outdoor swimming: how to keep it up over the winter

[@rrowe9592]

You NEVER need to comment on your appearance. You are a beautiful person and life is too short to spend it trying to take up less space. xx

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

That is true, it was a flippant remark, I would like to be aerobically fitter, not necessarily a different size as I find it makes snowboarding much more enjoyable, and that is my other passion! 🏊😄

[@squiffell]

Fantastic explanation, clear and simple. I'm just about getting my head around the fact that winter swimming is about wellbeing, not fitness, and you're reinforcing this thinking is really helpful. Thank you, Rachel 😊

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Really pleased you enjoyed it, thanks for watching. Keep enjoying it while it's fun! 🏊😄

[@20LookInside12]

I love winter swimming in my summer wetsuit or even my winter one because I DO like to stay in longer - like 45 minutes or 2-3km. It's pretty sad that I actually get a little 'shaming' from the trendy "wildswim" bobbers who go in skins. They say things like "I'm not a wetsuiter." as they change in their overpriced name-brand changing robes, having spent more time taking selfies than they did in the water! I'm a swimmer since childhood, a true water baby. I prefer to swim with the seals, over people. This whole 'wild-swim' trend is making selfie short swims some kind of expensive elitist activity. ANY XXL raincoat with a fleece towel inside will suffice for a "DryRobe" - and there's nothing wrong with wearing a wetsuit to stay in and enjoy nature even longer.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It's great if you have a wetsuit which fits nicely and enables those longer swims - that's what mine is used for in the winter. Don't pay any heed to what other people do in the water, we all enjoy it in our own way. For some the frisson of getting in and feeling the skin burm is what they seek, for others the solitude of a sunrise seen on the breathing stroke is what warms the cockles of the heart. We can all take it in however we like. I'm not so sure wild swimming is a trend, more of an awakening, I don't see the numbers reducing anytime soon as those who have discovered their passion will share the swim love with everyone they know. So long as everyone does it safely, I'm happy for them. Keep swimming how and in what makes you happy 🏊😄 #wetsuitorswimsuitnoonecares

[@TheBeaver06]

Good for you be true to yourself always . Too many people with too many opinions these days . Good luck.Swim well xb

[@ALoonwolf]

Yes, it seems people are all about doing things for a camera, and living an artificial planned and edited life for other people to see, and also to try and make money from it. Eg. dropping down a camera, performing a scene in front of it and then cutting out all the bits where they put the camera down and went and picked it up again, or wasn't satisfied with the performance and did it again! EDIT: Even our comments are edited. :)

[@bernardinelermite1133]

I really like your down to earth attitude ! You are a genuine person, and your joy is contagious : your eyes literally sparkle when you are swimming !!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

What a lovely thing to say Bernadine x

[@swimmerwater]

Hello Rachel! This video came at a perfect time! This being my first winter in the open water, I've been struggling with wanting to swim longer. Now I understand it's less about swimming & more about just getting into the water... even if it's for a few minutes. A couple of local year round swimmers encouraging words: "At least you got in!" Open water swimming has saved me during this pandemic. I'm very grateful. Here is a great book I'm reading: "Why We Swim" by Bonnie Tsui - I think you would enjoy it! Thanks again! See you next week......

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Theresa, I'll take a look at the book, I do like a good swimmy book. Just keep on dipping whilst you are enjoying it. If the fun stops. Stop. Have your warm drink and take in the moment x

[@donshaffer4169]

Michigan resident speaking. Ir is July. Looking forward to autumn. Got an ironman tri in September. Once that is done......autumn swimming begins.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Does winter mean no swimming in Michigan? I’m guessing all the watery spaces freeze up?

[@davidmcgrath1847]

This is Dave i lreland I'm swimming one year outdoor. The information u given is very useful and clear thank u .

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Dave thanks for your lovely comment, it's great when people enjoy my video, it spurs me on to keep thinking of and creating content! 🏊😃

[@mehitabel1290]

Thankyou for setting it out that wild swimming is NOT all about "fitness".

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Absolutely. I love just contemplating in or by the water. I find it so relaxing.

