Introduction to Winter Swimming Course

Service Description

The group course is ideal for swimmers who are either new to winter swimming, have not done it for a while, or are quite nervous about it, or want to increase their knowledge. Group courses are limited to 10 swimmers, so I can give you all some individual attention. There are two parts to this course: 1) learning about open water equipment, safety issues, what happens to your body physiologically when you go into cold water, and to discuss any anxieties/worries/questions you may have before entering the water. 2) an introductory swim session at WeirWood Reservoir to learn how to put on a wetsuit correctly so it fits well (if you want to wear one), how to warm up your body before entering the water, how to acclimatise safely to cold water, get used to swimming outdoors and in a wetsuit (if applicable), and to build your confidence. We also cover and practice some simple breathing exercises to help prepare the body for cold immersion and also to address feelings of anxiety which can happen to the best of us in open water. Having these tools will make your open/cold water experience more enjoyable. Following the course, you will be sent an open water swimming information sheet and summary of what we covered in the course. If any video clips are taken during your swim session, these will also be sent to you. There is a swim entry fee of £8 which you pay separately to WeirWood Sport & Leisure. It is best to do this once you have booked a swim session time with me. As swimming has just restarted at WeirWood (14/9/25), there are no course dates yet, so if you are interested in joining a group session, or have a group of friends who want to try this in a bespoke session, or you have any questions, please email Marianne at: weightlessswimming@gmail.com.