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Strong Women
Wild swimming for beginners: want to give wild swimming a go? Here are 5 things you need to know
By Meg Walters
8 months ago
4 min read
Keen on giving wild swimming a try? Here are a few tips from seasoned swimmers to help you get started and stay safe.
Wild swimming has been having a moment for some time now. Many people discovered outdoor swimming during the pandemic, with Outdoor Swimmer Magazine reporting that searches for the term ‘wild swimming’ increased 94% between 2019 and 2020 and the Outdoor Swimming Society membership growing by 36% in 2020. But while wild swimming may have been a pandemic discovery, it doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. This year, 27 new outdoor spots have been officially designated as wild swimming spots.
If one thing’s for sure, it’s not too late to give wild swimming a go yourself. There’s certainly something enticing about the idea of forgoing a crowded lido and diving into a clear, crisp lake, with only trees and a few fish for company, and with summer (finally) upon us, there’s never been a better time to dip your toes in the water.
However, with conditions at wild swimming spots being unpredictable and some rivers and lakes being contaminated with sewage, getting started for the first time requires a bit of prep. What are the real benefits of wild swimming? Where are the best places to go for your first dip? How different is it from swimming in your local pool? And how can you be sure you’re swimming in a safe space? We turned to the experts and the enthusiasts to give us the answers ahead of our first wild swim.
1. Choose your spot wisely
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Rebecca Duncan, a dedicated wild swimmer, suggests doing some careful research about safe places to swim. “It’s really important to be informed before getting in the water and I would recommend reading guides such as the one on The Rivers Trust’s website or organisations like Swim England,” she says.
Matt Croxall, charity director at Royal Life Saving Society UK, recommends choosing an area with a lifeguard. “In order to keep you and your loved ones safe when swimming in open water, you should plan your day well and go to a lifeguarded venue,” he says.
2. Always put safety first
“It’s important to thoroughly research the area before entering the water to ensure it’s safe and swimming is allowed,” says James Rogers, a swimming instructor and fitness coach. “This includes checking the water quality, currents and presence of rocks and debris, as well as being vigilant for signage and warnings.” He also recommends going with a friend rather than swimming alone.
3. Don’t skimp on equipment
“Taking the right equipment, from a bright swimming cap to the correct tow float, is essential,” says Croxall.
Rogers adds: “This can include goggles, swim shoes, a first aid kit and a dry bag.” He also suggests investing in a wetsuit. “Look for one designed with swimming in mind, with plenty of flexibility, particularly around the shoulders, and one that’s quick to take on and off,” he says. “This can make wild swimming more enjoyable.” He also notes that staying hydrated and bringing a water bottle is helpful to avoid dehydration.
4. Be wary of cold water swimming
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There’s recently been an increased interest in cold water swimming thanks to the likes of Wim Hof. However, Rogers recommends trying this trend with caution.
“It is crucial to be aware that it can take some getting used to, and your body can react differently in these conditions,” he says. “If you plan on doing this, along with the other tips, keep a close eye on how long you have been in the water, don’t get too far from an exit point and quickly put some warm clothing on afterwards.”
5. Know your own swimming ability
While it may be tempting to dive in and start swimming, be very careful about your own limits. “It’s important not to get carried away and to know your limits,” says Croxall. He also suggests learning self-rescue techniques.
“Don’t push too hard and go beyond your level. For example, swimming too far away from a place of exit or doing a very long loop,” says Rogers. “While swimming in new places can be exciting, it’s important not to overdo it and become too tired, especially since fatigue can set in quickly with currents.” Rogers suggests taking a few swimming lessons before you set out to ensure you truly understand your own abilities before you get to the lake, river or sea.
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Although wild swimming does require a lot of planning and preparation, don’t let this put you off. As Duncan says: “Once you’ve got your head around all this, then definitely embrace the moment and the famous injection of joy you get from wild swimming – it really is as good as people say.”
Images: Getty
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