[@Jellyfish_Openwaterswim]

Lovely hood T-shirts with orange fish logo.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you 🏊😄

[@junewong5119]

So many newbies, and so much chatter on social media about how long to stay in, how low can you go (temperature, I mean!), all the neoprene sales going though the roof... great to hear your wise words delivered in your usual friendly, patient way. What a role model. Welcome back to the running world 😉 It's lovely in the cold weather 🤣

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks June, it's more os a ralk than a run or a walk! But it's good to get out before or at lunchtime to relive sitting at my desk all day 🚶🏃

[@rebeccamandelos3164]

Greetings from Houston, Texas. You are my favorite person to watch ! Inspirational and wise words. You don’t emphasize on competition or doing daring things. That’s good for newbies ( as me), trying to learn everything about winter swimming/ plunge .

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Wow, thank you Rebecca! I hope it's not too wild with you, we've been seeing snow storms in Texas on the news. Enjoy the water 🏊😃

[@rebeccamandelos3164]

@@EverydayAthleteRach Not in Houston, where I live. If you came here, you would love it.22.2 Celsius today and the water is 10.3 Celsius 🤣

[@lindy-loumaddock5979]

Thanks so much Rachel for really sensible advice. Everybody reacts differently to cold water, and therefore doing exactly what's right for your own body is absolutely key. I love the fact that you take away any competitive aspect from winter swimming, rightly so. Keep on sharing your wonderful videos.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

You're so welcome! Open water swimming in the winter is a personal thing, so intimate with yourself and nature, it's difficult to compete at a thing like that, so I don't. Keep doing what is fun 🏊😄

[@deirdrecollins3987]

My goal is usually 1 minute per water temp degree. Sometimes I make, sometimes I don’t. Totally agree re prep of clothes layout post dip. Also finding a protected beach out of the wind. I monitor the swell height and will not venture in in any rough water. Thank you.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Happy swimming!

[@marycharlebois6627]

Monday night here in the PNW region of 🇨🇦, and unfortunately my swim season has come to an end about a month ago. All the local lakes are frozen over and there are too many dangerous ice floes coming down the river. There is no open water for open water swimming... sad but true. ⛄️💦❄️ Time to get out the x-c skis and the ice skates. BUT don’t worry Rach... I’ll still be checking in here for your weekly swim videos... cuz they’re awesome! Good luck to all the UK swimmers on your chance of winning a changing robe...what an exciting give-away. PS - beautiful sky colours during your morning swim. Thanks for that.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

We're all jealous of you being able to ski - I can't see being able to go snowboarding this season, too many crowds when it does open up to make it a fun activity. Maybe I'll wait for a post-COVID Canada trip!

[@tooviolent6688]

Great piece of advice .Im going to try and take a dip in the Thames.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I’ve swim in a few spots in the Thames. It’s a lovely way to experience the river, make sure you use a tow float and keep an eye out for rowers - they generally can’t see us.

[@fullstopnextchapter]

You make a great point for not making it a competition. Last weekend I must have seen three different posts across my social media from people sharing videos of them shaking (some quite violently). Putting themselves and possibly others that they are swimming with at risk. Thanks for sharing.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Shivering is a natural part of the body's rewarming process, but it takes a lot of energy, hence the connection to cake. I prefer to reduce the amount of time I'm in the water as I don't really like the feeling of shivering at it reminds me that you're never too far from pushing it too much! 🏊❄☕🍫😄

[@fullstopnextchapter]

@@EverydayAthleteRachI'm aware of that but this was violent shaking. Too many people trying to be clever boasting about how long they've been in for.

[@lovestruck-dl9kj]

What a beautiful swim. Glorious sunrise. Calming message too. Lush!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it 🏊😄

[@lightasair4eva]

Loving the winter dooks. Only started this year to help with anxiety and depression. It’s been great. ❤️

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Lynnie it is great that you have found something which helps, well dont for swimming in the colder months, that takes some tenacity, and using the term 'dook', my guess is you're swimming in Scotland.. Keep enjoying the water and stay safe x

[@lightasair4eva]

@@EverydayAthleteRach yep, I’m up near Glasgow. Loving your videos. Keep them coming. 🏊🏻‍♀️🏊🏻‍♀️🏊🏻‍♀️ xx

[@InspectAzmi]

Yeah time to go outdoor. Keep it up Cheers from Qatar

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks 👍, bit cooler here than Qatar at the moment - keep crating!

[@jennyrussellobrien1582]

Such good advice Rachel. Many thanks. I’ve swum every day since August 6 th . You’ve been the voice of reason . The experience has and is life changing. Blessed also to have some outstanding places to swim in Jersey. Swim safe 🧜🏻‍♀️

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Wow! Every day swimming is a great achievement - I'm so pleased you're feeling great for it. You must have so many choices in Jersey - one for every wind direction! x

[@helendonohoe1575]

I found your chanel buy accident I post all your videos on my face book I suffer with FND and I share your videos to FND suffers thank you very much for doing these videos fantastic

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Helen, I'm pleased to hear that you're enjoying the videos. Thank you for reposting. Enjoy the water!

