Last chance: Get through the COLDEST month ❄️

Published: Wed, 01/07/26

Updated: Wed, 01/07/26

Dear Swimmer

The thermometer is barely above freezing - and that's just the water! So, how do you cope with icy swims?

With decades of ice-swimming experience, Simon and Rowan will be running a Cold Water Refresher workshop on Saturday, January 10th from 9.30 to 1pm.

We'll adapt the course to suit the group, but will cover subjects like how to dip through the coldest months, prep for winter swimming events, understand the physiology of cold water dipping, stay safe in icy water, warm up properly afterwards and cope with illness and returning to cold water.

We'll also set up an optional dedicated WhatsApp group for you to share your winter swimming experiences, connect with other swimmers on the course and ask your questions.

The workshop costs £75, which includes a video to watch back in your own time. If you subscribe, you'll get £15 off .

Places are limited, so book yours now.

WHAT WILL THE COURSE COVER?

You'll get the chance to work together with Simon and Rowan, who have decades of experience as cold water swimmers, ice gala competitors and winter swimming coaches/guides.

The course content will be tailored to you, but will cover everything from mental and physical acclimatisation to gear and events:

Part 1

Why swim through winter
What happens to your body in cold water
How to get winter ready - kit, planning your swims, finding a group, venue etc.
Basic safety reminder
Dipping vs swimming
Mental preparation and mindset – dealing with nerves/fears, building confidence and managing expectations

Part 2

Your first cool dip
How to acclimatise
Cold water shock, swim failure, hypothermia, non-freezing cold injury and afterdrop – what are they, how do you recognise and respond to them?
Dressing and rewarming

Part 3

Increasing your time in the water - how much is worth it?
Tips for when the temperature drops below 5 degrees
Tips for quicker changing and rewarming
What to eat before and after a winter swim

Part 4

Winter swimming events
Winter swimming challenges
Community – sharing, journaling and connecting

WHAT PEOPLE SAID

The half-day workshop is based on the four-week course we ran in the autumn.

"I joined this course to find out more about cold water swimming before I took my first plunge into cold water. I'm glad I did because the course gives a very good introduction for anyone who is new to this. It covers all the important things that you need to know before and after entering the water. Simon and Rowan are experienced cold water swimmers, but they create a welcoming vibe in the sessions, and answer any questions that arise, no matter how basic." Pam

"Informative classes and great camaraderie with the WhatsApp chats." Abby

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