Taking the plunge: the open water swimming boom
In this episode
Long-time listeners to the pod will know that Ed never ever talks about his swimming hobby, but the RTBC team have decided to indulge him - just this once, mind - and dedicate a *whole episode* to the boom in outdoor swimming. Whether you’re a seasoned wild swimmer, a winter dipper or a lido goer, there’s a huge number of reasons why you might like to step outside the indoor confines of your local swimming baths. We speak to Kate Rew and journalist - and former Hampstead Ponds lifeguard - Nell Frizzell about why they find outdoor swimming exhilarating, as well as how to avoid swimming in s**t. And Professor Mike Tipton is back to give us a health warning and plenty of advice on how to swim safely.
Plus: How should Geoff navigate the annual rotting gourd display?
Guests
Kate Rew, Founder, Outdoor Swimming Society and author of the Outdoor Swimmers’ Handbook (@kate_rew)
Professor Mike Tipton, Professor of Human and Applied Physiology, University of Portsmouth (@ProfMikeTipton)
Nell Frizzell, Journalist and Author of The Panic Years, Square One and Holding the Baby (@NellFrizzell)
More info
Check out the work of the Outdoor Swimming Society, including articles on how to stay well swimming and the 3% access myth
Buy a copy of the Outdoor Swimmers' Handbook
Watch a video of Mike immersing Chris van Tulleken into 12 degree water
Mike mentioned the Blue Tits swimming group
Check out Nell's books and her essay about being a lifeguard at the Hampstead Ponds
We’ll be back with another episode next Monday, but keep your ideas and suggestions coming in. Get in touch with us via our website or on our social media. We love to hear from you!
