Good movie about basics! Best regards from swimmable Gdansk Bay. Water 3C, Air -5C to +4C in winter season. I agree: best way to control your body is to swim "naked", without neopren gloves and socks.
A top tip of mine is to cycle to the swim spot if feasible. I have the benefit of having the Highgate ponds and lido very close to where I live in North London which are real oasis' in this city, especially at this time of year and I try to start everyday off with a swim where possible. Personally i find that once it gets below 8c I need to wear gloves and socks, mainly because I know I will need to get back on my bike and cycle home. Like you say Colin, I avoid a hot shower, I get out get dressed as quickly as possible then I sit in the cafe with a hot chocolate (and slice if cake) and wait for the shivers to pass or at less subdue, I then get on my bike and cycle 3 miles uphill home and by the time I arrive I feel amazing for the rest of the day :D
Is there anything wrong with having a hot shower afterwards? I would usually swim for 15-20 min in Ireland in the summer & usually take a long hot shower after…
I also prefer no wetsuit and a shorter dip in winter, I’m always alone in winter and sometimes in remote places so I never really push it in terms of time....I just love the ritual...even if I’m only in the water a few minutes.
we are cold water swimming in the Atlantic, at the tip of the African Continent (Cape Town). it's around 9,2C at its coldest but the tidal rips and currents are as just as daunting as the cold. And we often walk through fierce south easterly gales and sand! But it's very enjoyable. My tip would be to be grounded in your breathing. And may I add, I am nearly seventy.
I loved this video! It was super inspirational. I've been winter swimming for the first time this year in California and it's a lot warmer than 6.3c but still challenging and rewarding.
Thanks for this, I did a little bit of open water swimming in the summer but am about to go for my first winter swim today. I'll try and remember all these tips!
It was amazing! It took me a minute or two to get my breath, but splashing my face helped me with acclimatising, and I felt oddly OK until I got out (then my feet got really cold!). I erred on the side of caution, as I felt I could have swum longer but was mindful it was my first time and the water was 9 degrees. I'm already planning my next trip! THANK YOU!
Hi and thank you for your fab video. I’m 61, just started taking cold showers two months ago, last week I went into the sea, I live by the Atlantic, without any huffing and puffing, I’m sure the showers prepared me both mentally and physically. Hoping to get a small group together to go on a weekly basis, as you said, safety in numbers. ❤️🏊♀️🌊
@@COLINHILLSWIMS thank you, it’s been successful, got four other people together, we’re now going to meet on a regular basis and see if we can inspire others. I like to go alone too sometimes. ❤️🙏🏊♀️🌊
Great Video Colin . I have always loved swimming . Started winter swimming 2 years ago . For some one who can not stand being cold , I have surprised my self and loveee it . I watched your other video IWSA that is how I saw this one. I do crawl 500 meters now in skins 7.8c at mo . Would love to try do the IWSA but that is really cold .
Hi Colin, this is my first winter of wild swimming and I’ve found your channel that is fantastic. My wife my sister and I swim at Ebchester in the river Derwent, a place I know you know well. Big shout out from us at consett.
I've been sea swimming all through the current cold snap . I stay in 15minutes on average just in my shorts . I find the key is to go regularly as it gets less difficult
Great informative video, thanks a lot Colin. I live near the Black Sea, and it's definitely getting colder now. As a relative novice, I recommend a gently shelving spot where you can wade into the water, rather than be fully immersed immediately. Reduces the shock!
Wow, the Black Sea must be amazing to swim in.. Good advice - a gentle slope in the water does take away the shock. Although if you go swimming a lot, its sometimes nice to get in quickly.
I went to swim today, the temperature here is about 18 degree, just as you said, when I first get in the water, I couldn't help breathing fast, I'll try your way of splashing my face first then put my head in the water and blow out to get used to the cold water. Thanks!
20 mins at 13 degrees yesterday and I got hypothermia... it was exiting and after shortening time down to 15mins - adaptation yey! It's best to b prepared this might happen tho. Bananas, down jacket and tea make the trick :)
I love Colin's videos. Super sensible. I am 4 swims into this new obsession. I go for a 15 minute no-wetsuit dip on a safe sandy beach. Afterwards I shiver violently for 5 minutes but then am fine. I leave a hi viz bag on the beach as my marker and swim parallel to the beach just waist deep. Tomorrow I'm going to try running on the beach after t heat up, as up until now I've swam with a guy who just ambles to and from the car! I'm looking into a wetsuit as I would like to do both shorter "tolerance / suffering" swims with longer, actual fitness swims.
