Wild Swimming has surged in popularity since the pandemic, with many people enjoying the benefits on their physical and mental health, but there are still risks involved , especially when visiting new locations. Our Wild Swimming Weekends take away that risk as each swim is overseen by qualified Open Water Coach Kate O'Brien from Black Mountains Swims.
But first, what are the benefits of Wild Swimming?
Here are just a few the physical benefits you might feel:
Helps reduce muscle soreness and improve recovery
Reduces body pain and inflammation
Boosts your immune system
Improve circulation
Then there are the mental benefits:
Sense of community with other swimmers
Help manage stress, depression and anxiety
Releases endorphins and a sense of achievement
Connecting with nature
Comment below if you have experienced any other benefits of Wild Swimming.
What about the risks involved?
In some cases Wild Swimming can be classed as an extreme sport, when the water is less that 5C but even in the height of summer when the water is warmer there are still risks involved.
Cold Water Shock can be triggered by sudden immersion in water up to 25C
Hypothermia from staying in too long
Slips and trips or accidents from jumping or diving into water
Fast flowing water can knock you over and carry you away, even in the shallows
How to go Wild Swimming Safely.
Many people will agree that the benefits of wild swimming greatly out way the risks and there are steps you can take to reduce these risks.
Enter the water slowly, taking your time to acclimatise
Do not stay in the water too long, get out before you get cold and don't compare yourself to others
Don't swim alone
Have your kit ready on the waters edge so you can dry off and warm up quickly and easily
Join a group, swim with other who are more experienced or go on a guided trip.
Please be aware that these aren't the only risks and everyone swims at their own risk, it is always better to be safe than sorry so if you ever feel uncomfortable at a swim, don't take the risk.
There are lots of websites with lots of details about how to swim safely. Here are just a couple I recommend:
Why join us on a Wild Swimming Weekend?
We run 5 Wild Swimming Weekends each year, with Emily looking after all your needs at Grove Farm, as well as joining you for the swims and providing homemade cake for afters. Kate is your coach and guide whilst out on the swims. She'll take you to beautiful lakes, rivers and waterfalls in Herefordshire and into Wales. Each swim is researched and risk assessed before and Kate will talk you through any safety aspects too. She'll make sure everyone is confident and supported in the water, whilst keeping an eye out for signs of anyone getting too cold. Our groups are small, with a maximum of 8 swimmers, so we all get to know each other well and we pride ourselves as being friendly and supportive.
But don't just take our word for it, here is what our previous swimmers have said:
"We had such an epic weekend last year! Can't wait to return in May and do it all again!" Emma
"Highly recommend this weekend to everyone- such lovely ladies and such a great adventure!" Holly
"Emily and Kate were the perfect hosts for a fantastic weekend of glamping and swimming. Had such an amazing weekend - if there are any spaces left I highly recommend you snap one up. You won't regret it!" Charlotte
Our Wild Swimming Weekends in 2024 cost £495 for two people sharing a tent.
This includes:
All your accommodation needs
3/4 guided swims at different locations,
Y Sawna - The Sauna on the first evening with their wood fired sauna and ice baths
Cake after all swims
Please fill in the "Contact Us" form to request the full information pack and up to date availability or sign up to our newsletter to be the first to receive new dates.
We hope to take you swimming soon!
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