FEATURES
In-depth features that celebrate the vibrant outdoor swimming community, spotlighting extraordinary individuals and their stories.
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Land’s End to John O’Groats: swimming the full length of Britain
In October 2022, Jasmine Harrison became the first woman to swim the entire length of the UK from Land’s End…
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Para V: a new event for swimmers with disabilities
Rowan Clarke talks to Jonty Warneken about his new challenge aimed at swimmers with disabilities.
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What should I eat during a marathon swim?
Jelly Babies, caffeine gels or peanut butter sandwiches? Swimming coach Cassie Patten and veteran long distance swimmer Colin Hill are…
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Top five tips for a long-distance swim challenge
So, you’re swimming long-distance? Simon Murie shares his top five tips to help get you in the best shape possible…
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Swedish adventurer’s second attempt at world’s longest unsupported swim
This summer, Swedish adventurer Jari Cennet Tammi is planning his second attempt at the world's longest unsupported swim – from…
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Spring forward, fall back, swim all year
Ella Foote chats to Welsh swimmer Tom Boswell about his ambition to swim 365 days consecutively to raise money for…
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Blind wild swimming: Melanie Barratt’s new passion for the open water
Paralympic champion Melanie Barratt is hoping to become the first blind woman to swim across the English Channel solo. Here…
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How swimming events shape the world of outdoor swimming
Open water challenges shape outdoor swimming more than you realise. Rowan Clarke investigates.
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Embrace all the challenges
Whether it's a short sprint or a monster challenge, for marathon swimmer Sarah Thomas all swimming challenges are an opportunity…
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Books, films and podcasts for swimmers
A forage's calendar, tree spotting guide and lyrical insight into ancestral landscapes: what to read, watch and listen to this…
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The National Park Print Shop
Jonathan Cowie takes a dip with artist Ian Battersby of the National Park Print Shop.
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H2O to Hollywood: swimmers turned movie stars
Swimmers have lit up the silver screen right from the early days of Hollywood. Michael Renouf shines the spotlight on…
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Paradise in Penzance
Cool harbour dips and geothermal waters: Ella Foote explores this arty Cornish town.
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Swimming spot: Stickle Tarn
This out-and-back walk follows Stickle Ghyll to Stickle Tarn, where you will be rewarded not only with stunning views of…
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Body positivity and swimsuit making workshop
What is it about swimwear that often sends us spiralling? And why is body positivity such an important topic for…
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How hard is it to make your own swimsuit?
Editor Ella Foote embarks on a two-day course with The Swimming Seamstress, Amanda Bowden, to learn how to make your…
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Water wildlife: Native Oyster
A feast for the Romans and a Victorian staple, the once humble oyster (Ostrea edulis) has had a long and…
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Retaining the joy of swim training
Simon Griffiths on prioritising the process of swim training, rather than the end goal of completing a challenge.
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How to host a swimmers’ swish
Exchange your barely worn booties and ill-fitting goggles for a kit bag or second hand changing robe – all without spending…
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Water wildlife: thick-lipped grey mullet
What’s that flash of silver-grey in the water? Susanne Masters has your guide to the thick-lipped grey mullet (chelon labrosus),…
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Reflecting and planning: how to adapt your swim training in January
January is a difficult month to adopt and stick with new habits, says Simon Griffiths. Instead, use January to sharpen…
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River swimming guide
Rivers can be wonderful places to swim but can be hazardous. Our guide shows you how to stay safe to…
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Healing waters: a new wave of social prescribing
Last summer, a pioneering social prescribing project in South Wales saw a group of young people, diagnosed with a first…
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Training for a winter swimming event
Jonathan Cowie shares guidance for how to prepare for a winter swimming event, including cold-water acclimatization and stroke technique.
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Giving up social media
Would you benefit from a digital detox? Contributing editor Jonathan Cowie reflects on six months of being completely social media…