When the weather is especially warm, swimming outdoors can feel like a simple way to cool down and reset.
Even a short dip in open water could help you move your body, enjoy more time in nature, and make the most of the summer and autumn months.
Whether you swim regularly or simply like the idea of trying something a bit different, wild swimming can offer several physical and mental health benefits.
With this in mind, continue reading to discover some of these benefits of wild swimming and five practical tips to help you get started.
Wild swimming can help you stay active while calming your mind
Swimming is a low-impact form of exercise, meaning it can help you stay active without placing too much strain on your joints.
This can make it appealing if other higher-impact exercises – such as running or cycling – don’t suit you.
Even a gentle swim can use your arms, legs, and core, while also raising your heart rate.
The NHS recommends that adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week.
Swimming can count towards this if you move quickly enough to raise your heart rate and breathe faster.
The changing temperatures, natural surroundings, and varied water conditions can also make wild swimming feel more engaging than simply visiting your local pool.
Moreover, wild swimming can support your mental wellbeing.
Spending time outdoors can help you feel calmer, especially if you’re stepping away from screens, work, or a busy routine.
Research from the Mental Health Foundation found that 70% of UK adults agreed that being close to nature improves their mood, while 49% claimed it helps them cope with stress.
There can also be a social benefit if you swim with friends or join an organised session. This could help you feel more connected, especially if you prefer activities that combine movement with conversation.
5 tips to help you get the most from wild swimming
Before you take the plunge, it’s worth considering how to make your swim enjoyable, comfortable, and safe. Read on to discover five practical tips to help you get started.
1. Choose a safe place to swim
If you’re new to wild swimming, it might be sensible to start at a supervised open water venue or an organised session.
You can then build confidence from there while you follow the proper safety guidance.
Before you swim, it’s also vital to check whether swimming is actually allowed and look for local warnings about water quality and currents.
You should also be cautious around reservoirs unless there are organised swimming sessions, as they can be much deeper and colder than they initially appear.
2. Enter the water slowly
Even in the summer, open water can be cold. So, it might be advisable to enter the water slowly to allow your breathing to settle.
If you jump straight in, you might increase the risk of cold water shock, which could make you inhale water or suffer cardiac arrest.
For your first few swims, you may want to keep it short and stay close to the edge or shore, as you don’t have to swim far or stay in for long to enjoy the benefits.
In fact, building up gradually can help you understand how your body might respond to the water during future swims.
3. Take the right kit
While you don’t necessarily need lots of equipment, a few simple items can make wild swimming far safer and more comfortable.
For instance, a bright-coloured swim cap and a tow float could help other people see you more easily in the water.
You might also want to take:
- A wetsuit if the water is especially cold
- Water shoes if the ground is rocky
- A hot drink
- A waterproof pouch for your phone.
Having dry, warm clothes ready can make a significant difference when you get out, even on a sunny day.
4. Swim with other people
As well as offering social benefits, swimming with a friend can make the experience safer and more enjoyable. If you’re swimming alone, you might increase the risks if something goes wrong.
If you’d prefer to go it alone, it may still be beneficial to speak with people who know the area first if you’re swimming in an unfamiliar area.
They may be able to warn you about currents, tides, or places to avoid.
5. Know when to get out
It can be tempting to stay in the water longer than you initially planned, especially if you’re enjoying yourself.
However, cold water can affect your body quickly, so if you feel too cold, dizzy, tired, or breathless, it’s important to get out of the water as soon as you can.
You should also avoid swimming if you feel unwell or conditions look unsafe, as it might not be worth the risk.
Get in touch
We could help you manage your finances so you can focus on improving your wild swimming skills.
To find out more, please contact us by email at info@investmentsense.co.uk or call 0115 933 8433.
