This is our guide to open water swimming, which involves swimming outside in open bodies of water, including lakes, rivers, reservoirs, oceans, and bays.
It is completely different to swimming in a pool. There is no heating, no lanes, less physical boundaries and more importantly, the outdoor environment can be unpredictable and very different.
As well as the feeling itself, the health benefits of of wild swimming both physically and mentally are endless. It aids in weight loss, depression, anxiety and improves your mood.
Unlike the local swimming pool, going out into an open body of water gives a real sense of adventure and freedom, a unique experience. There is also no greater feeling than the sense achievement seeing what you have accomplished.
The open water swimming community is among the most supportive and passionate communities around with countless groups not only in your local area but globally as well. This can make the experience even more fulfilling.
1. Starting Now
A dip at least once a week means you and your body get acclimatised to the water, temperature and swimming in an open body of water.
2. Bring The Right Equipment
When going swimming its always important to be prepared. Especially for during and after your swim. Here are a list of things you might need.
For your swim you may need:
For after your swim you may need:
3. Don’t Just Jump Straight In
No matter how often you may go open water swimming, you will always feel the initial shock of the cold, with cold water shock being extremely dangerous.
4. Be Sensible
Spend sometime acclimatising yourself to the water and stick close to the shore for your first couple of swims. Swimming with a friend is also a good idea especially in the colder water.
5. Learn To Sight
6. Focus On Your Breathing
Breathing technique is one of the most important things to remember. As soon as you are in the water, your mind and body will want to fight against it. You have to forget everything and just focus on each breath.
7. Safety First
8. Build Mental Resilience
9. Adapt To Different Environments
10. Train Consistently
11. Fuel Your Body
12. Enjoy The Experience
Alderford Lake is a very popular spot with wild swimmers. We continue to embrace and adapt to ensure the best possible wild swimming experience.
Open 9am-4:30pm Daily
Last admission is 30 minutes before closing
Open 9am-4:30pm
Hot food served until 3:30pm
Alderford
Tilstock Road
Whitchurch
Shropshire
SY13 3JQ
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