Everything You Need To Know About Our Introduction to Open Water Swimming Course | Divers Cove

Are you an experienced pool swimmer looking for a change of scenery, or a beginner wanting to try the thrill of open water swimming for the first time? Here at Divers Cove, our stunning wild swimming lake is open year-round for wild swimming and sauna sessions, making it the ideal place for individuals looking to unwind in a natural setting. 

Our Introduction to Open Water Swimming Course is designed to transform pool swimmers and beginners to confident open water adventurers. We’re here to explain everything you need to know about the course, so that you can discover if it’s the right fit for you.

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What Are Open Water Swimming Courses?

Open water swimming courses are specialised training programs that introduce swimmers to the benefits and challenges of swimming in natural bodies of water. Unlike in traditional indoor pools, you will need some additional preparation and knowledge before taking the plunge in wild waters. 

Changeable currents, cooler water temperatures and wildlife can make open water swimming more challenging (and also more rewarding!) than pool swimming, but it’s for this reason that it’s so important to understand the open water environment and practise in a safe setting before heading out on your own. 

Our Introduction to Open Water Swimming Course aims to do more than just teach you to swim in wild waters - it’s also about promoting safe wild swimming, and encouraging individuals to try something a bit different as part of their exercise routine. 

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How to Start Open Water Swimming as a Beginner?

If you’re new to cold water exposure, starting your open water swimming journey might feel a bit daunting at first. However, with the right guidance, it’s an exciting experience that can be turned into a long-term fitness activity packed full of mental and physical health benefits. 

Looking to swim with us regularly? Take a look at our memberships. These help you to save money on swim sessions - and our Gold and Silver memberships allow you to swim with us year-round. 

Here are our top tips for starting wild swimming as a beginner:

1. Assess your swimming ability: Basic swimming levels are essential before venturing in the open water. Don’t worry, no need to be an olympic swimmer - you’ll just need to be able to swim 450m without stopping.

2. What to bring: A well-fitting wetsuit, bright swim cap, tow float and goggles are essential. We have a shop on-site if you’ve never bought swimming equipment before. Also, don't forget to bring a warm change of clothes for after your swim.

4. Start gradually: Our Introduction to Open Water Swimming Course begins with a short brief before progressing to accompanied swims in the lake. This step-by-step approach ensures you're comfortable every step of the way.

5. Safety first: Make sure to swim in a safe environment, with open water trained lifeguards on site for every session. We prioritise safety throughout each of our swim sessions, and, should you choose to take part in our course, you’ll learn how to assess risks, plan for emergencies and swim confidently in various conditions.

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Benefits of Taking Open Water Swimming Courses

Taking part in an open water swimming course offers numerous benefits.

First of all, the confidence you build in the open water. In fact, through our course, you will learn the essential techniques to swim in complete safety including sighting, breathing and the correct stroke movements. You will also gain knowledge about water safety, risk assessment and emergency procedures. If you are planning on incorporating wild swimming into your regular fitness routine, then these are all essential skills to have. 

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can now safely dive into the beautiful waters and experience the refreshing and invigorating feeling of the cold water. Cold water swimming is an excellent full-body workout that improves cardiovascular circulation and significantly boosts mental health. Whether you’re trying to relax or release some tension, open water swimming has a huge positive impact on your overall health - which is why it has become so popular in recent years!

If you’re also looking to make new friends, our welcoming community can be a great place for both experienced swimmers and beginners looking to connect by sharing this experience in this beautiful natural setting.

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What to Expect from Open Water Swimming Training Sessions at Divers Cove

At Divers Cove, our training sessions are informative, engaging, and tailored to each swimmer's needs. 

You will be greeted with a warm welcome by your instructor and fellow swimmers before being briefed with essential information about open water environments, such as safety protocols and the correct equipment to use. 

Then, it will be time for you to take a dip in the water to get acclimated to the temperature. At this stage, you’ll learn key skills like sighting, efficient breathing, stroke movements and navigating without lane ropes. Whilst in the water, our instructors will also incorporate safety exercises and how to tread water, signal for help and support fellow swimmers if needed. 

Our instructors will then accompany you in guided swims in our beautiful lake to continue giving you support and guidance.

When the swimming session ends, you will get the chance to discuss your experience, ask questions and even set goals for your next swim! If you wish, our instructors will also give you individual feedback to improve and build your confidence.

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How to Enrol in Open Water Swimming Lessons at Divers Cove

Are you ready to take the plunge? You can find more information about our open water swimming courses by clicking here. Simply choose your preferred date for the course, book online and you’re good to go! We look forward to meeting you and getting you started on your open water swimming journey.