Great to hear that you enjoy the video, thank you for taking the time to comment. Good luck with your swims... it's an amazing experience - keep enjoying your swims.
i've been swimming in my unheated pool in northern california for 20-25 minutes during the winter.The water temperature is between 10 and 12 degrees celius.When i get out of the pool i immediatelty go into a hot steam room in my house.Is that the preferable way to warm up after a swim?Thanks for your help.
thanks for the video! I just started winter swminning 10 days ago. I live in germany with a 30 seconds walk to a lake. The tempature is about 7 degress. Until now I just went into the water but without turning my head fully underwater because I am a little bit scared. Do you think I should try to swim or continue laying in the cold? I think I would start by swimming in breast deep water tommorow. thanks for you advice, cheers
Hi Jonathan, A lot of people enjoy swimming with 'head-up breaststroke' - it's how I start off my pupils when they first start winter swimming. If you are happy, then I'd just stick with that. If it's windy and there are waves on the water then head-up breaststroke can be harder and having you face in the water with freestyle may be a better option. But just take your time and enjoy the experience.
Thanks for the great tips! Started OW swimming in May this year - aiming to go all through winter. Question re your location in Ullswater - is this is a private "club" or can one visit for the day (do we have to book ahead). Thinking of a day trip for the Spring time with some friends. Many thanks Glad I have found your channel.
Hi Denise, There are several places around ullswater where you can go for a swim. I'm run swim courses and sessions out of Another Place the Lake Hotel, which is on private property. But you can book swim sessions on my website www.ullswaterswimplace.com
Ha ha, I was just saying that you don't really need anything (skinny dipping), but I wanted to show people what you can use and what makes it easier if you winter swim regularly.
Good movie about basics! Best regards from swimmable Gdansk Bay. Water 3C, Air -5C to +4C in winter season. I agree: best way to control your body is to swim "naked", without neopren gloves and socks.
A top tip of mine is to cycle to the swim spot if feasible. I have the benefit of having the Highgate ponds and lido very close to where I live in North London which are real oasis' in this city, especially at this time of year and I try to start everyday off with a swim where possible. Personally i find that once it gets below 8c I need to wear gloves and socks, mainly because I know I will need to get back on my bike and cycle home. Like you say Colin, I avoid a hot shower, I get out get dressed as quickly as possible then I sit in the cafe with a hot chocolate (and slice if cake) and wait for the shivers to pass or at less subdue, I then get on my bike and cycle 3 miles uphill home and by the time I arrive I feel amazing for the rest of the day :D
Is there anything wrong with having a hot shower afterwards? I would usually swim for 15-20 min in Ireland in the summer & usually take a long hot shower after…
Thanks you! I find that focusing on my breathing is the thing that helps me the most :)
I also prefer no wetsuit and a shorter dip in winter, I’m always alone in winter and sometimes in remote places so I never really push it in terms of time....I just love the ritual...even if I’m only in the water a few minutes.
Tips for cold water swimming are always a help Thank you.
Thanks Tracey. :-)
we are cold water swimming in the Atlantic, at the tip of the African Continent (Cape Town). it's around 9,2C at its coldest but the tidal rips and currents are as just as daunting as the cold. And we often walk through fierce south easterly gales and sand! But it's very enjoyable. My tip would be to be grounded in your breathing. And may I add, I am nearly seventy.
I loved this video! It was super inspirational. I've been winter swimming for the first time this year in California and it's a lot warmer than 6.3c but still challenging and rewarding.
Thanks Peter and good look with the swimming over in California.
Thanks for this, I did a little bit of open water swimming in the summer but am about to go for my first winter swim today. I'll try and remember all these tips!
Good luck! how did your swim go?
It was amazing! It took me a minute or two to get my breath, but splashing my face helped me with acclimatising, and I felt oddly OK until I got out (then my feet got really cold!). I erred on the side of caution, as I felt I could have swum longer but was mindful it was my first time and the water was 9 degrees.
I'm already planning my next trip!
THANK YOU!
Hi and thank you for your fab video. I’m 61, just started taking cold showers two months ago, last week I went into the sea, I live by the Atlantic, without any huffing and puffing, I’m sure the showers prepared me both mentally and physically. Hoping to get a small group together to go on a weekly basis, as you said, safety in numbers. ❤️🏊♀️🌊
Good luck Jackie, I hope you enjoy your swims. I love going into the lake every day.
@@COLINHILLSWIMS thank you, it’s been successful, got four other people together, we’re now going to meet on a regular basis and see if we can inspire others. I like to go alone too sometimes. ❤️🙏🏊♀️🌊
Great Video Colin . I have always loved swimming . Started winter swimming 2 years ago . For some one who can not stand being cold , I have surprised my self and loveee it . I watched your other video IWSA that is how I saw this one. I do crawl 500 meters now in skins 7.8c at mo . Would love to try do the IWSA but that is really cold .
Hi Colin, this is my first winter of wild swimming and I’ve found your channel that is fantastic. My wife my sister and I swim at Ebchester in the river Derwent, a place I know you know well. Big shout out from us at consett.
Hi Jeff, yes I know Ebchester very well, I used to kayak in their most days. Enjoy your swim!
I've been sea swimming all through the current cold snap . I stay in 15minutes on average just in my shorts . I find the key is to go regularly as it gets less difficult
Yes, you are right, going in regularly is the key to you mind and body getting used to the cold water.
