As the summer season gently drifts away, many of us are left yearning for those warm days by the beach. But here's a secret: the post-summer season is the perfect time to embrace open water swimming. With quieter beaches and water that's as warm as it gets all year, there's no better time to dive in. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of open water swimming, provide tips on getting started, and introduce some of our game-changing products that will enhance your aquatic adventures.

The Benefits of Sea Swimming

Physical Benefits:

• Improved Cardiovascular Health: Open water swimming is a fantastic way to get your heart pumping. The natural resistance of the water challenges your cardiovascular system, helping to build your fitness and endurance.
• Build Muscle: If you’re new to open water swimming, you’ll be engaging muscles you might not even know you have!
• Burn Calories, Have Fun: Swimming in open water can torch calories. It's an enjoyable way to stay active and burn off that beachside ice cream.
• Cold Water Immersion Theory: Cold water can stimulate circulation and boost the immune system. While the weather is still warm, now is a great time to get started, and you may find that you continue through the winter as you get used to the temperatures.

Mental Health Advantages:

• Relax & Reduce Stress: Floating in the rhythm of the waves can be incredibly calming!
• Sense Of Achievement & Boosted Mood: Nothing beats the satisfaction of a good workout, and is a great way to clear your mind – plus, the release of endorphins will have you in a good mood for the rest of the day.
• Do It With Friends: Bring your friends along and meet new ones – open water swimming has a thriving community, so chances are you'll come across like-minded individuals with common interests.

How to Get Started with Sea Swimming

Choosing the Right Location:

• Research nearby locations: For peace of mind regarding water quality, consider using the Surfers Against Sewage app. It provides up-to-date information on water quality, ensuring you swim in clean and safe waters.
• Ensure safety and accessibility: Look for swim-friendly areas with lifeguards or safety measures in place. Check for flags and read into the local information for that particular beach.
• If you're new to open water swimming, coastal areas are the perfect place to start. The salt water makes it much easier to float, offering buoyancy that can be very useful when learning the ropes!

Essential Gear for Open Water Swimming:

• Invest in quality swimwear and reliable goggles. Comfort is key when you're spending time in the water.
• ToteBrix: This versatile swim gear bag boasts a waterproof base for your wet gear, a spacious main compartment, internal pockets for organisation, and a handy water bottle pocket. It's a game-changer for keeping your swim essentials in order.
• Dobipak: Our dry bag is the perfect beachside companion. Fed up with getting sand stuck in the bottom of your bag? Dobipak solves that issue with its reversible design.

Safety Precautions:

• Never swim alone. Always have a swimming buddy, especially in unfamiliar waters.
• Consider using a safety buoy/floatation bag. It not only makes you more visible, but also provides a floatation aid if needed, plus some floatation bags provide storage for your essentials.

Basic Open Water Swimming Techniques and Tips:

• Focus on your breathing. This will make you more efficient and help you stay calm and controlled in challenging conditions.
• If you’re heading further out, learning how to sight and navigate properly is essential for staying on course during your swim.
• Prepare for temperature changes. Open water temperatures can vary, so be ready for cooler waters by acclimating gradually.

KitBrix Products for Open Water Swimmers

Organise your kit with ToteBrix:

• A tote bag, a holdall – a true “bag for life”. This versatile bag is a must-have for open water enthusiasts. Its robust waterproof base keeps damp kit contained or keeps your change of clothes dry on wet surfaces.
• With a large zipped main compartment and various internal pockets, ToteBrix is perfect for keeping your gear organised and easily accessible.

Staying comfortable with Poncho:

• The KitBrix Poncho is your secret weapon for staying warm and dry before and after your swim.
• Its breathable, waterproof shell keeps you dry, while the fast-drying fleece lining provides plenty of warmth and comfort.
• The pullover design means no zippers to faff with – just throw it on and go!

Why Now is the Perfect Time for Sea Swimming

As the summer crowds disperse and the water remains warm, post-summer is the perfect time to give open water swimming a go. You'll get to enjoy the quieter beaches all to yourself, and the water is about as warm as it’ll get all year. So, why wait? Get out there and get started!