[@suehawley1261]

I'm hoping to swim this winter and I found your advice useful and reassuring. Thank you

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Just take it one ‘swim’ at a time and reduce the time in the water, making the most of the build up to it and the time afterwards when dry to take it all in. I don’t tend to stay in over 10mins in the cold 🏊‍♀️😀

[@johnhumphries6751]

As a first season winter swimmer it makes a big difference to have someone walking about (or even swimming about) in the same emotional territory. Thanks for the put the effort that goes into putting this together and all the best :-)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi John, there are plenty of swim brothers and sisters along with you on the journey. Thanks for watchin, swim safe 🏊😄

[@patsybrady1682]

Just what I needed to hear..moving from a workout ..of sorts..to a quick dip..thanks Rachel

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Think of it as a workout for the senses! 🏊😄

[@deadlypalms]

Really helpful, thank you. Going into my first Autumn/Winter after a summer of wild swimming and looking forward to it (well, in a strange way).

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

No problem, I'm pleased it helped. Enjoy the changing of the seasons and stay in for less time each week 🏊😀

[@elainerodham1431]

Just love your no nonsense advice... which I am following... week 4 of full kit dipping 🤪 it’s wonderful to feel ALIVE! Tku

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Great work, hope it is buying you some peace and quiet, or a barrel load of laughs with friends. My dip yesterday morning certainly left me feeling ALIVE!! 🏊😄

[@helendonohoe1575]

I love the idea with the swim bag wonderful

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you! 😊

[@racheltree7533]

Hi Rach, that was music to my ears that when you said Winter swimming/dipping is not a "competition". I am learning in my first winter season it's worth going steady with this, after all it's another 5 months until March! Not worth risking the nerve endings of your fingers for a few minutes more!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

You're so right, you can extend the in-water enjoyment with a warm cuppa just breathing in nature and taking a few moments to yourself 🏊☕🍁😄

[@sjlewman]

Such a beautiful message and what a fab role model. Good luck with your couch to 5km! Have a happy and healthy week!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you. I've stalled a little by injuring my foot but it will get better and I'll be able to crack on. Thanks for watching 🏊😄

[@user-zj4gz9tr8s]

u got me hooked now lol... been sea swimming 9 days now and if i can't get to the sea u take a cold bath wen not at work lol.. cold it's not that bad lol ...take care :)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

How exciting, a new member of the clan! 🏊😄

[@victoriamakes]

I've just started wild swimming so have enjoyed your video thanks looking forward to watching all the others you've done

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Welcome to the clan Victoria. Enjoy the water!

[@victoriamakes]

I'm keen to continue swimming into winter I hope I can do it as I felt it was cold this week in August, ha ha

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

@@victoriamakes just take it one swim at a time and enjoy the whole thing. Don’t set targets, get out before you think you need to and enjoy it! 🏊‍♀️😀

[@joc1390]

Your beach is beautiful 🌊 and are you 🥰 xx Love your videos, thank you muchly 👏⭐

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Oh thank you! I enjoy making them. This beach is my favourite locally. I hope you're getting an outdoors fix too 🏊😄

[@philippadianethomas8436]

Thank you Rachel for all your tips on how to stay safe during the winter months. I like wearing sheepskin hat, coat and mittens when I get out, as it helps me to warm up slowly... I look forward to your videos every Tuesday! Px

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Aw Philippa, thank you for your lovely words. I bet dressing up a s a sheep definetly keeps you toasty afterwards! Enjoy it! 🏊😄

[@freeyoga]

Perfect “friend” from away, helps me to keep going

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Love that! It's good to have friends on the other side of the screen x 🏊😄

[@adventureswithdipsy]

Another great video Rachel! You really do capture the essence of cold water swimming - in all its aspects - and deliver it in such a clear, easy to understand way. Brilliant!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Wow, thank you Robin! Such a lovely comment. I hope you are enjoying the water 🏊😃

[@annewiddop9760]

More sensible advice, great videos! Really like you reenforcing the message about it ‘not being a competition ‘

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I try to be encouraging but with an eye to safety.

[@TheBeaver06]

Thanks so much great advice there . I’m doing the CRUK challenge for Nov it’s a dip for 30 secs daily and loving it .

