Winter Swim Readiness

Class dates:

6pm - Tuesday 4th October (online theory session via zoom)

Practical sessions in Knapdale, Argyll (locations TBC):

10am - Sunday 30th October

10am - Sunday 6th November

10am - Sunday 13th November

**By selecting the date of the first session (4/10/22) you book the full course of four dates, as above**

This course is designed for relatively new open water swimmers who want to develop the confidence or refine skills and knowledge to swim through winter safely.

We will explore how to make the most of kit and physical preparedness for winter swimming, risk assessment, cold water conditioning and acclimatisation techniques. In the water we will explore, develop and refine efficiency stroke and how to manage the crucial recovery on dry land post-swim.

The course of 4 classes are progressive and developmental (one theory and 3 practical). The theory class is several weeks before the practical classes begin to allow plenty of time to ensure correct kit preparation.

The classes are run by a fully qualified professional open water swim coach and wild swim guide qualified in open water safety management & rescue.

If you're unable to attend and need to cancel, payment for a class is non-refundable.

In line with risk assessment, you will be required to wear one of Dan's high vis/open water swim caps. These will be provided to borrow free of charge but can also be purchased at checkout for you to keep.

Location: In order to build confidence in open water front crawl, session location will vary between spots in the Loch Sween area.

The location of the first session will be advised in advance.

Into the wild. Into the water.

This class is designed for those who have never swam through winter in open water before or those who wish to improve their winter readiness.

1. swimsuit or wetsuit
2. neoprene socks/gloves
3. plenty and plenty of loose, warm clothing layers
4. warm beanie hat
5. warm mittens
6. warm gloves
7. warm drink in a flask
8. water bottle
9. snack
10. towel/towelling robe
11. something to stand on to keep your feet dry when getting changed
12. swimming ear oil or ear plugs
13. tow float (depending on the session this may not be required)
14. swimming goggles

Sessions will typically last for 45 minutes, depending on weather conditions and the individual. The session will include what I call a "soft start transition" on dry land before anything between 15 to 30 minutes in the water. Given conditions this could be shorter depending on the swimmer. We will finish with an integrated recovery on dry land.