Great informative video, thanks a lot Colin. I live near the Black Sea, and it's definitely getting colder now. As a relative novice, I recommend a gently shelving spot where you can wade into the water, rather than be fully immersed immediately. Reduces the shock!
Wow, the Black Sea must be amazing to swim in.. Good advice - a gentle slope in the water does take away the shock. Although if you go swimming a lot, its sometimes nice to get in quickly.
Just done my first wild swim today …. It lasted all of 3.2 seconds but I did it!!! Woop 🤣
Brilliant tips
I went to swim today, the temperature here is about 18 degree, just as you said, when I first get in the water, I couldn't help breathing fast, I'll try your way of splashing my face first then put my head in the water and blow out to get used to the cold water. Thanks!
Thank you so much for this great, informative video. Very inspirational
Great vid Colin
Thanks Andy.
Great job!
20 mins at 13 degrees yesterday and I got hypothermia... it was exiting and after shortening time down to 15mins - adaptation yey! It's best to b prepared this might happen tho. Bananas, down jacket and tea make the trick :)
Great video, thanks so much for the tips. 👍🏼
Pre-filled hot water bottle , wrapped up in your towel and then in a cool bag to keep it warm. When you come out you get a nice warm towel .
Just started winter swimming . 10 mins in 4.5 today. Started at 13 degrees a month ago. Your body will adapt if u train it
Well done! You are right, if you just keep going in regularly, then its amazing how your body adapts.
This is great Colin, will share it!
caldamac I really appreciate that! Look forward to catching up again soon (maybe for a swim next time).
I love Colin's videos. Super sensible. I am 4 swims into this new obsession. I go for a 15 minute no-wetsuit dip on a safe sandy beach. Afterwards I shiver violently for 5 minutes but then am fine. I leave a hi viz bag on the beach as my marker and swim parallel to the beach just waist deep. Tomorrow I'm going to try running on the beach after t heat up, as up until now I've swam with a guy who just ambles to and from the car! I'm looking into a wetsuit as I would like to do both shorter "tolerance / suffering" swims with longer, actual fitness swims.
Great to hear that you enjoy the video, thank you for taking the time to comment. Good luck with your swims... it's an amazing experience - keep enjoying your swims.
If you wear neoprene and you’re not cold, how are you not understanding how cold you are? Wouldn’t that mean that the neoprene is keeping you warm?
i've been swimming in my unheated pool in northern california for 20-25 minutes during the winter.The water temperature is between 10 and 12 degrees celius.When i get out of the pool i immediatelty go into a hot steam room in my house.Is that the preferable way to warm up after a swim?Thanks for your help.
I heard it's dangerous. It can cause so called "afterdrop".. it's better warming up gradually, hot tea and calories.
thanks for the video! I just started winter swminning 10 days ago. I live in germany with a 30 seconds walk to a lake. The tempature is about 7 degress. Until now I just went into the water but without turning my head fully underwater because I am a little bit scared. Do you think I should try to swim or continue laying in the cold? I think I would start by swimming in breast deep water tommorow. thanks for you advice, cheers
Hi Jonathan, A lot of people enjoy swimming with 'head-up breaststroke' - it's how I start off my pupils when they first start winter swimming. If you are happy, then I'd just stick with that. If it's windy and there are waves on the water then head-up breaststroke can be harder and having you face in the water with freestyle may be a better option. But just take your time and enjoy the experience.
Is that thermometer for the water or your body? Just asking as it looks scary
Ha ha. Yep it’s just for the water.
thnak you for the tips
Welcome to the Stockholm Winter swim Open januari 18, 2020.
I will be at Lake Bled in Feb for the IWSA World Swim Championships.
Great 👍
i find one of the best results is changing our white fat cells to brown cells ! i guess that's how we build tolerance ?!?
👍👍
Thanks for the great tips! Started OW swimming in May this year - aiming to go all through winter. Question re your location in Ullswater - is this is a private "club" or can one visit for the day (do we have to book ahead). Thinking of a day trip for the Spring time with some friends. Many thanks Glad I have found your channel.
Hi Denise, There are several places around ullswater where you can go for a swim. I'm run swim courses and sessions out of Another Place the Lake Hotel, which is on private property. But you can book swim sessions on my website www.ullswaterswimplace.com
@@COLINHILLSWIMS Thanks for quick reply. I will take a look at your website.
Yeah ! Good vidéo !
But you have forget the EARPLUG !!! very important ! Because
" exostose " remember
....
Yes, that is a good point, I have done a recent video on some made to measure ear plugs that I now use. you should check that out.
Why do other people think we're all crazy for swimming in cold water? I think they're nuts not to. Greetings from Sweden!
Hello Sweden, great to hear from you! Keep being cold water crazy :-) hope to swim with you someday. Colin
👍
🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿🇰🇿👏👏👏👏👏 the is great💪💪💪💪💪💪
WHAT'S THE POINT OF DOING THAT!
Really You don’t need anything? you use everything one could think of.
Ha ha, I was just saying that you don't really need anything (skinny dipping), but I wanted to show people what you can use and what makes it easier if you winter swim regularly.