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I bet you'll get in in the first week of Dec too, having conditioned yourself over November! Keep going 🏊😃

[@stefanoghiotto8019]

You are so funny and good!you are so passionated and gentil, lovely!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you, how lovely. Enjoy the water! 🏊😃

[@m.j..g7186]

Excellent tips, you made a lot of very good points that I'll be sharing with my swim group! Feel a bit guilty enjoying 16 celcius mediteranean waters ,

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

So you should! I'd love the water to be warmer so I could stay in longer and get back to my later spring/summer/autumn adventure swimming! Enjoy 🏊😃

[@curlyporter6027]

Another great video. Just got into open water swimming and bought a wetsuit, boots, gloves etc but found the 5mm suit too constrictive. Have now found boot, gloves, hat and a short sleeveless suit with a thermal long sleeve is perfect for me. I'm hoping that my swimming will come on so I can go for more distance in the spring. I'd love to swim a mile!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Just keep on getting in. By the spring you'll be ready to stretch out the time in the water and consequently the distance. Shorten the time at this time of year, lengthen once the water begins to warm up again

[@jenniferbailey44]

That water looked so inviting! When I go for my weekly swim I'm tempted to have a little dip without my wetsuit. A wetsuit can be such faf. I've been practicing getting into a cold bath and it is strangely invigorating and quite addictive! I love the quietness of winter swimming. Thanks for sharing such useful advice.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

There's no reason not to give it a go in your swimmers. Give yourself the best chance of enjoyement and safety by making sure it is a no or low wind day, or that your swim spot and importantly your changing spot is sheltered. Just stay in a minute or two and see how you feel. It doesn't matter what you wear for outdoor swimming, just go with whatever makes you comforable or you fancy on the day. 🏊😄

[@heather6264]

Always the best advice - and the best bobble hats 😊

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I love a warm bobble hat! You can never have too many! 🏊😄

[@Pianda]

I do this myself bc. they closed my public swimming pools In March I only made a little bit sports after the swimming. Now, with 5 degrees up to 7 degrees I do so much more sports = running, martial art-practice....AFTER I leave the water. And I carry a warm-tea-bottle with me. So I will come home in a warm state every day. I now even make less warm bottles than 3 weeks before....so it seems that I adapt more and more. For the ppl who just start with cold water. The longer you stay in cold water, the more and more intense you will becoming cold AFTER leaving the water. Remind this (clothes, warm tea - and moving!)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Swim safely Paula. Hope the weather is being kind to you 🏊😄

[@annemariecollins6388]

Thank you. This is my first time swimming in the winter. I find your videos really encouraging and informative.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you like them! Just take it easy, be kind to yourself and always remember that you can say 'not today' when you get there. No one is judging, just have your warm drink and take in the scenery, and maybe do a little beach clean instead, it's what I sometimes do. 🏊😄

[@lindapilkington2687]

I’m new to sea swimming and found your channel and am loving it. Loads of really useful information for a newbie 🙂 Thank you!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Welcome aboard! It's great to have you along for the journey! I hope you've found a good spot to enjoy the water.

[@lindapilkington2687]

I haven't yet. Trying to do a google search is proving harder than I thought. If you have any tips on where to find groups (I live in Newhaven, East Sussex), I'd be very grateful.

[@scottyd8900]

Great content .... Swam an ice mile a few years back in south boston ... Finished it but it didnt count because i wore regular swim trunks 😂.... 54 mins in 38° f water it counted for me ..... Swim every day of the year in Dorchester bay .... Best high there is 🤟😀 stay healthy stay positive test negative

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Wowzers, that may have been frustrating at the time Scotty, but I can see you've taken the positives. As you say stay positive, test negative 🏊😄

[@scottyd8900]

@@EverydayAthleteRach nah i just did it to get it done ... Not interested in the record books 🤟😀

[@SirSamsalot]

Wonderful as always, your friend in Seattle!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks so much! I bet it's getting chilly in Seattle now, still swimming though? 🏊😄

[@SirSamsalot]

@@EverydayAthleteRach Too rainy and too much pollution in Lake Washington so I've been scoping out local lakes...we have tons of them and US law allows access, you just have to get around the home owners. Going to be swimming soon! Thanks for the inspiration!

