SWIM – Issue 8 (Current Issue)

Our Ultimate 2024 Events Guide is a must-read for anyone planning their swimming year ahead. From small quirky swims to mass-participation events, there’s something to tempt every kind of swimmer, whatever your ability. Turn to page 12 to find your next challenge.

As we enter peak winter, with water temperatures plummeting to levels that induce a gasp on entry, we explore the rising popularity of the ice mile. Described by some as the toughest winter swimming test there is, on page 6 we talk to ice miler and co-founder of Swimyourswim Leon Fryer about the reasons, the risks and the recovery.

Few cultures do icy dips as well as the Finns, especially when they follow a warming stint in the sauna. On page 70, winter swimmer and social media star Elina Mäkinen tells us how Finnish sauna culture originated and what it does to the body and mind.

Speaking of hot and cold, on page 28 New York coach Dan Daly runs us through the different effects water temperature can have on pace and why preparation is key. And, back in the pool, we continue our series on technique with Swim Smooth’s easy drills to improve your freestyle on page 30 – even experienced swimmers can benefit from finessing the fundamentals.

Wellbeing and mental health are at the forefront of many swimmers’ minds, so we feature Amber Keegan’s guide to avoiding burnout (page 50), Pete Woollhead’s advice on turning obstacles into opportunities (page 76) and hear how the folks at Pool Bridge Farm near York got hooked on the mental and physical benefits of cold water (page 96).

Finally, our whistlestop tour of modern goggle technology on page 22 will help you find the best set for your budget and needs, whether you’re after a simple leak-proof pair or the flashiest new training tech.

Enjoy the issue.