Coldwater Immersion / Swimming Essentials

Open water swimming during the winter months is less about swimming for exercise and more about being immersed in nature, enjoying the mental and physical benefits of cold water. The aim of the Longside Cold Water Essentials session is to give you the confidence and essential safety skills to dip or swim at Longside Lake. 

What is included:

• one hour’s coached session and swim/dip with experienced coaches Jude Palmer and Paul Mackenzie. 
• learn about what happens to the body in cold water and how to stay safe.
• learn how long is long enough and what to do if you or fellow swimmers get too cold.
• small, personal groups (1:6 ratio) with lots of time to ask questions, try out gear.
• Jude and Paul will join you in the water and give tips and confidence as needed
• homemade cake – well of course!
• 1 additional swims at Longside Lake 
• beautiful surroundings of Longside Lake with changing rooms, heaters and hot drinks available.
• easy access from M25.

For those wanting to swim at wilder venues and wanting to know more about the skills needed for assessing risks and safety and knowledge of water safety quality please take a look at Jude and Paul’s longer Introduction to Cold Water swimming course.

The time we spend in the water depends on the group, the conditions and will be measured in minutes at this time of year and will be up to you rather than set in advance. You must be confident to be able to swim more than 200m in a swimming pool. Choose to swim either with a wetsuit or not. 

Suitable for those new to swimming through the winter and those wanting to learn more.

Whilst there are many benefits to being in cold water there are also risks which can include the effects of a rise in blood pressure such as heart attack. If you have any concerns regarding your health and level of fitness, please get in touch with us and/or speak to your doctor. 

The session is subject to weather and water conditions. We will inform you asap if we need to postpone the session and offer a new date. 

Cost: £45.00

Sessions can only run with sufficient numbers - so bring a friend!

Full details including kit list will be send on confirmation of your booking

What to expect: 

• welcome & safety briefing
• staying safe in cold water
• entering the water for the first time, habituation and awareness
• how long is long enough and myth busting
• benefits of cold water to mental and physical well-being
• what to wear when

The session is led by highly qualified & fully insured open water swimming coaches and lifeguards Jude Palmer (Run Surrey Hills) and Paul Mackenzie (Adventure Swims)

Jude and Paul have years of experience swimming in the sea, rivers and lakes around the world and taking part in swimming, triathlon and swimrun events not to mention simply enjoying bobbing around in water. Please get in touch if you have any questions. 

(please note that no refunds or transfers to other dates will be given if you cancel your place less than 72hrs before the course, except in exceptional circumstances. If you can find someone to take your place, let us know)