[@patriciapowers3751]

Thank you for distinguishing between fitness and well being. Our group ( small though it is) tends to focus on fitness which does diminish over the winter since the pools are closed. Now you’ve got me thinking about walking over to the ocean during the week for some “well-being minutes”. You’re always making me think, girlfriend!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Ads I say Pat, I'm a convert. Do love it for fitness, but in the winter I have to draw the line.Have a float and see what you think 🏊😄

[@jacquichapman8620]

I love your videos, they are so calm and give me confidence to swim this year for the first time throughout the winter. Thank you for taking time to share your experience it really helps. I love the feeling of the cold water on my skin.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Jacqui, just take it one swim at a time, eventually you look up and you're into the next month. It kind of creeps up on you. Also, if the conditions don't look right, you don't feel up for it or the weather is not being kind, don't worry about it. The water will always still be there and youy can get in another time. On those days just sitting and watching the water with your warm drink and snack is enough 🏊😄

[@ooo-zn7rc]

I have been told that the outside temperature is the best guide to how long you should stay in, ie if it is 5 degrees stay in for 5 mins. Great videos.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I just take time in the water based on how I feel on the day, and `i'm mindful of how my body is coping. I don't check the temp before `i get in, but I sometimes look at the information on temp that my watch has collected afterwards. 🏊😄

[@jamie-leedavidson3043]

Thanks so much I again !! Hope you come down to Kent and swim with us !!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching Jamie. I'l be down when it's allowed 🏊😄

[@rustykeeler]

Hi Rachel! I love your videos! They are really helping me in my new journey of open swimming here in the finger lakes around my hometown of Ithaca, NY. I love it so much!! MY QUESTION: do you ever swim in a wet suit? why or why not? Thanks!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Rusty, welcome! Thanks for watching and getting in touch! I do wear a wetsuit sometimes - if I want to be in longer, I'm not feeling the cold that day, or if I'm off for a bit of an adventure. I wear it mostly for safety to guard against cold over a longer exposure. I'm going to look on google maps to see where your lakes are as I haven't heard of them. I love finding out about other people's swim spots.

[@yvonnewright7856]

This is a great video for explaining the mindset for winter swimming. It's my first year and I admit to some apprehension as it gets colder, but working in the NHS, I find swimming in the open air such a great relief from the stress of work, I'm determined to keep going, safely 😊

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you for your hard work Yvonne. We’re indebted to you and I am following the guidelines to hopefully reduce infection. Hang on in there. Things will improve. As for swimming, pick somewhere that you can get changed out of the wind and don’t stay in too long xx

[@yvonnewright7856]

@@EverydayAthleteRach aww thank you so much 💖. I have had a tough week so this was a lovely message to read. I am grateful to swim at a managed lake with the friendliest folk. This year its been the most social interaction I have had, aside from the great team at work. I was so relieved that moving into tier 4 we are still open🙏. I am now off till 29th so going to try and get some extra dips in 😁

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

@@yvonnewright7856 enjoy your well deserved time off. Let the water soak your worries away and get some cake down your neck! Merry Christmas! x

[@jimmysqueezyronin5623]

Thanks for your vid series. Am only a month into my first winter but your advice has been really helpful and informative.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Great to hear! Just take it one swim at a time, if you don't feel like getting in one week, it won't make a jot of difference to your overall tolerance to the cold water. Keep on keeping on, whilst it is fun 🏊😄

[@Daveonarave]

Morning Rach - another amazing video full of fab advice; things people might not think about. It's indeed not a competition and should never succumb to peer pressure. Can I request you repeat this important message as often as possible? I know from experience how damaging it can be for mental health. Your videos are just brilliant. Superb :)

[@Daveonarave]

Quick Q - you say you feel the cold yet are able to stand there on the beach totally still and totally composed in your cossie right by the sea. How do you manage to do that? I'd be a shivering wreck even though I'm pretty sturdy in dealing with the cold! And in terms of damaging nerves in fingers and toes, to what extent do gloves and footwear protect these?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I do try to bring that message across quite frequently. Glad you enjoyed the video 🏊😄

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I'd say they are protecting them if your fingers feel normal and don't hurt whilst in the water. I don't want to be the test case for finding out! 🏊😄

[@Daveonarave]

@@EverydayAthleteRach you do. But sadly it'll continue to be needed to be heard. Anyone whose mental health is affected by this materialistic culture where we compare and judge just needs to connect with nature in the water or on land and discover that they are a beautiful part of nature in their own right :)

[@Daveonarave]

@@EverydayAthleteRach :D

[@deborahpeters1512]

Great video. Good advice not to post temps and times. Made me think about what I post on Fb. Also loved the peer pressure advice, thank you.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it! I'm not against people posting temps, because I think where we're all interested in water and swim spots, we're also fascinated to see how much warmer or cooler another place is than the one we're visiting. It's the accidental escalation and expectation I wanted to highlight.

