Discover the thrill and benefits of swimming through winter with Outdoor Swimmer’s 4-week online course designed to guide you safely and confidently into cold water. Led by founder Simon Griffiths and features writer Rowan Clarke, you'll learn everything from preparation and acclimatisation to gear tips and winter swim challenges. Suitable for beginners or summer swimmers wanting to continue into the winter.
In addition, we will set up an optional dedicated WhatsApp group for you to share your winter swimming experiences, connect with other swimmers on the course and ask your questions.
One hour, once per week, via Zoom.
Week 1
- Why swim through winter
- What happens to your body in cold water
- How to get winter ready - kit, planning your swims, finding a group, venue etc.
- Basic safety reminder
- Is it dipping or swimming?
- Mental preparation and mindset – dealing with nerves/fears, building confidence and managing expectations
Week 2
- Your first cool dip
- How to acclimatise
- Dressing and rewarming
- More on kit - should you use a wetsuit, neoprene hat, gloves, booties etc.
- Cold water shock and afterdrop – what are they, how do you recognise and respond to them
Week 3
- Increasing your time in the water - how much is worth it?
- Tips for when the temperature drops below 5 degrees
- Tips for quicker changing and rewarming
- What to eat before and after a winter swim
Week 4
- Winter swimming events
- Winter swimming challenges
- Community – sharing, journaling and connecting
Sessions will be recorded and made available to everyone on the course.
Numbers are limited to 50. The price is £75 for all four sessions (not per session) or £60 for Outdoor Swimmer magazine subscribers*.
*If you subscribe to Outdoor Swimmer magazine, please look out for an email from us with your discount code.
