Winter swimming
December 2025,  EXTRA,  FEATURES

Rest, reflect and reset this winter

With all the excitement and buzz around winter swimming, it is easy to forget that these cool, dark months are also a time we have traditionally hunkered down to rest, says editor Ella Foote

With all the excitement and buzz around winter swimming, it is easy to forget that these cool, dark months are also a time we have traditionally hunkered down to rest. The natural world is very good at hibernation, with many animals sleeping away winter entirely.

Stay up to date with The Dip, our free weekly outdoor swimming newsletter.

Ella is renowned outdoor swimmer and journalist. As well as leading the editorial, digital and experiential outputs for Outdoor Swimmer she is also Director of Dip Advisor, a swim guiding business helping people enjoy wild water. Ella also teaches swimming to children and adults, is an Open Water Coach and RLSS Open Water Lifeguard.