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There's something uniquely exhilarating about plunging into open water, away from the confines of a pool. Beyond the refreshing feel and natural beauty, open water swimming offers a host of benefits that go beyond the physical. Here are five compelling reasons why taking the plunge in open water can transform your swimming experience.

Getting started with cold water swimming - By Annie Brooks (www.talesofanniebean.com )

If you love your pool swims and enjoy those open water swims, then this winter you might be ready to take on cold water swimming! Unlike hopping into to your local heated swimming pool to run through your drills, or dipping into that beautiful lake during the summer time, cold water swimming not only challenges physically, it tests you mentally also. Knowing you’re about to step into water that barely reaches double figures, can be a challenge, but this is exactly why it’s fantastic because that sense of

1.Make sure you're a confident swimmer

Before getting started in ocean swimming make sure you are comfortable in the water and pool. If you have not swum in a while we recommend starting at your local pool and building up your endurance before entering the water. A good rule of thumb is to be able to swim at least two to three times the distance non stop in a pool that you want to swim in open water. Once you are confident in your swimming abilities it is time to find a place to swim!

2. Know where to swim

There are many beaches all around the country which

Where to swim

There are many lakes up and down the country which have organised sessions and have suitable safety in place. I would recommend you swim in one these locations and as there will be other like-minded swimmers there who you can buddy up with and swim in pairs or a small group. In addition you can also make new friends as open water is a very social sport. Not only is it another good safety measure, it makes training easier supporting each other.

Acclimatisation

Due to the climate, open water in lakes, rivers and the ocean

We all know open water swimming is good for your physical and metal health but it can be a bit daunting if you aren't sure what kit you will need. We have put together a list of the essentials for every open water kit.

If you want more advice about how to start open water swimming click here. 

he Guardian newspaper recently described open water swimming as the “trend of 2015” and with more open water swimming events taking place across the UK in 2015, we couldn’t agree more!

If you’re thinking of taking the leap from the comfort of your local swimming pool to the challenges of the open water in 2015, Zoggs open water swimming Ambassador Adam 'Ocean' Walker, the first Briton to swim the toughest 7 oceans in the world, has put together 7 expert tips to will help you make a smooth transition…

1. Equipment
Buying the right equipment is key! This includes a swim hat (

Do you like swimming in crystal-clear water under a clear blue sky, perhaps feeling like you are in an aquarium as you spot schools of fish and maybe some stingrays below or a turtle? 

Or what about gazing at the moon, stars and planets, and seeing fireworks light up?

Close your eyes.  Imagine you are in a tropical paradise.  Or watching New Year’s Eve Celebrations.

Now open them.  It’s the middle of winter in Australia.  You say to yourself you’re going to have to wait until summer rolls around to do these things.

But wait! You can experience these things swimming at your

If you like the idea of splashing about in a tropical lagoon, swimming in a lake or taking on your first triathlon but have a fear of open water that stops you realising your ambitions, it’s time to take action!
With a little planning and preparation, you can find the courage to overcome those fears and enjoy an open water swim. Here’s a few tips:

Choose Your Waters