[@Andre.R]

Hi Rach, great advice as usual. Went for a dip on Sunday, the sea is now pretty cold, 10 minutes was enough for me, but felt fab all day! Going in today in about 1/2 hour, 10 minutes will do nicely 🥶🥶 haha! 👍🏊‍♂️

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Sounds great! I had a bit less that that this morning, but `i saw the sunrise and a seal popped up just as I was getting dressed. It set me up for the day. Thanks for watching! 🏊😄

[@Andre.R]

@@EverydayAthleteRach Lovely when you get to see the wildlife! But blimey, that was cold this morning! 🏊‍♂️🙏

[@niamhmaguire5458]

Love your videos Rachel keep them coming!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I’ll do my best. Thanks for watching 🏊‍♀️😀

[@hugolitner7079]

Thankyou Rachel x

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

You're welcome

[@karenguttridge]

Hi Rachel-some really good points there, especially about the importance of being your own judge of when to get out and finding what works for you to wear. My friends think I’m superwoman for going in without a wetsuit but it’s absolutely nothing of the sort-I just get so cold faffing about trying to get the thing off afterwards with cold, fumbly fingers! I’m definitely in there this winter for some de-stressing! Going for a quick dunk in Bournemouth today. Happy dipping! 😍👍

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I reckon we were in the drink at about the same time. I was in at Lepe at about 0750! Happy dunking! 🏊😄

[@karenguttridge]

@@EverydayAthleteRach Brrrr cold today 🥶🥶 I’m glad you mentioned Lepe as it’s on my list for places in my area I want to have a dip. So you’d recommend?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I love it at Lighthouse Beach. There’s always some flow so I get in, float and watch which way I’m drifting then swim against the current first, then easy swim back with it. Always stay land side of the green channel marks.

[@karenguttridge]

@@EverydayAthleteRach Fab thanks so much. I’ll be there to try that out soon 😊👍

[@juliep001]

Great informative video Rachel as usual , thankyou,

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for the lovely comment 🏊😄

[@patriciawhich]

Thanks Rachel. Beautiful swimming spot.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It really is! One of my favs in that wind direction, great for a swimrise too. I hope you're getting an outdoor fix in these crazy times 🏊😄

[@rosieblue79]

Wonderful!!! Always adore your videos. Have been chopping and changing between wetsuit and skins depending on how long I want to stay in! Xxxxxx

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I flick-flack between cozzie, boots, gloves, neoprene and silicone hat and the same kit plus a wettie as you say, depending on what I want from the swim that day 🏊😄

[@My24hradventure]

I really enjoy your content. I was tempted to jump in last weekend following a wild camp on the Norfolk coast, but changed my mind last minute. What you said about peer pressure does resonate, good point! All the best Jonathan 👍

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Just a little paddle would do no harm, take it at your own pace and get in it you're 'feeling it' 🏊😄

[@My24hradventure]

@@EverydayAthleteRach I'm currently doing cold showers. I'll try ice baths soon, and then try a dip when they reopen the Hampstead swimming ponds 😊❄

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I don’t do cold showers or baths because it’s too miserable. Good on you though!

[@LexxEllison]

As always a really fantastic video. Thank you.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it 🏊😄

[@sandib8213]

I'm so grateful to have found your channel. You are so natural and such a calming influence on me. I have learned so much from you already and expect I will keep doing so. Not sure how to access the competition which I'd love to enter. x

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Sandi the link to the free draw in the description on youtube below the video. Sometimes if you're on a mobile phone you have to click on the little upsidedown v to reveal the video's descritption. Good luck 🏊😄

[@sandib8213]

@@EverydayAthleteRach got it. Ta

[@iangraeme4487]

Awesome perspective and such great advice!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you enjoyed it! 🏊😃

[@holloway2house]

Love your videos, so glad your helping us with outdoor winter swimming

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad you like them! Thanks for watching! Happy swimming 🏊😄

[@stewartsaunders1838]

Very good. Thank you.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you for watching!

