Hi

It's our favourite time of the month – new issue day! The December Gift of Swimming issue is out now and available to order.

This issue we’re celebrating the idea of swimming as a gift, which it is in so many ways. As we wind down towards the end of the year, it’s worth setting aside space for reflection. As well as anticipating future adventures, make sure you celebrate your past swimming experiences and enjoy the memories. The new Gift of Swimming issue of Outdoor Swimmer magazine explores the many gifts swimming outdoors gives us, whether you dip for mental health benefits or love chasing a PB. Scroll down for editor Ella Foote's pick of what's in the new issue. 

What's in the Gift of Swimming issue?

December is a challenging month in many ways, so this issue I wanted to focus on the gifts that swimming gives us. I am very fortunate to have learnt to swim at a young age, which has given me a life of joy in and around water. When I started to think of swimming as a gift, I realised how much it has brought to my life: a career, a hobby, a sport, friendship, challenge, joy and so much more. Have a think about your swimming and what it has gifted you…

In this issue Rowan Clarke explores how sponsored swims and charity communities have enabled more people to learn to swim, Pippa Best shares how sea swimming changed her life and Elaine K Howley shares a personal story of an unexpected gift of swimming in Mongolia. In our Gear section we test long sleeve swimwear, and in Travel Abigail Whyte heads to Snowdonia for a swimming and pilates weekend. There is also some great technique and training content to see you through the winter season.

Plus all the regulars, including health news, outdoor swimming news, training, swim locations, technique, travel, event listings, gear news and kit reviews.

Enjoy the issue!

Ella Foote, Editor