"Just to know that I completed four-miles was an achievement. And also, it was a nice day and I came away happy and on a high.” Alice Stone, age 14

As outdoor swimmers, we are switched on to swimming's benefits for body and mind. But there are even more benefits for growing children: improved fitness, concentration, academic scores and self-esteem, plus opportunities to socialise and lower stress. Research also shows that reaching optimal cardio-fitness during adolescence has lasting effects on one’s fitness potential as an adult. If swimming outdoors is so beneficial to teens, why aren’t more doing it? Access to venues and competitions for under-18s is restricted, pathways are undefined and engagement is low. In the new Back to School issue of Outdoor Swimmer we ask how we can break down those barriers and encourage more children into open water swimming.  

Why not start your outdoor swimming education by ordering your copy of the new issue? Subscribe and save up to 20% on the Back to School issue cover price – or dip your toes in the water and try a one-off purchase.