Sea swimming

I started sea dipping or wild swimming a lot more frequently when I moved to the South Coast of the UK. I had dipped occasionally in other countries such as in Norway and Finland. Also in lakes in the North of the UK, but never on a regular basis.

Through the lockdowns it was a great way to get some exercise and also trying to reap from the multiple health benefits sea dipping holds. I don’t know how to explain it but I became addicted to the feeling it gave me. The thrill and the rush. With breathing exercise I could relax into it and soon I was dipping wetsuit-less through the winter months.

I found there was a level of tolerance I had built up. Just like stamina with running, you could get used to the cold temperatures for longer periods of time.

As a rule of thumb I would dip/swim for as many minutes as the sea temperature was. So, in the Summer or warming months I could find myself swimming for 18 minutes as the water temperature was 18°C. during the winter the sea temperatures dropping to 7°C, I would be in there for 7 minutes or less.

I found after dipping through the summer and into the winter, I could then go in the sea throughout the seasons changing and dip all year round.

When I first went in, my other half thought I was mad. I didn’t start in the summer, I started one chilly day in the middle of December. I stripped off and ran in. Adrenaline kicked in and I won’t deny the shock I felt was like nothing else I’d experienced. Even now there’s still a shock but I now know my limits. With deep breathing and not panicking this shock slowly calms down and my tolerance built and everything becomes more controlled.

I have found I’ve benefited for the natural highs, adrenaline and fitness improvements. Not to mention the friends I have made and strengthened my existing friendships by experiencing swims together.

Don’t forget, my favourite place to wild dip is the sea but you can dip in rivers, lakes and natural pools. Just remember if it’s your first time visiting that it’s proven swim spot and check your surroundings before entering.

Benefits

natural high
helps fight stress
improves circulation
muscle recover
fitness
making new friends

Tips

check to tide
use ‘magic sea weed’ to know the wave height and sea state
check the weather
use a tow float if you are swimming distances
tell someone where you are going
be prepared for after the swim, hot drink, dry rob, socks and wooly hat

Whether you are a paddler, dipper or distance swimmer, always remember to go in for as long as you feel comfortable, wear whatever wetsuit/gloves or lack of that you need. This is your swim not anyone else’s!

Here’s a selection of some of my favourite wild dipping snaps.