[@pantherev]

Thank you for clear, great advice, this has definitely helped me

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

You are so welcome! I'm pleased you enjoyed it! 🏊😄

[@smilegirl182]

Thanks for the great video! Loving it. I was wondering if the watch your use tracks temperature? I am wanting to get a watch to track my open water swims :)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Catriona, yes the watch records temp, but I can only see it when I look on the associated app afterwards. I've never tried looking for it to show it on the watch face as I jusdeg time in the water on how I'm feeling and don't go in with any particular expectation. It is a Garmin Fenix 5s. 🏊😄

[@20LookInside12]

You can also track swims with an iphone app (Strava for example) just put the phone in your tow float, inside an extra dry bag. This way you can also take underwater photos of wildlife at end of swim. :))

[@cerihughes9667]

Great video again Rach. Thank you xx

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed it. 🏊😄

[@jozenoriker7821]

Allways love your videos, all of them sounds so naturaly and lovely. We "know" us from facebook. Greetings from Slovenia

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hey Jose, of course I recognise you from FB how's it going with the new found group of swimmy friends? I'm pleased you found your tribe. Thank you for watching my videos, 🏊😄

[@darrenbullman9450]

Great video thank you x

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks for watching, pleased you enjoyed it

[@swilliams3329]

Great video, really informative thanks Rachel

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Glad it was helpful! 🏊😄

[@ValGayes]

Thanks Rachel, really helpful! I really noticed the temperature drop this weekend, and I have been wondering how long to I can carry on for! :-)

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Just keep getting in whilst you are enjoying it, shortening up the time in the water means less afterdrop and a more pleasant experience. Wrap up warm after and enjoy the moment with your flask of something hot 🏊😄

[@nicolahousam6431]

Thank you as always

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

My pleasure. I saw a seal after this morning's dip, waited until I got out to show its face! I hope your seal is in fine fettle 🏊😄

[@jackiealdridge1424]

Hi Rachel. Really enjoy your podcasts - very informative. Just one question - how do I find the link for the prize draw? Couldn’t see it, but that’s almost certainly my lack of knowledge!

[@gwynhurren-edwards3570]

I don't think it is any lack of knowledge, as I cant find it either...x

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Jackie and Gwyn, the link to the free draw in the description on youtube below the video. Sometimes if you're on a mobile phone you have to click on the little upsidedown v to reveal the video's descritption. Good luck 🏊😄

[@justinparker1284]

Hi, love the videos. I’m looking to get into some open water swimming I. The new year. I am also looking to undertake one of the John west events. Do you have any advice on pre fuelling for a long swim (night before dinner and breakfast before) thanks for all the videos, I have been catching up on your previous videos so sorry if I have missed one on this. Thanks 🙂

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Justin, thanks for watching. I'm thinking of doing a pre-long swim fuelling feature sometime around the start of next season thank you for the reminder. I don't have anything particularly scientific to say about it just now, but might do by then. 🏊😀

[@justinparker1284]

@@EverydayAthleteRach that’s great thank you! I’ll keep working through the other videos for now.

[@dylanlopez3288]

Very nice😁🇨🇴

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thank you! 😃 🏊😄

[@carolbarker1890]

Hi I see you're wearing a smocsmoc, I'm considering it. Have you reviewed it please?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Carol, I have reviewed the smoc smoc, and lots of others. Here is the link to my changing robes playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PLrBM9GuZgXX6o9Zl_IfPEHQ6HQkR-43WH

[@debsmain2924]

Thanks Rachel, I'm finding your posts really useful. What's your opinion of the idea of staying for 1 minute for 1 degree?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I don't put any stock in it. I just know if it feels colder than last time, I should consider less time in the water. I don't measure temperature before getting in and go in with an idea about where I fancy swimming to (and back) but no expectation and I just decide how long to stay based on how I'm feeling, especially paying attention to my motor skills becoming less fluid, or my jaw tightening against the cold. It's unusual for me to stay in long enough to experience that after a few winters, but I sometime stay in a bit longer than would be adviseable. My watch records temp, so I take a look on the app once I'm home, if I remember! 🏊😄

[@melindagreen7911]

Beautiful swim spot you have there! I missed a good window yesterday and it's cold & windy here for the next few days, making it crystal clear just what winter swimming actually involves! These are the conditions that will show me if practicing my changing process for the past 6 weeks or so has paid off!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

There'll be another window, I'm sure your practice will pay off when it comes to changing. I needed all my skills this am, it was Baltic! 🏊😄

[@melindagreen7911]

@@EverydayAthleteRach I lucked in - great afternoon swim and the best speedy changing resource of all: an attentive spouse! And the changing poncho I made earlier in the day using a wool blanket from a thrift shop worked great, too!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Brilliant work making a poncho. I bet it made things just a little bit easier. 😍

