Introduction to Cold Water Swimming
Have you been thinking about trying cold-water swimming but aren’t sure how to take the first step? Maybe you’ve watched from a distance, feeling curious but slightly nervous. You’ve heard about the benefits & you’re wondering, can I really do it? Come & learn from an experienced guide, in a safe & secure environment & gain the confidence to get started. Once you start it will open up a world of connection, to yourself, nature & the amazing cold-water community.
Cold Water Swimming, Wild Swimming, Cold Water Exposure, different people call it different things but basically it amounts to getting into the sea, rivers or lakes when the water is cold, which in the UK is considered to be all year! Most people who have tried it will tell you they are hooked and can't stop doing it, there are of course the people who can think of nothing worse and I think that's fair enough, that said I love it and there are so many benefits some of which I've listed below. Curious? Then why not join me to find out for yourself!
Benefits of Cold Water Swimming
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Boosts to physical and mental health
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It’s a great way to be and stay active
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It’s a really sociable activity, there is nearly always someone else to chat to
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For many people they find it helps to reduce stress
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It just feels amazing
But don’t just take it from me, the RNLI have an excellent article on the benefits of cold water swimming found here and there is also an excellent article from the Outdoor Swimming Society which can be found here
2 Hour Introduction to Cold Water Swimming
These introductory sessions will provide you useful information to get you started on your cold water swimming journey as well as providing you with the opportunity to do some cold water swimming with an experienced guide. The sessions will be relaxed, inclusive and informative, the aim is to get you in the water, maybe for the first time, arm you with the information you need to start swimming safely and answer any burning questions you might have.
We will cover the following
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Equipment—what’s helpful, what’s optional, and how little you actually need to begin
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Safety considerations including venue choice, common hazards & how to keep safe
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An introduction to tides & weather.
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How to enter & exit the water safely.
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Swim duration & recognising your limits.
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Cold-water shock, after-drop, & hypothermia.
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A short, supported swim or dip to suit you.
Once booked, you’ll receive clear information on what to bring, where to meet, and how to make the most of gear you already own—no need to buy anything beforehand. I’m also available to answer questions in advance so you feel fully prepared.
Challenge by choice
I think it's really important that we make our own decisions about what we do, you know yourself and your body better than anyone else. With that in mind, on the day, I will provide support and encouragement to you but I will never force anyone to do anything they don't want to. If you decide, for whatever reason, you don't want to get in the water you will still be able to participate fully in the other aspects of the session.
Who is this suitable for? No previous experience is necessary, as long as you can swim. This is suitable for those who want to try for the first time, those who are considering their first winter swimming outdoors or those already doing it but wanting to understand more. Those new to the area have also found this course useful to gain an understanding of tidal conditions particularly where previous experience has been inland. The swimming part of the session can be in a swimsuit or a wetsuit, that's your individual choice, although no equipment is provided.
Where Session will happen at Firestone Bay in Plymouth unless due to weather or other factors an alternative nearby location is deemed more suitable.
Dates Friday 27th March, Saturday 11th April, Saturday 9th May, Saturday 20th June 2026
Times 10am-12am
Price £55
Who am I?
I’m Cathy—a wild swimmer & someone who loves being outdoors. My career has been spent working in nature, gaining extensive experience and qualifications along the way. I pride myself on creating a calm, supportive atmosphere & responding to you as an individual. For more information about me including my qualifications and experience , please see my About section