Open water swimming is swimming that takes place outdoors in natural bodies of water e.g. oceans, lakes, rivers. Unlike pool swimming, open water swimming involves uncontrolled environments — meaning you may encounter waves, currents, cold water, wildlife, and variable weather. It often requires additional skills such as sighting (looking ahead to stay on course), navigating currents, and coping with changing temperatures.

· Never swim alone.

· Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll return.

· Wear a bright cap and tow float.

· Use a wetsuit in cold water.

· Know your route and exit points.

· Start small—build confidence slowly.

· Carry a whistle or waterproof phone case for emergencies.

· If you’re new to it, consider joining a local open water swim group or taking an intro class. That way, you’ll learn safely and enjoy the benefits with much lower risk.

You don’t need to be an expert swimmer to try open water swimming, but you should be a confident and competent swimmer in a controlled environment (like a pool) before venturing into open water.

You’re likely ready if you can:

· Swim at least 200–400 meters continuously without rest.

· Tread water for several minutes.

· Handle unexpected water in your mouth or face without panicking.

· Stay calm if you can’t see the bottom or get disoriented

If you’re not there yet:

No worries — you can still work toward open water swimming. Here’s how:

1. Build your pool swimming skills:

· Improve your endurance, breathing, and comfort in deep water.

· Practice sighting (lifting your head to look forward) while swimming.

2. Start in safe, supervised conditions:

· Try an organized open water swim session (many are beginner-friendly).

· Go with a friend or group who know the area and safety protocols.

· Begin in calm, shallow water — like a small lake or cove.

3. Use beginner gear:

· Wetsuit: Adds buoyancy and warmth.

· Tow float: Makes you visible and gives you something to hold if you need a break.

· Bright swim cap: So others (like boaters or spotters) can see you.

Open water swimming isn’t just about physical ability — it’s about mental comfort in an unpredictable environment. If you panic easily, it’s worth spending time building confidence gradually.

1. Wetsuit that fits correctly (we can advise you with this)

2. Brightly coloured swimming hats (Silicone or Neoprene)

3. Water-tight googles, mirrored, polarised, anti-fog lenses (Swans, TYR, HUUB are recommended) Clear lenses for indoor, low light or cloudy conditions.

4. Swimming costume, two-piece, trunks

5. Tow float

6. Dry Robe/ Warm Clothes

7. Towel

8. Water Bottle & Flask with a hot drink (if cooler day)

9. Flip flops

10. Snacks

11. Vaseline/Lanolin/Second Skin/Channel Grease

12. Hot Water Bottle (for cold days)

By building a greater understanding of open water, how your body responds to it, equipment required, correct techniques to use, types of training will allow for more creativity & growth in your program. Enhancing these components, you will become more efficient, fitter, faster and stronger, in the water.