[@dongdipperadventures6565]

I love a competition!!!! Will enter it later, it's been a long night at work and I'm off to bed 😴

[@dongdipperadventures6565]

P.s super information as always 😉🤙

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Ni night! Good luck with the free draw. Link is in the description.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks, I haven't caught up with yours this week but look at you go - subs are rocketing up. took me ages to build any numbers. Keep up the great vids 🍆🏊😄

[@dongdipperadventures6565]

@@EverydayAthleteRach no swimming in my latest video was more of a failed bushcraft outing 🤦‍♂️ you had over 50 views in the first 5 minutes of posting i noticed and it wasn't even 6am!! 👏👍🎉🎉

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I help it along by posting to some relevant Facebook groups, my own FB page, my Instagram and Twitter to get it started being viewed. It’s taken quite a while to grow, I started posting every week in Jan 19, so almost 2 years on the go. You’re channel seems to be growing nicely too, keep up the great videos.

[@katysmith3571]

Hi Rachel. In this video you refer to a video you’ve done on “how to minimise afterdrop” and you said you’d link it below. It doesn’t seem to be there and it’s not one I’ve seen? Could you point me in the right direction?? Thanks! I’m beginning to get a bit chilly afterwards and this year I’m trying to keep out of the wetsuit as long as possible so would welcome some ideas! Thanks!

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Katy I removed the afterdrop video as there were some inaccuracies in it. I will make another one soon. Reduce your time in the water as the temperature lowers. I stay in for 10 min or less when the water temp drops below 10°C

[@katysmith3571]

@@EverydayAthleteRach … thanks! I’ll look forward to the “after drop” video when you do it!

[@edenbridal6670]

Hi, I can’t see the link to enter the draw. Can you rely with the link? 😊 Thanks for the good advice x

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It's in the description just below the video timeline breakdown. Good luck!

[@jamison023]

I have the north sea in my back garden, the problem I have Rachel, are getting out of the water, that's the real cold part for me, do u have any advice regarding exiting the water,

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I use windy.com and I look at the wind direction, then I try to find a place where there won't be wind on me as I'm getting changes as it really cuts through you! Good luck!

[@jamison023]

@@EverydayAthleteRach thankyou, I have downloaded an app, so now I know I'm going to freeze before I get there

[@alexbishop84]

I did 15 minutes at the weekend (the fastest I could do a lap of the lake) and one of my fingers was a little sore afterwards. Is this dangerous? I wonder if I can train up my hands with ice baths, or if I have a natural limit.

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Hi Alex, my fingers were a bit painful in the water, and took a while to warm up, so I need thicker gloves or less time in. Today I was in for a shorter period and no finger pain. I don't have an underlying circulatory problem, I'm just cautious not to get a cold injury. 🏊😄

[@helengardner2297]

Hi, I can't see the link...

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It's in the description just below the video timeline breakdown. Good luck!

[@hananahbanana9375]

I didn't know the cold water could cause permanent nerve damage?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

It is a phenomena known as a Non-Freezing Cold Injury (NFCI), but as it doesn't kill anyone, unlike cold shock or drowning, there is little to no funding for research into it. Most papers speak about exporsure of military personnel to cold wet conditions: www.uptodate.com/contents/nonfreezing-cold-water-trench-foot-and-warm-water-immersion-injuries/print

[@nigelfranklin870]

I thought by the title this was an advert for viagra!! 😳

[@My24hradventure]

Good spot! Made me laugh 🤭😄

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

... for the senses, maybe! 🏊😄

[@caffeinekitty8983]

Great Video, love that website windy.com I can only do about 20 mins at moment in wetsuit, gloves and boots ;-) I have zero tolerance for the cold

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Windy.com plus knowledge of the height of tide are the two bits of info I'm most interested in prior to picking a location for a swim. Being wind-whipped whilst getting changed is rancid, not to mention risky! 🏊😄

[@caffeinekitty8983]

@@EverydayAthleteRach true!

[@jakubs.6767]

Hi. I am just starting this year and I would like to ask how often is too often? Can it be harmful if I go swimming every day?

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

I can't see any problem with that, apart from maybe the impact of the time taken up with swimming, cleaning and drying kit on your life. Do what feels right 🏊😄

[@jakubs.6767]

@@EverydayAthleteRach Thanks :).

[@richardanderson4796]

WoW nice one

[@EverydayAthleteRach]

Thanks a lot 😊 🏊😄