How to start sea swimming in winter
I know a lot of swimmers who say they love to sea swim, but when it comes to winter they just can’t seem to do it. I swim every day through winter; it’s one of the most beautiful experiences. It’s a great way to uplift and energise you through the long grey and often colourless days and in my own experience it’s one of the best ways to improve mental health and wellbeing. Yet swimming in the winter can also be scary, and sometimes dangerous. So here are my top tips, that I always tell people on my winter coaching sessions, on how to start sea swimming in winter.
Get the gear you want
When I first started out I had no idea about gear. I wondered why people were wearing globes and boots in the sea. Then once I learnt about why, I got myself a pair of gloves and boots and it made such a difference. Some swimmers wear hats, tow floats, and even wetsuits. Try things and see what works for you. One key is not to worry about what you look like or what others will think.
Choose a good location
In winter I will mostly swim in a protected area. If you can’t find a protected beach then make sure you start by swimming in a place that’s calm. In winter there’s the added factor of the cold amongst the waves ad currents so you want to minimise as many hazards as you can, one being the potential of waves. So when starting out stick to calm waters.
Have patience with acclimatisation
Your body only needs a few immersions before it can get used to cold water immersion. If your aim is to work towards staying in a bit longer, then just know that it will take some time to build. When you want to know how to start sea swimming in winter remember that patience is vital. Take it one swim at a time and soon you’ll start to acclimatise more. Also remember cold water shock can be harder the colder it gets, so go in slowly.
Top tip: Go in regularly Try to get in as much as you can,
Never go in too long
It’s important to know that you’ll probably be at your coldest just as you change into your clothes after the swim. The body temperature will drop, so now is the time to get your clothes on as quickly a possible. The longer you swim, the colder you’ll feel and the more of an after drop you’ll get. This can be minimised by only staying in as much as you know is right for you. For first timers, go in less time than you think you can stand, then you’re much more likely to have a safe and enjoyable swim.
Start when it’s warmer
If you can begin in the summer and go through to the winter. At the same time, you can start later, and I have had clients wanting to try winter. Most of all take it slow and build it up.
Have a coaching session
So many clients have told me they’re thankful to know how to do it safely and properly. Contact me HERE