Not since the early 1900s have so many people felt inspired to sign up for swimming outside in the UK’s natural waters. Britain was once heaving with outdoor swimmers thanks to the large amount of open-air swimming clubs. However, since the birth of leisure centres and indoor swimming facilities, outdoor swimming has slowly declined. But, modern day Brits are once again beginning to recognise the health benefits of swimming in the great outdoors. Swimming is extremely good for strengthening the arms and legs, as well as improving lung capacity and stamina. Not only that, but swimming outdoors has additional benefits, such as fresh oxygen helping to stimulate the mind.
Although the cold waters can be enough to put people off the idea (Irish novelist and poet, James Joyce once famously described entering the cold waters as ‘scrotum-tightening’), the lower water temperature actually helps circulation in the body. Swimming outdoors is also of benefit to those allergic to chlorine.
Who should take up boot camp?
Outdoor swimming is well suited to anyone that likes the idea of doing something active with like-minded individuals. An interest in the outdoors and natural surroundings will undoubtedly make swimming outdoors more enjoyable. Author Virginia Woolf, who enjoyed spending time in the River Cam, once described its unique smell as one of ‘mint and mud.’
What are the benefits?
One of the great things about swimming outdoors is that it doesn’t cost anything. The only expenses required will be on the right gear, such as brightly coloured swimming caps to ensure you stand out in the water, a wetsuit to keep you warm and goggles to protect your eyes.
How much does it cost?
It’s normally free
By James Massoud
