Swimming is not just a universal activity for leisure or fitness; it also comes with varying experiences and benefits depending on the temperature of the water. The practice of swimming in cold water versus warm water is more than just a matter of preference. It stretches into the physiological, psychological, and health benefits that each offers.  Cold Water Swimming: A Chill That Thrills Cold water swimming, typically in water temperatures below 15°C (59°F), is not for the faint of heart. It has surged in popularity not just as a challenging recreational activity but for its health be ..read more

Cath Pendleton, also known as "The Merthyr Mermaid" is an open water and ice swimmer from Wales and as an Ambassador for Swim Secure helps share the  #BeSaferBeSeen message when open water swimming.  Cath is a Guinness World Record Holder for the Most Southerly Ice Swim (female), achieving this record for becoming the first person in the world to swim an ice mile inside the Antarctic Polar circle in February 2020.  Cath swimming in the Antarctic completing her Ice Mile with our Wild Swimming Bag for high visibility Her story was captured by BBC Wales for a doc ..read more

Open water swimming is not just an immersive experience, it's also a boon for your cardiovascular health. Stepping away from the confines of the chlorinated pools and into the nature of wild swimming, you're doing more than just breaking the monotony; you're engaging your heart in one of the most beneficial exercises. Why Open Water Swimming is a Heart's Best Friend Here's the heart of the matter – swimming in open water offers several unique benefits for cardiovascular well-being: - Aerobic exercise with a twist: While all forms of swimming are excellent aerobic workouts, open water swimmi ..read more

Have you been daydreaming about the gentle pull of a lake, the rush of a river, or the open embrace of the sea welcoming you? If you’re ready to take your fitness into the open waters, joining a group of like-hearted swimmers can greatly enhance your experience. Below let's you know what awaits you when you become part of an open water swimming community. A Warm Current of Community Spirit Open water swimming is more than a sport; it’s a community. The moment you dip your toes into this world, you’ll be met with infectious enthusiasm and a bounty of shared experiences. There’s a certain kin ..read more

The holiday season can leave us feeling a bit sluggish, with festive indulgences and winter weather often taking a toll on our energy levels. What better way to refresh both body and mind than by embracing the invigorating activity of open water swimming? Here's how taking a dip in the cool, crisp waters can be the perfect post-holiday rejuvenation: 1. Revitalising Escape: - Open water provides a natural and serene setting, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. - The peaceful surroundings, free from the chaos of festivities, create a tranquil environme ..read more

Open water swimming is a thrilling and invigorating experience, but it comes with its own set of challenges, especially where the water temperature can be quite brisk. Proper acclimatisation is key to ensuring a safe and enjoyable swim. Below are some essential tips to help you acclimatise effectively for cold/open water swimming. 1. Start Gradually: Begin your open water swimming journey with short sessions, gradually increasing the duration as your body adapts to the colder temperatures. Sudden exposure to cold water can be a shock to the system, so take it slow to build tolerance. 2. Choo ..read more

Looking for a Christmas gift for the open water swimmer in your life, but don’t know your tow float from your ear plugs? Help is here! We have something for every type of swimmer, from the occasional dipper to the year round ice swimmer. Gifts for a New Open Water Swimmer Gifts for a Long Distance Open Water Swimmer Gifts for a Wild Open Water Swimmer Gifts for a Cold Water Open Water Swimmer ..read more

For open water swimmers, it's an invitation to experience the ethereal beauty of a moonlit swim. The night sky, the gentle lapping of water, and the shimmering reflection of the moon create a surreal and unforgettable swim. However, safety should always remain a top priority when embarking on such journeys in the dark.  Firstly embrace the enchantment. There's something uniquely enchanting about taking a plunge under a full moon's radiant gaze. The water's surface shimmers like liquid silver, and the world feels hushed and still. It's an experience that many open water swimmers cher ..read more

Ah, autumn and winter – the seasons of crispy leaves, cozy jumpers, and the not-so-subtle reminder that the cold is nipping at your nose. But what if we told you that you can embrace the chill and make a splash into open water swimming even as the temperatures drop? Grab your swim gear, fellow water warriors, and let's explore the icy delights that await! The "Brave Beginner" Phase (10°C - 15°C) Picture this: You're standing at the water's edge, shivering more than a leaf in the wind. Your toes touch the water, and it feels like you've just made contact with the Arctic. But fear not, brave b ..read more

Cold water swimming has gained popularity in recent years for its myriad of health benefits and invigorating experience. However, as with any new endeavour, it's natural to have questions and concerns before taking the plunge. In this blog, we'll tackle some of the most common questions related to cold water swimming, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to embrace the chill and dive headfirst into this thrilling activity. 1. Why Cold Water Swimming? Question: What's the appeal of swimming in cold water, and why do people do it? Answer: Cold water swimming offers a unique combin ..read more