons he learned from his father, who faced terminal cancer with remarkable strength and grace. His father's attitude towards life and death profoundly influenced Edgley's perspective on resilience. He shares how his father's unwavering support during his swimming endeavors instilled in him a sense of purpose and determination.

The discussion also touches on the importance of community and support during challenging times. Edgley recounts the camaraderie he experienced with his team during the Yukon swim, highlighting how their collective efforts contributed to his success. He emphasizes that while individual resilience is crucial, the support of others can make a significant difference in overcoming obstacles.

The Science of Endurance

As a sports scientist, Edgley delves into the physiological aspects of endurance swimming. He discusses the importance of understanding one's body and the biochemical processes that occur during prolonged exertion. He explains how he utilized various supplements, including caffeine and medium-chain triglycerides, to enhance his performance and manage fatigue.

Edgley also shares insights from his experiences with Chris Hemsworth during the filming of "Limitless." He highlights the challenges Hemsworth faced while transitioning between different physical demands for various roles, showcasing the adaptability required of elite athletes. Edgley admires Hemsworth's dedication and resilience, noting that his mindset mirrors that of other high-performing athletes.

Looking Ahead

As the conversation draws to a close, Edgley expresses his excitement for future endeavors. He envisions more long-distance swims, exploring different bodies of water, and continuing to push the boundaries of human endurance. He reflects on the idea that the struggle itself is what fills a person's heart, echoing the sentiments of philosophers like Albert Camus and Viktor Frankl.