The Definitive Winter Swim Guide

Recently I asked our swimmers to give me their top tips for the upcoming winter swim season. They did not disappoint.

Starting with my absolute favourite...

Accept It's A Cry For Help

Sadomasochism is a perfectly acceptable response to the days getting shorter & colder. Just lean in.

Be Consistent

My personal top tip. The whole thing is a lot easier if you start swimming early in the season (i.e., now) and keep it consistent as the temperature drops.

We've got our first winter swim next Sunday, if you want to join.

Breathe

I find having one thing to pay attention to — such as your breathing — makes the process of getting & staying in much easier. You can even use a simple breathing technique like 'box breathing'.

If you find yourself uncontrollably hyperventilating, it's time get out.

Layers, Layers, Layers

If you think you've packed enough layers, bring two more. Thermal layers are especially useful as you can whack them on immediately post-swim to warm up your core.

Get Out Early

The usual rule of thumb is — when the water temperature is below 10°c, you should stay in for a maximum of 1 minute per degree. So 5°c = max 5 minutes.

But always listen to your body first and if in doubt, get out.

And A Few More...

Bobbing Along #20