October 2023 ‘Back to Pool’
Outdoor Swimmer Extra: Get the best of Outdoor Swimmer magazine online.
As the autumn sets in, it can feel like we lose a little of ourselves to the season. While many of us have embraced winter swimming, getting the time and distance in the water when it is cooler, and days are shorter becomes a real challenge. Many will head back to the pool, which is why this month we are celebrating swimming pools.
Most swimmers start their journeys in a swimming pool, if you are lucky, you were taught at a young age but regardless of when you learnt to swim, it is almost always in a pool. Pools offer a place of consistency, which enables learning and aids training. Whether you just like a dip or you’re someone that swims across channels, pools will have played a part in your swimming journey.
I use pool swimming to train for long distance swims when the weather and water isn’t in my favour. I have a fondness for pools, despite the chlorine and other off-putting elements, so it is sad to think of local leisure centres closing in our communities. In this month’s issue Rowan Clarke investigates and urges us to support our local pools, I take a dip into the wonderful world of natural swimming pools
and Elaine K Howley explores the history of Chlorine. We also have a pull-out training supplement this month, which aims to inspire your training plans over the winter months and get you back the pool.
Enjoy the issue!
Ella Foote, Editor
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- Best outdoor blankets for post-swim warmth
From wearable blankets to fleece-lined quilts that roll up into a pillow, we’ve tested the best outdoor blankets for winter swimming trips and keeping you warm post-dip. - Save our pools
Rowan Clarke investigates why it’s more important than ever to fight for your local swimming pool. - A pool of one’s own: the rise of natural swimming pools
With an increased interest in outdoor swimming there is a new demand for privately-owned natural swimming ponds. Ella Foote takes a dive into the trend. - Poison in the pool: a history of chlorine
How a deadly chemical became the world’s preferred means of keeping swimming pools clean and tidy. Elaine K Howley investigates. - Intuitive swimming: the power of the present
Have you trained for hours without seeing results? Brian Holliday wants you to move with the water rather than fight it, here he explains why you should consider intuitive swimming. - How to maintain swim fitness without pool training
No pool? No problem. Jonathan Cowie explains how you can maintain your swim fitness with some dry land training, including running, HIIT and pilates. - Two modes swim training
Simon Griffiths explains why it’s beneficial to have two modes for your swimming training, which can sometimes mean leaving the sports watch at home. - Warm boots for outdoor swimmers
Insulating, easy to slip on and grippy on muddy riverbanks: keep your feet toasty in our pick of the best warm boots for outdoor swimmers. - Somerset Swim Retreats
Simon Griffiths took a weekend off racing for some welcome rest and recreation in the South West of England… but it still involved swimming. - How do I improve my technique to avoid Swimmer’s Shoulder?
Swimming coach Cassie Patten answers a reader question about how to improve their swim technique to avoid further shoulder pain. - This little piggy went to Essex
So much more than a bed a breakfast, but not as impersonal as a hotel, Ella Foote heads to Piglets Boutique Country Stay to dip into their special offer. - Life in the slow fast lane: how to train in a public pool session
“I’m struggling with pool swimming in public sessions: how can I get a proper swim done?” Simon Griffiths has advice on how to meet your goals when swimming in an open pool session - Lido love
When Jonathan Cowie lived in London, it was Tooting Bec Lido that first kindled his love for open air pools. Now based in the Lake District, he’s feeling inspired to search out a bit of local lido love. - Capturing and swimming New York City’s waters
Photography led Paul Frangipane to reconnect to his home city of New York and rediscover his love of swimming
