• Next

Outdoor swimming - what are the benefits?

Outdoor swimming has become seemingly popular

Escaping the pool and trying out your strokes in the great outdoors is a take on swimming which has seemingly become increasingly popular of late. According to the Outdoor Swimming Society (OSS) - which calls in its manifesto for people to give up their ‘chlorinated captivity‘, membership has doubled over the past couple of years.

Believing that everyone with a swimming costume ‘should be set free to immerse themselves in nature' and celebrate ‘the rejuvenating effects of cold water', the members of the OSS are clearly passionate about their sport. Despite this enthusiasm, it's unlikely to be for everyone. But, if you are interested, what do you need to know?

Find a safe - and legal - spot

Swimming in natural water doesn't need to mean jumping into the nearest river. There are, for example, many freshwater or saltwater lidos and pools in the UK. However, if you are feeling more adventurous, then there are hundreds of harbours, coves, rivers and lakes that you can legitimately swim in - all of which can be found through the OSS website.

The most important thing is to ensure that wherever you swim is safe. It's a good idea to take into account the conditions on a given day at a ‘safe' swimming point. Wind can create waves, while rain raises the water level - and heavy rainfall can create stronger currents.

If you are swimming in a river or the sea, then you should check tide timetables, which are readily available online. The OSS says that it is usually calmer in the hour to either side of low or high water - and points out that an outgoing tide makes it harder to get back to shore. Also, identify safe entry and exit points, and enter the water gradually rather than leaping in.

While reservoirs are not necessarily out-of-bounds, they can be deeper and colder - and therefore more dangerous - than lakes. Furthermore, in terms of where you can legally swim, a general rule is that any water which is open to boats is open to you - just make sure you stay alert and wear something highly visible. Also, to try and ensure you're not trespassing always access the water by public rights of way.

Look after yourself

If you are a novice, taking it nice and slow is the key to the great outdoors. Wear a brightly coloured hat, and consider a wetsuit - and spending only a limited time in the water - until you get used to the cold. Swimming within your limits is a must, and it makes sense to try and swim with others - or at least with someone watching from the bank.

Check the cleanliness of the water: the OSS says that a quick test is that if it looks scummy or cloudy, then pass it by. Likewise, avoid blooms of blue green algae, which can cause rashes and allergic reactions. You can check quality at the local level (A-C is good, swimming in D and E category water is not advised) on the Environment Agency's website.

Swimming to a healthier body

Wherever you decide to swim, there can be some real benefits. In fact, swimming has been called the ultimate exercise by doctors, due to the apparent benefits to joints and muscles and to the cardiovascular system, which will potentially decrease the likelihood of suffering from a heart attack, and from weight-related conditions such as diabetes. It is said to be particularly good for older people, as it helps guard against some of the conditions associated with ageing, including muscle loss. Swimming is even said to promote a feeling of wellbeing, as it releases endorphins.

As we all get older, thinking about our health and lifestyle is something many of us will be forced to do a lot more often. When it comes to applying for life insurance, general health can be taken into consideration - and in some instances a medical may be required.  Be upfront if you have any pre-existing conditions, as you may find that your policy is invalidated when you need it most (depending on the insurer). It's also a good idea to contact your doctor before taking up any new form of exercise.

Issued by Sainsbury's Finance

Sainsbury's Finance is a trading name of Sainsbury's Bank plc. All information correct at time of publication, but may be subject to change. Any views or opinions expressed in this article are the responsibility of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any part of the Sainsbury's Group of companies.