
August 2024 ‘Swim safe’
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Sometimes it’s much easier to give out advice than follow it ourselves. I am sure many of you have offered words of wisdom to new swimmers but as you become more experienced and seasoned in the water, it’s easy to become blasé about some of the swim-safe messages that are shared.
This year weather and conditions have been challenging across the UK, and the world. There is no doubt our seasons are shifting, our climate is changing. As outdoor swimmers, we are more vulnerable to the elements and at higher risk than those taking part in other activities, which means we also need to be aware to keep ourselves and others safe.
Due to the sheer amount of rainfall, I’ve often thought twice about that golden rule to ‘never swim after heavy rain’ and have had to check my ego when it comes to wearing neoprene versus skins since it’s been so cool.
This month’s issue is about swimming safe. It is a big thank you to organisations like the RNLI and RLSS. We recognise those who have taught us, coached and supported our swimming. From venues that offer lifeguarded sessions to the swim teachers who get us in the water to begin with. There are multiple organisations working to educate people in and around water, fighting for access to swim spots and campaigning for clean water to swim in.
I am lucky enough to have a portfolio of swimming work and one of my other roles outside the magazine is as a swim teacher. There is nothing like a non-swimmer to remind you how easy it is to get into difficulty in the water. I take pride in shaping their journey and hope to inspire them into open water one day. There is a national shortage of swim teachers, so maybe you could train to teach too? Enjoy the issue and dive into it (safely).
Ella Foote, Editor

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- How will the Olympics inspire you?With the Paris 2024 Olympics beginning in just a few days, Simon Griffiths reflects on marathon swimming’s short history in the games and what we can learn from the incredible athletes taking part.
- In safe handsFrom NOWCA to the RNLI, Rowan Clarke meets the people who make outdoor swimming happen.
- Status flowHow important is bathing water status in the fight against pollution? Rowan Clarke finds out.
- Top tips for overseas swimming eventsSimon Griffiths shares some practical tips to help you get the best from your swimming trip abroad and avoid some common mishaps.
- How to balance your training between open water and the poolJason Tait says doing the right mix of pool and open water will help you race faster.
- Outdoor swimming kit for kidsFrom kids changing robes, goggles and swimwear to rainbow tow floats, rock pooling shoes and junior wetsuits: our pick of the best kit to help keep children warm, safe and comfortable in the water this summer
- Swim safe, swim without your egoOften the most dangerous thing about our swimming is ourselves. Ella Foote changes her approach to long-distance swimming.
- August in the swim communityNOWCA’s new app connects swimmers with groups, and Mental Health Swims creating welcoming spaces for people with mental health challenges. Stay up to date with our outdoor swimming community news for August 2024.
- How to stay fit between races and on holidayA bit of preparation and flexibility will go a long way to maintaining your fitness between races and on holiday, says swim coach Paul Newsome.
- How to minimise risks on solo swimsWhile it’s not ideal to swim alone, there are a few things you can do to minimise the risk when there is no other choice. Marathon swimmer Sarah Thomas shares her safety tips.
- Best swimming towels and towel robesWhether you prefer a lightweight and quick-drying travel towel that fits easily in your kit bag or a cosy and roomy towel robe for warmth and quick changes, a good swimming towel is an essential part of your kit.
- Bog swimming in Estonia (no snorkel required)Ella Foote discovers the secret to staying young forever and why Estonia should become your next swim destination.
- Keswick Mountain Festival: a swimmer’s guideJonathan Cowie reports from the adventure sports and music festival in the Lake District.
- Swims that shaped me: Ali CouchFrom her first event at Bournemouth’s Pier to Pier to her adventure in the Scillies, Ali Couch shares the swims that stand out in her lifetime of swimming.
- Sunglasses for wild swimmersFloating sunglasses, polarised lenses with crystal clear clarity or robust frames made from abandoned fishing gear: we test the best sunglasses for wild swimmers
- Weekend swim break: Yorkshire Spa Retreat, North YorkshireDigital editor Abigail Whyte had a birthday to remember at this natural spa retreat in the North York Moors.
- 9 wild swims in the South WestDaniel Start, author of the newly expanded Wild Guide South West, selects his favourite wild swims in the West Country.
- The Fell Foodie’s mushroom and thyme risotto recipeHarrison Ward is your guide to how to create a restaurant-style mushroom risotto on a camping stove in the open air.
- Move of the month: push upsPush ups will build your shoulder, tricep and chest strength, as well as improving our core stability – all the key players in every swimming stroke.