Open Water Swimming for Beginners

• Introduction to Equipment: Learn about the essential gear you'll need for a comfortable and safe swimming experience.
• Acclimatisation Techniques: Understand how to gradually adapt to colder water temperatures to enhance your comfort and safety.
• Weather and Tides: Gain knowledge about the impact of weather and tides on your swimming plans and how to plan accordingly.
• Safety Information: Receive crucial safety tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable swimming experience.

After covering the basics, we'll head to the sea for an easy swim or dip. During this time, we'll:

• Practice Breathing Techniques: Learn how to control your breath in cold water for better comfort and endurance.
• Self-Rescue Skills: Understand how to manage unexpected situations and ensure your own safety.
• Environmental Acclimatisation: Get a feel for the open water environment, helping you build confidence in the sea.

• Meet at the POP shop. 
• Participants must be 16 years old or over.
• You must be able to competently swim at least 200m without rest (8 lengths of a standard pool)
• You must complete a health information form before the session, so the instructor has all relevant information.

Being prepared and having the right gear for your session is essential, not only for your enjoyment but more importantly for your safety.  Below is a list of what you will need for the session. When it comes to caps and tow floats, being visible is what it’s all about, so the brighter the better!

Session Kit

• Wetsuit / swimsuit
• Tow Float
• Swim Cap
• Goggles
• Neoprene boots / socks (optional)
• Gloves (optional)

Post Session Kit

What you bring for after your swim is just as important.  Your body temp will continue to cool after leaving the water so it’s vital to have the right clothing to put on easily to help you warm up quickly.

• Towel / changing poncho
• Warm clothing – lots of easy-to-put-on layers (base layers, loose fitting joggers, jumper/fleece jacket/ Dry robe /dressing gown)
• Hat
• Warm socks
• Footwear
• A mat or towel to stand on when changing
• Hot water bottle (optional)
• Warm drink (and cake if you fancy!)

It’s always a good idea to check off all the things you’ll need for during and after your swim so you don’t forget anything - it can make all the difference.

The session will be delivered by Lorna from Wellcold, a fully qualified and insured STA Open Water Swimming Coach.

Lorna’s qualifications:

• STA Level 2 Open Water Coach
• Outdoor First Aid
• Paddlesports Safety and Rescue

Lorna was tutored and mentored by Olympian and double Open Water world champion Keri-Anne Payne, whose expertise and passion have greatly influenced her approach to coaching.

Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or a complete beginner, Lorna can guide you on your aquatic adventures and help you discover the transformative power of open-water swimming.

The West Bay Wonder exhibition and activities are part of a series of events taking place over the next 18 months year to inform the development of a Local Place Plan for Dunoon.

This work is facilitated by Dunoon Community Development Trust and POP shop enterprises CIC and supported by the Dunoon CARS project, the Scottish Government and the National Lottery Community Fund.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

West Bay, West Bay, Dunoon, United Kingdom