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Firestone bay in plymouth, the sea is stretching out with shallow waters in the foreground, the turquoise and blue seas stretching to Drakes Island in the distance, looks lovely for a swim

Introduction to Cold Water Swimming

This introductory course will include a guided dip/swim & lots of useful information on safety

Starts 9 May
55 British pounds
Firestone Bay Plymouth - exact location provided on booking

Available spots


Description & what's included

• Learn from an outdoor professional with extensive experience of wild swimming in the sea, rivers, & other settings • Opportunity to get into the water for a swim or dip with a qualified reassuring guide • Kit list & precise What3Words location for parking & meeting provided on booking • Meet & greet before heading to the beach • Information on equipment, safety considerations, tides, weather, hazards, cold-water shock & more • Discussion of conditions at local spots, plus how to apply this knowledge to other venues • Plenty of time to ask questions • Safety briefings & support provided throughout • Ideal for beginners or anyone wanting to increase their knowledge & build confidence 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. This introductory experience provides the essential information you need to get started, as well as the opportunity to get into the water with support. The session is relaxed, inclusive & informative. The aim is simple: help you get in the water, maybe for the first time, arm you with the information you need to start swimming safely & answer any questions you’ve got. We’ll cover: • Equipment—what’s helpful, what’s optional, and how little you actually need to begin • Safety considerations including venue choice, common hazards & how to keep safe • An introduction to tides & weather. • How to enter & exit the water safely. • Swim duration & recognising your limits. • Cold-water shock, after-drop, & hypothermia. • 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. 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 about me, please see my About section


Upcoming Sessions


Terms and conditions

Before booking and for more information on my courses please see www.cathyharshaw.com. Please note all sessions take place outside and we will be moving over uneven ground at times. You will be sent a kit list in your confirmation email, it is important you bring all the items on it. For more details see the FAQ page of the website. Payment and cancellations 1. Full payment must be made to confirm your place. 2. Cancellations up to 10 days before the course start date are allowed, a small cancellation fee will be charged to cover fees. 3. Cancellations made 10 days or less before the planned start date will not be eligible for a refund except in exceptional circumstances. Terms and conditions 1. All relevant medical conditions, allergies and details of medication taken must be disclosed at time of booking. 2. It is the responsibility of participants to ensure any medication required is carried at all times during the activity. 3. It is the responsibility of participants to inform the instructor of any changes to medication conditions, allergies or medication taken between the time of booking and the day of the activity. This must be done before the activity commences. 4. All participants must be free from the influence of drugs/alcohol at the time of commencing the activity and for the duration of the activity. Anyone suspected of being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol at any time immediately before or during the activity will not be able to take part in the activity and will be responsible for their own safety from that point forward.


Contact Details

cathyharshaw@hotmail.com


This is a photo of Cathy who runs Cathy Harshaw Coaching and Guiding, she is wearing a blue hat, a warm coat and a scarf and is smiling, she is standing in front of the sea.

About Cathy

Connect with me on Instagram or facebook to stay updated on upcoming walks, swim, and more. Alternatively join my mailing list and I'll send emails every so often!

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